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 p.3 #10 · Thypoch Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. Type II Review | |
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Final Thoughts
The updated Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH., now featuring a focus tab and removing the old infinity lock, brings a set of practical improvements that make it easier to use without altering its core optical formula. It is well-balanced for a fast 28mm lens. Although it is slightly larger than the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Type II brass version, it is lighter thanks to its aluminum build and handles nicely on a Leica M body. It does intrude into the framelines a bit more than the Voigtlander. The lens also adds thoughtful features such as a unique mechanical depth-of-field indicator, a switchable declicked aperture, and internal focusing.
Optically, the Simera leans into a dual-personality character. At f/1.4, it does not deliver critical sharpness but instead offers a softer, smoother look that works well for portraits or low-light scenes. Stopping down to f/2.8 or smaller significantly improves sharpness and contrast, with f/4 emerging as the sweet spot across most of the frame. Compared to the Voigtlander 28mm f/1.5 Nokton, the Simera falls short wide open, particularly in the center and corners, but it closes the gap at smaller apertures. It also performs better when it comes to controlling axial and lateral chromatic aberration and produces slightly warmer color with a slightly wider field of view.
Its 14-blade aperture produces soft, round bokeh highlights when stopped down and creates well-defined sunstars starting at f/4. The aperture blade design clearly favors smooth, rounded bokeh over sharply defined sunstars, though I think it handles both impressively well.. That choice will appeal to photographers who prefer a more seamless and undistracting background. The declicked aperture and smooth mechanical operation also make this lens a solid choice for video work. Distortion is minimal, with only slight waviness that rarely needs correction, and field curvature is well-controlled at infinity focus.
Overall, the Simera 28mm f/1.4 ASPH. stands out for its thoughtful handling, modern features, and gentle rendering style. It is not aimed at those who are chasing edge-to-edge sharpness at f/1.4. It is better suited for photographers who value a lens that blends modern performance with a pleasant draw. In real-world use, especially when stopped down, it delivers excellent results and makes a strong alternative to other fast 28mm options. While the Voigtlander may come out ahead in terms of wide-open resolution and contrast, the Simera offers its own strengths in chromatic aberration control, handling, and versatility that many Leica M shooters will find appealing.
Pros:
Now includes a focus tab and removes the infinity lock, improving handling.
Floating design allows high performance even at MFD (0.4m)
Balances size and weight well for a fast 28mm, especially considering it's f/1.4.
The 14-blade aperture delivers soft, round highlights even stopped down with smooth background rendering.
Option to Declick the Aperture is ideal for video users who want smooth exposure transitions.
Strong performance against axial and lateral chromatic aberrations.
Low distortion with a slight waviness that rarely needs correction.
Internal Focusing adds to the lens's modern, refined feel.
Unique DOF Indicator. While some might prefer a traditional setup, the mechanical depth-of-field scale is a clever addition that actually works well for zone focusing, especially on a 28mm lens.
Cons:
Inconsistent spacing between aperture markings.
Varying stop increments, transitioning from 1/3 to 1/2 to 1 full stop on small apertures.
Not critically sharp at f/1.4 wide open, especially off-axis.
Frameline Intrusion: Slightly larger size leads to more intrusion in the M bodys 28mm framelines than the Voigtlander.
Corners aren't as sharp at wide apertures.
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