Photo: © nullnullphotos - Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
LK Samyang is expanding its Prima Series with the AF 35mm F1.8 P FE for full-frame Sony E-mount. This compact lens is designed for photographers and hybrid content creators looking for a fast 35mm prime for everyday use. The lens combines a portable design with updated optics, fast autofocus, weather sealing and a USB-C port for firmware updates.
Prima Series expanded
This new 35mm lens further expands Samyang's Prima Series. The range already includes the AF 35mm F1.4 P FE, the AF 16mm F2.8 P FE and the AF 85mm F1.8 P FE. The series focuses on compact, lightweight lenses suitable for both photography and video.
Versatile focal length
A 35mm lens has long been considered one of the most versatile options available. Its angle of view is wide enough for street photography, travel and everyday scenes, while also working well for portraits and video. Samyang therefore describes the AF 35mm F1.8 P FE as a practical lens for everyday use.
While the previously released AF 35mm F1.4 P FE prioritises maximum light-gathering capability, Samyang positions this new F1.8 version as a more compact and lightweight alternative.
Compact and lightweight
The Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 P FE has a maximum diameter of 69.8 mm and accepts 62 mm filters. This keeps the lens relatively compact and easy to carry. According to Samyang, it pairs well with lightweight full-frame cameras such as models in the Sony α7C series and certain ZV-E cameras, making it an option for vloggers and other hybrid creators as well.
Fast aperture
With a maximum aperture of f/1.8, the lens offers greater flexibility in low light. The wider aperture also makes it easier to separate the subject from the background. Its rounded nine-blade diaphragm is designed to produce smooth, natural bokeh.
New optical design
The optical construction consists of ten elements in eight groups, including two aspherical elements and two XHR elements. According to Samyang, these XHR elements — short for Extra High Refractive — are manufactured more precisely than conventional high-refractive-index elements. This is intended to support a compact design while helping to reduce optical aberrations.
Samyang has also equipped the lens with its new UMC II coating. The coating is designed to further suppress flare and ghosting, helping to maintain contrast and clarity in challenging lighting conditions.
Autofocus and ease of use
For autofocus, Samyang uses a Linear STM II motor. It is designed to operate faster, more accurately and more quietly than previous systems, which is particularly important for video recording. According to the manufacturer, this delivers smoother focus transitions for both stills and video.
The lens also features weather sealing against light rain and dust. Another notable feature is the built-in USB-C port, which allows firmware updates and certain settings to be adjusted directly, without requiring a separate Lens Station.
Availability and price
The LK Samyang AF 35mm F1.8 P FE for full-frame Sony E-mount is available for €299.99 including VAT.
