Tokina SZX Super Tele 400mm F8 Reflex MF

Sony E

Review

The Tokina SZX Super Tele 400mm F8 Reflex MF is an impressive addition to the lineup of telephoto lenses available for the Sony E mount. With a unique design that relies on a mirror lens system, this lens offers a lightweight and compact alternative to traditional telephoto options, making it particularly appealing for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of the Tokina SZX Super Tele is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just under 3 pounds, this lens is significantly lighter than many of its competitors. The build quality feels solid, with a metal mount and a rugged exterior, providing a sense of durability. The lens also has a relatively simple and clean aesthetic, which can be visually pleasing.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Tokina SZX Super Tele 400mm F8 does not disappoint. The reflex design allows for a unique bokeh, although it may not be as creamy as traditional lenses. Sharpness is impressive, especially in the center of the frame, which is critical for capturing detailed wildlife images or distant subjects. However, edge sharpness can diminish a bit, particularly when shooting wide open.

One aspect that photographers often overlook in mirror lenses is their performance under varied lighting conditions. This lens performs surprisingly well in good light, but can struggle slightly in lower light situations due to its fixed aperture of F8. Keep this in mind if you plan to shoot during twilight hours or in shaded areas.

Use Cases

The Tokina SZX is ideally suited for wildlife and sports photography. Its long reach and ability to isolate subjects effectively make it perfect for these applications. While it's also suitable for landscape photography, where longer focal lengths can emphasize distance, the fixed aperture might limit creative depth-of-field effects compared to more versatile zoom lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design, making it easy to transport.
• Impressive sharpness, especially in the center.
• Unique bokeh that can create interesting images.
• Durable build quality.

Cons

• Fixed aperture of F8 may limit versatility in low light.
• Edge sharpness may not match the center performance.
• Manual focus can be challenging for fast-moving subjects.

Verdict

Overall, the Tokina SZX Super Tele 400mm F8 Reflex MF is a unique lens that offers great value for Sony E mount users looking for a lightweight telephoto option. While it may not cover every shooting situation perfectly, its strengths shine in wildlife and sports photography, making it a worthy consideration for those focused on capturing distant subjects. If you're looking for a practical, compact telephoto lens that provides excellent sharpness and decent optical performance, the Tokina SZX is definitely worth exploring.