This Olloclip 3‑in‑1 macro lens transforms your iPhone into a powerful close‑up camera, delivering up to 21× magnification for eye‑catching detail and depth of field that turns everyday objects into artistic compositions.
By Stan Horaczek | Published Jan 29, 2014 1:51 AM EST
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What is the Olloclip Macro?
The Olloclip Macro is a lightweight clip that attaches directly to the corner of an iPhone, overlaying a dedicated macro lens over the built‑in camera. It offers three interchangeable lenses—21×, 14×, and 7× magnification—along with protective glass caps, a carrying pouch, and translucent hoods that keep the optics at the optimal focal distance.
Easy to Use, Easy to Carry
Installing the lens is a matter of sliding the metal bracket over the phone’s edge until the optics align with the camera. The design is intentionally simple, but it requires removing most phone cases (except the proprietary Olloclip case). Despite this, many users find the extra step negligible compared to the creative possibilities.
The device fits comfortably in a jacket pocket or purse. While the translucent hoods add a bit of bulk, the overall package remains smaller than a lipstick, making it a convenient companion for everyday shooting.
Image Quality & Optical Performance
Expect the following with each magnification level:
- 21× – Highest detail, narrowest depth of field, noticeable edge distortion and softening. Ideal for pattern‑driven subjects like crystals or textures.
- 14× – Balanced trade‑off between detail and distortion. Provides a shallow depth of field with manageable peripheral softness.
- 7× – Most forgiving of edge effects, still delivers close‑up capability beyond the native iPhone range.
Because the lens is small, the iPhone’s sensor and aperture (f/2.2) limit ultimate sharpness, but the resulting images still stand out on social platforms where sharpness is often secondary to uniqueness.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry.
- Translucent hoods provide a quick reference for optimal focus distance.
- High‑quality glass preserves optical performance without significant loss.
- At $70, it offers an affordable entry into macro photography compared to DSLR macro kits.
- Creates eye‑catching images that can boost engagement on Instagram and other social feeds.
Cons
- Requires removal of most phone cases, adding an extra step to the shooting process.
- Small components—especially the 14× optic—can be lost if not carefully stored.
- Translucent hoods may crack with frequent pocket use.
- Edge distortion and softness are noticeable, especially at 21×, and may need post‑processing.
- Not suitable for professional macro work that demands the precision of a DSLR or mirrorless system.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re curious about macro photography and want a quick, budget‑friendly way to explore close‑up shots, the Olloclip Macro is an excellent starting point. While it won’t replace a dedicated macro lens on a DSLR, it delivers unique images that stand out online and offers a smooth learning curve.
Official Site
21×
Examples of ice crystals, window textures, and denim at 21× illustrate sharp central focus but also highlight peripheral distortion.
14×
Showcases sugar packets, salt shakers, and lettuce, demonstrating shallow depth of field and the potential for pleasing bokeh.
7×
Provides a wider field of view while still capturing close details that a standard iPhone camera cannot achieve.