Samyang / Rokinon 14mm F2.8 ED AS IF UMC

Sony E

Review

The Samyang / Rokinon 14mm F2.8 ED AS IF UMC is an ultra-wide-angle lens that has garnered attention among landscape photographers, astrophotographers, and enthusiasts looking for a versatile prime lens. Designed specifically for Sony E-mount cameras, this lens promises to deliver sharp images with a broad field of view.

Build Quality and Design

At first glance, the Rokinon 14mm feels robust and well-constructed, with an all-metal housing that conveys a sense of durability. The matte finish reduces reflections, making it useful for outdoor shoots where glare can be an issue. Weighing in at around 1.0 kg, it’s relatively lightweight for a lens of this size, making it easier to handle for extended periods, especially on a gimbal or handheld.

The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments, a crucial aspect for astrophotography. Manual focus is a given with this lens, as it lacks any autofocus capabilities. This can be a downside for those who prefer the convenience of autofocus, but it’s a trade-off many are willing to make given its optical performance.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Samyang 14mm impresses with its sharpness. Central sharpness is outstanding even wide open at F2.8, making this lens great for low-light situations like night sky photography. As you move towards the edges, sharpness does slightly degrade, but it remains acceptable for most uses, especially when stopped down to F4 or F5.6.

Color rendition is another highlight, with crisp and vibrant colors, while the lens handles chromatic aberration surprisingly well. Distortion, common in ultra-wide lenses, is minimal and manageable in post-processing, making this lens a strong contender for architecture and landscape shooting.

Flare and Ghosting

One feature worth noting is how well the lens performs against harsh lighting conditions. The ultra-multi-coating effectively minimizes flare and ghosting, which is often problematic in wide-angle lenses. This allows for more creative freedom when shooting directly into bright light sources, such as the sun or street lamps at night.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness, particularly in the center of the frame
• Good color rendition and contrast
• Minimal distortion and chromatic aberration
• Robust and durable construction
• Affordable price point compared to competitors

Cons

• No autofocus; only manual focus
• Slightly softer edges at wide apertures
• Not weather-sealed, so it may not withstand harsh conditions

Verdict

The Samyang / Rokinon 14mm F2.8 ED AS IF UMC is an excellent option for anyone looking for a high-quality ultra-wide-angle lens for their Sony E-mount camera. Its superb optical performance and solid build quality, combined with its affordability, make it a standout choice for landscape and astrophotography. While the lack of autofocus may deter some users, the lens compensates with its overall image quality and handling. If you appreciate (or are comfortable with) manual focus, this lens is a worthy addition to your photography arsenal.