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Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens

  • Price: $218.00
  • B&H # SO3518
  • Mfr# SAL35F18

Product Highlights

  • Design optimized for DX-format Sensors
  • DX-format has 52.5mm Equivalent
  • Large f/1.8 Maximum Aperture
  • Easy Choice Series Lens
  • Compact & Lightweight Only 6 oz (170g)
  • Minimum Focus 9.05" (0.23m)
  • Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM)
  • Focus Mode switch
  • 7-Blade Circular Diaphragm

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The Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens is designed for D-SLR cameras with DX-format sensors, so the lens has a 52.5mm equivalent focal length. This is perfect for snapshots and portraits under a wide range of shooting conditions. The ultra fast f/1.8 wide-open aperture along with the 7-blade circular diaphragm allows you to work in low light, and with a minimum focus distance of 9.05" (0.23m) the lens allows you to get in close to your subject.

Whatever the subject, the internal Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) ensures responsive and fluid autofocus operation, and the focus mode switch allows you to quickly switch between autofocus and manual. The lens is part of the 'Easy Choice' series, offering photographers of all levels great value, with a compact and lightweight lens. The DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM weighs just 6 oz (170g), so it can be added to your lens arsenal without increasing the weight of your camera bag.

DT lens design optimized for cameras with APS-C sensor light
The lens is compact, lightweight, and easy to carry
Bright, very wide f/1.8 aperture portrait lens, also suitable for low-light shooting and general/snapshot applications
Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) for smooth AF operation
Focus mode switch allows you to quickly change from auto focus to manual
Performance
Focal Length 35 mm
Comparable APS-C Focal Length: 52 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/1.8
Minimum: f/22
Camera Mount Type Sony Alpha, Minolta AF
Format Compatibility DSLR (APS-C Sensor)
Angle of View 44°
Minimum Focus Distance 9.6" (24.38 cm)
Magnification 0.25x
Maximum Reproduction Ratio 1:4
Groups/Elements 5/6
Diaphragm Blades 7
Features
Image Stabilization No
Autofocus Yes
Tripod Collar No
Physical
Filter Thread 55 mm
Dimensions (DxL) Approx. 2.05 x 2.76" (5.21 x 7.01 cm)
Weight 6.00 oz (170 g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens
 
4.7

(based on 55 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (39)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (16)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

98%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Lightweight (33)
  • Nice bokeh (19)
  • Consistent output (17)
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (16)
  • Easily interchangeable (12)

Cons

  • Weak casing (7)
  • Slow focus (4)

Best Uses

  • Low light (35)
  • Landscape/scenery (15)
  • Night photography (14)
  • Weddings (13)
  • Video (5)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Photo enthusiast (19), Semi-pro photographer (5), Casual photographer (4)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (28)

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 55 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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4.0

Don't judge a book by its cover

By Gyverz

from Canada, Québec, Montréal

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Consistent Output
  • Lightweight
  • Nice Bokeh

Cons

  • Weak Casing

Best Uses

  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Weddings/Events

Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

This lens feel cheap plastic but is awesome for taking pictures. Everything on focus is sharp with nice Bokeh!

  • Was this a gift?:
  • Yes

Comment on this review

 
5.0

Great Price vs. Performance

By SonyAlphaShooter

from PA

About Me Semi-pro Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Consistent Output
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • All plastic

Best Uses

  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Weddings/Events

Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

After reading a few online reviews I decided to pick this lens up to go with my new A77. I have enough fast zooms and was looking for my first prime lens in years. If you equate price paid with image quality then prepare to be shocked. This Sony 'easy choice' lens performs well beyond my expectations. The images appear crisp and sharp even when pixel peeping the files produced by the 24mpx A77 sensor. The motor is fairly fast and quiet. I gain about a stop over my f2.8 zooms with little loss of image quality in the center. Some may complain about the entire lens being made of plastic. After lugging around my usual sports photography kit, two bodies with fast (and heavy) 70-200 and 24-70 f2.8 zooms mounted, this was such a relief to my shoulder carrying around this lightweight gem the 'B' camera. I'm still not sold on the overall durability of the all plastic construction (yes even the mount). But considering that another prime lens in that range costs at least 3x more I can live with it.

