Sony E 11mm f/1.8 vs Samyang AF 12mm f/2
Sony E 11mm f/1.8 has more in its favour on paper. The E 11mm f/1.8 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF 12mm f/2 is the alternative. The Sony lens is the mount maker's own, while the Samyang is a third-party alternative.
Choose the E 11mm f/1.8 for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 0.3 stops more light)
- less weight (181g vs 213g)
- a lower price (about £380 vs £449)
- weather sealing
Choose the AF 12mm f/2 for
- Similar specs
| E 11mm f/1.8 | AF 12mm f/2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Sony | Samyang |
| Focal length | 11mm | 12mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/2 |
| Weight | 181 g | 213 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | Yes | No |
| Filter size | 55mm | 62mm |
| Made for | APSC | APSC |
| New price | £499 | £449 |
| Used at MPB (Sony E / FE) | £344–£424 | None listed |
More lens comparisons
See all Sony E / FE cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 better than the Samyang AF 12mm f/2?
The E 11mm f/1.8 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 0.3 stops more light), less weight (181g vs 213g), a lower price (about £380 vs £449); the AF 12mm f/2 offers similar specs.
Which is better value, the E 11mm f/1.8 or the AF 12mm f/2?
On Sony E / FE, the Sony E 11mm f/1.8 costs about £380 against about £449 for the Samyang AF 12mm f/2 (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.8 worth it over f/2?
f/1.8 gathers about 0.3 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Sony E / FE (and other mounts: Fujifilm X). Both are made for crop sensors.