Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
p.1 #1Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
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Order the Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens:
Thypoch Store (Use promo code: FREDMIRANDA for a 5% discount at checkout)
B&H Photo
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Review Quick Links:
- Initial Impressions
- Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance (60MP)
- Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance: Simera 28mm f/1.4 vs Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton (60MP)
- Sunstar Rendering
- Field Curvature
- Distortion
- Minimal Focus Distance performance
- Rendering compared to Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton ASPH.
- Optical Vignetting and Specular Highlights shape
- Chromatic Aberration (CA)
- Final Thoughts
- Samples 1
- Samples 2
- Samples 3
- Samples 4
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Back to Quick Links
Initial impressions of the Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens:
I'm reviewing the updated version of the Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Type II), which now includes a much-requested focus tab and has removed the infinity 'lock' that was present in the original version of the lens. The packaging refers to it as the "Focus Tab Version."
My first impression of the Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. is its surprisingly lightweight design for a fast 28mm lens, coming in at 326 grams without the supplied metal hood. This matches the weight of the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton Type II, which I'll be discussing in this review. The key difference is that the Simera has an aluminum barrel, while the Voigtlander Type II features a brass barrel. Voigtlander also offers a lighter Type I version with an aluminum barrel, which I previously reviewed, weighing just 250 grams.
Although the Simera is noticeably larger than the Voigtlander, both lens versions compared in this review have a similar weight. As a result, the Simera, while slightly bigger, feels well-balanced when mounted on the Leica M body. However, it does encroach a bit more on the 28mm framelines at infinity compared to the Voigtlander. At the minimum focusing distance, the Simera covers a small portion of the lower right corner of the frame, which is typical for a fast 28mm f/1.4 lens. In comparison, the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton ASPH. also protrudes slightly into the frame but does so less due to its shorter and thinner barrel.
The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH., available in Black and Silver finishes, shares a 49mm filter diameter with the 35mm and 50mm versions, but stands out with a unique minimum focusing distance of 0.40m for Live View focusing. It also features a floating element design and a switch to declick the aperture, making it a great choice for video shooters.
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The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. features 14 aperture blades, and as we'll see in my tests, it creates distinct 14-point sunstars starting at f/4. Its aperture shape remains much more circular when stopped down compared to the Voigtlander, which has 12 straight aperture blades. This means you can expect more rounded specular highlights when using the Simera at smaller apertures.
In this review, I'll be comparing the design, characteristics, and performance of the Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. with the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton lens. The Simera 28mm f/1.4 presents strong competition not only to the Voigtlander but also to the Leica 28mm f/1.4 Summilux. Since the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton renders similarly to the Leica, as highlighted in my previous review, this comparison will offer insight into how the Simera measures up against the Leica.
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The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens is made up of 11 elements arranged in 7 groups, including one extra-low dispersion element, one aspherical element, and three high-refractive index glass elements.
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The focusing ring on the Simera lens rotates smoothly, offering just the right amount of resistance. A standout feature, similar to the Simera 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. that I reviewed previously, is that the Simera 28mm also uses internal focusing. This means the lens doesn't extend when you adjust the focusing ring, unlike the Voigtlander, where the barrel extends when focusing closer.
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The aperture ring on the Simera 28mm is designed with 1/3 stop increments, similar to the Zeiss ZM lenses. The clicks are more distinct compared to the Simera 50mm f/1.4, with firmer feedback on the 28mm, preventing the ring from rotating too freely. As you adjust from larger to smaller apertures, the numbers on the barrel get progressively closer together, which I personally find less appealing than lenses with more consistent spacing between markings. Also the aperture increments are 1/3 stops up to f/5.6, then shift to 1/2 stops from f/5.6 to f/8, and finally switch to full stops from f/8 to f/16. While this variation might be due to the barrel design and its mechanical depth-of-field indicator, it's not ideal for those who prefer consistent spacing throughout the range.
