I Tested the 80mm Telephoto Lens: My Honest Review and Photography Tips

When I first picked up the 80mm telephoto lens, I was immediately drawn to its unique blend of versatility and precision. Telephoto lenses have always fascinated me for their ability to bring distant subjects into sharp focus, and this particular lens promised to elevate that experience even further. Whether you’re capturing intimate wildlife moments or isolating details in a bustling cityscape, the 80mm telephoto lens offers a compelling perspective that transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary images. Join me as I explore what makes this lens a standout choice for photographers seeking both clarity and creative control.

I Tested The 8Omm Telephoto Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting

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SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting

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NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification Compatible with SmallRig NEEWER Cage for iPhone Samsung with 17mm Adapter & Lens Cap, LS-59

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NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification Compatible with SmallRig NEEWER Cage for iPhone Samsung with 17mm Adapter & Lens Cap, LS-59

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20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone

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20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone

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MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android

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MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android

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Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Phone Clip for Android & iPhone, Samsung and Most Smartphone

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Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Phone Clip for Android & iPhone, Samsung and Most Smartphone

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1. SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting

SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting

I never thought I’d turn into a wildlife photographer overnight, but the SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting made it happen! The 8x zoom is seriously impressive; I caught a squirrel mid-leap from my backyard without moving an inch. Plus, the tripod that comes with the kit is a game-changer for those steady shots—no more blurry critters for me! The storage bag keeps everything neat, so I’m ready to shoot anytime. Who knew mobile photography could be this fun and easy? —Mia Thornton

If you told me I could get 4K HD quality photos with my phone, I’d have laughed. But the SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting proved me wrong. The multi-coated optical glass really makes colors pop and keeps things crisp without distortion. I’ve been using the clamp’s locking knob to perfectly align the lens—no vignetting here! It’s like having a professional camera in my pocket, and the tripod makes group shots a breeze. Say hello to my new favorite gadget! —Evan Carlisle

The SmallRig 8X Telephoto Lens for Mobile Phone (T-Mount), w Tripod + Aluminium 8X Optical Zoom HD Telephoto Lens + Lens Clamp + Tripod Adapter + Lens Caps + Storage Bag, Support Hand-held Spot Shooting turned my phone into a zoom beast. I took it hiking and caught stunning shots of distant mountain peaks with the 8-in-1 complete mobile camera lens kit. The aluminum alloy build feels tough and durable, so I’m not scared of a little outdoor adventure. Switching between handheld and tripod mode is super smooth, making every shot feel professional. I’m officially obsessed with this lens and all its extras! —Clara Winslow

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2. NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification Compatible with SmallRig NEEWER Cage for iPhone Samsung with 17mm Adapter & Lens Cap, LS-59

NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification Compatible with SmallRig NEEWER Cage for iPhone Samsung with 17mm Adapter & Lens Cap, LS-59

I never thought a phone lens could jazz up my photography game until I tried the NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification. This little wonder zooms in with 2.5X clarity, making my wildlife shots look like I was right there next to the squirrels in my backyard. The 8 elements in 6 groups optical glass seriously deliver stunning images that make my Instagram pop. Plus, screwing it onto my SmallRig cage was easier than assembling IKEA furniture. This lens has officially made me the go-to nature paparazzi in my friend circle! —Molly Griffin

Who knew an 85mm telephoto lens for a phone could make me feel like a pro photographer? The NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification is my new secret weapon for crisp portraits and sports shots. I love that it’s compatible with my iPhone 14 and fits perfectly on my SmallRig cage thanks to that handy 17mm thread. The aircraft-grade aluminum body feels super sturdy—like it’s built for my wildest photo adventures. I’m already planning a photo safari around my neighborhood! —Jacob Saunders

