Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 Definitive Review | 4K

Build and Handling 01:17 | Autofocus Performance 07:28 | Image Quality 10:42 | Summation 19:55 Photographer Dustin Abbott shares a thorough review of the compact Samyang (also sold as Rokinon) 35mm F1.8 autofocus lens for Sony FE. | Read the Text Review: bit.ly/AF35Review | Visit the Image Gallery: bit.ly/AF35images | Purchase the Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 @ B&H Photo bhpho.to/2Ih1TZl | Amazon amzn.to/3kbFDNi | Amazon Canada amzn.to/3kby7Cj | Amazon UK amzn.to/2IaybEZ | Amazon Germany amzn.to/359O2gc | Ebay bit.ly/sam1835
Purchase a Sony a7C @ B&H Photo bhpho.to/323jP0m | Amazon amzn.to/34MlE3z | Camera Canada shrsl.com/2l7yt | Amazon Canada amzn.to/3jGoN93 | Amazon UK amzn.to/2JoSnDL | Amazon Germany amzn.to/3mFxBy1 | Ebay bit.ly/Sonya7C
Purchase the Sony a73 at B&H Photo: bhpho.to/2HTcogD | Amazon: amzn.to/2GRoG7T | Amazon Canada: amzn.to/2KhSaON | Amazon UK: amzn.to/2I3NU4D | Ebay: bit.ly/a73DA | Amazon.de: amzn.to/2Hk7fwq
Sony a9 Camera @ B&H Photo bhpho.to/2HyWIyt | Amazon amzn.to/2B4NAjh | Camera Canada shrsl.com/2ikpx | Amazon Canada amzn.to/2peQkbn | Amazon UK amzn.to/2M7XPcY | Amazon Germany amzn.to/2VHbDOP | Ebay bit.ly/Sonyalpha9
Purchase the Sony a7RIV @ B&H Photo bhpho.to/2nUgnno | Amazon amzn.to/2oGpVD1 | Camera Canada shrsl.com/2imqe | Amazon Canada amzn.to/2mY8UDW | Amazon UK amzn.to/2n9GWF3 | Amazon Germany amzn.to/2nXhene | Ebay bit.ly/a7RIVda
Want to support this channel? Use these affiliate links to shop at:
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/1TA0Xge
Camera Canada: bit.ly/DLACamer...
Ebay: bit.ly/DustineBay
Make a donation via Paypal: www.paypal.com...
Get a discount off all Skylum Editing Software (Luminar, Aurora HDR, AirMagic) by using code DUSTINHDR at checkout: bit.ly/LuminarDLA
Become a Patron: / dustinabbott | Check me out on: Personal Website: dustinabbott.net/ | Sign up for my Newsletter: bit.ly/1RHvUNp | Instagram: bit.ly/DLAinsta | Google+: bit.ly/24PjMzv | Facebook: on. 1nuUUeH | Twitter: bit.ly/1RyYxIH | Flickr: bit.ly/1UcnC0B | 500px: bit.ly/1Sy2Ngu
My filming setup: Sony a7R III: B&H Photo: bhpho.to/2D6ibNO, Camera Canada shrsl.com/2ikpr, or Amazon: amzn.to/2CNxOvH | or | Sony a9 @ B&H Photo: bhpho.to/2HyWIyt, Camera Canada shrsl.com/2ikpx, or Amazon: amzn.to/2s1vYE0
Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 RXD @B&H Photo: bhpho.to/2FA00la, Camera Canada shrsl.com/2ikq2, or Amazon amzn.to/2G2kaEr
Lights: Rotolight AEOS @B&H Photo bhpho.to/2IK7mqV | Genaray Contender @B&H Photo: bhpho.to/33HbGNM | and Aputure AL-MW: bhpho.to/2N3MtZV
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Keywords: Samyang 35mm, Rokinon 35mm, Samyang 35mm F1.8, 35mm F1.8, 35mm 1.8, Samyang 35mm Review, Samyang AF 35 Review, Samyang AF 35mm Review, AF 35mm, Samyang AF 35mm F1.8, FE, Sony a7C, Sony Alpha 7C, Sony a7C Review, ILCE-7C, Sony, Review, Hands On, Dustin Abbott, Real World, Comparison, Sharpness, Bokeh, Flare Resistance, Autofocus, Image Quality, Sample Images, Video, Photography, Sony a9, sony a7III, sony a7RIII, a7R3

