Samyang Launches Ultra-Compact 18mm f/2.8 Lens for Sony E-Mount

Samyang/Rokinon has announced a new ultra-compact, ultra-wide-angle prime for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. At just 145g light, 2-inches long, and $500, the new Samyang AF 18mm f/2.8 lens is “the most compact, lightweight, and affordable super-wide angle full frame lens for Sony E mount.”

Despite its diminutive size, the Samyang/Rokinon AF 18mm f/2.8 offers a rectilinear 100.1° angle of view when used on Sony’s full-frame mirrorless cameras. Attach it to the new Sony a6600, and the lens crops to a narrower, but still pretty wide, 27mm with a 76.2° angle of view.

Optically, the lens was designed with 9 Ultra Multicoated elements in 8 groups, including three Aspherical, two High Refractive Index, and three Extra-low Dispersion elements to keep distortion and aberration in check, even at 18mm. The lens’ minimum focus distance is just 9.8-inches, and it boasts a “stepless” STM motor for quiet and smooth focus performance. Here’s a closer look at the lens:

And here are some sample images captured by Samyang/Rokinon ambassadors:

To learn more about this lens and see more sample images, visit the Samyang website. The Samyang/Rokinon AF 18mm f/2.8 lens will begin shipping in October, but you can pre-order it today for $500.