Lens FAQ – Buying & Understanding Used Lenses | Camera Planet

Are you looking to buy a used lens and have questions about its condition, compatibility, or care? Our FAQ provides all the essential information – concise, easy to understand, and with clear answers to frequently asked questions about our tested lenses.

Everything you need to know about used lenses

🧠 Basics & Compatibility

What is the difference between a manual and an autofocus lens?

Manual lenses require manual adjustment of focus and aperture. Autofocus lenses support automatic focusing – but often only on compatible cameras.

Can I use old lenses on modern cameras?

Yes, many manual lenses can be used on mirrorless digital cameras via an adapter. Please inform yourself beforehand about suitable adapters and limitations (e.g., manual aperture, no autofocus).

How do I find out if the lens is compatible with my camera?

The camera mount (e.g., Canon FD, Nikon F, Minolta MD) is clearly stated in each offer. Please compare it with your camera or research adapters if necessary.

📘 Glossary & Tips

What does fungal infestation mean on a lens?

Fungus is a fine growth inside the lens that develops due to moisture. It can cause loss of contrast or spots on the image.

What is meant by fog in the lens?

Fogging is a cloudy, hazy film on the inside of glass, often caused by age or moisture. This can lead to noticeable image loss, especially when shooting against the light.

Can I still use a lens with an aperture defect?

With some photo setups (e.g., wide open aperture), this may be possible – but usually there are limitations. We explicitly mark such lenses.

What does "fixed focal length" mean?

A prime lens has no zoom function – e.g., 50mm. It is usually faster (has a wider aperture) and delivers better image quality than a zoom lens.

What is a pancake lens?

Pancake lenses are particularly flat and lightweight. Ideal for travel or street photography.

What is the aperture ring and how do I use it?

The aperture ring is a setting ring for manually controlling the aperture opening. It is usually located at the front or in the center of the lens and clicks noticeably at each setting.

What is an open aperture?

The largest possible aperture of a lens – e.g., f/1.4 or f/2.0. This allows you to get more light and a shallower depth of field (bokeh).

🔍 Condition & Inspection

How do we classify the optical state?

Our used lenses are manually inspected before sale and classified into the following condition categories:

Good: Technically fully functional with minor signs of wear. Lenses are clean, no fungus, no haze, no major scratches.
Acceptable: Technically functional with significant signs of wear. Lenses may have minor scratches or dust inclusions.
Defective: No longer functional – mechanical or optical defects. Suitable for spare parts or decoration.
Aperture defective: Aperture mechanism is faulty or blocked. All other functions are intact.
Fungal infestation: Fungus in the lens system, which can impair image quality. Mechanics intact.
Fogging: Internal glass clouding (e.g., due to moisture). Possible limitations in contrast or stray light. Mechanics are functioning.

How do we test the lenses?

We will check these points:
✅ Focus ring
✅ Aperture ring (if present)
✅ Zoom mechanism (if available)
✅ Autofocus with camera (with AF lenses)
✅ Light transmission and lens condition

We do not check these points:
❌ Sealing of weatherproof lenses
❌ Fine traces of oil on aperture blades (unless functionally relevant)
❌ Image quality at wide aperture or extreme lighting conditions

Please note that each lens is unique. Slight variations in serial number, logo, or wear are possible. Functionality is tested with great care – long-term testing and image evaluation are not performed.

📦 Scope of delivery, returns & shipping

How is the lens packaged and shipped?

Each lens is securely and shock-protected packaged. Shipping is via DHL or an equivalent provider with tracking.

What is included in the delivery?

The scope of delivery includes only the lens mentioned in the product description. Accessories that may be visible in the product images are not automatically included in the offer unless explicitly mentioned.

Can I return the lens if it doesn't fit?

You have 30 days to return an item. Please visit our returns page to request a return. Alternatively, you can return the item under your statutory right of withdrawal.