[@simonp8088]

Dust-in, even when I'm not looking to buy a lens or camera, i still watch your videos. You're a very respectable, likable person. Thank you for all of the hard work you put into these videos.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's very kind, Simon. Thank you!

[@Skandalista_fotograf]

He is very technical like TonyNorthup with all down to detail approach. I use to google lens name + Tony now. I google Lens name + Dustin Abbot. I love to rely on your expertise.

[@momchilyordanov8190]

I purchased a Sony camera because of these new E mount Samyang AF primes and the Tamron zooms. Amazing quality/price ratio and amazing size for FF gear. Your reviews are very helpful in this regard. Keep up the good work.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I absolutely think that these third party lenses are the most significant advantage Sony has in the current mirrorless market. You can get quality lenses at a reasonable price...which you can't do elsewhere at the moment.

[@josecolon8143]

Almost 100K followers, I remember when I joined you, you had 3k something! Believe me your great reviews will take you to 1M! Blessings always!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You've been around for a long time, Jose! Thank you.

[@josecolon8143]

@@DustinAbbottTWI 🙏

[@josephponce8903]

Fantastic review! Would definitely get this. What I got from your review... Never use 1.8 unless your back is against the wall. 2.8 is the key.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I wouldn't go that far, though you certainly get stronger performance at F2.8

[@sulev111]

Samyang needs to make a 35/1.4 mark II and also the 50/1.4 mark II.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Completely agree. They've gotten much better at AF and build, and the 50mm wasn't as sharp as what Samyang is capable of.

[@7743dustin]

Just ordered it. I have Sony 85 1.8 tamron 28-75 2.8 and now samyang 35 1.8. Seems like a great walk around lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Exactly.

[@gotamd]

I just picked up the Rokinon-branded version of this lens for

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Definitely!

[@The_CGA]

These samyang lenses might get me to love my Sony as much as my Fuji-the aperture ring is something I miss too much as I’m not much for thumb and forefinger DSLR shooting style

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

For sure. They add a lot to the platform.

[@markhjones100]

I’ve been undecided as to which multipurpose fast prime to go for. Your review has clinched it for me. I think it’ll be a good companion for my samyang 18 2.8 ( a great little lens, by the way ). Thanks again for another polished, insightful review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure.

[@7743dustin]

I like your King Charles cav I’ve got one same color they are the best.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

They are, though unfortunately we had to put ours down in 2022. She had developed heart issues.

[@lewkon]

Really appreciate your reviews Dustin, awesome work as always. One small request: would you consider using KZbins native chapter feature, so that viewers can reference specific parts of review more easily?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you look at the description, the different sections are hyperlinked

[@zollieuncle9647]

Hi Dustin, thanks for making this review. I do have a number of Sony lenses including GMs but when it comes to grab my camera with a single lens attached and go for a walk, I want the best quality, versatility and smallest, lightest lens. I do love the GMs, and although they are the lightest and smallest in their category, in absolute sense they are still bulky and heavy. Also my preferred focal length for a single lens kit is 28mm, however, Sony does not care updating its 28/2 lens to match at least the IQ of the 55/1.8 or 35/1.8 lenses. Hence, I got pretty exited when you claim that this little fellow is not only ticking all the boxes for being light, small, reliable AF and better IQ than Sony 35/1.8, but also budget friendly with a demonstrad care for firmware upgrades to keep closing gaps - that Sony is not at all keen on. Well 35mm is not that far from 28mm so I will give it a chance.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Enjoy!

