Exploring 55mm 2x telephoto lenses and their accessories helps photographers extend reach without sacrificing image quality. The following five products offer a range of 2.2x telephoto options, universal compatibility, and included kits for versatile shooting—from sports and wildlife to portraits and travel. Each option is evaluated for compatibility, optical performance, and practical value for American photographers using 55mm or related filter threads.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimaxx 55MM Complete Lens Filter Accessory Kit | Ultimaxx | 2.2x telephoto plus wide/macro kits | 55mm compatibility with a full accessory set |
| Vivitar 58mm 2.2X Professional Telephoto Lens | Vivitar | Solid telephoto extension | Includes standard packaging info |
| 58mm 2.2X Telephoto For Canon EOS | Big Mike’s | Canon EF-S 18-55 compatibility | Great for Canon shooters needing extra reach |
| 37mm High-Definition 2X Telephoto Lens | SSE | Universal 37mm threads | Simple screw-on design |
| 58mm OPTURA HD 2.2X Telephoto Lens | OPTURA HD OPTICS | Same 2.2x magnification | IS II / STM variant compatibility |
The selections below focus on lenses around the 2.2x magnification with 55mm or close-thread compatibility, covering DSLR and camcorder use. Each product section provides a concise overview, notable features, and practical considerations for buyers evaluating telephoto options.
Ultimaxx 55MM Complete Lens Filter Accessory Kit
The Ultimaxx kit centers on a 2.2x telephoto lens attachment plus a detachable macro and a wide-angle option, expanding capture options beyond standard 55mm lenses. It includes four close-up filters and a three-filter kit (UV, CPL, FL-D), plus protective pouches, a tulip hood, and maintenance tools. The package notes universal 55mm compatibility, so verify your lens thread size before ordering. This kit is designed for DSLR cameras with 55mm threads, offering a comprehensive starting point for photographers who want immediate telephoto and macro versatility.
Key considerations: assess whether you need macro and wide-angle capabilities integrated with the telephoto, and confirm your lens’s 55mm thread to ensure proper attachment. The included cleaning tools and pouches help keep optics in good condition for ongoing use.
Vivitar 58mm 2.2X Professional Telephoto Lens
The Vivitar telephoto lens offers a straightforward 2.2x magnification, designed to extend reach for distant subjects. While packaging details are limited, the lens is positioned as a practical, ready-to-use option for those needing more zoom without changing lenses. It is suitable for general photography scenarios where distance shots are common, such as sports or wildlife, especially for photographers who want a simple, single-lens solution.
Key considerations: check compatibility with the camera’s filter thread and mount types. Users should verify any compatibility with existing 58mm lenses or adapters if working with 55mm-thread equipment is desired.
58mm 2.2X Telephoto For Canon EOS (Big Mike’s)
Designed for Canon Rebel and EOS bodies, this 58mm telephoto lens extension claims 2.2x magnification to bring subjects closer. It supports popular Canon EF-S 18-55mm kit lenses and is pitched for shooters who want increased reach for events, sports, or nature photography. The product highlights its ability to double zoom, enhancing long-distance compositions without pricey telephoto bodies.
Key considerations: verify compatibility with your Canon kit lens and confirm the IS/STM status if applicable. Assess how this lens integrates with your current lens lineup and whether it complements your portrait or wildlife work.
37mm High-Definition 2X Telephoto Lens
The SSE 37mm telephoto is a compact option offering 2x magnification and universal 37mm threading. It is suitable for cameras and camcorders with 37mm filter threads and provides a simple screw-on design for quick use. The universal threading makes it a flexible choice for customers with various 37mm lenses or adapters.
Key considerations: ensure 37mm thread compatibility with your lenses, and evaluate whether the telephoto’s image quality and coatings meet your standards for color fidelity and contrast. Consider carrying a small kit for travel or street photography where quick lens swaps aren’t convenient.
58mm OPTURA HD OPTICS 2.2X Telephoto
The OPTURA HD OPTICS telephoto lens provides a 2.2x magnification with Canon EF-S 18-55mm compatibility across its listed variants, including IS II and STM engines. This lens is positioned for those who want increased reach in everyday shooting, from events to landscapes, while retaining some autofocus performance benefits common to modern kit-lens ecosystems.
Key considerations: investigate the exact mount compatibility (IS II/STM variants and 58mm threads) and how the lens performs with your camera’s autofocus system. Consider whether you prefer telephoto performance with a more compact footprint or need extra coatings to reduce glare in bright light.
Buying Guide: Telephoto Lens Considerations
- Compatibility and thread size: Confirm your camera body’s lens thread size (55mm, 58mm, 37mm, or 67mm in these options) and verify any required adapters if you mix lenses.
- Magnification and image quality: A 2.2x telephoto increases your subject size but may introduce light loss and potential softness at the edges. Look for lenses with coatings and solid glass construction to preserve sharpness and color.
- Autofocus and compatibility: For DSLRs, ensure the telephoto works smoothly with your camera’s autofocus system, particularly on entry-level bodies where performance may vary with extension lenses.
- Included accessories and portability: Kits that add macro, wide-angle, and cleaning tools offer convenience, but weigh practicality against travel needs. Consider your typical shooting scenarios—sports, wildlife, portraits, or travel.
- Budget versus performance: While many options are affordable, evaluate trade-offs in optical quality, build, and coatings. For frequent use, investing in a lens with better coatings and durable construction can pay off over time.
- Use-case variety: If you regularly shoot close-ups or macro work, a kit with macro attachments may add value. For pure reach, a dedicated telephoto lens might be preferable depending on your camera system.
Overall, 55mm and 58mm telephoto options provide practical ways to extend reach without swapping entire lenses. Buyers should align thread sizes, camera compatibility, and intended subjects with the features of each lens kit to choose the best fit for their photography workflow.