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

Sony E

Review

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2, also known as the Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II, is a wide-angle manual focus lens designed for Sony E mount cameras. This lens has garnered attention for its combination of affordability, solid build quality, and impressive optical performance, particularly for landscape and architectural photography. With a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture, it also positions itself as a strong contender for astrophotography.

Build Quality and Design

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 showcases a robust build, featuring a metal body that feels durable in hand. With a weight of around 1.08 lbs (490g), it is relatively lightweight, making it a suitable companion for extended shoots without weighing down your gear. The lens measures 3.2 inches in length and has a diameter of 3.3 inches, fitting comfortably on most Sony E mount cameras. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments, which is essential for manual focus lenses.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of this lens is its excellent optical performance. The 14mm focal length provides a broad field of view, and the lens exhibits minimal distortion, which is crucial for architectural photography. The image quality is commendable, with sharpness remaining well-controlled across the frame, especially when stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8. Chromatic aberration is also well-managed, although some fringing may be visible in high-contrast situations.

The lens features an 8-blade diaphragm that produces smooth bokeh, making it surprising for a lens in this category. While most users will appreciate its performance for landscapes and cityscapes, its wider aperture allows for creative depth-of-field control, which could be ideal in certain low-light or night photography scenarios, such as capturing star trails or the Milky Way.

Usability and Manual Focus

As a fully manual focus lens, the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 requires a bit of a learning curve for those accustomed to autofocus systems. However, with its focus peaking feature available in many Sony cameras, achieving precise focus becomes easier. The focus ring is well-marked with distance scales, offering helpful feedback during shooting. Despite the manual focus aspect, many photographers find that the ability to precisely control their focus can lead to better creative results.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance, especially for landscapes and astrophotography.
• Minimal distortion and good control of chromatic aberration.
• Sturdy build quality with a smooth focus ring.
• Lightweight and compact for a 14mm lens.

Cons

• Fully manual focus may deter those used to autofocus systems.
• Lack of weather sealing, limiting use in harsh conditions.
• Slight ghosting and flare may occur in very bright light.

Verdict

The Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 Mk2 / Rokinon MF 14mm F2.8 II is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a high-quality wide-angle lens without breaking the bank. Its stellar optical performance, combined with a solid build, makes it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to astrophotography. However, its manual focus design may require a bit of adjustment for those looking for the convenience of autofocus. Overall, if you are willing to embrace the manual focus approach, this lens could be a fantastic addition to your Sony E mount kit.