Rokinon vs TTARTISAN AF

Overview of the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 Lens

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens for Canon EF is an ultra-wide-angle lens designed specifically for full-frame cameras. Priced at $231.25, it targets photographers who need superior image quality and performance in low-light conditions. This lens is particularly well-suited for astrophotography and landscapes, delivering an impressive 115.7° angle of view.

The lens features a robust construction, weighing 31.7oz and measuring 6.0 x 3.5 x 3.7 inches. Its advanced optical design includes 14 elements in 10 groups, ensuring minimal distortion and high clarity across the frame. With a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, it excels in challenging lighting environments, making it a reliable choice for professionals.

Overview of the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 Lens

The TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 APS-C Frame Lens is an ultra-compact pancake lens priced at $159.99. This lens is designed for Fuji X mount cameras and is particularly appealing for photographers seeking portability without compromising on image quality. The design makes it easy to carry, making it ideal for travel and everyday shooting.

Equipped with a STM Stepping Motor for smooth focusing, the TTARTISAN lens also features eye recognition focus, enhancing its usability for portrait and video work. Although it doesn’t have a detailed product description like the Rokinon, its unique features, such as a clicked aperture ring and USB firmware upgrade capability, offer a modern touch for tech-savvy users.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens stands out with its advanced optical design, featuring 14 elements in 10 groups. This design minimizes distortion and chromatic aberrations, ensuring that images are sharp and clear across the entire frame. The lens is especially adept at capturing expansive scenes, making it a perfect choice for landscape and astrophotography.

In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens, while compact and user-friendly, does not have the same extensive optical design features. The specifics of its optical construction are less detailed, which may affect the overall sharpness and clarity compared to the Rokinon lens. However, the pancake design is appealing for casual shooters and those focused on portability.

Build Quality and Design

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens boasts a robust and durable build, weighing 31.7oz and designed to withstand professional use in various conditions. Its dimensions of 6.0 x 3.5 x 3.7 inches make it a substantial piece of equipment, but this also contributes to its reliability.

On the other hand, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens is designed for portability, making it easy to carry around. This lens is significantly lighter and smaller, appealing to those who prioritize convenience. However, the trade-off could be in the overall sturdiness and longevity of the lens compared to the more robust Rokinon.

Usability and Features

The Rokinon lens features precision manual focus, offering photographers control over their shots. This is particularly useful for achieving optimal sharpness and creative effects, especially in landscapes and astrophotography. It also includes a built-in petal-type lens hood, an added benefit for outdoor shooting.

In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens includes modern features such as eye recognition focus and a clicked aperture ring, enhancing its usability for both photography and videography. The USB firmware upgrade capability also allows for performance improvements over time, a feature that could attract tech-savvy photographers looking for longevity in their gear.

Price Comparison

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens is priced at $231.25, while the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens is more affordable at $159.99. This makes the TTARTISAN lens approximately 31% less expensive than the Rokinon, catering to budget-conscious photographers or those new to the craft. The price difference reflects not only the features offered but also the intended audience for each lens.

Target Audience

The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens is ideal for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who require high-quality optics and robust build for specific genres like astrophotography and landscape photography. Its advanced features cater to those looking for precision and performance in their photography.

In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens targets casual photographers and travelers who favor a lightweight and compact lens. Its user-friendly features like eye tracking and quick aperture adjustments make it suitable for everyday use and quick shooting situations.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens and the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you're a professional or serious enthusiast looking for exceptional image quality and robust build, the Rokinon is the clear winner despite its higher price of $231.25. However, if portability and ease of use are your priorities, the TTARTISAN, at $159.99, offers excellent value for casual shooting and travel. Each lens serves its purpose well, catering to different user bases and shooting styles.