Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E

Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E — image 1
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87%
91%
Sharpness
88%
Autofocus Speed
85%
Low Light Performance
94%
Portability
82%
Build Quality
79%
Weather Sealing
87%
Bokeh Quality
93%
Size and Weight
80%
Durability
92%
Value for Money
85%
Video Performance
86%
Ease of Use
More

Overview

The Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E is a compact and versatile lens designed for Sony E-mount cameras. This lightweight full-frame lens weighs just 7.4 oz and measures 2.5 inches in length, making it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. With a 35mm focal length, it is perfect for street photography, travel shots, and portraits. The fast F1.8 aperture ensures you can shoot in low light while achieving a pleasing shallow depth of field. This makes it a great option for those seeking a portable lens that doesn’t compromise on image quality.

Features & Benefits

This 35mm prime lens offers exceptional edge-to-edge clarity thanks to its 10-element design, including aspherical elements that minimize distortion. Its fast autofocus system, powered by a linear stepping motor, ensures precise and quiet operation, ideal for both stills and video work. The lens is also weather-sealed, providing peace of mind when shooting in less-than-ideal conditions. Additionally, it features a removable petal-shaped lens hood and is compatible with 58mm filters, giving users flexibility in different shooting environments.

Best For

This Rokinon lens is ideal for travel photographers looking for a lightweight, compact option without sacrificing image quality. Its wide aperture and sharp performance at F1.8 make it a fantastic tool for portrait photography, where creating a beautiful background blur is essential. It also suits users of Sony’s full-frame or APS-C E-mount cameras who want a versatile, go-to lens for everyday photography. If you prioritize portability and need a reliable lens that delivers professional results, this prime lens is an excellent choice.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise this lens for its sharpness, even when shooting wide open at F1.8. Many appreciate its small size and lightweight build, making it an excellent travel companion. The autofocus is another highlight, with feedback noting its fast and silent performance, especially for video shooting. Some users have noted that while it excels in most conditions, it may struggle a bit in extremely low light compared to more expensive lenses. Overall, the Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 delivers great value for photographers looking for a budget-friendly yet high-performing prime lens.

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Pros

  • This lens offers excellent sharpness, even at wide apertures, making it great for street and portrait photography.
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for travel photographers.
  • Fast and reliable autofocus performance in both photos and videos, appreciated by those shooting moving subjects.
  • The weather-sealed design ensures it performs well in challenging conditions like rain or dusty environments.
  • The lens delivers beautiful bokeh, which is highly valued by portrait photographers for its creamy background blur.
  • Its 35mm focal length offers versatility, ideal for a variety of photography styles, from travel to casual street photography.

Cons

  • Some users find the plastic construction less durable compared to higher-end lenses, especially for heavy-duty use.
  • The autofocus can occasionally struggle in low-light or very fast-moving situations, which might disappoint professional videographers.
  • While the lens is compact, the lack of full weatherproofing might not meet the needs of extreme weather photographers.
  • The aperture ring is not as smooth or intuitive as some higher-end lenses, which may bother those used to premium options.
  • It lacks built-in optical image stabilization, which can be a drawback for handheld video shooting in low light.
  • A few users noted that the autofocus motor, while quiet, isn't always as fast as more expensive Sony lenses.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we’ve assessed the Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E based on feedback from real customers. Spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated reviews have been filtered out to ensure only authentic, high-quality insights are reflected in the scores. Both strengths and pain points are considered, providing an honest evaluation from a global pool of users.

