SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33X Anamorphic Lens - Cinematic 2.35:1 Capture

In this review the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33X anamorphic lens is evaluated for run-and-gun filmmakers and mirrorless shooters who want a quick route to a cinematic widescreen look. The bottom line: it delivers a true anamorphic 2.35:1 perspective in 16:9 mode with a fast T1.8 aperture and compact weight, making it a practical cinematic lens for S35 cameras where portability, low-light performance and distinctive flares matter most.

Key Features

• 1.33x Anamorphic Squeeze: Produces a cinematic 2.35:1 aspect ratio in 16:9 shooting mode for a wider field of view without cropping.
• T1.8 Fast Aperture: Provides strong low-light capability and shallow depth of field for subject separation and pleasing background blur.
• Accurate Autofocus: An advanced STM motor supports fast autofocus, eye detection and subject tracking to simplify handheld and run-and-gun work.
• Blue or Neutral Flares: Two selectable flare styles add cinematic streaks and atmosphere to highlight creative intent in a frame.
• Compact, Lightweight Build: Weighing just 614g, the lens is easy to mount on gimbals or travel kits where reduced mass matters.
• Precision Optics: Aspherical and cylindrical elements reduce chromatic aberration and focus breathing for cleaner cinematic images.

Who It's For

The SIRUI 40mm is aimed at independent filmmakers, vloggers and hybrid shooters using E-mount mirrorless bodies who want an affordable, portable way to achieve a classic anamorphic widescreen look without a large rig. Its autofocus and eye-detect functions make it attractive to solo operators and content creators who need dependable focus while moving.

Photographers and cinematographers who require extreme edge-to-edge resolution for large print or high-end studio VFX pipelines may want to compare higher-end anamorphic options. Also, those needing full-frame coverage should confirm compatibility and crop implications on their camera body before purchase.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Delivers a genuine 2.35:1 anamorphic feel using a 1.33x squeeze for wide cinematic framing.
• Fast T1.8 aperture improves low-light shooting and creative depth of field control.
• Compact 614g design and reliable STM autofocus make it practical for run-and-gun workflows.
• Two flare options let shooters tailor the aesthetic from subtle to more pronounced streaks.

Cons

• Designed for S35 format; users on full-frame systems must consider crop or compatibility limitations.
• Artistic flares are stylistic and may not suit projects that require clinically neutral rendering.

Specifications

Focal Length	40mm
Aperture	T1.8
Anamorphic Squeeze	1.33x
Format Coverage	S35
Weight	614g
Autofocus	STM motor with eye focus and tracking support

Our Verdict

The SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33X is a well-rounded, portable anamorphic lens that brings cinematic widescreen framing and creative flares to mirrorless shooters without heavy investment. It is especially good value for solo filmmakers and hybrid creators who need fast autofocus, low-light performance and a distinctive anamorphic look in a compact package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this lens produce a true anamorphic widescreen?
Yes, the 1.33x squeeze yields a 2.35:1 aspect ratio when shooting in 16:9, giving a classic anamorphic field of view.

Will autofocus work on my E-mount camera?
The lens uses an STM motor and supports eye focus and subject tracking on compatible E-mount bodies, improving AF reliability for handheld shooting.

What are the flare options?
There are two selectable flare styles, blue or neutral, to choose between more stylized streaks or a subtler cinematic effect.