Samyang AF 24-60mm F/2.8 Sony FE

Built for photographers who need a versatile everyday lens that doesn’t compromise on image quality, this collaboration between Samyang and German optical specialist Schneider-Kreuznach delivers professional-grade optics in a remarkably portable package. At just 102mm retracted and weighing under 500g, this lens solves the common frustration of choosing between optical performance and practical portability.

Key Features:

• Jointly developed with Schneider-Kreuznach combining German optical expertise with advanced manufacturing
• 24-60mm focal range covers wide-angle environmental shots through to flattering portrait perspectives
• Constant F2.8 maximum aperture maintains consistent exposure and depth of field control throughout the zoom range
• Compact design at 102mm length and 494g weight makes it practical for all-day shooting
• Linear stepping motor delivers fast, silent autofocus ideal for both stills and video
• 0.18m minimum focusing distance at wide angle enables close-up detail capture
• IP5X-rated dust and splash resistance with water and oil-repellent coating protects in challenging conditions

Perfect For Content Creators and Travel Photographers Who Need:

• A single lens solution that eliminates the need to carry multiple primes or heavier zooms
• Consistent F2.8 aperture for maintaining shallow depth of field effects when vlogging or creating cinematic content
• Silent autofocus that won’t interfere with audio recording during video capture
• Close focusing capability for detailed product shots, food photography, or environmental portraits
• Weather protection for shooting in unpredictable outdoor conditions without constant worry
• Reliable performance that works across photography, videography, and vlogging scenarios

Optical Performance:

Schneider-Kreuznach Co-Development

This marks the second collaboration between Samyang and Schneider-Kreuznach, bringing together over 50 years of German optical engineering expertise with modern manufacturing efficiency. The 14-element, 11-group construction includes three high-refractive elements, two extra-low dispersion elements, and three aspherical elements that work together to minimise chromatic aberration and maintain edge-to-edge sharpness. The UMC coating reduces flare and ghosting when shooting towards light sources, whilst the 9-blade circular aperture creates smooth background separation at F2.8.

Versatile Focal Range

The 24-60mm range addresses the most commonly used focal lengths for everyday photography. At 24mm, you capture environmental portraits, interiors, and landscape compositions with an 84.1° angle of view on full-frame bodies. At 60mm, you have a flattering perspective for portraits and product work with a 39.6° field of view. This eliminates the common gap between 24-70mm and 70-200mm zooms, providing a more practical everyday range without unnecessary weight at the telephoto end.

Autofocus and Handling:

Linear Stepping Motor System

The integrated linear STM autofocus motor provides rapid subject acquisition and precise tracking for moving subjects. Focus transitions are smooth and silent, making this lens particularly suitable for video recording where focus breathing and motor noise would otherwise be problematic. The motor works efficiently with Sony’s advanced autofocus systems, including Eye AF and Real-time Tracking, maintaining sharp focus on subjects even when they’re moving unpredictably through the frame.

Close-Up Capability

With a minimum focusing distance of 0.18m at 24mm and 0.32m at 60mm, you can capture detailed close-up shots without requiring dedicated macro equipment. At wide angle, this achieves 0.27x magnification, useful for environmental product photography or capturing texture details within their context. At 60mm, the 0.25x magnification provides flattering perspective for beauty shots, food photography, or small product work.

Build Quality and Durability:

Weather-Sealed Construction

The aluminium frame provides structural rigidity whilst keeping weight under 500g. IP5X-rated dust and splash resistance protects internal elements during outdoor shooting, with seals at critical points preventing moisture ingress. The front element features water and oil-repellent coating that causes water droplets to bead and roll off, whilst resisting fingerprints and smudges that would otherwise degrade image quality. This protection level suits regular outdoor use but isn’t designed for sustained heavy rain or submersion.

Practical Design Details

At 102mm retracted length, the lens maintains a low profile that balances well on Sony E-mount bodies without causing front-heaviness. The 72mm filter thread accepts standard circular polarisers and ND filters without vignetting. The included petal-shaped lens hood provides protection from side light whilst remaining compact enough for everyday carry. Physical AF/MF switch allows quick manual focus override when you need immediate control.

Comparison With Alternative Options:

Against Sony’s FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II, this lens offers a more portable alternative at less than half the weight, though the GM II extends to 70mm and includes slightly faster autofocus. Compared to constant F4 standard zooms, this lens provides one full stop more light gathering and shallower depth of field control, beneficial for portrait work and low-light shooting. The 24-60mm range proves more practical than 28-75mm alternatives that sacrifice wide-angle capability, particularly important for travel photography and environmental portraits where you need to include context around your subject.