Oppo’s Find X9 Pro introduces an unusual feature: a detachable Hasselblad telephoto lens. This accessory, priced at roughly $575, offers significant zoom capabilities—up to 200x digitally—but its practicality remains debatable. While other brands like Vivo and Xiaomi have experimented with similar attachments, Oppo’s approach stands out. Instead of integrating a shutter button, it relies on the phone’s existing Quick Control button or the on-screen shutter.
The Hasselblad Teleconverter Kit: More Than Just a Gimmick?
The kit includes a snap-on module, the telephoto lens itself, and an optional tripod brace. Use requires a dedicated Magnetic Photographer Case, adding to the complexity. The lens is bulky, creating an unbalanced feel that takes time to adjust to. The lack of a dedicated grip makes handheld use awkward, especially when framing long-zoom shots.
Despite these challenges, the lens delivers impressive results. Initial use presents an inverted viewfinder, requiring manual adjustment in the Hasselblad Teleconverter mode. This mode unlocks 10x, 20x, and 40x zoom options, with the ability to fine-tune magnification up to 200x. The lens maintains natural colors and depth, even in low-light conditions.
Real-World Performance: From Action Shots to Sunset Hues
In testing, the lens excelled at freezing motion, capturing clear action shots at 10x zoom. While detail diminishes at higher magnifications (20x and 40x), the images retain mood and color accuracy. The lens also produces a DSLR-like shallow depth of field, creating natural bokeh without relying on software-driven portrait modes.
The camera software doesn’t automatically detect the lens attachment, requiring manual mode selection, which results in a black viewfinder until adjusted. However, once configured, the lens captures well-exposed and detailed images, even in challenging lighting.
The Verdict: A Luxury Accessory with Tangible Benefits
The Oppo Find X9 Pro’s Hasselblad telephoto lens is not an essential accessory, but it is a useful one. While expensive and cumbersome, it enhances zoom capabilities without significant image degradation. The lens excels at preserving natural colors and depth, offering a unique photographic experience. Despite its limitations, the kit’s ability to deliver DSLR-like bokeh and clear shots makes it a worthwhile investment for serious mobile photographers willing to overlook the high price tag and unconventional design.
