Samsung launches bright, constant-aperture 50-150mm f/2.8 zoom lens
posted Wednesday, September 17, 2014 at 4:03 PM EDT
Alongside the launch of its DSLR-styled Samsung NX1 compact system camera, Korean consumer electronics giant Samsung has also revealed a new lens model. The NX 50-150mm F2.8 S ED OIS lens isn't its longest, but it's noticeably brighter than other options with this focal length range, and it's also only the second lens in Samsung's premium 'S' line.
Following on from the earlier Samsung 16-50mm F2-2.8 S ED OIS lens, the 50-150mm F2.8 S ED OIS is likewise dust and splash resistant, and has a quality metal construction. The complex optical formula includes 20 elements in 13 groups, including four ED and one XHR element. There's also a nine-bladed aperture diaphragm for attractive bokeh, and Samsung Hyper Shield coating to combat fogging, as well as to stop dust, moisture, fingerprints and smears from adhering to the front element.
Stabilization is included, and according to Samsung, has a CIPA-tested corrective range of 4.5 stops at the 68mm position using the Samsung NX30 camera body. It operates on four axes, and can detect motion on six. A focus range limiter function is also provided, allowing you to set a range of distances within which focus should operate, preventing the autofocus system from jumping to another object between camera and subject.
Maximum magnification is 0.13x, and the lens will focus down to 27.5 inches (70cm) at wide angle, or 38.6 inches (98cm) at telephoto. 35mm-equivalent focal lengths when mounted on a Samsung NX camera body range from 77mm at wide angle to a fairly powerful 231mm at telephoto. Dimensions are 81mm diameter and 154mm length, and weight is 915g. 72mm threaded filters are accepted.
Although pricing and availability haven't been officially disclosed, the lens can be preordered now for around US$1,600. Click the links below to preorder from our Imaging Resource affiliates, and you'll help support the site at the same time as reserving your place in queue!