Best Extension Tubes of 2026

Alan Eaton Avatar
Alan Eaton
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Extension tubes are a versatile and affordable accessory for photographers looking to get closer to their subject without investing in a macro lens. These tubes are designed to fit between your camera body and lens, effectively increasing the distance between the lens and the camera's sensor. This allows you to focus on objects at much closer distances, resulting in stunning macro shots. Extension tubes come in different sizes and can be combined to achieve varying levels of magnification. They are a must-have for any photographer looking to expand their creative options and explore the world of macro photography.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Medihealer Amara View Quick Release Tube (2 Pack) Cover #TOP 1
Medihealer Amara View Quick Release Tube (2 Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R Cover #TOP 2
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R
ftb score rating icon 9.7
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony E Mount Camera Cover #TOP 3
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony E Mount Camera
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Extension Tubes

#TOP 1

Medihealer Amara View Quick Release Tube (2 Pack)

15SY0392
Tube
Medihealer Amara View Quick Release Tube (2 Pack) Cover
2 Packs Quick Release Tube Compatible with Amara View, Only Short Tube for AV, No Elbow, Improved Design and Upgraded Material,Great Value Supplies by Medihealer.

The Medihealer Quick Release Tubes offer a durable and flexible replacement for your Amara View device. Designed with strong quick-release buttons, these tubes are easy to install and stay securely attached, giving you peace of mind during use. The rotatable parts are carefully crafted to maintain their original positioning, which helps prevent twisting and tangling, making the tubes more flexible and convenient to handle. Additionally, the improved design includes a simpler structure made from upgraded, tougher material that resists punctures, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability for your daily needs.

What We Like
Flexible material
Longer length
Durable construction
Reasonable price
Easy connection
What We Don't Like
Occasional quality issues
Less sturdy than original
#TOP 2

JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R

JJC
AETCRFII
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R Cover
JJC RF Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R R1 R3 R5 Mark II R6 Mark III II R7 R8 R10 R50 RP R100 Mirrorless Camera & Canon RF Mount Lens for Macro Photography

The JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Canon EOS R allows for macro photography by shortening the minimum focusing distance of the lens. The set is made of aluminum, high quality brass, and ABS plastic, and can convert almost any lens into a macro lens, saving the cost of buying an expensive macro lens. The extension tubes of 11mm and 16mm lengths can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification. Additionally, the set features full autofocus and auto exposure compatibility and fits Canon RF mount mirrorless cameras and lenses.

What We Like
Maintains autofocus functionality
Affordable macro solution
Good image quality
Easy installation and removal
Metal or sturdy connectors
What We Don't Like
Plastic construction feels fragile
Some mount play or looseness
#TOP 3

JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony E Mount Camera

JJC
Topfoto AETSESII
Sony E Mount (Set)
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony E Mount Camera Cover
JJC E Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony ZV-E10 II A6000 A6100 A6300 A6400 A6500 A6600 A6700 ZV-E1 A1 A7CR A7C II A7IV A7III A7II A7RV IV A7R III II A7S III II A7S A9 II III & More

The JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Sony E Mount Camera is made of aluminum, high quality brass, and ABS plastic. It can shorten the minimum focusing distance of your lens, allowing you to convert almost any lens into a macro lens for a fraction of the cost. Full autofocus and auto exposure compatibility make it easy to use. The extension tubes come in 10mm and 16mm lengths, which can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification. This extension tube set fits Sony E mount mirrorless cameras and lenses.

What We Like
Maintains autofocus functionality
Good image quality
Affordable macro solution
Easy to install and use
Metal mounts on some versions
What We Don't Like
Some plastic construction
Slight mount looseness
#TOP 4

Fotodiox Macro Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS Cameras

EF-MCR
Macro Tube Set
Fotodiox Macro Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS Cameras Cover
Fotodiox Macro Extension Tube Set Compatible with Canon EOS EF/EF-S Cameras for Extreme Macro Photography

The Fotodiox Macro Extension Tube Set is a cost-effective solution for extreme macro photography with Canon EOS EF/EF-S Cameras. The set includes 7mm, 14mm, and 28mm tube sections that can be used in any combination to achieve various reproduction ratios, enabling your lens to focus closer than normal. The extension tubes do not contain optical inserts, preserving the optical quality of your lens while keeping it lightweight. The set comes with camera and lens mounts, providing convenience and flexibility for users.