  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

Comment on this review

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

 
4.0

smart buy

By Ivan

from Sydney, NSW2000

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Reviewer

Pros

  • cheap
  • Lightweight
  • Nice Bokeh

Cons

  • Slow Focus

Best Uses

  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Landscape/Scenery
  • Night Photography
  • Video
  • Weddings/Events

Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

Bought these lens for Nex-C3. Focusing in auto is very slow on LA-EA1, 5-7 seconds, but in manual mode 2-3 seconds only, miss focusing each 1 out of 3 times, but in manual no mistakes. Focusing ring is not convenient for manual use because it's narrow, but moving smooth. Lens light & small, very sharp at F4-F4.5 comparing with standard NEX kit 18-55s, colours more vivid. Lens are small & fit perfect to C3 body, not heavy not bulky. Plastic & production quality is fine for [$]. Bought to use for night streets snapshots mainly, however portraits are amazing too - much better than standard zoom lens. Now, use my C3 mainly in Aperture mode, with manual focusing that contributes the lack of controls on C3 and gives 'DSLR like' quality pics.

  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

Comment on this review

 
5.0

Great lens

By Nilsphoto

from Germany

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Fast / accurate auto-focus
  • Lightweight
  • Nice Bokeh

Cons

  • Weak Casing

Best Uses

  • Indoors/Low Light
  • Weddings/Events

Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

I used this lens for some walk around shots. The results are great. Very sharp in focus and a excellent bokeh. Will use this lens for concert fotography next week but I am already sure to get good results. Alltough its made of plastic its a really good product for a sensational price.

  • Was this a gift?:
  • No

Comment on this review

 
4.0

It's best lens

By Scott

from Duluth, GA

About Me Casual Photographer

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Nice Bokeh

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Indoors/Low Light

    Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

    After I purchased it, I always mount it on my a55.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Very imprssive lens! A GREAT value!

    By Ron the road cyclist

    from Kennesaw, GA

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Consistent Output
    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
    • Lightweight
    • Nice Bokeh

    Cons

    • NONE

    Best Uses

    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Landscape/Scenery
    • Night Photography
    • Weddings/Events

    Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

    I'm extremely impressed with the results of shooting low light subjects at large apertures with this lens. The clarity, color and bokeh is excellent for such an inexpensive lens. I highly recommend it as your "standard" prime lens!

    • Was this a gift?:
    • No

    Comment on this review

     
    5.0

    Don't knock it tell you try it.

    By Cesar

    from Middletown, Md.

    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Consistent Output
    • Fast / accurate auto-focus
    • Lightweight
    • Nice Bokeh

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Indoors/Low Light
      • Landscape/Scenery

      Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

      I use this lens on my A700 for about two weeks now and I love it. It very sharp lens wide open which I need since I don't like using flash on my newly born grandaugther. Yes the construction is plastic but so what, if you take care of it, it will take care of you.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Comment on this review

       
      5.0

      Excellent Lens

      By Uncle Gare

      from Milwaukee, WI

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Consistent Output
      • Durable
      • Easily Interchangeable
      • Fast / accurate auto-focus
      • Lightweight
      • Nice Bokeh
      • Rugged
      • Strong Construction

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Indoors/Low Light
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Night Photography
        • Video
        • Weddings/Events

        Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

        Can't say much more than has already been said about this lens... It is excellent and a must have for any Alpha owner.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        Excellent for portraits in low light

        By demerval

        from Sao Paulo, Brazil

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Consistent Output
        • Easily Interchangeable
        • Lightweight
        • Nice Bokeh

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Indoors/Low Light
          • Night Photography

          Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

          This fast/bright lens lets you shoot nice indoor portraits with blurred background and handheld shooting in low light. Although externally its building quality is not superb, the lens itself seems to be of excellent quality. Autofocus runs fast and smoothly enough. Great value overall.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Comment on this review

           
          5.0

          incredible bang for the buck

          By bill

          from ct

          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Lightweight
          • Price point

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Indoors/Low Light

            Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

            handicapped and downsizing but this lens is great. I have no issue with the polycarbonite lens mount, low weight, more than adequate for general usage.

            mine is sharp as a tack making great images.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Comment on this review

            (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Great Photo Quality!

            By NEfotos

            from New York,NY

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Pros

            • Fast / accurate auto-focus
            • Lightweight
            • Nice Bokeh

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Indoors/Low Light
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Night Photography
              • Weddings/Events

              Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

              I use this lens mostly as a walk around lens,it also works great for portraits when you don't want to just have a photo of just a persons head, I dunno why everyone says it feels cheap, to me it feels built exactly the same as the standard 18-55mm kit lens you would usually get with your camera, don't expect it to be built like a carl zeiss or sony g lens, remember your only spending about 200 dollars for this and the picture quality you get for that price is great!

