Samyang / Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 P FE

The Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 P FE is a very compact autofocus prime for Sony E-mount full frame cameras. Samyang announced it on 26 March 2026 as the latest member of the Prima Series, after the AF 35mm F1.4 P FE and the AF 16mm F2.8 and 85mm F1.8 P lenses. Samyang positions it as an everyday lens for travel, street photography and hybrid content creation that is lighter and more compact than the F1.4 version.

Optical design

The lens has 10 elements in 8 groups, including two aspherical (ASP) and two newly developed XHR (extra high refractive) elements. According to Samyang, the XHR elements are made with higher precision than conventional high-refractive glass, which allows a more compact construction while reducing aberrations. The coating is the new UMC II, which Samyang says suppresses flare and ghosting further than the earlier coating. The aperture runs from F1.8 to F22 with nine rounded blades. The minimum focus distance is 27 cm at a magnification of 0.19x, and the angle of view is 63.6 degrees on full frame.

Autofocus and handling

The lens uses the next-generation Linear STM II motor, which Samyang describes as faster, more accurate and quieter. There is an AF/MF switch, and a USB-C port allows firmware updates and setting changes without a lens station. The lens is weather sealed against light rain and dust according to Samyang. It has no optical stabilizer.

Build and size

It weighs 216 g, is 71.5 mm long, has a maximum diameter of 69.8 mm and takes 62 mm filters. Samyang names the Sony α7C series and ZV-E models as natural partners.

Where it fits

In our database, Samyang's earlier AF 35mm F1.8 FE weighs 210 g and is 64 mm long with a 58 mm filter thread, so the P version is slightly larger but newly designed. The AF 35mm F1.4 P FE is a stop faster at 470 g. Other E-mount options are the Sony FE 35mm F1.8 at 280 g, the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.8 at 340 g, and the Sigma 35mm F2 DG DN Contemporary at 325 g.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Light at 216 g and 71.5 mm long
• Close focusing at 27 cm
• Weather sealing, AF/MF switch and USB-C port
• New XHR elements, UMC II coating and Linear STM II motor

Cons

• No optical stabilizer
• F1.8 is slower than F1.4 alternatives
• Slightly larger than Samyang's earlier 35mm F1.8
• Only available for Sony E-mount

Verdict

The AF 35mm F1.8 P FE is a small everyday prime with modern features such as weather sealing and USB-C. It suits photographers who want a light 35 mm and do not need the extra stop of the F1.4 version.