LK Samyang and Schneider-Kreuznach Complete the f/2.8 Zoom Trinity
LK Samyang and Schneider-Kreuznach have officially announced the AF 60-180mm f/2.8, a full-frame telephoto zoom lens for Sony E-mount. First shown as a prototype at CP+ in Yokohama in February 2026 and teased again in June ahead of its full reveal, the lens was formally announced few days ago.
The AF 60-180mm f/2.8 completes what Samyang refers to as its Compact Zoom Series, joining the AF 14-24mm f/2.8 and the AF 24-60mm f/2.8 — both released in 2025 — to form a three-lens constant-aperture zoom set covering focal lengths from 14mm through 180mm.
The optical formula comprises 17 elements in 14 groups, including one high-refractive-index element, seven extra-low-dispersion elements, and two aspherical elements. Autofocus is driven by a linear stepping motor within a floating focus system, which Samyang states maintains consistent image quality across the full focal and focusing range. Minimum focusing distance is 35 centimeters at the wide end and 79 centimeters at 180mm, with a maximum magnification of 1:3.8. The aperture diaphragm uses nine blades and the front filter thread is 77mm.
At 730 grams and between 149 and 174.4 millimeters long depending on focal length, the lens is notably lighter and more compact than comparable telephoto zooms: the Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM II weighs 1,045 grams, and the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 weighs 855 grams. The reduction in reach from 200mm to 180mm and the slightly wider starting focal length of 60mm rather than 70mm are the primary design compromises that enable the weight reduction. The barrel incorporates focus hold buttons, an AF/MF switch, a USB-C port for firmware updates, and full weather sealing including at the mount.
Here are some sample pictures, courtesy of LK Samyang and Schneider-Kreuznach:
The lens is currently shipping in Sony E-mount, while L-Mount availability has been confirmed but no date has been announced. The South Korean retail price is 1,290,000 KRW, approximately $840; confirmed US pricing had not yet appeared at the time of announcement, though the two earlier lenses in the series both launched below $1,000 in the US market. In North America the lens will be sold under the Rokinon brand, as with the two preceding lenses in the series.
