I wanted to save this Olloclip review until April 1st because quite honestly, between my rookie mistakes from unboxing, down to the failure to properly install the first 2-3 times, I’m quite the April Fool. But this happened in March, so I figured why make you guys wait?
I had quite an interesting time reviewing Olloclip’s 4-in-1 lens set, so why don’t we begin at the beginning.
Like its previous model, the $80 Olloclip 4-in-1 Lens for the iPhone 6/6 Plus offers great image quality from multiple lenses in a package that slips onto the phone in a second and fits easily in your pocket. The kit comes with three pendants, in green, blue and black with the packaging, that hold the lens in place (with lens covers included). Unfortunately, I have the iPhone 6 Plus and the instructions weren’t that simple.
Unlike the previous Olloclip model for the iPhone 5/5s, which clipped onto the corner of the phone, the new 4-in-1 system features a metal clip that slides over the middle of the phone and uses plastic inserts to adjust the fit for the iPhone 6 or 6 Plus. Subtle nooks and grooves ensure the camera and lenses line up correctly. Directly out of the box it fits the iPhone 6 perfectly, but the iPhone 6+ model needed a small plastic insert which isn’t really the easiest thing to get on. (It took me three tries; red flag)
With the Olloclip on what looked to be right, I in turn completely screwed up my glass screen protector. “How can you do this Greg, if everything is in the instruction manual?” Au contraire! What Olloclip doesn’t state on the box, but instead states on the website (for those who actually take the time to read the site) is that the Olloclip is meant to be used on a naked iPhone, no case, no screen protector. This right here should’ve been my (second) red flag. But I digress.
Similar to previous models, the 10x and 15x macro lenses are built directly into the metal mount, with the wide-angle and fish-eye lenses screwing on top. The removable lenses are constructed of smooth machined aluminum with easy-to-read, etched labels, and are protected by clear plastic lens caps. The only design flaw is that the mount blocks the rear flash on both the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
Now for those of you who have never used an Olloclip, you’re in good company, because neither had I, up until then. But I am into photography. Not in the sense I have a Leica on my nightstand, and I don’t take photos of people’s gardens in the Spring, but I do enjoy a good shot of scenery every once in a while.
I saw the Olloclip and figured “If it’s in the budget, I’d try it”, and at $80, it’s really not that much. The issue is if you spent $30 to protect your $800 phone, the Olloclip won’t cooperate with your case, or the screen protector you purchased. Tell that to my now destroyed glass screen protector that cost $24.
A few other reviews mentions that their Olloclip scratched their phone after repeated on/off use, which I can see happening with frequent use. Now, call me scorned because of the screen protector issue, but I’m a firm believer in a case. If you think alike, it’s not practical to take off your case just to take a wide lens photo. You’d think Olloclip would make a model that allowed the Olloclip to be adjustable to fit cases. What they did instead was a money grab. They created their own case. But.What.If.I.Opt.Out?
Outside of the design, the photo quality is EXCELLENT. I compared the Olloclip to one a friend purchased on Groupon for a fraction of the price, and for lack of better words, her version was crap. I especially enjoyed the wide lens for the added space in my photos, which made taking selfies pretty cool. The idea of the wide lens is obviously for wide shots of scenery though, so don’t expect to get all 12 of your drunk buddies in that bar photo from St. Patty’s Day. It won’t work, no matter what selfie stick you buy.
The fisheye lens was GREAT. I found myself using this lens more than the wise lens. From taking photos at my god-daughter’s birthday party, to random shots out and about, the fisheye just was overall fun to me. One small issue I did have with this that I didn’t notice with the Wide Lens for some reason was the Olloclip itself rendering my iPhone’s camera useless. Since the Olloclip sits right on top of it, that extra lighting you thought you’d get? Not happening.
To conclude, the Olloclip for iPhone 6/6+ is a GREAT tool if you like to get a bit more from your iPhone’s camera. I really would use this more often if it was adjustable to be used with cases. If you know you are going to be outdoors taking pictures that suit the lenses, this is a perfect purchase. However, if you are just a fan of snapping and sending, I can honestly say, this little gadget is not for you. Take into account, if you’re outdoors though, you may want a LITTLE bit more protection for your phone, that you won’t be able to have using this product.
Purchase the Olloclip 4-in-1 for iPhone 6/6+
Source: Manufacturer supplied
What I Like: Included Key Ring and lens covers; Fish Lens mode is best I’ve seen; overall boxing presentation
What Needs Improvement: Needs to be adjustable for use with cases and screen protectors
