Samyang AF 24-70mm F2.8 FE

Reviewers found good centre sharpness and sensible edges at 24mm, low lateral colour, well-controlled spherical aberration and quiet, fairly accurate autofocus. Weaknesses are soft edges at the longer focal lengths, some longitudinal colour fringing, and moustache-type distortion.

The general verdict is that it is a mid-pack performer that is bigger and heavier than most rivals, and is worth it mainly for the price and the video features. Photographers who want the best optics in this class are better served by first-party or Sigma alternatives.

Video shooters like the parfocal MF mode, the damped AF and the custom switch, and some use it with Samyang's optional cine kit. Stills buyers mostly mention the low price compared with Sony's GM.

Weight and size are the most common complaints, followed by soft corners at 70mm and the need for the separate Lens Station to update firmware or change settings, since it has no USB port.