What's the Difference Between MFT, EF, PL, F and B4 Lens Mounts
The differences Between MFT, EF, PL, F and B4 Lens Mounts.
MFT Lens Mount
Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lens mount is a camera lens mount system developed by Olympus and Panasonic for their mirrorless cameras. The MFT mount uses a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor compared to other camera lens mount systems such as the EF mount. This means that lenses designed for MFT mount cameras will generally have a shorter focal length for a given field of view, and will produce a deeper depth of field compared to lenses designed for other mount systems. The MFT mount has a more limited selection of lenses, mostly from Panasonic and Olympus, but it also has some third-party lenses. Additionally, MFT mount lenses generally have a smaller diameter and shorter flange distance compared to other mount lenses, which makes them smaller and lighter. This makes them ideal for travel, street, and landscape photography. The smaller sensor also means that the lenses can be smaller and lighter, making it a perfect choice for photographers who prefer to travel light.
EF Lens Mount
EF (Electro-Focus) lens mount is a camera lens mount system developed by Canon for its EOS line of cameras. EF mount cameras typically use a larger APS-C or full-frame sensor compared to other camera lens mount systems such as the MFT mount. This means that lenses designed for EF mount cameras will generally have a longer focal length for a given field of view, and will produce a shallower depth of field compared to lenses designed for other mount systems. EF mount has a larger selection of lenses, both from Canon and third-party manufacturers, making it a more versatile lens mount for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, EF mount lenses generally have a larger diameter and longer flange distance compared to other mount lenses, which makes them larger and heavier. This makes them ideal for sports, wildlife, and portrait photography. The larger sensor also allows for better image quality and low-light performance.
PL Lens Mount
PL (Positive Lock) lens mount is a camera lens mount system primarily used in professional video cameras and cine cameras. It is known for its secure locking mechanism that ensures a solid and stable connection between the camera and lens. The PL mount is a standard in the film and video industry and is supported by a wide range of lens manufacturers, including Arri, Cooke, and Zeiss. These lenses are designed to meet the high-quality standards of the film and video industry, offering superior image quality and smooth focus and aperture adjustments. PL mount lenses are known for their durability and precision, making them ideal for high-end cinematography, commercials, and feature films. Unlike still photography, PL mount lenses are designed to be used with a follow focus system to make the focus pull smoother. The PL mount is also compatible with many different camera bodies, which makes it a versatile option for professionals in the film and video industry.
B4 Lens Mount
B4 lens mount is a camera lens mount system specifically designed for use with 2/3-inch professional video cameras and broadcast cameras. This mount is typically used for high-end television production, live events, and sports broadcasting. B4 lenses are designed to work with 2/3-inch image sensors, which are smaller than the sensors used in most cine cameras, but larger than those found in most consumer and prosumer cameras. B4 mount lenses have a longer flange focal distance than other lens mount types, which allows them to project a larger image onto the sensor. This allows for a greater degree of focus and depth-of-field control, which is essential for professional video production. The B4 mount is also compatible with a variety of lens control systems, such as servo zoom and focus, providing precise and smooth control over focus, zoom, and aperture. B4 mount lenses are typically large and heavy, making them less portable than other lens mount types, but they are built to withstand the rigors of professional video production.
