Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE Review

Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE Performance

It is very rare indeed to see such an even performance across the frame, and at such a high level of sharpness as well. The lens can be rated as excellent at all apertures, both centre and edge, which is remarkable. The variation within the band of figures is also very small, so it really does excel. This totally vindicates the statement in the instruction manual that tells us that “high resolution and high contrast images are produced from the centre of the lens as well as around the periphery”.  

CA (Chromatic Aberration) is very low centrally and still very well controlled at the edges. With little suggestion of fringing in the images, further correction may not be needed, but if it is then software will do the job.

Distortion is -1.86% barrelling, not excessive but potentially noticeable in architectural shots. Again, this is easily corrected if necessary.

Flare control is also very satisfactory, with few signs of internal reflections or loss of contrast, even with the sun in frame.

Bokeh, the quality of the out of focus areas, is helped by the circular bladed diaphragm and offers a smooth gradation from the plane of sharpness to a more diffused, out of focus background. With the fast, bright f/1.4 aperture the quality of the bokeh can of course be taken good advantage of. In fact, the bokeh of the lens is very impressive, especially considering the high resolution.

Value For Money

The Samyang AF 35mm f/1.4 FE lens joins just one other optic in the Sony FE fit range, the 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T*. However, the Samyang is priced at £599.99 and the Distagon at £1369. If we can do without the AF, then Samyang also offer the 35mm f/1.4 AS UMC at £427.

DSLR users also have few options, but to put things in perspective there are the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM (£1799), the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art (£599) and the Nikon 35mm f/1.4 G AF-S (£1649). 

All this makes the new Samyang lens very good value for money. For more options have a look at the Top 15 Best Sony E / FE Mount Lenses, or the Top 14 Best Standard prime lenses.

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