What is a Focal Reducer (Speedbooster, LensRegain) and Do You Really Need One?

What is a focal reducer and is it worth it? Here’s the video that tells you like it is:

Which is the best focal reducer?

1. My pick: Metabones Speedbooster (Amazon, B&H)

Advantages:

1. First (in recent times) to make these
2. Have a lot of options for different formats and lenses
3. Weather sealing
4. Rugged and well-built, zero play
5. Proven track record with regular firmware updates
6. Twist lock in some models
7. Autofocus in some models

2. If you want something more: Aputure LensRegain (Amazon, B&H)

Advantages:

1. Control aperture and focus (manual only) via a grip you can attach to the tripod handle
2. Set A and B stops for focus pulls
3. Wireless with good battery life
4. Lock iris
5. Control record on/off
6. Both transmitter and grip are paired in the factory and I’ve had zero issues.

Disadvantages:

• Not great build quality
• My LED on the transmitter has died already. Am not sure how reliable they are in the field (mine hasn’t even left my office!)
• Only useful if you’re standing behind the tripod for long events.