Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.0 NCS CS

Fujifilm X

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.0 NCS CS is a compact and lightweight wide-angle lens designed specifically for the Fujifilm X mount. Known for its superb image quality and minimal distortion, this lens has gained popularity among landscape, architecture, and astrophotography enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of this lens is its impressive maximum aperture of F2.0, allowing for great low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field, which is uncommon in wide-angle lenses. This makes it a versatile option for photographers looking to experiment with different styles while capturing immersive landscapes or night skies.

The lens incorporates advanced optics with a total of 12 elements in 10 groups. With a special NCS (Nano Coating System) treatment, it significantly reduces flare and ghosting, ensuring clear and contrast-rich images even in challenging lighting conditions. Furthermore, the manual focus is smooth and precise, making it easy to accurately focus on your subject, although beginners may initially find it a bit cumbersome compared to autofocus systems.

However, the lens does have its limitations. As a manual focus lens, it may not be the best choice for fast-moving subjects or spontaneous shooting situations where speed is crucial. Additionally, while its build quality is sturdy, the lens lacks weather sealing, which could be a drawback for outdoor photographers who often work in varying weather conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent image quality with minimal distortion.
• Fast F2.0 maximum aperture for low-light photography.
• Lightweight and compact, making it a great travel lens.
• NCS coating reduces flare and ghosting.
• Smooth manual focus for precision.

Cons

• Manual focus may not suit everyone, especially beginners.
• No autofocus capability, which can hinder shooting speed.
• Lacks weather sealing for outdoor use.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Samyang / Rokinon 12mm F2.0 NCS CS is a highly capable wide-angle lens for the Fujifilm X mount, especially for photographers who appreciate manual focus and require a lens that delivers excellent image quality. While it has its drawbacks, mainly concerning autofocus and durability, its strengths in low-light performance and optical clarity make it a worthy addition to the kit of landscape and astrophotography enthusiasts. If you're in the market for a thrilling wide-angle experience, this lens is definitely worth considering.