Samyang / Rokinon 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC

Canon EF

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC is an ultra-wide-angle lens that has garnered attention among Canon EF mount users due to its impressive specifications and competitive pricing. This lens is particularly popular among landscape, architecture, and astrophotographers who seek a broader perspective without sacrificing image quality.

Build Quality and Design

The lens features a robust build quality typical of Samyang/Rokinon lenses, with a solid metal mount and a textured finish that exudes professionalism. The manual focus ring is smooth and well-damped, providing precise control, which is essential for achieving sharp focus in wide-angle compositions. However, it is worth noting that this lens does not feature autofocus, which may deter those who prefer automatic focusing, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Samyang 20mm F1.8 lives up to its reputation, offering sharpness across the frame, especially when stopped down to F4 or F5.6. The lens is equipped with an aspherical element and extra-low dispersion glass, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion typical of wide-angle lenses. At F1.8, the lens produces a pleasing bokeh, allowing for creative compositions that highlight the subject against a soft background. However, some users might notice slight vignetting at wider apertures, which can be corrected in post-processing.

Low Light Performance

One of the standout features of the Samyang 20mm F1.8 is its performance in low light conditions. The fast maximum aperture allows for sufficient light capture, making it a great option for night sky photography or indoor shoots. While manual focusing may require some practice to master, the depth of field can be beneficial for achieving sharp images across the frame at various distances.

Versatility

This lens is quite versatile, suitable for a range of photography styles. Whether it's sprawling landscapes, tight architectural shots, or creative perspectives for street photography, the 20mm focal length provides ample opportunities to experiment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with sharp images across the frame.
• Fast F1.8 aperture for low light performance.
• Solid build quality and smooth manual focus ring.
• Lightweight and compact design ideal for travel photography.

Cons

• Lack of autofocus which could be a drawback for some users.
• Some vignetting at wider apertures.
• Limited availability of dedicated accessories.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC for Canon EF mount is an impressive lens that balances quality and affordability. Its build quality, sharpness, and low light capabilities make it a strong contender for any photographer looking to dip their toes into wide-angle photography. While the lack of autofocus may be an inconvenience for some, those comfortable with manual focus will appreciate the level of control and creative possibilities this lens offers. Ideal for enthusiasts and professionals alike, it’s a valuable addition to any photographer's toolkit.