LK SAMYANG Unveils AF 60–180mm F2.8 FE, Developed with Schneider-Kreuznach

LK SAMYANG, a global leader in optical innovation, today announces the upcoming launch of the AF 60–180mm F2.8 FE, co-developed in collaboration with renowned German optics specialist Schneider-Kreuznach. The lens is scheduled for release this July.

As advancements in camera and lens technology continue to push performance boundaries, creators are often faced with the trade-off of increased size and weight. Covering a broad focal range typically requires carrying multiple lenses, an ongoing challenge for photographers and videographers alike.

Addressing this, LK SAMYANG set out to redefine the balance between performance and portability with a simple guiding principle: carry less, capture more – without compromise. This vision led to the creation of the “Compact Zoom Series,” developed in partnership with Schneider-Kreuznach to deliver exceptional optical performance in lightweight, compact designs.

The new AF 60–180mm F2.8 FE builds on this philosophy, completing a versatile three-lens system alongside the AF 14–24mm F2.8 FE (445g) and AF 24–60mm F2.8 FE (494g). Together, these lenses provide seamless coverage from ultra-wide 14mm to telephoto 180mm—offering creators a complete, travel-friendly solution without sacrificing image quality.

Each lens in the Compact Zoom Series embodies LK SAMYANG’s commitment to practical usability, reduced weight, and consistent design excellence, empowering creators to work more efficiently in any environment.

KEY FEATURES

• A New Standard in Lightweight Telephoto Zoom: Only 730g
  The AF 60–180mm F2.8 FE weighs just 730g and measures 149mm (wide) to 174.4mm (tele), delivering outstanding portability for an F2.8 telephoto zoom. Its lighter design, compared to traditional 70–200mm lenses, reduces fatigue and improves mobility during extended shoots.
• Constant F2.8 with Enhanced Close-Up Capability
  With a constant F2.8 aperture, the lens delivers reliable low-light performance and smooth background blur, ideal for portraits. A 0.26x (1:3.80) maximum magnification also allows for detailed close-up shots and added creative versatility.
• Compact Zoom Series, Co-Engineered with Schneider-Kreuznach
  Developed with Schneider-Kreuznach, the AF 60–180mm F2.8 FE balances performance and portability. Its 17-element design minimizes aberrations for sharp images, while a floating focus system maintains consistent quality throughout the focus range.
• Designed for Real-World Use
  Equipped with a Linear Stepping Motor, the lens provides fast, accurate autofocus for both photo and video. Weather sealing adds durability, while features like the AF/MF switch and Zoom Lock ensure reliable, controlled handling.
• Lightweight Coverage from 14mm to 180mm Enabling wide focal coverage from 14mm to 180mm with just three lightweight lenses (445g, 494g, and 730g).

Craig Harrison, Senior Product Manager, Holdan, commented:

“I’m incredibly excited to see this lens come to life, as it perfectly captures Samyang’s vision of delivering uncompromised performance in a truly portable design. Partnering with Schneider-Kreuznach has allowed them to push the boundaries of what creators can expect from a compact telephoto zoom. This is a product that genuinely empowers users to do more with less, and I can’t wait to see the work it inspires.”

Availability – Available to order now. Stock is expected to land during June.

For more information, visit https://www.holdan.co.uk/brand/Samyang