Samyang 85mm f/1.4 AS UMC (Sony E)

The affordable, versatile Samyang 85mm F1.4 AS IF UMC lens isn't the best performer at f/1.4, but it shines when stopped down.

The most compelling reasons to buy the Samyang 85mm f/1.4 AS IF UMC M4/3 lens are its affordable price tag and the fact that it is the fastest medium-telephoto lens on the market for M4/3 cameras. It’s also the fastest medium-telephoto prime lens for Sony’s E-mount and Fujifilm’s X-mount cameras. Samsung has an 85mm f/1.4 autofocus lens for its NX cameras but it’s more than double the cost of the Samyang 85mm f/1.4 lens. The main drawbacks of this lens are manual focusing only (no autofocus) and the lack of electronic contacts that can be ‘read’ and used by the camera. If you can live with these, this lens represents very good value for money.

Whether this lens will represent good value for you will depend on your expectations. If shallow depth of field and a flattering look for portraits are what you're after, this lens is a steal at around £240. However, if clarity is important, it may be worth spending a little extra money to get true value from your purchase.