Samyang / Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 FE

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 FE is a compact and versatile lens designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras, making it an appealing choice for photographers who require a quick and efficient prime lens for everyday shooting. This lens is well-suited for a variety of genres including street photography, portraiture, and even landscape photography, thanks to its fast aperture and sharpness.

Build Quality and Design

One of the defining features of the Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing only light, this lens is an excellent companion for photographers who prioritize portability. The build quality is solid, with a robust plastic casing that feels durable without being overly heavy. The lens has a smooth matte finish which helps in avoiding fingerprints and smudges, maintaining its appearance over extended use.

Optics and Performance

The optical performance of this lens is commendable. It incorporates advanced optical technology, including aspherical and extra-low dispersion glass elements. This results in vibrant colors and impressive contrast. The F1.8 maximum aperture allows for beautiful depth of field effects, providing a pleasing bokeh that isolates subjects well. Additionally, sharpness is appealing across most apertures, especially at F2.8 and above.

This lens excels in low-light conditions due to its fast maximum aperture, enabling photographers to shoot in dimmer environments without compromising on shutter speed or ISO levels. Autofocus performance is generally reliable, quick, and nearly silent, making it suitable for both stills and video work.

Compatibility and Use Cases

As a Sony E-mount lens, the Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE is compatible with a wide range of Sony cameras, including both full-frame and APS-C sensor models. On APS-C cameras, this lens essentially behaves like a 52.5mm equivalent, making it even more versatile for various shooting scenarios. Photographers looking to enhance their focal length flexibility will find this to be a rewarding addition to their kits.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design
• Fast F1.8 maximum aperture for low light performance
• Good optical performance with sharpness across most apertures
• Reliable and quiet autofocus, suitable for video
• Excellent bokeh for subject isolation

Cons

• Some chromatic aberration may be noticeable at wider apertures
• Limited weather sealing compared to some other lenses in this category
• The lack of Image Stabilization may hinder some shooters in low-light situations

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 FE is an outstanding choice for Sony E-mount users seeking a well-rounded lens that is both compact and high-performing. Its combination of portability, sharp optical quality, and fast aperture make it an ideal option for a variety of photographic applications. Although it has a few limitations in terms of weather sealing and stabilization, the overall performance and value it offers are hard to overlook. Whether you're shooting in the streets, at events, or simply capturing everyday moments, this lens is sure to impress.