torn between the Samyang 12mm f2 AF and the TTArtisan 10mm f2 for my X-S20. got a Glacier NP trip next month and need a wide lens.
- budget: under $300
- use case: landscapes/hiking
leaning towards the Samyang for autofocus but that 10mm width is tempting... which one should I go with?
I honestly think you should go with the Samyang. Been using the Samyang AF 12mm f/2.0 Fuji X for a few months now on my fuji setup and im super satisfied with how it performs. For hiking especially, having autofocus is just one less thing to worry about when you're tired or trying to grab a quick shot of a view. The weather sealing is a nice bonus too since Glacier can be unpredictable. The TTArtisan 10mm f/2.0 ASPH Fujifilm X is definitely wide and cheap, but manual focus can be a pain if you arent used to it yet. Honestly the 12mm is plenty wide for those massive mountain vistas. No complaints from me on the image quality either... it basically just works well without breaking the bank. Good luck with the choice, you're gonna love that camera!
I remember my first big trip with a 12mm and constantly wishing I could go wider. In my experience, you'll regret not having that extra width at Glacier. I've tried many lenses over the years and usually just manually focus landscapes anyway to be safe.
- TTArtisan 10mm f2.0 Fuji X is cheaper
- leaves room for a K&F Concept 72mm Variable ND Filter Dont overthink it, save the cash.
^ This. Also, jumping in since I've seen this debate a dozen times. One person wants the AF convenience, the other wants that extra width. In my experience, it basically depends on your flow.
- You planning on doing any astro while youre at Glacier?
- Bringing a tripod or shooting handheld on the move? Glacier is huge so setup time and weight are real factors on the trail.
👆 this
Came here to say the same thing lol. Great minds think alike I guess.
> leaning towards the Samyang for autofocus but that 10mm width is tempting... which one should I go with? To add to the point above: tbh I think we sometimes get too caught up in focal lengths and forget about reliability in the field. I'm not 100% sure which one has better tolerances, but IIRC, some of these budget manual lenses can be a bit of a gamble when it comes to actual durability. I remember hiking through a heavy mist in the Cascades years ago with a lens that wasnt quite up to snuff. The internal barrel started getting some condensation, and I was terrified it'd ruin my sensor. It is a huge stress when you're miles into a trail and your gear starts acting up. I haven't used that 10mm in those conditions, but in my experience, the cheaper you go, the more you risk a seal failing. Just something to keep in mind for a place like Glacier where the weather changes in five minutes. Safety first, honestly.
Like someone mentioned, it really comes down to that choice between AF convenience and that extra 2mm of width. Honestly though, I've been a bit disappointed with the quality control on these budget brands lately. I've had issues with decentering on a couple of units which is just a nightmare when you have a big trip coming up. You guys have pretty much summed up the Samyang vs TTArtisan debate, but if you're really trying to keep the cost down or want other options:
- Try stitching panoramas with your current lens, it's a great DIY way to get that ultra-wide look for free
- Check out the 7artisans 12mm f2.8 II Fuji X which is usually dirt cheap
- The Meike 12mm f2.8 Fuji X is another budget pick, though the corners aren't as good as expected Ngl, if I were you, I'd probably lean towards the Samyang just for the weather sealing, but definitely test your copy as soon as it arrives. You don't want to get to Glacier and find out your lens is a dud. Have fun out there, it's a beautiful spot.
Just found this thread and had to jump in! I'd say just go with Sigma! You literally cant go wrong with their stuff. I remember my first big trip to the mountains, I was so nervous about my gear but I ended up getting a wide prime from them and it was fantastic! The performance was just top notch and it made my photos look like professional shots.
- Just get any wide lens from Sigma and you'll be happy.
- Their build quality is amazing for hiking because they feel so solid in your hand.
- The autofocus is super fast which is great when youre tired and just want the shot...
- Honestly the sharpness you get for the price is just mind blowing! Youre gonna have an amazing time at Glacier, its so beautiful there!