The previously reported Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang AF 60-180mm f/2.8 FE lens is now officially announced:
- Pre-orders coming soon at: B&H Photo | Amazon
- Detailed specifications
- Previous coverage
- Product page
- Key features:
- Only 730g
- Constant F2.8 aperture
- Up to 0.26x close-up capability
- Press release:
LK SAMYANG Introduces AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE Completing an Ultra-Light Compact Zoom System with Three Lenses
Key Message
- Only 730g, exceptional lightweight performance in its class
- Constant F2.8 and 0.26x magnification for enhanced versatility
- Seamless focal range coverage from 14mm to 180mm with just three lenses
July 02, 2026 – South Korea, LK SAMYANG, a global optical specialist, announces the upcoming launch of the AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE, developed in collaboration with Schneider-Kreuznach, scheduled for release this July.
As camera and lens performance continues to advance, the burden of heavier gear has also increased. Carrying multiple lenses to cover a wide focal range remains a challenge for creators. LK SAMYANG set out to rethink this balance with a simple question: “What if you could carry less, capture more, without compromising performance?”. This philosophy led to the development of the “Compact Zoom Series” in collaboration with Schneider-Kreuznach aimed at redefining the balance between performance and portability. The new AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE further extends this vision.
Together with the AF 14-24mm F2.8 FE (445g) and AF 24-60mm F2.8 FE (494g), the new lens
completes a truly lightweight zoom system, covering the entire focal range from 14mm to 180mm using just three lenses. Each lens in the series reflects LK SAMYANG’s consistent design philosophy delivering compact size, reduced weight, and practical usability without compromise.
Key Features
A New Standard in Lightweight Telephoto Zoom: Only 730g
The AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE weighs 730g and features a compact length of 149mm (wide) / 174.4mm (tele), offering exceptional portability within the F2.8 telephoto zoom category. Compared to traditional 70-200mm lenses, its significantly lighter design reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions and enhances mobility in dynamic environments.
Constant F2.8 with Enhanced Close-Up Capability
With a constant F2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range, the lens ensures stable performance in low-light conditions and delivers smooth background separation, making it ideal for portrait photography. It also offers a maximum magnification of 0.26x (1:3.80), enabling detailed close-up shots and expanding creative possibilities across various shooting scenarios.
Compact Zoom Series, Co-Engineered with Schneider-Kreuznach
Developed in collaboration with Schneider-Kreuznach, the AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE embodies the core philosophy of the Compact Zoom Series, balancing optical performance and portability. The advanced optical design consists of 17 elements in 14 groups (including 1 HR, 7 ED, and 2 ASP elements), effectively minimizing aberrations while delivering sharp and clear images. A floating focus system ensures consistent image quality across the entire focus range.
Designed for Real-World Use
Equipped with a Linear Stepping Motor, the lens delivers fast and precise autofocus, making it suitable for both photography and video applications. Weather sealing enhances durability across various environments, while intuitive controls such as the AF/MF switch improve usability. In addition, the Zoom Lock function prevents unwanted zoom extension (zoom creep) during movement, keeping the lens securely in place. This ensures stable handling and a consistent user experience from transport to shooting.
Lightweight Coverage from 14mm to 180mm
The AF 60-180mm F2.8 FE expands the design philosophy of the Compact Zoom Series, enabling creators to cover a wide focal range with minimal weight. With three lenses weighing approximately 445g, 494g, and 730g, users can achieve seamless coverage from 14mm to 180mm while maintaining exceptional portability.
The Schneider Kreuznach × LK Samyang AF 60-180mm f/2.8 FE lens will be announced tomorrow
