Samyang 100mm F2.8 ED UMC Macro Review
The Samyang 100mm F2.8 ED UMC Macro ($599) comes in at an attractive price point when compared with many other autofocus macro lenses of similar focal lengths, and it's plenty sharp, especially at the narrower apertures used to achieve a reasonable depth of field when working at high magnification. It's not the equal to some other options in sharpness, but you'll have to pay quite a bit more to get a stabilized, autofocus lens with impeccable performance, like our Editors' Choice Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED ($896.95 at Amazon) (and you'll need a Nikon camera to use it). The Samyang lens is available in several mounts, and is also sold in a version optimized for video use.
Design and FeaturesLike other Samyang lenses, the 100mm F2.8 ($499.00 at Amazon) is available in a standard edition that's designed like a traditional photographic lens, and a second version that's got some special features for pro cinematographers—in this case that's the Samyang VDSLR II 100...
The Samyang 100mm F2.8 ED UMC Macro is a fine lens for macro shooters who prefer manual focus, but you'll have to give up optical stabilization.
Quite sharp when stopped down; 1:1 magnification; Internal focus design; Compact; Available for multiple systems; Long focus throw; Attractive price point
Some edge softness at wide apertures; Manual focus design is not for everyone; Omits optical stabilization