[@RHTrix]

You are a professional, thank you. Will be purchasing this lens to replace my big Rokinon on hikes

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad it was helpful!

[@looppp]

Thank you Dustin! Terrific video! I think I'll be picking this one up.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Enjoy your new lens!

[@thebinalz]

How is this compared to 24mm? Do you prefer this or the 24mm?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I preferred the 24mm. A bit sharper and with less fringing.

[@AshwinRamdin]

I'm about to get this combination so this is great to see passing by!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Good timing!

[@kismysneaks]

Aloha Dustin, With the lens station was does AF focus point setting means and what does it do? What is the best number for the AF focus point? I think my copy of the 35mm 2.8 was a -4 or -2. I can’t remember but I read on a forum that 0(zero) isn’t the default number. Mahalos, JP

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I've never understood that, myself, as with mirrorless focus calibration should not be necessary. I always set it to zero.

[@Fabrice_Joly]

Merci Dustin pour cette excellente analyse et ton travail.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

de rien

[@bandyo]

looking for a lens to keep on most time for my a7iii for street photography and occasional travels and hikes. This lens looks perfect for my need as I am not a professional and money is a critical deciding factor for me. Thank you for the video :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Sounds like a goo choice, then.

[@JustinChoiPyung]

everything what I needed to know about 1.8 Weather seal: 4 of them, check Was debating on 1.4, but very clear conclusion at the end why 1.8 preferred. Wonderful auto focus without sound (unlike 1.4) ah, what else can I say. hmm, just watch it all.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks for the nice feedback.

[@davidburton2294]

looks like another great lens i bought the Samyang 75mm 1.8 after watching your video and love it!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Both lenses are pretty sweet. I love the compact nature and the good optics.

[@jan-hendrikbussmann4644]

I struggle a bit with this kind of lens. While it is nice at f2.8 and impressive beyond, the hazy results wide open would not cut it for me. In my opinion, the biggest competition for lenses like these is that fast zoom lenses have gotten so good wide open nowadays. And, at least for Sony shooters, f2.8 zooms do not have to cost an arm and a leg anymore. So for me, a prime has to bring something to the table to justify buying it. It must be a) significantly faster than my zooms AND b) sharp wide open if its focal length is already covered by the typical zooms one owns. When going prime, it has to enable me to shoot something exceptional, something not possible with the zoom. Something like the Sony GM 24 mm 1.4 comes to my mind, waaaaaay more expensive, of course, but two usable stops brighter than f2.8. Just my two cents on this.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I disagree that the lens is only usable at F2.8 and beyond. There's a difference between demanding chart tests and real world performance. More of the images I shared were shot at F1.8 or F2 than F2.8 or smaller.

[@GilbertTV]

im looking fwd to trying this lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's a nice little lens.

[@davidbudo5551]

Another great review. Looking forward to seeing the 28mm Tiny lens under your review scrutiny. Thank you, Dustin.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Here's hoping that lens gets made. 28mm is a great focal length.

[@TomJeffs]

Hey Dustin, I've been consuming your videos for a few days now, and I'm incredibly grateful for your thorough analysis. You're so professional, informative and knowledgeable. I would never buy a lens in future without checking your channel for a review. You really sold me on the Samyang 45mm 1.8 because it seems to have a lot more character. However, you also rated the 35mm 1.8 highly in this video. Did you have a strong preference between those two lenses? Thanks so much

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Unfortunately my conclusions are a little complicated. The 35mm has better build and features, but I slightly favor the IQ from the 45mm.

[@TomJeffs]

Thank you so much for replying Dustin. I appreciate the input! I think I’ll start with the 45mm for now if the IQ is better - like I said, you really sold me on that. Again, I really value your work. Thank you so much.

[@christopherwhalen7352]

@@TomJeffs It's been awhile... did you end up getting the 45mm? How do you feel about your decision? I'm leaning towards the 45 too.

[@paololarocca7684]

thanks, the review I was waiting for, I like this lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed. There's a lot of good here.

