Rokinon Series II 14mm F2.8 Ultra Wide Angle Lens - Sharp, Weather

In this review the Rokinon Series II 14mm F2.8 Ultra Wide Angle Lens for Canon EF is evaluated as a focused tool for landscape, architecture, astrophotography, and video creators who need a true ultra-wide field of view and robust build. The bottom line: it delivers a dramatic 115.7 field of view on full frame bodies with impressive edge-to-edge sharpness, a bright F2.8 aperture for low-light work, and useful video-friendly controls that make it worth considering for photographers and filmmakers on a budget.

Key Features

• Ultra-wide 14mm: The 115.7 angle of view on full frame lets users capture expansive landscapes, tight interiors, and dramatic architectural scenes with minimal cropping.
• Bright F2.8 aperture: A wide maximum aperture improves low-light performance for nightscapes and indoor shooting while helping isolate subjects when needed.
• Video-friendly de-click switch: The smooth aperture de-click switch allows silent exposure adjustments during filming so changes do not interfere with recorded audio.
• Weather sealed with built-in hood: Rugged sealing and an integrated petal-shaped hood protect the front element from dust, light moisture, and stray flare when shooting outdoors.
• Advanced optics: A 14-element, 10-group optical design including ED, HR, ASP, and Hybrid-ASP elements plus Ultra Multi-Coating reduces chromatic aberration and flare for clearer images.
• Focus lock: The built-in focus lock helps maintain a set focus for time-lapse and astrophotography to prevent accidental shifts during long exposures.

Who It's For

This lens is best suited to landscape photographers, architects, real estate shooters, and astrophotographers who need a full-frame ultra-wide perspective and value optical sharpness and durable construction. Video creators who want silent aperture control will also appreciate the de-click switch for smooth exposure transitions.

Photographers who need autofocus, automatic electronic aperture control, or built-in image stabilization should look elsewhere, since this is a manual-focus glass tailored to creators comfortable with manual operation and careful focus technique.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and weather sealing provide reliability in varied shooting conditions.
• Notable edge-to-edge sharpness and reduced chromatic aberration thanks to the advanced optical formula.
• Useful video features such as the de-click aperture switch and a focus lock for long exposures.
• Great value for the performance delivered compared with other ultra-wide full-frame options.

Cons

• Manual focus only, and some users report mixed experience achieving perfect infinity focus in all situations.
• As a specialty ultra-wide lens, it is less flexible for standard focal-length needs without changing lenses.

Specifications

Mount	Canon EF
Focal length	14mm
Maximum aperture	f/2.8
Angle of view	115.7 on full frame (89.9 on APS-C)
Optical construction	14 elements in 10 groups with ED, HR, ASP, Hybrid-ASP
Special features	Weather sealed, built-in petal hood, de-click aperture switch, focus lock

Our Verdict

The Rokinon Series II 14mm F2.8 is a purpose-built ultra-wide that offers strong optical performance, solid construction, and filmmaker-friendly controls at a compelling price. Photographers who value wide-angle sharpness and manual control will find it excellent value, while those needing autofocus should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this lens autofocus?
No, this is a manual-focus lens designed for users comfortable focusing by hand.

Is it suitable for astrophotography?
Yes, the bright f/2.8 aperture, wide 14mm view, and focus lock make it well suited to night-sky work, though some users note mixed results dialing in perfect infinity focus.

Will it resist light rain?
Yes, the lens is weather sealed and includes a built-in hood to help protect against dust and light moisture.