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Production
1995
Country
Japan
Optical
6 elements in 4 groups
Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Contax G Planar 45mm f/2
Contax G
Overview
The Contax G Planar 45mm f/2 is considered by many to be one of the sharpest 'normal' lenses ever made. Designed specifically for the Contax G rangefinder system in the 1990s, it represents Carl Zeiss at the peak of their optical powers. The 45mm focal length — slightly wider than 50mm — proved to be many photographers' ideal. When adapted to mirrorless cameras, its performance shocked even modern lens users.
Verdict: Technical perfection in a tiny package. This lens represents what happens when Zeiss sets out to make the best standard lens possible. It's not vintage and dreamy — it's precise and flawless. For photographers who want pure image quality, this is a modern classic.
Optical Character
Sharpness wide open
The Zeiss Planar was one of the sharpest normal lenses back in the film days and still performs well, especially from f/4 onwards.
Flare resistance
Use a hood for best results.
Contrast
Can lack contrast in flat light, bright sunshine helps.
Vignetting
Some wide open, clears quickly.
Community Insights
What people love
- Legendary sharpness — tested as one of the sharpest ever
- 45mm 'perfect' focal length
- Tiny, compact size
- T* coating excellence
- Adapts beautifully to mirrorless
- Build quality
- f/2 useful aperture
What people dislike
- Native on Contax G (autofocus issues)
- Requires adapter for other mounts
- Some find it too clinical/sterile
- 6-blade aperture
- Price has risen with mirrorless popularity
- Limited to 45mm (no zoom)
Pro Tips
- Best on full-frame mirrorless (Sony A7 series ideal)
- Use quality adapter — this lens deserves it
- 45mm excellent for street and documentary
- Don't baby it — use it. It's built for work.
Sources (2)
phillip_reeve-
https://phillipreeve.net/blog/review-zeiss-planar-245-t/
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Contax G Planar 45mm f/2 is considered by many to be one of the sharpest 'normal' lenses ever made. Designed specifically for the Contax G rangefinder system in the 1990s, it represents Carl Zeiss at the peak of their optical powers. The 45mm focal length — slightly wider than 50mm — proved to be many photographers' ideal. When adapted to mirrorless cameras, its performance shocked even modern lens users.