Russian lens manufacturer Zenit has launched some exciting lenses and cameras over the years. The company may not introduce a new device every year, but when it does, there is always a bit of chatter. This is also the case with the latest lens, which is so far available in the company’s home country: the Russar 20mm f5.6. What does the lens do, and what is it good for? Let’s take a dive.
The Russar 20mm f5.6 is designed for Sony mirrorless cameras. The company states that it is better suited for landscape photographers and offers “a wide angular field and corrected distortion.” Here is a quick look at its specs:
- Focal length: 20 mm
- Maximum aperture: f/5.6
- Minimum aperture: f/22
- Number of aperture blades: 7
- Field of view angle: 95°
- Lens type: Wide angle
- Focus type: Manual
- Minimum focusing distance: 0.5 m
- Optical design (Groups/Elements): 4/6
- Filter thread size: 49 mm
- Dimensions (Diameter × Length, from bayonet): Not specified
- Weight: 100 g
The lens’s price is 43,710 rubles, which amounts to a little over 500 US dollars. However, since the lens is subject to tariffs, it is possible that it may be launched at a slightly higher rate.
While the Zenit version of the lens is quite retro-looking, the challenge is the f5.6 aperture. Even on a full-frame camera, that is a bit too narrow, especially if anyone prefers to shoot at night. In fact, there is a better variant available with Tamron, the 20mm f2.8 Di III OSD, which is wide, has a bright aperture, and is priced around $350. The only difference is that it is not as small or lightweight (220g) as Zenit’s version. At the same time, there is also Viltrox’s version, the 20mm f2.8, which is priced under $200. Both lenses have performed well, but if one is looking at a more pancake version, then they will have to sacrifice the aperture for it.
Zenit’s lenses have performed well in our past reviews, so we expect the same from this one, too. For instance, the Zenit 50mm f0.95 offered lens character with flare, had hazy, dream-like bokeh, and was built entirely of metal. Plus, the wide aperture really helped photographers push new boundaries. We had hoped the new lens would offer f2.8 or a lower aperture, but it seems that we will have to wait for it. Until then, do have a look at the website for more details.
