With the introduction of the Samyang AF 16mm F2.8 P FE and Samyang AF 85mm F1.8 P FE, Samyang is adding two new lenses to its Prima series, designed specifically for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. The series is aimed at hybrid photographers and filmmakers seeking lightweight, user-friendly and affordable lenses without compromising optical performance.
Following the earlier launch of the Samyang AF 35mm F1.4 P FE in 2024, the Prima series now includes three focal lengths covering the most commonly used angles of view in photography and video: wide angle (16mm), standard (35mm) and medium telephoto (85mm). This gives content creators an appealing trio for expanding their kit without immediately moving into the professional price bracket.
The lenses were designed with portability and ease of use in mind. The 16mm and 85mm P FE models weigh just 207 and 272 grams respectively, and both measure less than 72 mm long. This makes them particularly suitable for travel, vlogging, street photography and portraiture, whether for everyday shooting or developing a creative style.
Both models feature a USB-C port for firmware updates, offer IP5-rated weather resistance and use a new polymer housing developed by LK Samyang. This choice of material provides a sturdy build with a modern, understated finish.
The signature red Samyang ring is absent from these models, contributing to a clean, functional appearance. The focus ring has a new texture for improved grip and handling.
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Samyang AF 16mm F2.8 P FE
The 16mm F2.8 P FE was developed for landscape and travel photographers as well as vloggers and content creators who often work with ultrawide perspectives. Weighing just 207 grams and measuring 70.5 mm long, it is one of the most compact full-frame ultrawide lenses with autofocus for Sony E-mount.
Its minimum focusing distance of 12 centimeters, combined with a 0.33x magnification ratio, even gives the lens semi-macro capabilities. On APS-C cameras, its angle of view is equivalent to approximately 24 mm, making the lens appealing to hybrid users who regularly switch between full-frame and crop-sensor models.
Samyang AF 85mm F1.8 P FE
Weighing just 272 grams and measuring 71.5 mm long, the AF 85mm F1.8 P FE was, according to Samyang, the lightest lens in its class as of July 2025. It is aimed at portrait photographers looking for attractive bokeh, strong sharpness and a fast aperture without the size or price tag of an F1.4 lens.
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The optical design includes three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements and a nine-blade rounded diaphragm, producing a smooth transition between sharp and out-of-focus areas. The lens delivers high resolution and natural color rendering, and excels when subject isolation matters—such as in portraits, lifestyle photography or events.
Target Audience
The Prima series is aimed at a broad audience, from beginning photographers to experienced content creators looking for a lightweight, reliable setup. Favorable pricing and a compact design also make these lenses appealing as a second or third lens, for example when traveling, covering events or shooting video regularly.
At the same time, Samyang shows that compact lenses do not necessarily have to involve compromises. Both lenses combine solid build quality with modern features such as firmware updates via USB-C, weather resistance and quiet autofocus—features generally found only in higher-end segments.
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Conclusion
By expanding the Prima series, Samyang offers a well-considered trio of compact prime lenses for Sony full-frame cameras. Both the AF 16mm F2.8 P FE and AF 85mm F1.8 P FE are compelling choices for photographers seeking a strong balance of price, performance and portability. Their combination of lightweight design, optical quality and practical features makes them serious alternatives in their respective segments.
Pricing and Availability
At the time of their introduction, the Samyang AF 16mm F2.8 P FE and Samyang AF 85mm F1.8 P FE were expected to become available soon. Both lenses had an announced suggested retail price of € 399.00, including VAT.