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The depth-of-field indicator on the Simera lens is an innovative feature, with small open vents on the barrel that change color as you adjust the aperture. Depending on the lens color, these vents transition from silver or black to red, clearly indicating the area that will be in focus. This fully mechanical approach offers a refreshing alternative to traditional depth-of-field indicators used for zone focusing. It's particularly useful with the 28mm lens, as the depth of field is wider compared to the narrower fields of view found on longer lenses like the 50mm and 75mm, making this indicator more practical.
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Another standout feature is the ability to easily de-click the aperture by simply flipping a switch on the aperture ring. This allows for smooth and silent adjustments, which is especially beneficial for videographers who require seamless transitions between aperture settings.
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The focus throw on the Simera lens is relatively short, with a 90-degree rotation from 0.7 meters to infinity, and a slightly longer throw at its minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters. This is typical of modern M-lenses and allows for quick, precise focusing at different distances. For comparison, the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton also has a 90-degree throw but features a slightly longer minimum focusing distance of 0.5 meters.
The Simera includes a tactile alert that signals when the rangefinder disengages, letting you know that Live View will be required for focusing beyond that point. This is a unique feature of the Simera, as the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton lacks this function. It's encouraging to see newer lenses incorporate such useful features. However, when focusing at close distances, be mindful that the focusing ring is quite sensitive, reacting to even the slightest movement.
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Personally, I prefer lenses with a longer focus throw for greater precision, as even minor adjustments on both the Simera and Voigtlander can easily cause the subject to go out of focus. While this design allows for accurate focusing, it requires extra attention and careful adjustment to ensure proper alignment between the camera and rangefinder. Fortunately, my copy is well-centered and aligned with my Leica rangefinder cameras, making focusing accurate and performance optimal.
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Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Specifications:
- Focal Length 28mm
- Maximum Aperture f/1.4
- Minimum Aperture f/16
- Lens Mount Leica M
- Angle of View 75°
- Minimum Focus Distance 0.40m (0.7m rangefinder coupled)
- Maximum Magnification ratio: 1:12.8
- Optical Design 11 Elements in 7 Groups
- Special glass: 1 ED and 1 Aspherical element, 3 HRI
- Diaphragm Blades 14
- Filter Size 49 mm
- Dimensions (ø x L) φ59 x 55 mm
- Weight: 326g without hood (measured)
- Metal hood included (bayonette style)
- Finishes: Aluminum anodized Black, Silver
Mar 25, 2025 at 06:45 PM
p.1 #2Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Hi Fred, looking forward to your review. Worth noting that your B&H link is for V1 of this lens with the infinity lock. AFAIK no one is selling the V2 yet.
Mar 25, 2025 at 09:00 PM
p.1 #3Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Fred,
Thanks for doing this review. I just thought I would point out for people who don't know that the Voigtlander 28 f/1.5 Type 1 (which is made of aluminum instead of brass) is not only smaller it is also a fair bit lighter at 250g than the Thypoch Simera 28 f/1.4 at 326g as you measured it. I know not everyone would think the difference in size matters much, but for me it is enough of a difference to matter. That said I am eager to see your review, as I always find your reviews very helpful, thorough, and balanced. From what others have said I think there will be a tradeoff between performance and size between these two lenses. I am very interested in what you have to add to the story.
Oh, and I think you have a typo in your listed weight for the Simera as you have the weight for the lens with the hood as less than the weight without the hood.
Thanks for doing this review. I just thought I would point out for people who don't know that the Voigtlander 28 f/1.5 Type 1 (which is made of aluminum instead of brass) is not only smaller it is also a fair bit lighter at 250g than the Thypoch Simera 28 f/1.4 at 326g as you measured it. I know not everyone would think the difference in size matters much, but for me it is enough of a difference to matter. That said I am eager to see your review, as I always find your reviews very helpful, thorough, and balanced. From what others have said I think there will be a tradeoff between performance and size between these two lenses. I am very interested in what you have to add to the story.
Oh, and I think you have a typo in your listed weight for the Simera as you have the weight for the lens with the hood as less than the weight without the hood.