Sharpness
91%
Many users praise the sharpness of this lens, even when shooting wide open at F1.8. The clarity across the entire frame, especially in portraits and street photography, stands out as a key strength, providing crisp detail even in challenging lighting conditions.
However, a few users mention that at very close distances, sharpness can slightly degrade around the edges. In certain lighting conditions, especially under harsh midday sun, some users report subtle lens flare, which affects overall image quality.
Autofocus Speed
88%
This lens features a fast and reliable autofocus system, which many photographers and videographers find highly beneficial. The linear stepping motor ensures quick focus transitions, making it ideal for both stills and moving subjects. Users report smooth and silent operation, a big plus for video work.
A small number of users note that the autofocus can occasionally hunt in low-light situations, especially when using it for video. Some also mention it can be slightly slower compared to other lenses in more complex focusing scenarios, such as in low-contrast environments.
Low Light Performance
85%
The F1.8 aperture is a standout feature for those working in low-light environments. Users appreciate how well this lens handles dim lighting, producing bright and clear images with minimal noise. The large aperture is perfect for evening or indoor shoots, helping to achieve that beautiful shallow depth of field.
A few buyers, however, mention that while it performs decently in low light, it does not match up to faster primes or lenses with even wider apertures. Some complain about slight softness at the edges when wide open in darker conditions, requiring adjustments for optimal results.
Portability
94%
One of the most frequently highlighted features is the compact and lightweight design of this lens. Weighing only 7.4 oz (210g), it's highly appreciated by travel photographers who need to keep their gear light. Its small size makes it easy to carry and comfortable for long shooting sessions.
Some users feel that the small size sacrifices a bit of sturdiness, with the plastic build being slightly less premium than some competitors. While lightweight, it can feel less solid in hand compared to more expensive alternatives, leaving some users questioning its long-term durability.
Build Quality
82%
18%
While the lens is not built to professional-grade standards, its overall construction is solid and reliable for everyday use. The weather-sealing is a welcome feature for outdoor shoots, offering additional protection against the elements. Users also appreciate the removable lens hood, which adds convenience during storage.
The build quality, however, is one area that some buyers find lacking. A few users feel that the plastic materials used for the body feel somewhat cheap, especially in comparison to more expensive lenses. This can affect the overall user experience when handling the lens for extended periods.
Weather Sealing
79%
21%
Many buyers find the weather-sealed design of this lens to be a great addition for shooting in less-than-ideal conditions. Whether it's light rain or dusty environments, this lens holds up well and provides added peace of mind for outdoor photographers.
Despite its weather-sealing, a few users mention that they would not rely on it in very harsh conditions, like heavy rain or extreme temperatures. Some feel that while the lens offers protection, it is still not as rugged as higher-end models from premium brands.
Bokeh Quality
87%
The lens produces a pleasing and smooth bokeh thanks to its nine rounded aperture blades. Portrait photographers especially appreciate the way the background is blurred, creating a natural separation between the subject and the surroundings, which enhances the overall aesthetic of the images.
However, not everyone is completely satisfied with the bokeh quality. Some users note that in certain lighting conditions, the bokeh can appear a bit harsher, with noticeable outlining in some areas. This can be less desirable for those focused on perfecting their portraits.
Size and Weight
93%
At just 2.5 inches (63.5mm) in length and 7.4 oz (210g), the small size and light weight make this lens a perfect fit for travel and street photography. Its portability allows photographers to pack it easily without adding bulk to their kit, making it ideal for those who prefer minimalist setups.
Though small, some photographers may feel that the lens could benefit from a slightly larger design to accommodate more advanced features like a better manual focus ring or faster AF motor. A few users also believe that a bit more weight would improve the handling and overall sturdiness of the lens.
Durability
80%
20%
For most users, the lens offers a satisfactory level of durability. The compact design and weather sealing make it a good option for casual outdoor shoots, and the build quality is solid enough for regular use without immediate concerns about wear and tear.
Some users express concerns about long-term durability, especially due to its lightweight construction. A few reviewers report that the lens shows signs of wear more quickly than expected, such as loose parts or scratches on the lens body after frequent use.
Value for Money
92%
Overall, the lens offers excellent value for money, especially for those seeking a high-quality prime lens at a more affordable price point. The combination of sharpness, portability, and solid performance makes it an excellent choice for hobbyists and professional photographers alike.
While the lens provides good value, some users feel that its price could be slightly lower given its construction materials. A few buyers question whether certain premium features found in higher-end lenses justify the cost difference, especially when comparing it to other brands in the same range.
Video Performance
85%
The autofocus system’s smooth and silent operation makes this lens a solid choice for videographers. Users appreciate the reliable focus tracking, even during dynamic scenes, without the distracting sounds that can often be an issue with other lenses.
However, in very fast-moving scenes, a few users report that the autofocus occasionally struggles to keep up, especially in low light. Some videographers note that the lens can occasionally exhibit slight focus breathing, which might be an issue for those aiming for perfect video transitions.
Ease of Use
86%
Photographers find this lens easy to use, with intuitive handling and a simple, functional design. The focus ring is smooth, and the lens is lightweight, making it ideal for long shoots or those who prefer a no-fuss setup.
Despite its user-friendly design, a few users find the focus ring a bit too light, leading to a lack of tactile feedback when manually focusing. Some also mention that the lens's minimalistic control options could be limiting for users looking for more advanced features.

