Samyang (also known as Rokinon and Bowens) has announced their latest full-frame E-mount lens, and this time around it’s the AF 135mm F1.8 FE lens.
The Samyang AF 135mm F1.8 FE lens will cost $999.00 in the US and £799.00 in the UK. Pre-orders are already open and first shipping isn’t yet confirmed but rumors suggest March 2022.
Pre-order the Samyang AF 135mm F1.8 FE Lens
At: Amazon | B&H Photo
The AF 135mm F1.8 FE lens delivers an 18.9˚ angle of view for full-frame and 12.5˚ for APS-C cameras. There’s a bright maximum aperture of F1.8 and the optical design consists of 13 elements in 11 groups (1 U-ASP, 2 HR and 3 ED).
There’s an 82mm filter thread and the lens measures 129.6mm / 5.1in in length and weighs in at 772g / 27.2oz.
The minimum focus distance is just 0.69 meters (2.26 ft) and there’s a maximum magnification of 0.243x for close-up photography.
Samyang’s Linear STM (Stepping Motor) provides both fast and quiet focussing for both photographers and videographers. The optical design helps to minimize focus breathing and according to Samyang there is almost no change in the angle of view when adjusting the focus from close focus to infinity.
The AF 135mm F1.8 FE features 3 different customizable buttons: There’s a Focus Hold Button, a Custom Switch, and a Focus Range Limiter Switch.
There’s a micro-patterned rubber focus ring and weather-sealing helps to protect the lens from light rain, snow, and dust. You’ll also find an Astro-focus mode for astrophotography which features an LED index.
Key Specs
- Focal Length: 135mm
- Max. Aperture: f/1.8
- Angle of View (Full-Frame): 18.9˚
- Format Compatibility: Full Frame
- Lens Structure: 13 Elements in 11 Groups
- Aperture Blades: 11
- Min. Focusing Distance: 0.69m (2.26ft)
- Max. Magnification: x 0.243
- Filter Thread: 82mm
- Length: 129.6mm / 5.1in
- Weight: 772g / 27.2oz
First Look Videos
For further details and sample images please visit Samyang’s product page for this lens.
The price will be $999.00 in the US and £799.00 in the UK. Pre-orders are already open and first shipping isn’t yet confirmed but rumors suggest March 2022.
Pre-order the Samyang AF 135mm F1.8 FE Lens
At: Amazon | B&H Photo
I have one and it’s astoundingly good. There are two things main that the Sony does better: AF on the Sony is faster and more accurate – if you want 20fps with tracked focus, the Sony is the one for you; the Sony’s build quality is better – if you’re a heavy user and want something really durable, the Sony is a better bet.
If sharpness is your thing, the Samyang is a match for the Sony and better than the Sigma. I haven’t personally tested this, but reviewers are saying the Sony’s bokeh is a little smother and colours a little more subdued.
But, honestly, this is the best value E mount lens I’ve ever used.
I don’t know how the price of this lens compares with the Sony where you are, but it looks like this could be a good alternative for those who want an auto-focus 135mm f/1.8 but can’t afford the Sony.
The Sigma Art 135/1.8 is over 1.1kg, the Sony is 950g, and this one is 770g – that’s another advantage.
The Sony does have some technical advantages (four linear focus motors instead of one stepper, two focus groups, and Sony’s aspheric tech is the state of the art), but it is probably a lot more expensive.
It will be interesting to see tests and reviews of this lens.
Hey Tony. The Sony 135mm is a good £800 more expensive here in the UK, so it’s definitely a very interesting and much more affordable alternative. I’ve not seen any comparisons yet but I’m sure we won’t need to wait too much longer.
The Sony is almost double in price. I’m actually excited about this release. I have always liked the 135mm focal length but don’t use it aa ton. Like having it in my bag for that need it for the moment times. From what I see Samyang is stepping things up in their Mk II lenses