Samyang / Rokinon 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS is a wide-angle lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. This lens has become popular among landscape, architecture, and astrophotographers due to its impressive optical performance and affordability.

Build Quality and Design

The lens feels solid in hand, constructed from a combination of metal and high-quality plastic, giving it a premium feel. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for travel photographers. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise manual focusing, which is essential for critical applications like astrophotography.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the Samyang 16mm F2 is its fast maximum aperture of F2, which allows for great low-light performance and depth of field control. The lens produces sharp images, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, especially useful when shooting landscapes or wide scenes. The 16mm focal length is equivalent to 32mm in full-frame terms, which is versatile for a variety of shooting situations.

Handling and Usability

As a manual focus lens, it may not be for everyone, especially those who rely heavily on autofocus. However, the clarity of the focus scale is a plus, and the lens does well in situations where manual focus is preferable. The compact size and lightweight weight make it comfortable to use for extended periods, and it pairs well with MFT bodies.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide maximum aperture of F2 for excellent low-light performance.
• Sharp images with minimal optical aberrations.
• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel.
• Smooth manual focus operation.

Cons

• Lack of autofocus may deter some users.
• The relatively narrow field of view compared to full-frame counterparts can be limiting for certain applications.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 16mm F2 ED AS UMC CS is a fantastic choice for Micro Four Thirds shooters looking for a prime ultra-wide lens. Its strong optical performance, combined with a good build quality and lightweight design, makes it suitable for various photography genres. While the manual focus aspect can be a drawback for some, those willing to embrace it will find a versatile and capable lens that excels in multiple shooting scenarios.