[@oguzbenice7423]

I like your reviews very much Dustin. Stay safe and thank you.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're welcome.

[@nchn8198]

i watched both your definative review of both samyang 35mm and 45mm f1.8 but i am torn between both which focal length to buy. hope you can give me some suggestions.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I like the optics of the 45mm better, but the 35mm has more features.

[@rafikz77]

Fantastic review

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad you liked it!

[@malkhaz88]

Samyang 45mm 1.8 vs Samyang 35mm 1.8 . Which do you prefer? I know they have a different angle, but IQ which has better?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I like the IQ from the 45mm a bit better, though the 35mm has the nicer build and features.

[@mrbaiser4133]

Which one of the smaller 35mm lenses would you recommend for street photography with the A7R3? Important are fast autofocus and good sharpness across the frame. The Sigma f2 surely is a great lens, but I wonder, if the Samyang would work just as well. It won't be used wide open anyway, most of my shots are f5.6 to f11...

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Either of those options are good lenses. I suspect you’ll enjoy them just fine.

[@notme-sm6zb]

Great vide. What lens did you use to make this video?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The main video is on the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DN

[@winstonllamas5163]

I am going to get this lens, based on the reviews I have read (yours is nicely detailed). I already have the 45mm 1.8 but I need something slightly wider. I plan on keeping one or the other. I use the Samyang 85mm 1.4 FE - it's large, but it works well. I find that along with a 20mm, a three prime kit would be nice. I thought that 45mm would be nice to have - slightly wider than the nifty fifty. I do find that I could use a little bit wider view for a walkaround lens. Technically, the angle of view difference isn't that large. I get the feeling that the 35mm 1.8 is a little bit better than the 45. Am I wrong in this assumption? Thanks for the review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The 35mm is a slightly better lens in terms of features (weather sealing and the control ring) but I like the 45mm slightly better optically. I wish I could just declare one the winner for you, but life is rarely that simple!

[@winstonllamas5163]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks for responding. For me, it's a matter of what angle of view would get more use. I will always carry a wide prime and short tele when shooting with primes. It's that third one, the one somewhere in the middle, that's always left me in a quandry.

[@Andersm91]

Really nice review as always 👌👌

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks a lot!

[@charbelesber1257]

I have watched both the samyang 35mm f1.8 & the 45mm f1.8 video, ven the revisiting new video. It seems like you like the 45mm more than the 35 even though the 35mm is equally sharp. Is the 45 mm the better lens ? Regards

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do like the 45mm better optically, though the 35mm is the nicer lens in terms of build and features.

[@AJCoReTV]

Just ordered a 20mm Sony 1.8 G ($844 shipped), but I really want a tighter shot as well... & this 35mm is affordable (since I just blew my budget on the Sony) & compact for my A7C! Thx

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Nice little complimentary lens, I think.

[@marcofrosinini8530]

Great video as always!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks again!

[@yusuihang]

Is there any significant difference in image quality at f2.8 and above, between this lens and the Samyang 35mm f2.8?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I haven't tested the 35mm F2.8, so I don't actually know.

[@thmallik]

Hi Dustin, Thanks for your interesting review, whenever I go for buying any new lenses I try to understand your thoughts. Recently I bought 35mm 1.8 Rokinon. The custom button all the way is assigned with aperture function only, is there anyway we can change to focus option. I am using Sony a7c. Thanks

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You need the Lens Station (bhpho.to/3BuGMvQ) to do firmware updates or make changes to functionality.

[@sulev111]

Would be interesting to see how these lenses compare to 10+ year old lenses. I have a feeling no matter which new lens we take, they are all better than ones from 2010 era.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's mostly true, I would say.

[@PieterBreda]

I bought one. It will arrive tomorrow.Based on your review, the price difference between the Samyang and the Sony is too big to justify the price difference.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would say so.

[@patricknicolas1138]

Merci Dustin .