Suitable for:

The Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a compact and lightweight lens that excels in street, travel, and portrait photography. Its versatile 35mm focal length and fast F1.8 aperture make it ideal for low-light environments, providing sharp images even at wide apertures. This lens is perfect for Sony E-mount camera users, particularly those who prioritize portability and need a reliable, easy-to-carry lens for everyday use. Travel photographers, casual street photographers, and portrait photographers looking to achieve a natural background blur will especially benefit from its performance and size.

Not suitable for:

However, the Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens for Sony E may not be the best option for photographers who need top-tier durability and premium build quality. Some users have mentioned concerns about the lens's plastic construction, which feels less sturdy compared to other lenses in its class. Additionally, those who frequently shoot in extremely low-light conditions or require ultra-fast autofocus for high-speed action may find the lens's performance lacking. It is also not the most ideal choice for professional videographers demanding flawless, silent autofocus during complex shots, as it may occasionally experience focus hunting in low-light or fast-moving scenarios.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens features a 35mm focal length, ideal for wide-angle shots and versatile for street, travel, and portrait photography.
  • Aperture: It offers a fast F1.8 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field for smooth bokeh.
  • Mount Type: The lens is designed for Sony E-mount cameras, compatible with both full-frame and APS-C models.
  • Weight: Weighing only 7.4 oz (210g), this lens is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry for travel or daily shoots.
  • Length: The lens measures 2.5 inches (63.5mm) in length, contributing to its portability and convenience for on-the-go photographers.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The minimum focus distance is 11.4 inches (0.29m), allowing for close-up shots and detailed photography.
  • Angle of View: With a 63.6° angle of view on full-frame cameras, this lens offers a natural perspective for a variety of photographic styles.
  • Diaphragm Blades: The lens has 9 diaphragm blades, which help create a smooth and pleasing bokeh effect in portrait and shallow depth of field shots.
  • Autofocus Motor: Equipped with a linear stepping motor, the lens provides fast and quiet autofocus, which is ideal for both stills and video.
  • Lens Hood: The lens comes with a removable petal-shaped lens hood that helps reduce lens flare and adds an extra layer of protection.
  • Filter Size: It supports 58mm filters, offering compatibility with a wide range of filters for creative or protective use.
  • Coating: The lens features an Ultra Multi-Coating (UMC) to reduce lens flare and ghosting, improving image clarity and contrast.
  • Weather Sealing: This lens is weather-sealed, providing added protection against dust and moisture for reliable use in various environmental conditions.
  • Magnification: The lens offers a maximum magnification of 0.17x, allowing for decent close-up shots without compromising sharpness.
  • Build Materials: The lens construction is designed with durability in mind, incorporating quality materials to withstand frequent use while maintaining a lightweight form.

FAQ

This lens is compact, lightweight, and delivers excellent image quality, making it perfect for travel photographers. Its fast F1.8 aperture allows for great low-light performance, and its small size makes it easy to carry without compromising on sharpness.

Yes, the Rokinon 35mm F1.8 lens is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Sony E-mount cameras. On APS-C models, it provides an effective focal length of approximately 52.5mm due to the crop factor.

No, the Rokinon AF 35mm F1.8 lens does not feature built-in image stabilization. For stabilization, you would need to rely on the camera's in-body stabilization if available.

Yes, users report that the autofocus is both fast and quiet, thanks to its linear stepping motor. It's especially appreciated by video creators who need smooth and reliable focusing during shoots.

This lens includes a removable petal-shaped lens hood that helps reduce lens flare and protects the lens from potential damage. It's a great addition for keeping your lens clean and improving image contrast.

Yes, this lens features a weather-sealed design, making it more durable and resistant to light rain or dusty conditions. However, it is not fully waterproof, so it's best to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh weather.

The lens produces beautiful, creamy bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography. The nine-blade diaphragm helps achieve a soft and smooth background blur, which is highly valued by photographers.

This lens uses 58mm filters. It's compatible with a wide range of filters for those who like to experiment with different effects or need protection from UV light or other conditions.

Yes, the fast autofocus and quiet operation of this lens make it an excellent choice for video recording. It's ideal for those who need a reliable, sharp lens for both stills and video in various environments.

Some users have noted that while the lens is compact and light, it may not be as durable as more premium lenses. Also, it lacks optical image stabilization, which could be a limitation for handheld video work in low light.