Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC lens is a well-built and versatile telephoto prime lens designed to offer high-quality optics and performance for Micro Four Thirds cameras. This lens stands out for its ability to deliver stunning images with beautiful background blur, making it a great choice for portrait photographers and those looking to achieve a shallow depth of field in their shots.

One of the key features of the Samyang 135mm is its fast f/2.0 maximum aperture, which provides excellent low-light performance and allows for significant control over depth of field. The lens is engineered with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) technology, which helps minimize chromatic aberration and ghosting, resulting in crisp and clear images with excellent color fidelity. Additionally, the 135mm focal length on a Micro Four Thirds system effectively translates to a 270mm equivalent, making it ideal for wildlife photography and portraiture.

The build quality of this lens is solid, featuring a robust metal housing that feels durable and professional in hand. It has a smooth focus ring that allows for precise adjustments, though it's worth noting that this is a fully manual lens, meaning that you won't have autofocus functionality. This may not be a concern for some photographers who prefer manual focusing, but it could be seen as a drawback for those who rely on quick autofocus in dynamic scenes.

However, there are some aspects to consider before purchasing this lens. While the optical performance is generally excellent, the images can sometimes exhibit a degree of softness at the edges, especially when shot wide open. Additionally, at 135mm, the lens can be somewhat cumbersome to use without a tripod or monopod for stability, further emphasizing the importance of controlling camera shake to avoid motion blur.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast f/2.0 maximum aperture for low-light capability and shallow depth of field.
• Exceptional image quality with minimal chromatic aberration and ghosting.
• Solid metal construction with a professional feel.
• Smooth manual focusing mechanism.

Cons

• Lack of autofocus capability may deter some users.
• Softness noticeable at the edges when used wide open.
• Heavier and bulkier compared to some other MFT lenses, potentially requiring additional support for stability.

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC lens is an impressive choice for Micro Four Thirds users seeking a quality telephoto lens with outstanding low-light performance and beautiful bokeh. While its manual focus design and heavier build might not be suitable for everyone, photographers who appreciate the artistry of manual control and desire high-quality optics will find this lens a rewarding addition to their kit.