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

               
              5.0

              Amazing lens

              By Maolivieri

              from São Paulo, Brazil

              About Me Casual Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Fast / accurate auto-focus
              • Lightweight
              • Nice Bokeh

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Indoors/Low Light
                • Night Photography
                • Video

                Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                This lens has great quality and very good price. Take sharp photos, fast focus and beautiful bokeh. It is light and fast.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Great Prime Lens for the Money

                By The man with three first names

                from Dallas, TX

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Consistent Output
                • Durable
                • Easily Interchangeable
                • Lightweight

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                    Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                    This is a must have for a walk around prime lens. I have captured some amazing photos with this lens. The price is low enough it should make it into everyone's bag as an easy prime to shoot just about anything. Sure its not a Zeiss lens, but at under $200 its the perfect add on without breaking the bank.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

                    (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    4.0

                    Light, small and good looking

                    By Ryan

                    from Portsmouth, VA

                    About Me Pro Photographer

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Lightweight

                    Cons

                    • Weak Casing

                    Best Uses

                    • Indoors/Low Light

                    Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                    This lens weighs almost nothing, adds very little bulk to the camera and while the focus action isn't damped, it focuses fairly smoothly. It really feels plasticy, but I guess that doesn't matter much. It looks good, works well with my VG-10 and E-Alpha adapter (although no autofocus with that combination). I haven't done formal tests, but the Bokeh looks pretty good (if a bit asymmetrical). On the VG-10 the iris action is unacceptably steppy, so forget about changing aperture in the middle of a shot. but other then that I'm happy. Looks good for the price paid.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Excellent & Light

                    By OldCOPhoto

                    from Aurora, CO

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Consistent Output
                    • Easily Interchangeable
                    • Lightweight

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Indoors/Low Light
                      • Landscape/Scenery

                      Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                      I use this lens on mountain hiking trips, and appreciate its lightweight. Image quality is very good. Metal hood provides good protection when moving thru trees and brush.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Comment on this review

                      (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      5.0

                      love it...

                      By Frantoy

                      from Quad Cities, IL

                      About Me Casual Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Lightweight

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Landscape/Scenery

                        Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                        got this last week and starting to enjoy it already.worth the money.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Comment on this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Sony DT 35mm f1.8 SAM

                        By Ray

                        from Toronto

                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Consistent Output
                        • Easily Interchangeable
                        • Lightweight
                        • Nice Bokeh
                        • Sharpness

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Indoors/Low Light
                          • Portraits

                          Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                          Considering the price, it is the best thing since the good old 50mm f1.7, great everything: sharpness, resolution, color, bokeh, weight, and the best of all... price. It is a must have for APS-C Sony Alphas.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          4.0

                          Light weight and reasonable priced

                          By happy camper

                          from Vancouver, BC

                          About Me Photo Enthusiast

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                          • Weak Casing

                          Best Uses

                          • Indoors/Low Light
                          • Weddings/Events

                          Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                          I need a fast lens for low light situation while on vacation. This lens is light weight and fit my budget. I don't like the built of this lens but I can't complaint too much because of it's price point.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Comment on this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Orignal 50mm for DSLR.

                          By MauroTorres

                          from Belo Horizonte, MG BRAZIL

                          About Me Pro Photographer

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easily Interchangeable
                          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                          • Lightweight
                          • Nice Bokeh

                          Cons

                          • Difficult to Clean
                          • Weak Casing

                          Best Uses

                          • Indoors/Low Light
                          • Macro Photography
                          • Night Photography
                          • Sports/Action
                          • Video
                          • Weddings/Events

                          Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                          I use for portrait.

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Comment on this review

                          (1 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          4.0

                          great for star shots

                          By Christopher46

                          from Auckland NZ

                          About Me Photo Enthusiast

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easily Interchangeable
                          • Fast / accurate auto-focus
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Indoors/Low Light
                            • Landscape/Scenery

                            Comments about Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens:

                            Too much flare for shooting city lights at the current time, may improve when I better learn to use my new Sony SLT 55V otherwise some good results but not quite as versatile as my Minolta F4 35-70

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Comment on this review

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                            What's in the Box

                            Sony DT 35mm f/1.8 SAM Lens
                            • Front Lens Cap
                            • Rear Lens Cap
                            • Solid-circular Lens Hood
                            • 1-Year Warranty
                             
                             
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