Samyang 100mm F2.8 ED UMC Macro

Reviews consistently found excellent sharpness, often close to first-party macro lenses, with very low distortion and well-controlled lateral colour. Contrast is high from f/2.8, and stopping down to f/8 to f/11 gives very even results at 1:1.

The drawbacks noted are some longitudinal fringing wide open, a long focus throw that is slow at normal distances, and the size and weight of the E-mount version. Testers generally rated it one of the best optical values in macro lenses.

Owners are happy with detail and colour for insects, flowers and product work, and say manual focus is no handicap at macro distances, where many rock the camera to focus anyway. The long, smooth focus ring is praised.

Complaints are the weight, the lack of EXIF and stabilisation data, and a short working distance at 1:1 that can make lighting awkward. Some find it slow to use for general telephoto work.