Samyang renews a photography classic with the AF 35mm F1.4 FE II

Decidedly in full swing, Samyang continues to develop and renew its optical fleet. After launching a second version of its 50mm with f/1.4 aperture, the Seoul-based firm is launching a new iteration of its standard wide-angle, the AF 35mm F1.4 FE II, intended for Sony mirrorless mounts E. The previous model, which we tested, dated from 2017. This time, Samyang comes back to the charge with a substantially similar optic in appearance. However, the devil is in the details.

A fairly heavy 35mm

In terms of complaints, note that this new model is a little heavier than the old one, with 659 g, while remaining just as massive with almost 12 cm long, for a diameter of 7.5 cm (67 mm filter) . This goes against the trend of today’s opticians, who tend to lighten and shrink version 2 of their old lenses. Samyang had done the same with his AF 50mm F1.4 FE II. If the size of the 35 mm therefore remains similar to version 1, some changes are to be noted.

new orders

The lens gains several seals allowing it to resist bad weather and obtains two commands: a switch allowing, by default, to alternate between manual focus and autofocus (in position 1) and control of the diaphragm (in position 2), as well as a customizable button from the case.

The optical construction is still composed of 11 elements divided into nine groups, the diaphragm has nine blades and the minimum focusing distance is 29 cm. Finally, the external finishes have been slightly modified, while the red ring of the mark has become silver. We also hope that Samyang has reviewed his focus ring. Indeed, that of the first version offered a race that was far too fluid to be really useful.

Price and availability

The 35mm market is very dense in E-mounts, and there are many models at all apertures. Including this AF 35mm F1.4 FE II, there are no less than six 35mm cameras offering an aperture greater than or equal to f/1.4, for example the very good FE 35mm F1.4 GM from Sony or the very bright 35mm F1.2 DG DN Art from Sigma, marketed respectively for 1700 and 1400 €. As for this new Samyang AF 35mm F1.4 FE II, it will be sold for €799 from mid-April 2022.

Illustration images provided by Samyang