
Choosing the right lens-sensor combination is critical for achieving sharp, high-quality images—whether for security cameras, machine vision systems, or intelligent traffic solutions. As a professional optical lens supplier, TOWIN Lens understands that sensor size (especially 1/1.8″ and 2/3″) is a key factor in compatibility. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about 1/1.8″ vs 2/3″ sensor-lens compatibility, helping you select the perfect TOWIN lens for your project.
Sensor size directly impacts a lens’s ability to project a clear, full-frame image. The “compatibility” refers to whether a lens’s imaging circle (the area of light it projects) fully covers the sensor, and whether its mount/mechanical specs align with the camera’s design. Mismatched combinations lead to issues like vignetting (dark corners), reduced resolution, or failed installation—problems TOWIN’s engineered lenses avoid when paired correctly.
| Parameter | 1/1.8″ Sensor | 2/3″ Sensor |
| Diagonal Size | ~8.9mm | ~11.0mm |
| Typical Pixel Support | 5MP–12MP | 2MP–8MP |
| Light Gathering Capacity | Moderate (ideal for well-lit environments) | Superior (great for low-light/night vision) |
| Camera Type Compatibility | Compact IP cameras, CCTV, consumer electronics | Industrial MV cameras, ITS traffic cameras, high-end surveillance |
| TOWIN Lens Match | M12/S-mount (Low Light Sensitive, Pinhole), CS-mount (Fixed Focal) | C-mount (MV/FA lenses), CS-mount (Vari-Focal, IR-corrected) |
To ensure seamless integration, verify these key factors before purchasing:
Imaging Circle Coverage: The lens’s imaging circle must be equal to or larger than the sensor’s diagonal (e.g., 2/3″ lenses have a larger circle than 1/1.8″ sensors).
1/1.8″ sensors are widely used in compact, high-resolution devices—here’s how to match them:
2/3″ sensors are preferred for low-light and industrial scenarios—their compatibility needs:
Can you mix these sensors and lenses? Here’s the real-world performance:
| Combination | Compatibility | Image Quality | Use Case Suitability |
| 2/3″ Lens + 1/1.8″ Sensor | Fully Compatible | Sharp, no vignetting (larger imaging circle covers sensor) | Recommended for upgrading low-light performance (e.g., 2/3″ F2 lens on 1/1.8″ 5MP camera) |
| 1/1.8″ Lens + 2/3″ Sensor | Incompatible (Partial Coverage) | Vignetting (dark corners), reduced resolution | Only acceptable for non-critical applications (avoid for industrial/security use) |
TOWIN Tip: For cross-use, always prioritize 2/3″ lenses on 1/1.8″ sensors—never the reverse—for reliable results.
Different industries benefit from specific sensor-lens pairings:
Q: Can I use a TOWIN M12 lens with a 2/3″ sensor?
A: Only if the M12 lens’s imaging circle covers 11mm (2/3″ diagonal). Most TOWIN M12 lenses are optimized for 1/1.8″ sensors—check the product specs or contact us for 2/3″ M12 options.
Q: What’s the difference between C-mount and CS-mount for these sensors?
A: C-mount (17.526mm flange distance) fits 2/3″ industrial cameras; CS-mount (12.526mm) works with both sensors (use an adapter if pairing CS-mount lenses with C-mount cameras).
Q: How do I confirm TOWIN lens compatibility with my sensor?
A: Check the lens’s “Sensor Size Compatibility” section on our product page, or send your sensor model to info@towin-elec.com for personalized advice.
1/1.8″ and 2/3″ sensors each have unique strengths, and their compatibility with lenses boils down to imaging circle, mount type, and resolution matching. TOWIN’s extensive lens range—from M12/S-mount to C-mount/CS-mount—offers tailored solutions for both sensor sizes, across surveillance, industrial, and ITS applications. Whether you need a compact high-res lens or a rugged low-light option, TOWIN has you covered.
Contact us today at info@towin-elec.com to find the perfect lens-sensor combination for your project!