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

de rien

[@FuadBerhan]

Hi Dustin, this is the best review ever. But if both Samyang and Sony is in the same price tag, ($20 difference)may I know which one you will pick?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Probably the Sony for the resale value. But if you were talking a larger gap, I'm not sure the performance of the Sony warrants extra spending.

[@FuadBerhan]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks Dustin. Really appreciate your answer and all your review.

[@paulmasson4351]

Excellent review, just got an A7c and I don't know if you've already covered it, but can that programmable button on the lens allow the A7c to control aperture from the lens? That would certainly help with the Sony not having a front control dial. Grrrrrrrr.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You can definitely make that change, though it requires the Lens Station to program the change.

[@paulmasson4351]

@@DustinAbbottTWI excellent! Thanks (from a very snowy Scotland!)

[@AerialAndre]

Hi, can you use both automatic focusing and aperture instead of using manual? I prefer to have both set as automatic.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Of course.

[@Rickyswoop]

Thanks for the review Dustin! Would you recommend this for a wedding photographer?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Sure, particularly if your budget doesn't extend to something like the Sony 35mm GM

[@kaushaltiwari9773]

Thanks Dustin. Great review. I have an A6000. I am soon going to upgrade to A7iii or the A7c. Planning to buy the Samyang 35 f1.8 or the Sony 28 f2. Which one do you recommend? Thanks.

[@kaushaltiwari9773]

Does the samyang work well on APS-C as well?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would recommend the Samyang, myself. I haven't tested the Samyang on an older body like the a6000, but it should work okay there.

[@maddenfan6683]

In video would you say you can't tell a difference in auto focus reliability between the Sony and samyang?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

In my limited testing period, no, I didn't see any real difference, though, as I said in the review, I would suspect that the first party lens probably is a little more reliable (since they have first party access to the focus algorithms). Samyang has to reverse engineer focus, but they seem to be doing a very good job of that these days.

[@maddenfan6683]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thank you for your input as always!

[@franckleclerc8692]

If you compare this lens against the Tamron 35 f2.8. Apart the 1stop différence, wich one would be your choice?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I prefer this lens largely because the autofocus in the Tamron is disappointing in sound and speed. It is not a good lens for video, and I find that unnecessarily limiting.

[@anbar5675]

As usual, a great video.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you

[@andregoncalves1648]

Congratulations, excellent review as always. I bought this lens for my sony 7M3 and am very satisfied. One question, what grip extension are you using on the 7RM3?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I use one from SmallRig. I reviewed it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g17GqZt6ZdGHq6M

[@andregoncalves1648]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks for the answer, as I was really interested in buying a grip extension to improve the ergonomics of my 7M3 and this one seems to be excellent.

[@drakedoggy103]

Hay Dustin ! Thank you for the definitive review. I cant decide between this samyang and the Tamron 35mm 2.8. Could you please tell me which one is better optically ? Is the Samyang stopped down to f 2.8 as good or better than the Tamron ? how do these lenses compare both wide open ?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would say that the Samyang is sharper stopped down to F2.8, and has much better autofocus. The Tamron has the advantage of the 1:2 macro capabilities, though.

[@geoffkeep4972]

Nice review Dustin. When using the ring to adjust aperture, do the aperture blades move in steps or are they smooth 'continuous' like say the Helios 44?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

There are no clicks, but the blades seems to move in steps.

[@geoffkeep4972]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks!

[@kapilbhallafoto]

Very useful review

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@c2h2c2h210]

got it for around 330usd, f1.8 feels soft with a7r4, f2.8 is ok, not very impressed with the lens, but light weight is sometimes you want

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Interesting. The RIV is demanding, for sure, but I'm surprised that your results aren't better than okay at F2.8

[@nickivlachou3117]

Hello, does this les switch to manual mode? I heard that it doesn't. You only have a two-setting option (unless Samyang allowed some firmware update) where the second mode is not MF but aperture control. It does not function like the normal manual and AF lenses. Is this true?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you have the lens station, you can program how the function works. I put mode one in aperture mode, and mode 2 to manual focus mode.