Mar 26, 2025 at 05:43 AM
p.1 #4Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Regarding focus throw: it appears that the Simera's is longer at the infinity end, if based on the distance scale compared to the VM. Going from infinity to 5m appears to be at least 2x longer than the VM, which would help with accurate focusing at far distances. Whether that is critical with a 28mm lens, though...? It would seem the compromise is that focus throw is more compressed at the MFD end than the VM?
Mar 26, 2025 at 07:44 AM
p.1 #5Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
thrice wrote:
Hi Fred, looking forward to your review. Worth noting that your B&H link is for V1 of this lens with the infinity lock. AFAIK no one is selling the V2 yet.
Thanks for pointing out this very important point. I have been eagerly awaiting the updated version of this lens with the focus tab. B&H told me that an updated version should have a different model # than the current version when I asked them about this a while back
Fred, I wonder if you could check your copy of this lens (maybe the packaging, box) and perhaps post the actual model #? I don't even see this updated version shown on Thypoch's own website yet.
Hi Fred, looking forward to your review. Worth noting that your B&H link is for V1 of this lens with the infinity lock. AFAIK no one is selling the V2 yet.
Thanks for pointing out this very important point. I have been eagerly awaiting the updated version of this lens with the focus tab. B&H told me that an updated version should have a different model # than the current version when I asked them about this a while back
Fred, I wonder if you could check your copy of this lens (maybe the packaging, box) and perhaps post the actual model #? I don't even see this updated version shown on Thypoch's own website yet.
Mar 26, 2025 at 08:07 AM
p.1 #6Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Tariq Gibran wrote:
thrice wrote
Hi Fred, looking forward to your review. Worth noting that your B&H link is for V1 of this lens with the infinity lock. AFAIK no one is selling the V2 yet.Fred, I wonder if you could check your copy of this lens (maybe the packaging, box) and perhaps post the actual model #? I don't even see this updated version shown on Thypoch's own website yet.
I had read or heard somewheres that if one tightly grips the stem of the focus lock (say carefully with a needle nose plyer) and then unscrews the knurled knob that one presses in to release the infinity focus lock, the knob and stem can be removed. Visually it may not be ideal but it's a way to eliminate it's use. Again I haven't attempted this.
Mar 26, 2025 at 08:58 AM
p.1 #7Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
DandA123 wrote:
Thanks for pointing out this very important point. I have been eagerly awaiting the updated version of this lens with the focus tab. B&H told me that an updated version should have a different model # than the current version when I asked them about this a while back
Fred, I wonder if you could check your copy of this lens (maybe the packaging, box) and perhaps post the actual model #? I don't even see this updated version shown on Thypoch's own website yet.I had read or heard somewheres that if one tightly grips the stem of the focus lock (say carefully with a needle nose plyer) and then unscrews the knurled knob that one presses in to release the infinity focus lock, the knob and stem can be removed. Visually it may not be ideal but it's a way to eliminate it's use. Again I haven't attempted this.
Thanks. The actual focus lock is not my biggest issue as I don't mind the one built into the focus tab of the Artizlab Classic 35 1.4 for instance. That implementation works for me even though I could care less if the lock is there or not. It's the lack of having the focus tab that I would miss and why I originally held off on buying this lens.
Tariq Gibran wrote
thrice wrote
Hi Fred, looking forward to your review. Worth noting that your B&H link is for V1 of this lens with the infinity lock. AFAIK no one is selling the V2 yet.Fred, I wonder if you could check your copy of this lens (maybe the packaging, box) and perhaps post the actual model #? I don't even see this updated version shown on Thypoch's own website yet.
Thanks. The actual focus lock is not my biggest issue as I don't mind the one built into the focus tab of the Artizlab Classic 35 1.4 for instance. That implementation works for me even though I could care less if the lock is there or not. It's the lack of having the focus tab that I would miss and why I originally held off on buying this lens.
