difference between old nikkors lens and samyang cinema lens for videowork
- Thread starter deleuze3
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Finn Yarbrough
Well-known member
I use both.
For lenses in this price-point, it's really just whatever is easiest for you to get. The Samyang cinema lenses aren't any better image-wise (and a little worse build-quality wise) but they have ff gears built in and are already de-clicked, so they are a little friendlier for video use out of the box. If you buy them new, they are also less likely to have damage or dust than a used Nikkor.
For lenses in this price-point, it's really just whatever is easiest for you to get. The Samyang cinema lenses aren't any better image-wise (and a little worse build-quality wise) but they have ff gears built in and are already de-clicked, so they are a little friendlier for video use out of the box. If you buy them new, they are also less likely to have damage or dust than a used Nikkor.
simonpwood
Well-known member
I have both too; though mine are a set of Pre AIS Nikkors made in the 1960s. I agree with what Finn says, though I would add that the Nikkors flare a hell of a lot more than the Samyangs. The flares can be very pleasing to the eye though if you're aiming for that look.
simonpwood
Well-known member
The Nikkors are also a lot smaller in size.
djosbun
Active member
Funny how you posted this question, as i've been pondering the same thing. Pros really seem to like the Samyang/Rokinon (except the 24mm which supposedly is quite soft) but some have complained about poor manual focusing (turning focus ring from one direction to the other direction has some unwanted play in the focus ring) and the lens seems to fail much sooner than most lenses, due to build quality.
My take is that if I can find a Nikkor AIS lens that has great glass and no dust, i'm buying it (if the price is fair). B&H still sells some AIS lenses which can be purchased new!
Dave
My take is that if I can find a Nikkor AIS lens that has great glass and no dust, i'm buying it (if the price is fair). B&H still sells some AIS lenses which can be purchased new!
Dave
simonpwood
Well-known member
All of the Samyang lenses are fairly soft when wide open, but so are the Nikkors.
The Samyang 35mm is probably the best of the bunch; sharper than my 35mm Nikkor. I have not had any build quality issues with my Samyangs, though I have heard it mentioned elsewhere.
The Samyang 35mm is probably the best of the bunch; sharper than my 35mm Nikkor. I have not had any build quality issues with my Samyangs, though I have heard it mentioned elsewhere.