[@olegvorkunov5400]

I am debating whether to get 35mm 1.8 version or 45mm 1.8 version. From your reviews it looks like 45mm 1.8 is optically better. Right?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's my take, yes.

[@olegvorkunov5400]

@@DustinAbbottTWI I decided to go with Samyang 24mm 1.8

[@olegvorkunov5400]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Actually, I got both. 24mm and 45mm. My purpose is to use it on A7C and on Crame M2 tiny gimbal for videos and family vacation photos, so it should be light and of great quality. Going to sell my Sony 20mm f1.8. It is too wide. Thank you for your reviews of these lenses. Very helpful!

[@torbenlysholm1]

Awesome, Dustin! Thank you!👌

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My pleasure!

[@newjdm]

Does IBIS work normally with this lens?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes it does.

[@stefan_becker]

Thanks for the great video! I own this lens now for a month and love especially the bokeh of the lens. I think it's clearly better than the lens of the Sony 35mm 1.8. So for me it was the right choice.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is a sweet little lens...and a strong value.

[@tomasopignocchi5031]

@Dustin Abbott Hello Dustin, have you by any chance noticed that this lens is darker than the Sony equivalent one? I made a direct comparison between the two lenses (and also with the Sony ZA 35mm 2.8) and the result was that with the same settings (aperture, shutter speed, and ISO), the samyang was always underexposed by at least -0.3 stops compared to Sony lenses. I have read other people who also pointed this out, did you noticed it? Did you have the opportunity to make a simultaneous comparison of the two lenses? Thanks.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hi Tomaso, I did not compare the two lenses side by side, but I can't say that I particularly noticed an underexposure bias in my review, either.

[@JessDemant]

I have 18mm.f.2.8 and 35mm.f.1.8 and 45mm.f.1.8 plus 75mm.f.1.8 from Samyang and I enjoy photographing with them all as the quality is good enough for me and as they neither fill nor weighs a lot in my photo backpack its perfect for me. However, I dont use my 45mm.f.1.8 quite often, so it probably ends up being sold, but I definitely keep the other three in my lens collection. Cheers from Denmark

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Sounds like we have the same collection.

[@JessDemant]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Yes and it is a good combination for all of us who sometimes want a small and light kit to take on holiday with the family or similar situations, although it can certainly also be used for more serious photography .....

[@johnramos7024]

Between your review and that of Christopher Frost, it made so much easier for me to decide which way to go. I’ll save the money and will buy the Samyang. The money saved might go for a Samyang 85mm later. 😎 Is there any difference at all between the Samyang and Rokinon brands? I believe this is just a marketing strategy if the units are really identical.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're correct about Samyang and Rokinon - they are the exact same.

[@juanmoreno8217]

Hi Dustin, thanks to your reviews I have been able to adjust my photography equipment, I bought the Samyang 18mm, the samyang 75mm and the Tamron 28-200, but I definitely liked the sigma 100-400mm for this, I sold the tamron and I have a space between 18 and 75, would you think it is covered with a 35mm? If so, which 35mm would you recommend? I like the Tamron 35mmf2,8 or this samyang 1.8mm? Thank you very much for the reviews, I appreciate your effort to give us the best information.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I personally like the Samyang unless you need the magnification of the Tamron. I don’t love the focus system on the Tamron.

[@johansphoto]

Hi Dustin! Thanks for another great review. How would you compare this lens to the Samyang 45? I already have the 45 I like the small size and the IQ, and I find 45 mm more useful than 50, but still a bit narrow sometimes. However, I am a bit tempted to switch since weather sealing and better magnification/shorter focusing distance is attractive. I also think that 35 mm might be a more useful focal length for me, but I am not sure whether it is worth it. Have you found any of them to be superior optically or which would you prefer?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

In my copies, the 45mm is a bit sharper and has higher contrast at wider apertures. But yes, the 35mm does have some advantages when it comes to the build and features, and 35mm is a great focal length. Not an easy decision...

