Samyang 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC

Fujifilm X

Review

The Samyang 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC is an exciting wide-angle lens designed specifically for Fujifilm X cameras. Known for its versatility and impressive optical performance, this lens is an excellent choice for landscape photographers, street photographers, and even astrophotographers. With a fast maximum aperture of F1.8, it offers the capability to shoot in low-light conditions while also providing a shallow depth of field for creative effects.

One of the standout features of the Samyang 20mm is its sharpness across the frame. Even at maximum aperture, the lens delivers impressive detail, making it suitable for critical landscape shots or architectural photography. Colors are rendered beautifully, with good contrast that enhances the overall image quality. The UMC (Ultra Multi Coating) applied to the glass elements helps to reduce flare and ghosting, making it a reliable choice when shooting in backlit situations.

The lens construction consists of 13 elements in 12 groups, including two extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements and a number of aspherical elements, which contribute to the correction of chromatic aberrations and distortions. This design ensures that you get clear, high-resolution images with minimal minimal optical flaws.

The build quality of the Samyang 20mm F1.8 is solid, featuring a robust metal mount that ensures a snug fit on your Fujifilm camera. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual focusing. However, the lens lacks autofocus, which can be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize speed and convenience in their shooting style. This limitation makes it more suited for photographers who are comfortable with manual focus techniques.

A significant aspect to consider is the size and weight of the lens. Weighing around 500 grams, it’s relatively lightweight for a fast prime lens. This makes it an appealing option for travel or street photography where portability is a priority. However, the bulbous front element may pose challenges when fitting filters.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness and optical performance
• Fast maximum aperture of F1.8
• Solid build quality with smooth manual focus
• Lightweight and compact design
• Good control of flare and ghosting

Cons

• No autofocus feature, requiring manual focusing
• Front element design may complicate filter attachment
• Slightly more challenging for low-light autofocus needs

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang 20mm F1.8 ED AS UMC is an outstanding option for Fujifilm X users searching for a reliable wide-angle lens. Its impressive optical performance, solid build quality, and fast aperture make it suitable for various photographic genres, particularly for those who favor manual focus techniques. While the lack of autofocus might deter some photographers, those willing to embrace the challenge will find a lens that delivers spectacular results. If you’re looking for a well-crafted wide-angle lens that performs exceptionally well in a range of settings, the Samyang 20mm F1.8 is certainly worth considering.