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Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D vs Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS

Both are Micro Four Thirds prime lenses. Here is what actually differs.

Pick the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D if

  • You shoot close-ups: it focuses down to 0.18 m vs 0.2 m
  • You shoot full frame: the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS is made for APS-C

Pick the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS if

  • You need 1 stop more light for low light or background blur (f/2 vs f/2.8)

Spec differences

11 differences
Specifications that differ between the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D and the Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS
Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS
Brand
Laowa
Samyang
Format
Full frame
APS-C
Max aperture
f/2.8
f/2 1 stop faster
Weight
not listed
255 g
Length
not listed
57.9 mm
Diameter
not listed
72.5 mm
Filter thread
not listed
67 mm
Min focus distance
0.18 m closer
0.2 m
Max magnification
0.2×
not listed
Aperture blades
7
not listed
Optical design
16 elements / 10 groups
12 elements / 10 groups
5 identical specs hidden: mount, type, focal length, autofocus motor, image stabilization. Show all
Mount
Micro Four Thirds both
Type
Prime both
Focal length
12mm both
Autofocus motor
Manual focus both
Image stabilization
No both

Our notes

Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D is a wide-angle prime lens covering 12mm at f/2.8 for Micro Four Thirds mount cameras, with low-distortion design. A manual-focus wide-angle lens from Laowa designed for low distortion.

Our notes

Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS

Samyang 12mm f/2.0 NCS CS: a fast wide-angle prime lens with a 12mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.0, made for Micro Four Thirds mount cameras. The wide view suits landscapes, architecture and environmental shots.

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