Samyang's tiny AF ultra-wide for Sony FE — 18mm f/2.8 in near-pancake dimensions.
The Samyang AF 18mm f/2.8 FE launched in 2019 as part of Samyang's Tiny Series for Sony FE mount. At 18mm it provides ultra-wide coverage in near-pancake dimensions — one of the most compact 18mm lenses for any full-frame system.
Optically adequate — sharp in the centre from f/5.6 with expected edge softness for such a compact ultra-wide. Stepping motor AF is quiet. Full-frame coverage at 18mm is impressive for the size. UMC coating.
Sony FE mount with 58mm filter thread. Just 145g — near-pancake at 18mm. No weather sealing. Minimum focus distance 25cm. Also sold as Rokinon AF 18mm f/2.8. Budget construction.
Available used very cheaply. The Zeiss Batis 18mm f/2.8 is much sharper but much more expensive. The Sony 20mm f/1.8 G is a stop wider. For budget ultra-wide needs where extreme compactness matters most. Check AF accuracy — some copies inconsistent.