Double Glass II vs Edge 80: Which Optic Swap?
By Lensbaby | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare Lensbaby's Double Glass II and Edge 80 optics to find the best creative lens optic for your photography style and budget.
Quick Answer
If you want a versatile optic for dreamy, swirly bokeh and creative experimentation, choose the Double Glass II. If you need sharp edges with selective focus for portraits and landscapes, the Edge 80 is your pick.
Aperture and Creative Control
The Double Glass II offers a wide aperture range from f/2.5 to f/22, giving you flexibility in various lighting conditions. Its 12-blade internal aperture creates smooth, circular bokeh, which is great for dreamy, artistic shots. The Edge 80, on the other hand, has a narrower range from f/2.8 to f/22, but its tilt capability up to 15 degrees lets you control the plane of focus precisely, producing a sharp subject against creamy backgrounds.
This difference in aperture and tilt mechanics means the Double Glass II is more about playful, swirly effects, while the Edge 80 is about controlled, selective focus.
Build and Compatibility
The Double Glass II features all-metal construction and a drop-in magnetic aperture system, making it durable and easy to swap between Lensbaby bodies. The Edge 80 is designed for the Composer Pro II and also offers multi-coated glass elements for crisp images.
Both optics are part of the Optic Swap system, so they work with compatible Lensbaby bodies, but the Edge 80's specific design for the Composer Pro II means you'll get the most out of its tilt capabilities with that body.
The Trade-Off: Dreamy vs. Sharp
- Choose Double Glass II if: You want a versatile optic for artistic, swirly bokeh and don't mind a softer overall look. Its drop-in magnetic aperture makes swapping creative effects quick. Check if your Lensbaby body supports the Double Glass II's magnetic aperture system.
- Choose Edge 80 if: You need sharp focus with selective control for portraits or landscapes. The tilt mechanism lets you keep your subject crisp while blurring the background. Ensure you have a Composer Pro II to fully utilize the Edge 80's tilt range.
- Budget consideration: The Double Glass II is more affordable, making it a great entry point into creative optics. The Edge 80 costs more but offers specialized tilt control. Decide if the extra cost of the Edge 80 aligns with your need for precise focus control.
Product Facts
- Double Glass II Optic Only: The Double Glass II has an aperture range from f/2.5 to f/22 and features all-metal construction with a 12-blade manually adjustable internal aperture. This gives you smooth, artistic bokeh and durable build quality for creative experimentation.
Double Glass II Optic Only - Edge 80 Optic: The Edge 80 is an 80mm optic with up to 15 degrees of tilt and an aperture range of f/2.8 to f/22, featuring multi-coated glass elements. This allows precise control of the focus plane, making it ideal for portraits and landscapes with creamy backgrounds.
Edge 80 Optic
Who Should Choose Which?
Best for
- Creative shooters who love experimenting with bokeh and dreamy effects.
- Budget-conscious photographers wanting a versatile optic for artistic work.
Not for
- Photographers who need tack-sharp focus for commercial portraits or landscapes.
- Those who don't have a Composer Pro II and want to use the Edge 80's full tilt capabilities.