What We Like
Sturdy metal construction
Affordable price
Easy to use
Great for macro photography
No optical quality loss
What We Don't Like
No electronic contacts
Manual focus required
#TOP 5

JJC Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS

JJC
Topfoto AET-CS
JJC Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS Cover
JJC EF & EF-S Mount Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS 90D 80D 70D 60D 77D Rebel T6 T7 T5 T8i T7i T6i T6s T5i T4i SL3 SL2 EOS 6D Mark II 7D Mark II 5D Mark IV III 5Ds R 1Dx Mark II and More

The JJC Auto Focus Extension Tube Set for Canon EOS is a high-quality product that enables macro photography by shortening the minimum focusing distance of lenses. Made of brass and ABS plastic, it is durable and compatible with full autofocus and auto exposure, making it easy to use. The set includes extension tubes of 12mm, 20mm, and 36mm lengths that can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification. This product is perfect for Canon EOS DSLR camera owners who want to save money by converting their existing lenses into macro lenses.

What We Like
Maintains autofocus functionality
Good image quality
Affordable macro alternative
Easy to install and remove
Metal mount options available
What We Don't Like
Plastic construction feels lightweight
Some mount play or looseness
#TOP 6

JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Nikon DSLR Cameras

JJC
Topfoto AET-NS
Nikon F Mount (Set)
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Nikon DSLR Cameras Cover
JJC F Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Nikon D850 D750 D780 D3500 D3400 D7500 D7200 D7100 D7000 D5600 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D5000 D3300 D3200 D3100 D800 D810 D700 D610 D600 D500 & More

The JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set is made of high-quality brass and ABS plastic, shortening the minimum focusing distance of your lens for macro photography. You can convert almost any lens into a macro lens, saving money on buying an expensive macro lens. The set comes with 12mm, 20mm, and 36mm extension tubes that can be used individually or in any combination for greater magnification. It also has full autofocus and auto exposure compatibility and is compatible with Nikon F-mount DSLR cameras and all F-mount lenses.

What We Like
Maintains autofocus functionality
Good image quality
Affordable macro solution
Easy installation and removal
Metal mount options available
What We Don't Like
Some plastic construction concerns
Slight mount looseness for some models
#TOP 7

MEIKE MK-S-AF3A Macro Extension Tube for Sony Mirrorless Cameras

MK-S-AF3A
Mk-s-af3a
MK-S-AF3A
MEIKE MK-S-AF3A Macro Extension Tube for Sony Mirrorless Cameras Cover
Meike MK-S-AF3A AF Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Adapter Ring (10mm+16mm) for Sony Mirrorless E-Mount FE-Mount A7 NEX Camera A7 A7II A7M2 NEX3 NEX5 NEX6 NEX7 A5000 A5100 A6000 A6300 A6500 A9 A6400

The MEIKE MK-S-AF3A Macro Extension Tube is a metal adapter ring that is compatible with Sony Mirrorless E-Mount and FE-Mount cameras. It supports autofocus and allows you to take close-up photos of small objects like insects and flowers. You can use it alone or in combination with the 10mm and 16mm tubes to achieve different magnification levels. It is recommended to use the manual mode to control the exposure level by changing the shutter speed directly. With its small size, it is easy to carry with you wherever you go.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy macro photography
Autofocus compatibility
Good build quality
Versatile lens compatibility
What We Don't Like
Slight wobble with heavy lenses
Autofocus can hunt sometimes
#TOP 8

JJC Z Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set

JJC
AETNKZII
Nikon Z Mount (Set)
JJC Z Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set Cover
JJC Z Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Nikon ZR Z5II Z6III Z50 II Z50II Zf Z8 Z9 Zfc Z6 III II Z6II Z7II Mirrorless Camera & Nikon Z Mount Lens, Great Tool for Macro Photography

JJC Z Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set is a great tool for macro photography. The set is made of high quality materials including Aluminum, brass and ABS plastic. It shortens minimum focusing distance of lens and converts almost any lens into a macro lens. The set supports full autofocus and auto exposure Compatibility. You can use extension tubes of 11mm and 16mm lengths individually or in combination for greater magnification. It is compatible with Nikon Z mount mirrorless camera and Z mount mirrorless lenses.

