Samyang x Schneider-Kreuznach are launching an ultra-light big pro-angle zoom for Sony hybrids

A wide-angle zoom with a 14-24 mm focal range is ideal for many shots. We naturally think of landscape photography, but also of architecture photography (indoors or outdoor), astrophotography and why not even in the street photo. In addition, its generous and constant maximum opening of F2.8 gives it very good skills in low light conditions and the possibility of playing with bokeh effects, even if the latter are quite limited in large angles.

The optical formula of the new 14-24 mm F2.8 is based on 15 lenses divided into 11 groups, with 5 glasses with high refraction index, 3 aspherical lenses and 3 glasses with very low dispersion. The manufacturer has published MTF curves which suggest very good optical performance. Note that this objective is compatible with the digital optical corrections proposed in Sony boxes which act on distortion and vignetting.

Autofocus is ensured by a very fast and silent linear engine for video use. The objective offers a minimum fixed focus distance of 18 cm and therefore a maximum magnification ratio from 0.26x to 24 mm to make close plans images.

The measurements of this new goal are simply impressive. The manufacturers have managed to achieve a weight of 445 grams on the scale for a size of less than 10 cm (and even less than 9 cm in 24 mm position) for a diameter of 8.4 cm. By comparison, by remaining in the world of the Sony E frame, the Sigma 14-24 mm F2.8 DG DN Art weighs nearly 800 grams and the recent Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 gless angle, displays him 409 grams on the scale.

In addition, this objective has the particularity of being able to accommodate traditional screwing circular filters with a diameter of 77 mm and therefore does not have very domed front lens. On the ergonomics side, there is a programmable button and an AF/MF switch. The objective is also equipped with a USB-C socket for possible firmware updates. It is also protected against bad weather.

Availability and price

The new Samyang X Schneider-Kreuznach AF 14-24 mm F2.8 FE is offered at a price of € 1,191.

There is no similar objective at Sony. In the category of F2.8 Grande-angles zooms, we can count on the G Master Fe 16-35mm F2.8offered at a price of 2,200 euros or the recent Sony FE 16-25mm F2.8 g offered for its part at a price of 1400 euros. On the exact same focal range, we can also count on the Sigma 14-24 mm F2.8 DG DN Art offered at a price of 1500 euros. If the optical performance is there, this new Grand-Angle zoom will therefore logically become a must.