Mar 26, 2025 at 09:20 AM
p.1 #8Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Steve Spencer wrote:
Fred,
Thanks for doing this review. I just thought I would point out for people who don't know that the Voigtlander 28 f/1.5 Type 1 (which is made of aluminum instead of brass) is not only smaller it is also a fair bit lighter at 250g than the Thypoch Simera 28 f/1.4 at 326g as you measured it. I know not everyone would think the difference in size matters much, but for me it is enough of a difference to matter. That said I am eager to see your review, as I always find your reviews very helpful, thorough, and...Show more →
Thanks for your comment and for catching the typo. I've fixed it.
Fred,
Thanks for doing this review. I just thought I would point out for people who don't know that the Voigtlander 28 f/1.5 Type 1 (which is made of aluminum instead of brass) is not only smaller it is also a fair bit lighter at 250g than the Thypoch Simera 28 f/1.4 at 326g as you measured it. I know not everyone would think the difference in size matters much, but for me it is enough of a difference to matter. That said I am eager to see your review, as I always find your reviews very helpful, thorough, and...Show more →
Thanks for your comment and for catching the typo. I've fixed it.
Mar 26, 2025 at 09:57 AM
p.1 #9Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Oh this is excellent timing!
I read your excellent CV 28mm review and I have spent the last two days trawling the web trying to get a feel for the differences between the 2 lenses. Initially Im leaning towards the Thypoch and its warmer rendering and mid frame transition, but it will be good to see what you think about it
I read your excellent CV 28mm review and I have spent the last two days trawling the web trying to get a feel for the differences between the 2 lenses. Initially Im leaning towards the Thypoch and its warmer rendering and mid frame transition, but it will be good to see what you think about it
Mar 26, 2025 at 10:08 AM
p.1 #10Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
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Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
When I receive lenses for review, my first test, weather permitting, is to evaluate resolution and contrast at infinity. The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. performs well wide open, especially considering it is being tested on a 60MP Leica M11 sensor. However, as expected, it does not reach optimal performance at wider apertures. At f/1.4 and f/2, the resolution is good but does not capture the finest details. There is a noticeable improvement from f/1.4 to f/2 and another small increase from f/2 to f/2.8, with f/4 being the optimal aperture for most of the frame. Each aperture step gradually enhances resolution and contrast.
This lens is not the type of well-corrected design that delivers peak performance at wide apertures, which is reasonable for a 28mm f/1.4 lens. By f/2.8 in the center, f/4 in the mid-zone, and f/5.6 in the extreme corners, resolution and contrast reach their highest levels. This performance is similar to the Simera 75mm f/1.4 ASPH. Absolute peak sharpness across the entire frame may require stopping down two more stops, particularly for off-axis areas.
These results were expected, and I repeated the test multiple times to ensure accuracy. This particular copy of the Simera 28mm f/1.4 is well-centered, unlike my first copy, confirming that the lens being tested is an optimal sample. At infinity, I used the lens's hard stop to eliminate focusing errors and verified accuracy with Live View, confirming that the infinity stop was properly calibrated.
Overall, the Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. is not critically sharp wide open but gains exceptional resolution and contrast when stopped down. Its optical design seems to serve a dual purpose, offering a softer, more character-driven rendering at wider apertures while delivering extremely high sharpness when needed.
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- Distance: Infinity
- Focus: Center - Best of three shots at maximum magnification
- White Balance: Daylight
- Both lenses are well centered, as verified with my decentering test.
- Software used: Lightroom with FM Default Landscape Sharpening; all other settings are at default.
PS: Vignetting, Chromatic Aberration (CA), and distortion were not corrected either in post-processing or in-camera.