[@joshs7642]

Great review, as always! I have the tamron f2.8 trinity of zooms on my a7 iii and absolutely love them, but the 28-75 has near useless AF in low light. So I need a prime in this range. How do you find the samyang primes perform in quite low light? Eg. firepit and patio lights as the only light source, or night street photography. I'm debating between the samyang 35 f1.8, samyang 45 f.18, or the sony 35 f1.8.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

My actual favorite compact 35 is the new Sigma 35mm F2 DN - check out my review here: studio.kzbin.infoDrTjgAMJj24/edit. I think it is the lens you're looking for.

[@joshs7642]

@@DustinAbbottTWI ooh thanks I hadn't found that one yet. Thanks for the reply! Your reviews helped me so much to get set up with my current lens system. Everything you've said has been spot on.

[@johnnytwo-shoes9798]

Great video. I know the following question is not really a comparable lens, but considering this samyang sharpens up by 2.8 how does this compare to the samyang 35mm 2.8 at 2.8? I have the samyang 35mm 2.8 and considering the upgrade for weather sealing and the extra 1.3 stops would be nice addition but wondering if it's worth the extra $600 AUD. Any advice is appreciated.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Unfortunately I haven't used the F2.8 lens. I would be surprised, however, if it matches the performance of the F1.8 since it has the advantage of being stopped down 1 1/3 stops and has a larger body to hold the optics.

[@johnnytwo-shoes9798]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks. I thought as much. I'm also interested in the Tamron 35mm 2.8 - a review site using the same mtf testing had similar results at 2.8 with the Tamron edging ahead a little in the corners but it's mainly the 1:2 magnification combined with similar sharpness profile (better close focus performance) that has piqued my interest I haven't been able to find a comparison. They're different enough but at a price point I think they appeal to a similar market. I'm just waiting on the Sigma 35 DG DN f2 announcement in a few days, I'm hoping they improve the close focus performance from their 45mm contemporary. Thanks again

[@josecolon8143]

Without any doubt Samyang continues to provide good unaffordable options! Great review!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Totally agree!

[@tnargs57]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Did you notice he wrote “unaffordable” before you totally agreed? ;)

[@ekphotography]

Anybody know what the switches come as delivered? Their function? I do not want to mess with a docking station and is there anyway of guaranteeing the one I buy, most likely from Amazon, comes with the latest firmware?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would think that current stock would have the most recent firmware, but the stock behavior of the switches is essentially no function or MF. Setting up the aperture ring requires the lens station.

[@jamesvanderpool6079]

Price difference falls as close as ~$100 USD when the Sony is on sale, in Europe at least. Think the pricing is NA-only, and probably one of the reasons we'll never see a 35-40mm 1.8 G. When that happens, the somewhat nicer build and better MFD of the Sony lens become a decent differentiator. One other thing: not to be alarmist (could have seen some REAL bad copies), but from public user samples of the Samyang if the lens is decentered it has a strong negative affect on CA-correction beyond just resolution, which is something I haven't seen from the Sony lens. With that said, thanks for the review! This has been in my circles at least one of the most anticipated releases of the last few years-due to both the truly petite size and the increasing standard of performance & utility we've seen from third party lens makers. Still not quite as good as the 40 CF... but at half the size. I'm betting this will sell at least a few a7Cs.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's definitely hard to choose third party when the price is near equal, if nothing else because the Sony lens would have better resale value.

[@RichardsWorld]

I don't recall seeing your youngest son before. And your oldest son sure grew up fast.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's definitely true!

[@legend240891]

thanks again for your work Dustin! I love what you are doing. Hopefully Samyang will pump out a 24mm f1.8 soon so I can complete my tiny but mighty trinity of lenses. Maybe you can help us to deliver the message to Samyang? haha

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

A 24mm would be nice...as would a 28mm F1.8.

