Independent lens maker Samyang (branded Rokinon in the US) is continuing to expand its range of reliable low-cost lenses – offering primes for practically every camera mount made. The new Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE is an extremely affordable general purpose lens for cameras like the Sony A7 III and A7R IV. But it can also be used in Sony A6000 series cameras too, offering a useful equivalent focal length of 52.5mm
The latest in Samyang's Tiny Series, the lens is not just small, it’s light too weighing just 210g, and is more affordable than Sony’s own prime lenses, especially the G Master series – some of the best Sony lenses are also some of the biggest!
Samyang says it’s particularly well suited to street photography when used on full-frame Sony cameras – but becomes a 'nifty fifty' type standard lens when used on A6000 series models.
The optical construction includes two aspherical elements to correct aberration and deliver high-resolution throughout the entire image frame. The 9-blade circular aperture brings the promise of beautiful bokeh and smooth out-of-focus backgrounds. The lens is weather sealed against rain and dust, and utilizes a linear stepping motor for autofocus.
Samyang already makes a 35mm f/1.4 and a 35mm f/2.8 it its range of autofocus primes - and the new 35mm f/1.8 will become the tenth available for the Sony E mount.
Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE specs
Also known as: Rokinon AF 35/1.8 for Sony E
Focal Length: 35mm
Mounts: Sony E
Full frame: Yes
Autofocus: Yes
Image stabilization: No
Aperture: f/1.8-22
Lens structure: 10 elements in 8 groups
Diaphragm blades: 9
Min. focusing distance: 0.29m / 0.95ft
Max. magnification: 0.17x
Filter thread: 58mm
Dimensions: 63.5x65mm
Weight: 210g (7.4oz)
Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE sample images
The lens has a Custom Switch which is designed to allow you to quickly select various functions, such as Aperture Control Mode, and access the shooting mode that suits you. More functions will be added through firmware updates in the future, we are told.
The Samyang lens is due to go on sale in October at a suggested retail price of £359.99. The Rokinon version is scheduled for November and will cost $399.
The lens will gets its first public showing at the free The Photography Show & The Video Show Virtual Festival taking place on 20-21 September.
Pre-order the Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 FE at B&H
Pre-order the Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 FE at Wex Photo Video
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