Center Resolution and Contrast
Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
Left: f/1.4 | Right: f/2
Left: f/2 | Right: f/2.8
Left: f/2.8 | Right: f/4
Left: f/4 | Right: f/5.6
Left: f/5.6 | Right: f/8
Mar 26, 2025 at 04:33 PM
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p.1 #11Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Mid-field Resolution and Contrast
Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
Left: f/1.4 | Right: f/2
Left: f/2 | Right: f/2.8
Left: f/2.8 | Right: f/4
Left: f/4 | Right: f/5.6
Left: f/5.6 | Right: f/8
Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
Left: f/1.4 | Right: f/2
Left: f/2 | Right: f/2.8
Left: f/2.8 | Right: f/4
Left: f/4 | Right: f/5.6
Left: f/5.6 | Right: f/8
Mar 26, 2025 at 04:35 PM
p.1 #12Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Extreme Corner Resolution and Contrast
Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
Left: f/1.4 | Right: f/2
Left: f/2 | Right: f/2.8
Left: f/2.8 | Right: f/4
Left: f/4 | Right: f/5.6
Left: f/5.6 | Right: f/8
Resolution and Contrast: Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
Left: f/1.4 | Right: f/2
Left: f/2 | Right: f/2.8
Left: f/2.8 | Right: f/4
Left: f/4 | Right: f/5.6
Left: f/5.6 | Right: f/8
Mar 26, 2025 at 04:36 PM
p.1 #13Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
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Sunstar rendering
The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH features a 14-blade aperture, producing well-defined sunstars from f/4 to f/16, similar to the Simera 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. In contrast, the Simera 75mm f/1.4, with its 16-blade design, requires stopping down to f/11 or f/16 to achieve comparable sunstar definition.
While 14 rounded blades are not ideal for creating crisp sunstars, they excel at maintaining a circular aperture shape, resulting in smooth, round specular highlights both wide open and when stopped down. This trade-off prioritizes pleasing bokeh over sharp sunstar effects.
Sunstar preferences vary. Some photographers prefer distinct, well-defined rays, while others appreciate a softer, more natural look. The Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH offers a balance, delivering circular bokeh stopped down along with well-defined sunstars from f/4 onward.
Below is a sequence illustrating the sunstar progression of the Simera 21mm f/1.4 ASPH from f/1.4 to f/16 in 1-stop increments. As expected from a 14-blade aperture, this lens produces 14-point sunstars, as shown in the samples.
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f/1.4
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f/2
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F/2.8
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F/4
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F/5.6
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F/8
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F/11
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F/16
Mar 26, 2025 at 05:01 PM
p.1 #14Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Just to note that B&H now shows the "Type II" version of this lens with the focus tab on their website as "coming soon" with an increased price of $769.
Mar 27, 2025 at 08:20 AM
p.1 #15Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?
Mar 27, 2025 at 08:33 AM
p.1 #16Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Abuttolph wrote:
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?
The same optical formula. Focus tab is the only difference.
Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram for all versions shows this which is technically not consistent with either description (and this is from Thypoch's website):
Thypoch website showing all lens mount versions
B&H image for the original RF version
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?
The same optical formula. Focus tab is the only difference.
Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram for all versions shows this which is technically not consistent with either description (and this is from Thypoch's website):
Thypoch website showing all lens mount versions
B&H image for the original RF version
Mar 27, 2025 at 08:39 AM
p.1 #17Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Tariq Gibran wrote:
The same optical formula. Focus tab is the only difference.
Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram...Show more →
It's the same optical formula you mentioned, with two main changes: the addition of a focus tab and the removal of the infinity lock. Therefore, only cosmetic changes.
Abuttolph wrote
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram...Show more →
It's the same optical formula you mentioned, with two main changes: the addition of a focus tab and the removal of the infinity lock. Therefore, only cosmetic changes.
Mar 27, 2025 at 09:23 AM
p.1 #18Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Tariq Gibran wrote:
The same optical formula. Focus tab is the only difference.
Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram...Show more →
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Fred Miranda wrote:
The same optical formula. Focus tab is the only difference.
Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram for all versions shows this which is technically not consistent with either description (and this is from Thypoch's website):It's the same optical formula you mentioned, with two main changes: the addition of a focus tab and the removal of the infinity lock. Therefore, only cosmetic changes.
