Sandmarc

I have not used the Sandmarc anamorphic lens as much as some of my Moment mobile lenses, so this is still more of an early impression than a full long-term review. But my overall feeling is similar to the Sandmarc 58mm: it feels sharp, clean, well built, and more technically controlled than the Moment T-Series V1 lenses I have used.

For an anamorphic lens, the screw-on mount actually makes even more sense. With anamorphic, alignment matters a lot more. If the lens is slightly off, the image can distort in a way that feels wrong instead of intentional. The Sandmarc screw-in system is slower than a bayonet mount, but it feels more secure and reduces the chance of the lens being mounted slightly crooked.

The lens can also be used without a Sandmarc case thanks to the included clip-on adapter, which is a nice bonus because it does not require an extra purchase. That said, for steadier use, better alignment, and a cleaner setup, I would still prefer using it with a proper Sandmarc case.

I also like the overall circular design. Because the lens has a standard 43mm front thread, you can use regular filters with a step-up ring instead of needing a specific mobile filter adapter. That makes it easier to integrate into an existing filter setup, especially for ND, CPL, or diffusion filters.

Like any small phone anamorphic lens, this is not about perfect optical neutrality. It is about the wider frame, the squeeze, the character, and the fun of making phone footage feel a little more cinematic. But from my early use, the Sandmarc feels like a cleaner and more secure option, especially if you are already in the Sandmarc case and filter ecosystem.

The Good:

• Sharp and clean from my early use.

• Screw-on mount feels secure and especially helps with anamorphic alignment.

• Less risk of distortion caused by the lens being slightly mis-mounted.

• Circular design makes filter use simpler.

• Front 43mm filter thread works with standard filters via step-up rings.

• Works well with Sandmarc’s own filters.

• Can be used without a Sandmarc case thanks to the included clip-on adapter.

The Bad:

• Screw-on mounting is slower than a bayonet-style system.

• Clip-on mounting is useful, but less secure and less elegant than using a dedicated case.

• Smaller accessory ecosystem than Moment, though it is growing.

• Get it if you want to shoot anamorphic-style iPhone video with a cleaner, more secure mounting system.

• Get it if you already use Sandmarc cases or filters.

• Get it if filter use matters and you like being able to use standard filters with a step-up ring.

• Get it if you prefer screw-on security over faster bayonet mounting.

• Get it if you want the option to use the included clip-on adapter without buying a dedicated case right away.

• Pass if you do not want to deal with de-squeezing, alignment, or mobile lens setup.

• Pass if you want the fastest possible mobile lens system for quick shooting.