Samyang AF 60-180mm F/2.8 FE Completes Compact Zoom Trinity

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Darryl Lara is a portrait and concert photographer based in the Philippines. Since 2010, he has captured performances of some of the biggest local and international artists and built a strong presence in the concert scene. In 2022, he shifted to full-time writing and editing, where he now covers photography, technology, and gaming with the same passion for storytelling that defines his photography.

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By Darryl Lara

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Last updated 06/29/2026

LK Samyang and Schneider-Kreuznach have completed their Compact Zoom Series with the launch of the new AF 60-180mm F/2.8 FE. The telephoto zoom was first teased at CP+ earlier this year and now joins the company’s growing lineup of lightweight F/2.8 zoom lenses for Sony E-mount cameras.

The new lens rounds out Samyang’s compact zoom trinity alongside the AF 14-24mm F/2.8 and AF 24-60mm F/2.8. Together, the three lenses provide continuous coverage from 14mm to 180mm while prioritizing portability over the larger, heavier professional zooms commonly found in this class.

Completing the Compact Zoom Trio

The AF 60-180mm F/2.8 is designed for portraits, sports, events, and wildlife, while its constant F/2.8 aperture also makes it suitable for indoor and low-light photography.

“The Compact Zoom Series is a zoom lens lineup from LK Samyang designed to redefine the balance between performance and portability,” the company says. “Based on this need, LK Samyang developed the Compact Zoom Series in collaboration with Schneider-Kreuznach.”

Unlike the traditional 70-200mm F/2.8 design, Samyang opted for a slightly shorter focal range to significantly reduce the size and weight of the lens.

Advanced Optical Design

The AF 60-180mm F/2.8 features an optical design consisting of 17 elements in 14 groups, including one high-refractive-index element, seven extra-low dispersion elements, and two aspherical elements. The lens also incorporates a floating focus system, which is designed to maintain consistent image quality throughout the zoom range and at closer focusing distances. 

Autofocus is driven by a Linear Stepping Motor, which Samyang says delivers fast, accurate, and quiet focusing for both still photography and video recording. The maximum magnification of 0.26x (1:3.8) also allows photographers to capture tighter close-up compositions without switching lenses.

The lens also includes a customizable Focus Hold button, an AF/MF switch, and a Zoom Lock to prevent unwanted lens extension during transport. A built-in USB-C port allows users to install future firmware updates directly to the lens.

These features make the lens suitable for hybrid creators who regularly switch between photography and video work.

Lightweight Alternative to a 70-200mm

One of the biggest selling points of the AF 60-180mm F/2.8 is its compact design.

The lens measures just 149mm in length and weighs 730g, making it noticeably lighter than many traditional 70-200mm F/2.8 lenses. Despite its reduced size, Samyang has included extensive weather sealing to improve durability when shooting outdoors.

For photographers looking to build a lightweight travel or event kit, the new telephoto zoom complements the rest of the Compact Zoom Series while keeping overall weight to a minimum.

Pricing and Availability

The LK Samyang AF 60-180mm F/2.8 FE is available now through the Samyang online store and authorized retailers. 

The lens is priced at £899 in the UK. Pricing and availability for the U.S. market have not yet been announced.

Sample Images with the LK Samyang AF 60-180mm F/2.8 FE