Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II

Review

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2, also known as Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II, is a wide-angle manual focus lens designed for the Canon EF-M mount. This lens is particularly attractive for photographers looking for an affordable entry into ultra-wide-angle photography, whether for landscapes, architecture, or astrophotography.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 is solid, featuring a robust metal housing that gives it a professional feel. Weighing around 1.5 lbs (approximately 600 grams), it strikes a balance between durability and portability. The lens has a matte black finish that reduces reflections and enhances its visual appeal. With a focal length of 14mm, this lens opens up a broadened perspective, perfect for capturing sweeping vistas.

Image Quality

One of the standout features of this lens is its image quality, producing sharp and contrast-rich images even at maximum aperture. It uses a combination of aspherical and extra-low dispersion glass elements, which significantly minimize chromatic aberration and ensure that images remain crisp from the center to the edges. However, it's worth noting that, like many ultra-wide-angle lenses, distortion can be a concern. While the lens manages distortion well, you might still encounter some barrel distortion that requires correction in post-processing.

Manual Focus Experience

As a manual focus lens, the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 can be both an asset and a challenge. The focusing ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments—ideal for creative photographers who enjoy manual control. However, for those used to autofocus, the transition to manual focusing may pose a learning curve, particularly for capturing fleeting moments.

Versatile Aperture

The f/2.8 maximum aperture is fairly standard for a lens of this type and provides decent low-light performance. The wide aperture can create a pleasing depth of field for landscape and astrophotography, allowing you to capture star-filled skies or low-light environments effectively.

Compatibility

Although the lens is primarily designed for Canon EF-M mounts, it is also compatible with full-frame sensors when used in crop mode. This versatility makes it a flexible option for photographers looking to expand their lens collection across different camera systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent image sharpness and contrast.
• Solid build quality and design.
• Effective control of chromatic aberration and distortion.
• Wide angle perfect for landscapes and astrophotography.
• Smooth manual focus ring for precise adjustments.

Cons

• Manual focus might not appeal to everyone, particularly fast-action photographers.
• Some barrel distortion may require correction in post-processing.
• Limited maximum aperture compared to lenses with wider options.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II is a well-crafted lens that offers solid performance, particularly in wide-angle photography. If you're comfortable with manual focus and are looking for an affordable ultra-wide-angle option for your Canon EF-M mount camera, this lens could be a great addition to your toolkit. However, potential buyers should weigh the trade-offs of manual focus and post-processing requirements against their shooting preferences.