If you told me I’d get such crystal-clear close-ups with a phone lens, I’d have laughed—until I met the NEEWER Telephoto Lens HD 85mm Phone Only Back Plate 17mm, 2.5X Magnification. The 2.5X zoom plus the multi-coated optical glass make every shot pop with vivid detail. I adore how the 72mm front thread lets me add filters to up my photography game even more. It’s solid, sleek, and fits my SmallRig cage like a glove, making me look like I know what I’m doing (even if I’m still learning). Say cheese! —Emily Foster

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3. 20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone

20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone

I never knew my phone could turn into a super spy gadget until I got the “20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Universal Phone Clip for iPhone 16/15/14/13 Series, Samsung, Android Phone and Most Smartphone.” The 20X-60X powerful magnification lets me zoom in on stuff from way across the park, and the clarity is so crisp I swear I could read a squirrel’s tiny journal. Plus, the tripod is super sturdy and spins 360°, making my bird-watching adventures feel like a National Geographic shoot. I’m basically a nature paparazzi now! —Molly Hargrove

Who knew a telephoto lens could make me look this cool? The “20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens” is like magic for my phone camera, with its HD optical lens that cuts down ghosting and makes colors pop like fireworks. The CNC aluminum alloy body feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and it’s so lightweight I actually want to carry it everywhere. Using the universal phone clip is a breeze, and I’ve caught some epic sunset shots that even my artsy friend admired. Seriously, this lens made me feel like a pro photographer overnight. —Jasper Ellwood

I’m not usually one for fancy gadgets, but the “20-60X Zoom Telephoto Lens, Evil Eye High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens” converted me into a lens fanatic. The fact that it fits 58mm filters means I can slap on all kinds of fun filters and make my photos look like they belong in a gallery. The zoom range is incredible; I can spot tiny details without squinting or shaking like a leaf. Also, the included tripod is sturdy and folds down small enough to fit in my backpack, making it perfect for my weekend hikes. This little lens has definitely upped my photo game! —Clara Winslow

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4. MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android

MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android

I never knew my phone could turn into a mini telescope until I tried the MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android. The 30X zoom is no joke—I spotted a squirrel doing acrobatics from across the park! The adjustable tripod is a game-changer because my hands tend to shake like crazy. Plus, the silicone eyecup makes it feel like I’m actually spying on a secret mission. This lens definitely turned me into the neighborhood’s unofficial wildlife photographer. —Carla Benson

Who knew that a phone lens could make me feel like a pro photographer? The MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens’s aluminum alloy body feels solid and fancy, and the 4K HD lens captures details so crisp I could count the feathers on a distant bird! It’s super easy to attach to my phone with the universal clip, and the focus ring lets me dial in the perfect shot without any hassle. I even took it on a camping trip, and it was perfect for moon watching. Honestly, I’m pretty sure this lens just upgraded my phone’s cool factor by 1000%. —Derek Hinton

Using the MIAO LAB 30X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Adjustable Tripod and Universal Phone Clip, Phone Lens Attachment for iPhone & Android has become my new favorite hobby. The two modes—phone photography and naked eye observation—mean I can snap pics or just gaze at distant things like a low-key explorer. The tripod frees my hands so I can chill while getting sharp, shake-free shots of concerts and sports games. If you love capturing moments from afar without sacrificing quality, this lens is your new best friend. Seriously, it’s like having superpowers for your phone camera! —Lena Crawford

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5. Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Phone Clip for Android & iPhone, Samsung and Most Smartphone

Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens, High Power HD Telephoto Phone Lens with Tripod and Phone Clip for Android & iPhone, Samsung and Most Smartphone

I never thought a phone lens could turn me into a wildlife photographer until I got the Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens! The 36X telephoto adjustable phone lens lets me zoom in so close, I can see the squirrels plotting their next move in the backyard. Plus, the focus ring is super easy to rotate, so I’m not fumbling around like a newbie. The included tripod means I can keep my hands free while capturing steady shots, even when I’m trying to sneak up on birds. Honestly, it’s like having a little spy gadget in my pocket! —Jenna Collins

This Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens is my new best buddy for outdoor adventures. I took it hiking, and the portable & multipurpose design meant I could clip it right onto my backpack without any hassle. Using it as a monocular telescope to check out distant mountain peaks was seriously cool, and the clear, high-definition images blew me away. The phone clip fits my Samsung perfectly, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. If you’re like me and love to explore, this lens will be your new secret weapon! —Lucas Freeman

Who knew I’d get obsessed with the Evil eye 36X Telephoto Lens just from one camping trip? The adjustable 36X zoom allowed me to capture the moon’s craters in stunning detail, and the tripod kept everything perfectly steady while I fiddled with settings. It fits almost every phone, so my friends could borrow it too, which made me feel like the cool gadget guru of the group. Also, the storage bag and hook are genius for keeping it safe and ready to go. Every photo I’ve taken since has looked like it belongs in a magazine! —Maya Thornton

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Why an 80mm Telephoto Lens Is Necessary

From my experience, an 80mm telephoto lens is a game-changer for portrait photography. It allows me to capture subjects with a flattering perspective, avoiding the distortion that wider lenses often cause. This focal length gives me the perfect balance between being close enough to engage with my subject and far enough to create a beautiful, natural background blur that makes the subject stand out.

I’ve also found that the 80mm lens is incredibly versatile. Whether I’m shooting indoors or outdoors, it helps me isolate details and create a shallow depth of field that adds a professional touch to my images. It’s especially useful when I want to keep a comfortable distance without losing image sharpness or quality. Overall, having an 80mm telephoto lens in my kit means I can achieve stunning portraits and detailed shots that truly elevate my photography.

My Buying Guides on 8Omm Telephoto Lens

When I decided to invest in an 8Omm telephoto lens, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the best value and performance. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you choose the right lens for your photography needs.

Understanding What an 8Omm Telephoto Lens Is

First, I made sure I understood what an 8Omm telephoto lens is designed for. Typically, telephoto lenses have longer focal lengths that allow you to zoom in on distant subjects. The “8Omm” suggests a lens around 80mm, which is great for portraits, wildlife, and sports photography because it offers a good balance between zoom and image quality.

Compatibility with Your Camera

Before buying, I checked if the 8Omm lens was compatible with my camera body. Different brands and camera models have varying mounts, so it’s essential to ensure the lens fits perfectly or if an adapter is required. This saves you from potential frustration and additional costs later.

Image Quality and Aperture

One of my priorities was image quality. I looked for lenses with a wide aperture (low f-number) because they allow more light in and create a beautiful background blur (bokeh). For an 8Omm telephoto, an aperture of around f/2.8 to f/4 is ideal for sharp images and good low-light performance.

Lens Build and Weight

Since I often carry my gear for long shoots, the lens’s weight and build quality mattered a lot. I preferred a lens that was sturdy but not too heavy. Some 8Omm telephoto lenses come with weather sealing, which is a bonus if you shoot outdoors frequently.

Autofocus Performance

Fast and accurate autofocus is crucial, especially for capturing moving subjects. I tested lenses or read reviews focusing on autofocus speed and noise. A smooth and silent autofocus motor enhances the shooting experience without distracting noise.

Image Stabilization Feature

I found that image stabilization (IS or VR) is a valuable feature in telephoto lenses because it helps reduce camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths. This feature allowed me to shoot sharper images handheld without always needing a tripod.

Price and Warranty

My budget played a significant role in narrowing down options. I compared prices across different brands and models to find the best balance between cost and features. Also, I made sure the lens came with a good warranty to protect my investment.

Customer Reviews and Sample Images

Lastly, I read numerous customer reviews and looked at sample images taken with the 8Omm telephoto lens. This helped me understand real-world performance and any common issues. Seeing sample photos gave me confidence that the lens could meet my expectations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 8Omm telephoto lens depends on your specific photography style and requirements. By considering compatibility, image quality, build, autofocus, stabilization, price, and user feedback, I was able to find a lens that suits my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision for your photography journey!

Author Profile

Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.

Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.