TTARTISAN or Samyang? Mirrorless Lens Compared in 2026
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This TTARTISAN vs samyang mirrorless lens comparison looks at two very different tools. Both are designed for APS-C sensors, but they serve distinct roles. You get a compact 50mm prime with manual focus from TTArtisan. Samyang offers a 12mm ultra-wide with fast autofocus. One prioritizes low-light portability, while the other emphasizes wide-angle versatility and speed. Your choice depends on your mount and shooting style.
Key differences
| Aspect | TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens | Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 50mm | 12mm |
| Focus Type | Manual Focus | Autofocus (Linear STM) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.2 | f/2.0 |
| Weight | 336g | 213g |
Which one should you choose?
Choose TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens if
- You use a Micro Four Thirds camera and need a portable portrait lens.
- You prefer manual control and want a wider maximum aperture for low light.
- You value an all-metal build and a classic 50mm perspective.
Choose Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens if
- You shoot with a Sony E-mount camera and need ultra-wide coverage.
- You require fast, quiet autofocus for video or dynamic scenes.
- You want a lighter lens with weather sealing and advanced optical coatings.
Verdict: Choose the TTArtisan if you shoot with Micro Four Thirds and want a compact, fast prime for portraits or low light. Pick the Samyang if you have a Sony E-mount and need an ultra-wide angle with reliable autofocus for landscapes or video.
TTARTISAN vs Samyang Lens Specs
Sensor format
Both lenses are designed for APS-C sensor cameras. The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 explicitly lists APS-C compatibility in its key specifications and features. Similarly, the Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is built for APS-C sensors, covering a 99.1-degree angle on this format. This shared foundation means you can use either lens on your APS-C body without crop factor confusion beyond the standard mount conversion. You do not need to worry about full-frame mismatch issues with either option, as both are tailored for the same sensor size class.
Focus configuration
The focus systems differ significantly between these two options. The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 relies entirely on manual focus. You must adjust the focus ring yourself for every shot. In contrast, the Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF features an autofocus system driven by a Linear STM motor. This allows for fast, smooth, and near-silent focusing, which is beneficial for both photography and video. If you prefer quick adjustments and modern convenience, the Samyang autofocus is a clear advantage. If you enjoy the tactile control of manual focusing, the TTArtisan suits you better.
Maximum aperture
Aperture speed is a key differentiator here. The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 offers a very wide f/1.2 maximum aperture. This allows for significant light gathering and strong background blur, which is excellent for low-light environments and isolating subjects. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF has a maximum aperture of f/2.0. While still fast for an ultra-wide lens, it lets in less light than the f/1.2 option. If you need the absolute brightest aperture for shallow depth of field, the TTArtisan wins. For general wide-angle work, f/2.0 is often sufficient.
Lens mount compatibility
Mount compatibility determines which cameras you can use. The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 is available for Micro Four Thirds mounts, including Panasonic and Olympus cameras. It is also offered in other mounts like Sony E, Fuji X, and Canon R. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is shown here for the Sony E mount. It is also available for Fuji X and Canon RF-S. You must check your specific camera body. If you shoot Micro Four Thirds, only the TTArtisan works directly. If you use Sony E, both are options, but the Samyang offers autofocus.
Build and weight
Build quality and portability vary between the two. The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 features an all-metal body and weighs 336 grams. It is described as durable and portable. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is also constructed with a sturdy metal build but weighs only 213 grams. It includes weather sealing and rear protective glass, adding to its pro-grade durability. The Samyang is lighter and more weather-resistant, making it easier to carry for extended periods. The TTArtisan is slightly heavier but still compact for its focal length.
Which lens fits your shooting style
You want fast, silent autofocus for video
The Samyang lens uses a Linear STM motor for smooth and near-silent autofocus. This feature minimizes focus breathing, which is critical for video capture. The TTArtisan lens lacks autofocus entirely, requiring manual adjustment. If you need responsive focus without noise, the Samyang is the clear choice for your Sony E-mount camera.
You prefer manual control and wide apertures
The TTArtisan lens offers a massive f/1.2 maximum aperture. This allows for significant background blur and better performance in low-light environments compared to the Samyang's f/2.0. It is a manual focus prime lens, giving you direct control over focus. The all-metal body weighs 336g, making it a portable option for portrait or street photography.
You shoot landscapes or architecture with ultra-wide views
The Samyang 12mm lens provides an extreme ultra-wide view with a 99.1-degree angle. This focal length is ideal for immersive landscapes, interior architecture, and astrophotography. The TTArtisan 50mm lens offers a standard perspective close to human vision. For capturing vast scenes or tight indoor spaces, the Samyang's wide angle is the superior tool.
