The world of mobile photography has taken another leap forward with the introduction of the vivo X200 Ultra and its optional external lens. This innovative accessory transforms the already impressive periscope camera into a powerhouse capable of capturing stunning long-range shots. While it may not appeal to everyone, this combination offers unparalleled image quality for those who value telephoto capabilities. In this article, we explore the setup process, usability, performance across various zoom levels, and potential drawbacks of this unique device.
Setting up the external lens is straightforward, requiring users to attach it to the phone's dedicated camera ring. The kit includes additional accessories such as a camera grip and shoulder strap, enhancing the overall user experience. Once assembled, the lens multiplies the native zoom level of the 85mm periscope camera by 2.35 times, enabling photographers to achieve an effective focal length of 200mm. However, this bulky attachment makes the phone top-heavy and less portable, necessitating two-handed operation for stability.
Using the external lens involves activating a specialized telephoto extender mode within the camera app. This mode provides preset buttons for different zoom levels, including 200mm, 400mm, 800mm, and 1600mm. At lower zoom settings like 200mm, images exhibit exceptional clarity and pleasing bokeh effects compared to lens-free shots. As the zoom increases to 400mm, detail remains strong despite occasional issues such as blown highlights and minor color fringing. By 800mm, results become more unpredictable, though some captures remain surprisingly usable. At the extreme 1600mm setting, most images suffer from blurriness and artifacts, making them suitable only for casual sharing platforms like Instagram Stories.
Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Capturing fast-moving subjects proves difficult due to longer exposure times, while low-light conditions introduce focusing difficulties and increased blurriness. Video recording benefits from stabilization options but still struggles with judder and instability at higher zoom levels. Additionally, switching between the external lens and other camera modes disrupts shooting opportunities, as the lens partially obstructs the main and ultrawide cameras when attached.
Software limitations further hinder the experience. The lack of pro controls, alternative color profiles, high-resolution support, and advanced features like focus peaking restricts creative flexibility. Although targeted towards enthusiasts, the absence of ZEISS bokeh effects diminishes its appeal for artistic pursuits.
In conclusion, the vivo X200 Ultra's external lens represents a bold step forward in smartphone photography innovation. It excels in delivering superior image quality at medium to high zoom levels, catering specifically to niche audiences who prioritize long-range capabilities. Nevertheless, its impracticality, missing features, and regional availability constraints may deter mainstream adoption. For dedicated photographers, investing in a DSLR remains the better choice. Yet, this groundbreaking solution paves the way for future advancements in mobile imaging technology, sparking imagination about what possibilities lie ahead for devices like Google Pixel phones with similar optional lenses.