The Helios 44M-4 and Helios 44-2 are two beloved lenses from the Helios 44 series, known for their iconic 58mm f/2 focal length and signature swirly bokeh. Both lenses were produced in the Soviet Union, with the 44-2 dating back to the 1960s and the 44M-4 being a later iteration, produced in the 1980s. Although both lenses share many similarities, there are key differences that set them apart. In this article, we’ll explore and compare these two lenses to help you decide which is the best fit for your photography style.
1. Lens Design and Build Quality
Helios 44-2
The Helios 44-2 is part of the classic line of M42 screw mount lenses produced by KMZ (Krasnogorsky Mechanical Plant). The lens features a solid metal construction, giving it a robust and somewhat heavy feel. Its build quality is often praised by vintage lens enthusiasts for its durability and mechanical precision, though the lens is somewhat bulkier compared to modern alternatives.
The Helios 44-2 also has a rotating aperture ring that controls the lens’s aperture. This contributes to its distinctive swirly bokeh when shot wide open (f/2), a feature that has become iconic among portrait and street photographers.
Helios 44M-4
The Helios 44M-4, produced in the 1980s, is part of the Helios 44M series. One of the most significant differences between the 44M-4 and the 44-2 is the mount type. The 44M-4 features a M42 screw mount, just like the 44-2, but it’s generally more compact and features a refined design compared to earlier versions.
The Helios 44M-4 has a more smooth focus ring and offers improved ergonomics, making it easier to handle for longer shooting sessions. The lens barrel is slightly lighter than the 44-2, and its aperture ring provides more fluid movement.
2. Optical Performance
Helios 44-2
The optical design of the Helios 44-2 is a 6-element, 4-group configuration, which is characteristic of many Soviet lenses. It produces beautiful, soft bokeh and a signature swirly effect that has become a hallmark of this lens. The lens performs well in the center, providing relatively sharp images, but the corners can become soft and exhibit chromatic aberration when used wide open.
This “imperfection” is embraced by many photographers who enjoy the vintage aesthetic, especially in portrait or artistic photography. The lens produces a dreamy and unique look, particularly in out-of-focus areas.
Helios 44M-4
The Helios 44M-4 shares the same 6-element, 4-group design as the 44-2, which means the two lenses exhibit similar optical traits, including the characteristic swirly bokeh. However, the 44M-4 benefits from improvements in lens coatings and slightly enhanced optical elements that can reduce flare and chromatic aberrations compared to the earlier 44-2. As a result, the 44M-4 tends to have a slightly more controlled image quality, with better contrast and color fidelity.
That said, the swirly bokeh and soft, pleasing background blur remain a key selling point of both lenses. The 44M-4 produces similarly artistic results but with refined image quality, making it more suited for those who want the Helios aesthetic without as many optical imperfections.
3. Handling and Usability
Helios 44-2
The Helios 44-2 lens, being an older design, has a larger, heavier build, and the manual focus ring can feel a bit stiff compared to more modern lenses. The M42 screw mount is another factor that requires an adapter when using it with modern cameras. While this can be a slight inconvenience, it doesn’t detract from the lens’s classic appeal.
The manual aperture ring on the 44-2 is not as smooth as the one found on the 44M-4, making the 44-2 feel more mechanical and less fluid to operate, especially when shooting in quick, dynamic situations.
Helios 44M-4
The Helios 44M-4 is more refined in terms of ergonomics and handling. The focus ring operates more smoothly, and the aperture ring is easier to turn, offering more precision when adjusting settings. The lens is also slightly lighter, making it a bit more comfortable for handheld shooting, particularly in longer sessions.
With the M42 screw mount, the 44M-4 still requires an adapter for use with modern cameras, but its improved handlingmakes it more pleasant to use compared to the 44-2.
4. Price and Availability
Both the Helios 44-2 and Helios 44M-4 are relatively affordable vintage lenses. However, because the Helios 44M-4 was produced later, it tends to be a bit more expensive than the 44-2, especially when it comes to well-maintained or refurbished models.
That being said, Helios 44-2 lenses are widely available on the secondhand market, and their vintage appeal means they often sell for lower prices, making them an excellent choice for those who want to experiment with classic lenses without breaking the bank.
5. Which Lens Should You Choose?
Choose the Helios 44-2 if:
- You are drawn to vintage lenses with a classic design and robust build quality.
- You prefer the heavier, more mechanical feel of a lens and don't mind a bit of stiffness in the focus ring.
- You love the swirly bokeh and are willing to embrace its optical imperfections for artistic photography.
- You want a cheaper option and are willing to adapt the lens to modern cameras.
Choose the Helios 44M-4 if:
- You want a lens with smoother handling, including a more refined focus and aperture ring.
- You want to have slightly improved optical performance, with better contrast and color rendering.
- You prefer a more compact lens that’s easier to handle during long shooting sessions.
- You’re willing to pay a bit more for a lens with a more modernized design and better usability.
Conclusion
Both the Helios 44-2 and the Helios 44M-4 deliver that classic Helios charm with their iconic swirly bokeh and vintage character. The 44-2 is perfect for those who appreciate older Soviet lenses with their mechanical feel and are looking for an affordable, artistic option. On the other hand, the 44M-4 offers a slightly more refined design, better optical performance, and improved handling, making it a great choice for photographers who want the Helios experience with a bit more precision.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preferences regarding handling, optical quality, and budget. Both lenses are capable of producing stunning, dreamy portraits, and either one will be a worthy addition to your lens collection.