Thanks for the information and clarification. I have the first version and really love the rendering. The infinity lock is mildly annoying and the focus tab would be better for sure.
Abuttolph wrote
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram...Show more →
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Fred Miranda wrote:
Tariq Gibran wrote
Abuttolph wrote
Has the optical formula changed at all with the Type II, or is the only difference the focus tab vs the infinity lock?Edit - actually, this is a little confusing going by the B&H description and optical block design. The older version does not specify an extra low dispersion element in it's description and the lens diagram shows three high-refractive index elements and an aspherical element on B&H for the old version. The Type II description states "The optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, two high-refractive index elements, and an aspherical element". But, I'm guessing there is a mistake here (and they are the same) as the old lens block diagram for all versions shows this which is technically not consistent with either description (and this is from Thypoch's website):
Thanks for the information and clarification. I have the first version and really love the rendering. The infinity lock is mildly annoying and the focus tab would be better for sure.
Mar 27, 2025 at 09:29 AM
p.1 #19Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
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Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance: Simera 28mm f/1.4 vs Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton (60MP)
Here is a quick summary of the key differences between the Simera 28mm f/1.4 and the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton in terms of resolution and contrast. Both lenses perform similarly when stopped down to f/4 and smaller, but the Voigtlander delivers higher contrast and resolution at wider apertures, especially wide open. Aside from resolution and contrast, the Simera's coatings produce a warmer color cast, offer much better lateral and axial CA correction, and provide a slightly wider field of view.
The M11's 60MP sensor brings a new level of clarity to lens evaluation, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses across the frame. The results of this comparison were mostly what I expected after weeks of testing, but I repeated the test multiple times to ensure accuracy. My Voigtlander is a personal copy that is perfectly centered and precisely aligned with the rangefinder. The Simera, provided as a sample copy, is also well centered and is likely a reference lens fully tested by Thypoth. To avoid any focusing errors, I relied on the magnified Live View for precise focus.
To analyze the results further, in terms of performance, the Voigtlander shows a clear advantage in center resolution when wide open, but the Simera catches up when stopped down. In the mid-field, the Voigtlander maintains an edge in detail at wider apertures. At smaller apertures, the Simera equalizes, offering similar performance.
When examining the extreme corners at wide apertures, the Voigtlander captures more fine detail, delivering better performance overall. That said, the Simera performs exceptionally well, nearly matching the Voigtlander in resolution when stopped down.
Overall, both lenses perform well, offering high resolution even wide open across most of the image field. However, it is clear that the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton delivers higher resolution and contrast at wide apertures. The Simera can match this resolution when stopped down but typically requires f/4 or f/5.6, especially off-axis, to do so. As I will discuss in the rendering section of the review, the Simera's lower contrast, warmer tones, and slightly softer wide-open performance may contribute to a smoother rendering that many may prefer.
Please note that distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting are not corrected in my infinity tests. This allows for a closer analysis of these characteristics in the 100% crops.
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- Distance: Infinity
- Focus: Center - Best of three shots at maximum magnification
- White Balance: Daylight
- Both lenses are well centered, as verified with my decentering test.
- Software used: Lightroom with FM Default Landscape Sharpening; all other settings are at default.
PS: Vignetting, Chromatic Aberration (CA), and distortion were not corrected either in post-processing or in-camera.
Center Resolution and Contrast
Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance: Simera 28mm f/1.4 vs Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
f/1.4 or f/1.5
f/2
F/2.8
F/4
F/5.6
F/8
Mar 27, 2025 at 10:54 AM
p.1 #20Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review
Mid-field Resolution and Contrast
Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance: Simera 28mm f/1.4 vs Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
f/1.4 or f/1.5
f/2
F/2.8
F/4
F/5.6
F/8
Resolution and Contrast at Infinity distance: Simera 28mm f/1.4 vs Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton (60MP)
(open the browser window to view entire image without resizing)
f/1.4 or f/1.5
f/2
F/2.8
F/4
F/5.6
F/8
Mar 27, 2025 at 10:55 AM