Samyang 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens Review: Sharp, Silent & Weather-Sealed

Introduction

If you’re on the lookout for a versatile, lightweight, and sharp lens for your Sony E-mount camera, the Samyang 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Lens for Sony E could be just what you need. This lens promises a fast aperture, weather sealing, silent STM motor, and a compact build, making it a compelling choice for both still photography and video work. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience and whether this lens lives up to the hype.

Key Features & Specs

• Focal Length: 35mm, ideal for wide-angle shots with minimal distortion
• Maximum Aperture: Fast f/1.8 for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field
• Auto Focus: Silent STM motor for smooth and quiet focusing, great for video
• Weather Sealed: Durable and resistant to dust and moisture
• Compact & Lightweight: Easy to carry and handle for long shooting sessions
• Custom Switch: Allows switching between autofocus and manual focus modes seamlessly
• Compatible with Sony E-mount full-frame cameras

Design & Build

The Samyang 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens feels solid yet lightweight in hand. Its compact design makes it an excellent companion for those who want to travel light without compromising on image quality. The weather sealing adds peace of mind, especially for outdoor photographers who often shoot in unpredictable conditions.

The lens barrel has a smooth finish with a custom switch that lets you toggle focus modes quickly—a handy feature for switching from capturing stills to video without fumbling. The focus ring operates smoothly, offering precise manual control when needed.

Performance & Real-World Use

In everyday use, this lens delivers crisp images with impressive sharpness across the frame, even wide open at f/1.8. The bokeh produced by the fast aperture is pleasing and smooth, helping subjects stand out beautifully against blurred backgrounds.

The autofocus system is notably quiet and swift, thanks to the silent STM motor. This makes it perfect for video creators who want minimal focus noise in their footage. I found the focus to be accurate and reliable in various lighting conditions, including low-light scenarios.

Its 35mm focal length offers a natural perspective that works well for street photography, environmental portraits, and general walk-around shooting. The weather sealing came in handy during a light drizzle, allowing me to keep shooting without worry.

Pricing & Value

Priced competitively in the mid-range segment, the Samyang 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens offers great value for photographers and videographers looking for a high-quality wide-angle prime without breaking the bank. Its blend of features like weather sealing and silent autofocus is often found in more expensive lenses.

This lens is best suited for enthusiasts and semi-professional users who want a reliable, fast prime for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. If you prioritize portability, sharpness, and video readiness, this lens will serve you well.

Pros

• Sharp image quality with fast f/1.8 aperture
• Compact and lightweight design
• Silent and smooth autofocus via STM motor
• Weather sealed for durability in various conditions
• Custom switch for easy AF/MF toggling
• Excellent value for feature set

Cons

• No optical image stabilization
• Build is mostly plastic, though feels sturdy
• Some chromatic aberration at wide apertures in high contrast scenes
• Limited focal length range (prime lens)

Final Verdict

Overall, the Samyang 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Lens for Sony E is a fantastic option for photographers and videographers who want a sharp, fast, and reliable wide-angle prime lens without the premium price tag. Its lightweight and weather-sealed design make it versatile for everyday use and travel, while the silent STM motor excels in video situations.

If you shoot primarily with a Sony E-mount full-frame camera and want a compact lens that delivers excellent image quality and smooth autofocus, this lens should be on your radar. However, if you require optical image stabilization or a zoom lens, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, this lens is highly recommended for enthusiasts and content creators who value portability, performance, and build quality at a reasonable price.

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