Samyang / Rokinon 10mm F2.8 ED AS NCS CS

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 10mm F2.8 ED AS NCS CS is a wide-angle lens designed for Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. As a prime lens, it offers a unique perspective for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography enthusiasts. The lens boasts impressive optical performance, allowing users to capture sharp details with minimal distortion, which is critical when shooting wide scenes where such issues can become prominent.

One of the standout features of this lens is its fast maximum aperture of F2.8. This allows for excellent low-light performance and the capability to capture more light, making it suitable for evening shoots or indoor photography. The lens construction includes special elements to reduce chromatic aberration and enhance color fidelity, providing images that are vibrant and true to life. The internal focus mechanism helps maintain a compact design even while focusing, which can be particularly beneficial when shooting in tight spaces.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are a few caveats to consider. First, the lack of autofocus may be a shortcoming for some users, especially those who require quick and precise focusing in dynamic environments. Manual focusing can be challenging and requires practice, particularly with wider angles, where depth of field can be very shallow. Additionally, barrel distortion, while well-controlled compared to some competitors, can still be noticeable, particularly if you’re photographing straight lines near the edge of the frame.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance with sharpness across the frame.
• Fast maximum aperture of F2.8 for low-light capabilities.
• Lightweight and compact design, ideal for travel and outdoor photography.
• Minimal chromatic aberration provides vibrant and accurate colors.

Cons

• No autofocus, requiring reliance on manual focus.
• Barrel distortion can be present in certain compositions.
• The shallow depth of field can be tricky for quick shots.

Verdict

Overall, the Samyang / Rokinon 10mm F2.8 ED AS NCS CS is a fantastic option for photographers looking for a capable wide-angle lens for their Nikon F (DX) mount cameras. With its excellent sharpness and low-light performance, it stands out as a solid contender for landscape and architecture photography. While the lack of autofocus may deter some, those willing to embrace manual focus will find this lens a worthy addition to their kit, especially if they value optical quality and a generous aperture for challenging lighting conditions.