The type of photography that you are planning to use is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF and the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC for their suitability to various photography scenarios:
Size and Weight Comparison
The size of a lens is a crucial factor to consider when comparing two lenses. Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF is the longer of the two lenses at 98mm. The Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC with a length of 91mm, is 7mm shorter. Besides being longer, the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF also has a larger diameter of 88mm compared to the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC's 85mm diameter.
The weight of a lens is equally significant as its external dimensions, particularly if you intend to handhold your camera and lens combination for extended periods. Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF weighs 584g, which means it is 116g (16%) lighter than the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC which has a weight of 700g.
Filter Threads
The Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF has a filter size of 77mm whereas the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC has a 67mm diameter. Larger filters are generally more expensive than the smaller ones given all the other features are equal.
Below are links to the 77mm filters that we recommend you to consider for the Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF:
And these are the 67mm filters that we recommend for the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC:
Lens Mounts
The Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF has the Canon RF lens mount whereas the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC has the Canon EF lens mount. Some of the latest released cameras that are compatible with these mounts are Canon R6 V, Canon R6 III and Canon C50 for the Canon RF Mount and Blackmagic URSA 12K LF, Z CAM E2-F6 II 6K and Z CAM E2-S6 II 6K for the Canon EF Mount.
Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC is also available in Sony Alpha and Nikon F (FX) mounts.
Focal Range
Both lenses have the same focal range of
85mm but while Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF has the fastest aperture of
F1.4, the Tamron 85mm F1.8 VC's widest aperture value is
F1.8.
