Rokinon vs YONGNUO

Overview

When it comes to selecting a lens for photography, two notable options are the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED Super Lens for Canon EF and the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 Art Auto Focus Lens for Sony E Mount. The Rokinon lens, priced at $231.25, offers an ultra-wide perspective ideal for capturing expansive landscapes and astrophotography. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens is more budget-friendly at $128.00, focusing on standard prime photography suitable for Sony mirrorless cameras.

Build Quality

The Rokinon 14mm lens is constructed with a robust design, weighing in at 31.7 oz (900g) and measuring 6.0 x 3.5 x 3.7 inches. This durability ensures reliability for professional use in various conditions. On the other hand, the YONGNUO 35mm lens has a metal bayonet and outer shell, providing a solid and durable construction. It also features a dustproof and waterproof rubber ring, making it suitable for different environments. While both lenses are built to last, the Rokinon's heavier weight may indicate a more rugged build for demanding scenarios.

Image Quality

The Rokinon lens boasts superior image quality with 14 elements in 10 groups, designed to deliver exceptional sharpness and clarity. It minimizes distortion and chromatic aberrations, making it ideal for landscapes and astrophotography. In comparison, the YONGNUO lens also offers high image quality with 10 elements in 9 groups and includes ultra-low dispersion glass to suppress chromatic dispersion. While both lenses aim for high-quality images, the Rokinon's advanced optical design may provide an edge in sharpness and clarity, particularly for wide-angle shots.

Focal Length and Perspective

The Rokinon 14mm lens offers an impressive 115.7° angle of view, making it perfect for capturing expansive scenes such as landscapes and real estate photography. This ultra-wide perspective is particularly advantageous for photographers looking to convey a sense of space. The YONGNUO 35mm lens, while not as wide, provides a focal length that is closer to the human eye's perspective, making it versatile for everyday photography. It supports a minimum focusing distance of 0.35m, allowing for decent close-up shots. The difference in focal lengths means that the Rokinon may be better suited for specific applications like landscape photography, while the YONGNUO is more adaptable for various styles.

Aperture Performance

The Rokinon 14mm lens features a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, allowing for excellent performance in low-light conditions. This capability is crucial for photographers who often shoot in challenging lighting situations, such as during dusk or at night. Alternatively, the YONGNUO 35mm lens has a larger maximum aperture of f/1.8, which also performs well in low-light conditions but may provide a different aesthetic with its ability to create beautiful background bokeh. While both lenses excel in low light, the choice between f/2.8 and f/1.8 might sway photographers based on their specific needs for depth of field and light capture.

Autofocus Capabilities

The YONGNUO 35mm lens is designed with a quiet auto-focus system, making it particularly suitable for both photo and video recording. This feature is essential for videographers who require silent operation during shoots. The Rokinon 14mm lens, however, is a manual focus lens, which may appeal to photographers who prefer the precise control manual focusing offers, especially in creative scenarios. If autofocus is a priority, the YONGNUO lens would be the more convenient choice, while the Rokinon may be favored by those who enjoy the art of manual focusing.

Price Comparison

The Rokinon 14mm lens is priced at $231.25, while the YONGNUO 35mm lens is significantly cheaper at $128.00. This price difference of about 45% may be a crucial factor for budget-conscious photographers. The lower price of the YONGNUO lens makes it an appealing option for those who may be just starting or looking for a high-quality lens without the hefty investment. However, the Rokinon lens may justify its higher price with its specialized features aimed at landscape and astrophotography.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens and the YONGNUO 35mm F1.8 lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require an ultra-wide perspective for landscapes and have a preference for manual focus, the Rokinon lens is an excellent choice, despite its higher price. Conversely, if you are looking for a versatile, budget-friendly option with autofocus capabilities for everyday use, the YONGNUO lens may suit you better. Each lens has its strengths, so consider the type of photography you plan to do when making your decision.