The products compared
TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens
Best for: M4/3 users seeking manual focus portraits
- Lens Mount
- Micro Four Thirds
- Focal Length
- 50mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/1.2
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens Affiliate link
The TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 is a manual focus lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It features an all-metal body with 10 diaphragm blades for smooth bokeh. The f/1.2 maximum aperture helps in low light. It weighs 336g and measures 2.44 by 2.36 inches. This compact lens suits users who want a classic perspective for portraits or street photography without autofocus.
Pros
- f/1.2 maximum aperture for low-light shooting
- 10 diaphragm blades for smooth background blur
- All-metal body construction
- Compact size at 336g
Cons
- Manual focus only
- Designed for APS-C sensors on M4/3 mount
- No image stabilization listed
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight prime lens for portraits
- You prefer manual focus for creative control
- You shoot in low-light environments
Skip if
- You require autofocus for fast action
- You use full-frame cameras
- You need image stabilization
Verdict: TTArtisan 50mm F1.2 M4/3 Manual Lens offers a fast aperture and metal build for M4/3 users. It fits photographers who prioritize manual control and portability over speed.
Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens
Best for: Quiet video and low light wide shots
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 12mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.0
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Autofocus (Linear STM)
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens Affiliate link
This Samyang 12mm f/2.0 autofocus lens delivers a 99.1-degree field of view on APS-C sensors. Its fast aperture handles low light and astrophotography well. The linear STM motor provides quiet, smooth focusing for video. Weighing 213 grams, it is compact and durable. You get weather sealing and premium optics with UMC coating. It is ideal for immersive landscapes and interior shots.
Pros
- 99.1-degree ultra-wide angle on APS-C
- Fast f/2.0 maximum aperture
- Quiet linear STM autofocus motor
- Lightweight 213-gram metal build
Cons
- Manual focus only on non-Sony mounts
- Fixed 12mm focal length
- Smaller aperture than f/1.2 alternatives
Good fit if
- You shoot immersive landscapes or architecture
- You need quiet autofocus for video
- You want a lightweight ultra-wide lens
Skip if
- You require full-frame coverage
- You need manual focus operation
- You want a wider f/1.2 aperture
Verdict: Samyang 12mm f/2.0 APS-C Ultra Wide fits photographers who need a compact, quiet ultra-wide for video and low light. It is not for those seeking manual control or wider apertures.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TTArtisan 50mm f/1.2 Manual Focus Prime Lens | Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 50mm | 12mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.2 | f/2.0 |
| Sensor Format | APS-C | APS-C |
| Focus Type | Manual Focus | Autofocus (Linear STM) |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Aperture | f/1.2 | f/2.0 |
| Dimensions | 2.36 × 2.44 × 2.44 inches | 6.3 × 5.2 × 5.2 inches |
| Size | M4/3 | not stated |
| Model | TTArtisan 50-f/1.2 M4/3B | SYIO12AF-E |
Frequently asked questions
Is the TTArtisan 50mm lens suitable for portraits?
Yes, it is ideal for portraits. The 50mm focal length provides a natural perspective on APS-C sensors. The wide f/1.2 aperture allows for significant background blur, isolating your subject. The manual focus design gives you full control over the composition and depth of field.
Does the Samyang 12mm lens have autofocus?
Yes, it features fast autofocus. The lens uses a Linear STM motor to achieve quick and smooth focusing. This makes it well-suited for video recording where silent operation is necessary. It also minimizes focus breathing, ensuring cleaner transitions during shots.
Which lens is better for low light video?
The Samyang 12mm is the better choice. Its f/2.0 aperture gathers enough light for low-light scenarios. The silent autofocus motor ensures no audio interference during recording. The TTArtisan lens requires manual operation, which is less practical for dynamic video work.
Is the TTArtisan lens built with metal?
Yes, the build emphasizes durability. The lens features a metal construction that adds weight and stability. It measures 2.36 inches in length and weighs significantly more than plastic alternatives. This design appeals to users who prefer a solid, tactile feel.
Can I use the Samyang lens on Sony cameras?
Yes, it is designed for Sony E-Mount. The lens explicitly lists Sony E-Mount compatibility in its specifications. It is optimized for APS-C sensors, providing a 12mm ultra-wide perspective. Ensure your camera body supports the E-Mount system for proper functionality.
Which lens is more compact for travel?
The TTArtisan 50mm is more compact. It measures 2.44 inches in width and height, making it small and portable. The Samyang 12mm is larger, with a length of 6.3 inches. If portability is your priority, the TTArtisan option is the lighter choice.