[@redsphoto6708]

Lovely video as always! Darn, I almost regret buying the Sony 35 1.8 (granted I got it in Canada where it is about 610 USD so not the worst deal and it has been a very useful lens for me all things consider). Do love these small Samyangs, the 45 still kicks butt for me.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you're happy with the Sony and got a good price, just enjoy your lens. And yes, I love the little 45mm

[@nyzt_2152]

Pleasantly surprised you reply to nearly all the comments. Is this your full time job? Might be interesting if you made a video about yourself.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

No, it's my side hustle.

[@shravanshenoy6107]

Great review, Dustin! I was confused between Samyang 45mm f1.8 & the Sony 35mm f1.8. Loved this review but now there''s a 3rd lens in the race. Target subject being newborn/kids and family portraits showing the environment they're in, which lens would you recommend? 1. Samyang 45mm f1.8 or 2. Samyang 35mm f1.8 or 3. Sony 35mm f1.8 Thanks in advance! :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Frankly any of them will do a nice job for your application, so there isn't a wrong choice here. I really like the Samyang 45mm in terms of focal length.

[@shravanshenoy6107]

@@DustinAbbottTWI if I’m going for Samyang, should I buy the lens station as well?

[@_rhapsodist]

I will take the sony version instead because of the closer focusing capability

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough. That is big deal to some of us.

[@EvgenyVasiliev-h4v]

Спасибо за обзор , ))) !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Будь ласка

[@rafalmaka4606]

Hi Dustin, love your reviews. After seeing this one, decided to replace my Samyang 35mm f/1.4 with the newer and lighter f/1.8 version. I did not mind losing 2/3 stop. However after receiving it and comparing it side by side I found that the new Samyang at f/1.8 is like the other at f/2.5 if it comes to background blur and at f/2.0 if it comes to brightness. The old Samyang is slightly wider too. I could live with the 1/3 stop brightness difference but 1 stop background blur difference is disappointing. Did you notice any background blur difference between Samyang and Sony? It looks that by going small, they compromised the optical parameters.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I didn't directly compare the two for background blur, but my experience is that larger aperture lenses always have an advantage even at comparative aperture settings in terms of background blur.

[@rafalmaka4606]

@@DustinAbbottTWI I saw a video comparing Sony 35mm 1.8 to Samyang 35mm 1.4 and the reviewer Oma noticed that Samyang had the same amount of blur @f/2.5 This supports your observations about smaller lenses.

[@edkaminski6355]

I am guessing that there is not a version for EF mount cameras, which would make it pretty useless for most of us. I, for one, cannot afford to go, out and buy a mirrorless camera body.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hi Ed, no, there isn't an EF version. Unfortunately for DSLR users the vast majority of current development is in fact for mirrorless systems.

[@RogerZoul]

Has anyone heard of a Canon RF version of this lens?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Unfortunately not, though Samyang is the one third party lens maker that is producing some Canon RF lenses.

[@fabiocazzato8505]

Per una Sony A7 ||||. Per una Sony a7 lll funziona bene grazie per video

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're welcome.

[@papsny]

Hey Dustin, you've been losing weight on video. Hope all is well and good. Great review as always!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's probably just perception. My weight stays pretty constant. I'm within ten pounds of what I weighed when I got married.

[@themarast]

here in indonesia it cost 280usd, its absolute nobrainer

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a lot of lens for the money!

[@f4z3]

Great review as always! Although already having the 45mm, it's an overkill to get this one as well :) And always fun to see the 100 drachmas bill on the lower right corner, being Greek, i grew up using it before the Euro. Brings back memories! Qq: Do you intend to do a review of the Tamron 70-300? Thank you in advance, always a pleasure watching your videos!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Tamron 70-300 review is done and will release next week.

[@f4z3]

@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you sir! Can't wait! Have a great day! :)

[@thelumenmedia]

Koreans did it with cars a while back, now they getting into lenses ahaha

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I've seen so much growth and maturation from Samyang in the last few years. They are becoming a competitors to be reckoned with.

[@philindeblanc]

Nice review and examples ...."The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork". Earth, not a globe as defined. Use your tools to discover!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you