What We Like
Good image quality
Maintains autofocus
Affordable macro alternative
Easy installation
Metal mount options available
What We Don't Like
Some plastic construction
Slight looseness for some users
#TOP 9

Meike MK-RF-AF1 Macro Extension Tube Adapter Kit

Meike MK-RF-AF1 Macro Extension Tube Adapter Kit Cover
Meike MK-RF-AF1 13mm + 18mm Metal AF Full Frame Macro Extension Tube Adapter Ring Kit for EOS-R Series Cameras RF Mount Cameras EOS-R EOS-RP

The Meike MK-RF-AF1 kit is an extension tube adapter designed for EOS-R series cameras RF mount cameras EOS-R EOS-RP. It features autofocus support and includes 3 different combinations of extension tubes that can be used alone or in combination (13mm, 18mm, 13+18mm) to get closer and magnify your subject for macro photography. The structural design of the kit makes it comfortable to use and appear as a natural part of the camera.

What We Like
Full autofocus and aperture support
Solid build quality
Easy to use and install
Affordable price point
Works with RF and EF lenses
What We Don't Like
Sticky release latch on some tubes
Not ideal for heavy lenses
#TOP 10

JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Fujifilm X

JJC
Topfoto AET-FXS
JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Fujifilm X Cover
JJC X Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Fuji Fujifilm X-E5 X-M5 X-T50 X-T30 II X-T20 X-E4 X-T5 X-T4 X-T3 X-T2 X-S20 X-S10 X-H1 X-H2 X-H2S X-PRO3 & More, Replaces Fujifilm MCEX-11 MCEX-16

The JJC Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Set for Fujifilm X mount mirrorless cameras is made with durable materials such as aluminum, high-quality brass, and ABS plastic with full compatibility for autofocus and auto exposure. With this extension tube set, you can convert almost any lens into a macro lens, shorten the minimum focusing distance, and save money on expensive macro lenses. The extension tubes of 11mm and 16mm lengths can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification. Note that this tube set is not compatible with the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 23mm f/2 R WR lens.

What We Like
Maintains autofocus functionality
Good image quality
Affordable macro alternative
Easy installation and removal
Metal mount options available
What We Don't Like
Some plastic construction
Minor fit/play issues
Buying Guide Image

The Right Extension Tubes for You

Introduction

Extension tubes are a handy tool for any photographer looking to add a bit of versatility to their lens collection. They allow you to decrease the minimum focusing distance of your lens, which can be particularly useful for capturing close-up shots of small objects or for creating a shallow depth of field. In this article, we will go over some of the key factors to consider when choosing extension tubes for your photography needs.

Compatibility

One of the first things to consider when choosing extension tubes is whether they will be compatible with your existing lenses. Extension tubes are typically designed to fit between the lens and the camera body, so they need to have the same mounting system as your lenses. This means that if you have a lens with a Canon EF mount, for example, you will need to choose an extension tube with a Canon EF mount as well.

Construction

Another important factor to consider when choosing extension tubes is the construction of the tubes themselves. Extension tubes are typically made from metal or high-quality plastics, and the materials used can affect the overall weight and durability of the tubes. In general, metal tubes are more durable and can withstand heavier use, but they can also be heavier and more expensive. Plastic tubes are typically lighter and more affordable, but they may not be as durable.

Focusing and Aperture Control

One of the key benefits of using extension tubes is that they allow you to control the focusing and aperture of your lens. This is because extension tubes do not contain any optics, so they do not affect the quality of the image in any way. However, not all extension tubes offer the same level of control. Some tubes have electronic contacts that allow you to adjust the aperture and focus of your lens directly from the camera body, while others do not.

Length and Magnification

The length of the extension tubes you choose can also affect the level of magnification you are able to achieve. In general, longer extension tubes will provide greater magnification, but they can also make it more difficult to focus on your subject. Shorter extension tubes, on the other hand, will provide less magnification but will be easier to use. It is important to consider the type of photography you plan to do and choose extension tubes that will provide the right level of magnification for your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right extension tubes for your photography needs can be a bit of a challenge. However, by considering factors such as compatibility, construction, focusing and aperture control, length, and magnification, you can find the perfect extension tubes for your lens collection. With the right extension tubes, you can open up a world of new photography opportunities and take your photography to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does an extension tube do?

An extension tube increases the distance between the lens and the camera sensor, allowing the lens to focus closer and achieve higher magnification for close-up photography. This means you can use almost any lens for close-up shots, with the working distance increasing as the focal length of the lens gets longer.

