Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 vs Samyang AF 50mm f/1.4 II
Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 has more in its favour on paper. The AF 50mm f/1.4 II gathers more light for low light and background blur; the FE 50mm f/1.8 is lighter and cheaper. The Sony lens is the mount maker's own, while the Samyang is a third-party alternative.
Choose the FE 50mm f/1.8 for
- less weight (186g vs 420g)
- a lower price (about £100 vs £260)
Choose the AF 50mm f/1.4 II for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light)
- weather sealing
| FE 50mm f/1.8 | AF 50mm f/1.4 II | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Sony | Samyang |
| Focal length | 50mm | 50mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.4 |
| Weight | 186 g | 420 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | No | Yes |
| Filter size | 49mm | 67mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £229 | £499 |
| Used at MPB (Sony E / FE) | £80–£113 | £164–£354 |
More lens comparisons
See all Sony E / FE cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 better than the Samyang AF 50mm f/1.4 II?
The FE 50mm f/1.8 offers less weight (186g vs 420g), a lower price (about £100 vs £260); the AF 50mm f/1.4 II offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 0.7 stops more light), weather sealing.
Which is better value, the FE 50mm f/1.8 or the AF 50mm f/1.4 II?
On Sony E / FE, the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 costs about £100 against about £260 for the Samyang AF 50mm f/1.4 II (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.4 worth it over f/1.8?
f/1.4 gathers about 0.7 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.