Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM vs Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4
Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 has more in its favour on paper. The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF 85mm f/1.4 is lighter and cheaper. The Canon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Samyang is a third-party alternative.
Choose the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.2, about 0.4 stops more light)
Choose the AF 85mm f/1.4 for
- less weight (568g vs 1195g)
- a lower price (about £550 vs £1,540)
| RF 85mm f/1.2L USM | AF 85mm f/1.4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Canon | Samyang |
| Focal length | 85mm | 85mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.2 | f/1.4 |
| Weight | 1195 g | 568 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Filter size | 82mm | 77mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £2,799 | £699 |
| Used at MPB (Canon RF / RF-S) | £1,339–£1,739 | £434–£669 |
More lens comparisons
See all Canon RF / RF-S cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM better than the Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4?
The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.2, about 0.4 stops more light); the AF 85mm f/1.4 offers less weight (568g vs 1195g), a lower price (about £550 vs £1,540).
Which is better value, the RF 85mm f/1.2L USM or the AF 85mm f/1.4?
On Canon RF / RF-S, the Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 costs about £550 against about £1,540 for the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.2 worth it over f/1.4?
f/1.2 gathers about 0.4 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Canon RF / RF-S (and other mounts: Sony E / FE).