Samyang Cine 85mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 Full-Frame Lens for Sony E-Mount Review

The Samyang Cine 85mm T1.5 VDSLR MK2 is a manual focus cinema prime built for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. It offers a fast T1.5 aperture for shallow depth of field and low-light performance, making it a solid choice for narrative work, interviews, and portrait-style video. The lens features geared focus and aperture rings for follow focus compatibility, plus standardized positioning across Samyang's cine lineup for easier lens swaps on set.

At 198 dollars, this appears to be a used unit in excellent condition from KEH, which positions it as an affordable entry into manual cinema glass. The 85mm focal length is a workhorse for close-ups and medium shots, and the de-clicked aperture ring allows for smooth exposure ramping during takes. Build quality is typically solid metal construction with smooth mechanics, though the lens is fully manual with no electronic communication with the camera body.

This MK2 iteration refined the original VDSLR line with improved coatings and smoother focus throws. For filmmakers on a budget looking to build out a set of cine primes without breaking the bank, this lens delivers the core features needed for professional video work at a fraction of the cost of higher-end cinema glass.