Accessory for macro photography that lets photographers focus much closer than standard lenses and capture finer detail. Entatial M42 Extension Tubes suit film and digital SLR users who shoot manual lenses and want a simple way to increase magnification. Are they the right step-up for hands-on macro work?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Image Quality: No glass elements, so lens sharpness and saturation remain largely unchanged while reducing minimum focus distance
- • Best for: Photographers using manual M42-mount lenses who need closer focus for flora, small product shots and detail work
- • Not ideal for: Users who require electronic metering, autofocus or automatic diaphragm operation
Three screw-in extension tubes (9mm, 16mm, 30mm) change the lens-to-sensor distance to increase magnification. No electronic coupling means manual aperture and exposure control are required for reliable results.
Closer Framing with Variable Magnification – with 9mm, 16mm and 30mm extension tubes
Adding extension between the lens and camera increases the effective distance from the lens to the sensor, lowering the minimum focus distance and raising magnification. Different tube lengths can be combined to fine-tune the degree of close-up.
Easily fill the frame with small subjects such as insects or textures by choosing single tubes or stacking combinations to achieve the preferred magnification.
High-Fidelity Results – with a no-glass tube design
Extension tubes contain no optical elements, so light passes through unchanged and the lens optics remain the primary imaging components. The set is described as not downgrading optical quality, preserving sharpness and saturation.
Expect images that keep the character of the attached lens, allowing high-detail macro shots while avoiding additional optical aberrations from extra glass.
Robust Mounting for Field Work – thanks to metal construction and M42 screw mount
The tubes use a 42mm screw mount typical of M42 systems and feature a metal build that secures the lens-to-body connection. Metal construction reduces flex and wear compared with cheaper plastic alternatives.
Confident handling during outdoor or studio shoots, with secure attachment and survival of regular use without deformation or loose fittings.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Entatial M42 Extension Tubes
- Three extension tubes – Provides variable extension for precise magnification control in combinations
- Solid metal build – Durable construction resists wear during regular photographic use
- M42 screw mount compatibility – Fits film and digital SLRs with 42mm threaded mount
- Manual shooting workflow – Enables full manual exposure control for deliberate macro shots
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Wireless
- Brand: Entatial
- Mount: M42 (42mm screw mount)
- Tube lengths: 9mm, 16mm, 30mm
- Optical elements: None (no glass in tubes)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use autofocus lenses with these tubes?
A: Autofocus and electronic functions are not supported because there is no electronic connection; automatic lenses can only be used at their widest open aperture.
Q: Will optical quality suffer when I use the tubes?
A: The set is described as not downgrading optical quality, with sharpness and saturation maintained because the tubes contain no glass elements.
Q: Do I need to change camera settings to use the tubes?
A: Yes, the camera should be set to 'M' mode for DSLR/SLR use and manual aperture control is required when using manual lenses with their own aperture dial.
🏆 Our Verdict
The Entatial M42 Extension Tubes are suitable for photographers who use manual M42-mount lenses and want a straightforward way to get into macro photography. The combination of three tube lengths, metal construction and a no-glass design makes close-up work reliable while preserving lens character. For those willing to work manually, the set delivers practical long-term value and dependable performance.
