Samyang's autofocus 85mm f/1.4 — a budget portrait prime for DSLR and mirrorless mounts.
The Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 launched in 2019 as one of Samyang's first autofocus portrait primes for DSLR mounts. It provides the classic portrait focal length at f/1.4 — a specification that typically costs significantly more from Canon, Nikon, or Sigma.
Optically good for the price — sharp from f/2 with pleasant bokeh at f/1.4. Some vignetting and chromatic aberration wide open that clears by f/2.8. Autofocus uses a stepping motor — quieter than screw-drive but not as fast as native ring-type USM. Dual Speed AF system.
Available in Canon EF mount with 77mm filter thread. Weighs approximately 568g. No weather sealing. Minimum focus distance 90cm. 9 aperture blades. Also sold as Rokinon branded in some markets. Metal mount with plastic barrel.
Available used very cheaply — exceptional value for an AF 85mm f/1.4. Also available for Sony FE. Check AF accuracy — some copies show inconsistency. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS is optically superior. An outstanding budget portrait lens for those who want f/1.4 without the premium price.