Words: Hoshang Billimoria
The second lens launched with the joint efforts of Samyang and Schneider Kreuznach is the 24mm to 60mm F 2.8 standard zoom for the Sony E mount. Coupled with the 14 – 24mm F 2.8, the buyer gets a focal range extending from 14mm to 60mm by buying two light, compact lenses.
Design & Build Quality
This Samyang lens is meant for full frame Sony bodies with the E mount. Interestingly, Panasonic has also launched a 24 – 60mm F 2.8 with a L mount. The origin of this lens may well be common. The lens is well designed and finished. The lens has an outer barrel made of aluminium; the rest of the lens uses engineering plastics. This combination has kept the weight of the lens low at 494g. The lens is weather resistant and features IR 5 level dust protection as well as oil repellent coating. It takes 72mm filters and Samyang offers a 4-year warranty. The lens is nicely packaged and comes with front and rear caps as well as a lens hood but no case.
Key Features
The Samyang 24–60mm F 2.8 features 14 elements in 11 groups. Of these, three are Aspherical, two are ED and three are HR. 9 diaphragm blades are used. A UMC coating has been applied and the front element gets an additional fluorite coating. The lens is compact with a maximum length of 102mm at 24mm and 126mm at 60mm. Close focus can be achieved up to 0.18m at wide angle end and 0.32m at the tele end. A linear STM focus motor has been provided for smooth video. The outer barrel features a MF/AF switch and a USB -C socket for firmware updates. There is no built in Image Stabilisation but it is really not required since all current Sony bodies feature stabilisation
Ergonomics
The compact size and light weight make handling much easier. The lens balances well with Sony bodies like the a7 III & IV.
Performance
Autofocus is quiet and brisk. On the field, the lens produced very good results with excellent central sharpness and good sharp corners. No flare was observed. Distortion and vignetting are present especially at 24 mm but is well controlled. Colour rendition was also accurate. The lens also provides smooth bokeh. Overall, a very good performer.
Value for Money
The lens carries a MRP of Rs 63990 but is widely available at less. There is competition at this level but the Samyang is a good buy. A 24–70mm F 2.8 from the major companies can cost much more.
Verdict
Samyang has arrived! Both the lenses we have reviewed offer very good performance at aggressive prices. BEST BUY.
Plus
- Compact and light
- Good build quality
- sharp results
Minus
- Some distortion and CA
- No built in IS
- Why not 70m
