If you’ve ever wondered how the different Helios 44 lenses compare, this is the test you’ve been waiting for. I took 10 vintage Soviet Helios lenses — including the 44M’s from three Helios factories (Valdai, MMZ, KMZ), two 44-2 versions, and an M39 44 — and shot detailed botanical tests using a Canon 1DX and the Fotodiox Pro M42-EOS V2 adapter. This series of YouTube Shorts captures the unique rendering, bokeh quality, and character of each lens in natural light. Whether you’re a vintage glass collector, a Helios fan, or just curious which version delivers the most dreamy results, this comparison has you covered.
Helios 44 M39 Botanical Lens Test on Canon 1DX:
Vintage Lens Magic: Helios 44-2 on Canon 1DX
Canon 1DX + Helios 44M-7: Vintage Lens Magic with Fotodiox M42 Adapter
Helios 44M-6 on Canon 1DX — Swirly Bokeh with Vintage Vibes
Helios 44-3 on Canon 1DX | Botanical Test w/FotodioX Pro Adapter
Helios 44M - 4 | Botanical Bloom Test on Canon 1DX
Helios 44M Valdai + Canon 1DX Vintage Swirl Test (Fotodiox M42 - EOS v2)
Helios 44M MMZ on Canon 1DX - Botanical Tests
Helios 44 - 2 Serial (00) x Canon 1DX | Swirls & Sharpness!
Helios 44 KMZ VS 9 Other Helios Lenses - Did I save the Best for Last?
The Lens Hooche Verdict
📺 Watch the Full Helios Lens Shorts Series on YouTube
Don’t forget to check out each video and let me know which lens is your favorite in the video comments. You can also grab the same adapter I used here: M42-EOS V2.
Stick around as I just started a Super-Takumar botanical series as well. Videos will be posted on my shorts feed and blog will be written once I shoot those lenses.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission, which helps support the maintenance and costs of this website. Thank you for your support! 🙌📸
