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

Fujifilm X

Review

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 (also known as Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II) is a wide-angle prime lens designed for the Fujifilm X mount. With its impressive specifications and build quality, it caters especially well to landscape and architectural photographers who seek to capture expansive scenes with remarkable detail.

Build Quality and Design

The construction of the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 is robust and feels solid in hand. It features a metal housing that not only adds durability but also enhances the overall aesthetic. The lens is relatively compact for a wide-angle, making it practical for travel and outdoor photography. Its focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual focus adjustments. However, it’s important to note that this lens does not feature autofocus, which could be a drawback for some users.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 shines, delivering sharp images with impressive clarity even at wide open apertures. The lens exhibits minimal distortion, which is crucial for architectural photography, although some barrel distortion can still be noticeable at the extreme edges. Flare and ghosting are well-controlled due to the multi-layer coating, making this lens a reliable option for shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

When shooting at f/2.8, the depth of field is quite shallow, allowing for creative control over the focus. While the lens performs admirably at this aperture, stopping down to f/4 or f/5.6 does yield even sharper results across the frame, making it an ideal choice for landscape photographers aiming for maximum sharpness.

Usability

One of the significant advantages of a manual focus lens is the compact design and the control it offers. However, it requires a bit of practice, especially for those accustomed to autofocus systems. Additionally, the lack of electronic communication means that exposure information is not transmitted to the camera, which can make evaluating exposure a bit cumbersome for Fujifilm X users.

The lens comes with a 77mm filter thread, allowing for the use of various filters. However, be aware that using a polarizer can create vignetting if not positioned properly, especially at wider apertures.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with a solid metal housing
• Sharp image quality with minimal distortion
• Good control over flare and ghosting
• Compact design perfect for travel
• Affordable price point for a wide-angle lens

Cons

• Manual focus only, which may deter some users
• Exposure information not transmitted to the camera
• Some barrel distortion noticeable at the edges
• Vignetting can occur with filters, particularly at wider apertures

Verdict

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II is a strong contender for Fujifilm X users looking for a wide-angle lens that combines good optical performance with solid construction. While the manual focus may require an adjustment period, the benefits of image quality and control may outweigh this for many photographers. Overall, it's an excellent choice for landscape and architectural photography, provided you are comfortable with the manual focus experience.