2. What is the difference between extension tube and extender?

Extension tubes and extenders are different. Extension tubes are hollow tubes that increase the distance between the lens and the sensor, while extenders increase the focal length of the lens. Extension tubes have no glass elements, while extenders do.

3. Are extension tubes worth it?

Extension tubes are worth considering as they provide a cost-effective way to achieve higher magnification ratios. They are usually sold in sets of three with different lengths and are much more affordable than buying a new lens. Since they are hollow plastic tubes, they are not expensive but can deliver impressive results.

4. Do extension tubes reduce image quality?

Extension tubes do not have optical elements and, therefore, do not affect image quality. They only make the minimum focus distance shorter, allowing you to get closer to the subject and achieve higher magnification. So, using extension tubes can actually improve the magnification factor without compromising image quality.

5. Are extension tubes better than close-up filters?

Extension tubes have advantages over close-up filters. Extension tubes provide high-quality images across the entire frame without the need to stop down the aperture. However, they do reduce the actual aperture ratio, making the system slightly darker. Close-up filters, on the other hand, can provide higher magnification when used with longer focal length lenses.

6. Do extension tubes affect exposure?

Extension tubes do not affect the optical quality of a lens since they do not have optics. However, they can have other effects such as a decrease in light, shallower depth of field, and loss of ability to focus at infinity.

7. Which is better close-up filters vs extension tubes?

Close-up filters can provide higher magnification, especially when used with longer focal length lenses. For example, a 200mm lens with a close-up filter can achieve a higher magnification than with an extension tube. However, extension tubes offer better image quality across the entire frame without the need to stop down the aperture.

Editor's Notes

During our extension tube research, we found 16 extension tube products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 47,233 customer reviews through our big data system to write the extension tubes list. We found that most customers choose extension tubes with an average price of $33.53.

The extension tubes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of extension tubes, including Medihealer, JJC, Fotodiox, MEKE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 670 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Alan Eaton Avatar

Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.

Extension Tubes Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Medihealer JJC JJC Fotodiox JJC JJC MEKE JJC MEKE JJC
Item Weight - 0.634 ounces 5 ounces 3.53 ounces 7.8 ounces 7 ounces 3.17 ounces 7 ounces 6.4 ounces 5.6 ounces
Lens Type - Macro Macro interchangeable Macro Macro Macro Macro Macro Macro
Compatible Mountings - Canon RF Sony E Camera Canon EF Nikon F Sony E Nikon Z Canon RF Fujifilm X
Camera Lens Description - This JJC product is a set of auto focus extension tubes for Canon RF mount cameras and lenses, designed to enable lens closer than its normal minimum focusing distance macro photography. It contains two different lengths (11mm 16mm) that can be used individually or together achieve the desired magnification. The have no optics are mounted between camera body increase film CCD sensor, forcing normal. conversion allows less expensive alternative purchasing dedicated while maintaining original optical quality. 10 50 millimetres 12 12 The Meike MK-S-AF3A is an auto focus macro extension tube adapter ring designed for Sony mirrorless cameras. It consists of two loops of 10mm and 16mm, which can be used alone or in combination to achieve higher magnification at closer distances. The adapter is compatible with all shooting modes of the camera and requires exposure compensation. It is made of metal with a bayonet mount and a plastic body, weighing approximately 48g and 70g for the 10mm and 16mm tubes respectively. The adapter allows for close-up photography of small objects, insects, flowers, or other detailed items. JJC Z Mount Auto Focus Macro Extension Tube Ring Set for Nikon Z5 II Z5II Z6III Z50 II Z50II Zf Z8 Z9 Zfc Z6 III II Z6II Z7II Mirrorless Camera & Nikon Z Mount Lens, Great Tool for Macro Photography This is a Meike MK-RF-AF1 13mm + 18mm Metal AF Full Frame Macro Extension Tube Adapter Ring Kit for EOS-R series cameras (RF Mount Cameras EOS-R EOS-RP). It supports autofocus, offers 3 different combinations (13mm, 18mm, 13+18mm), and provides macro capabilities for getting closer to the subject and magnifying it. 11
Focal Length Description - 16 millimeters 10-16 millimeters 50 millimeters 12 millimeters 12 millimeters 10-26 Millimeter - 18 millimeters millimeters 16 millimeters
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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