Fred Miranda
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 p.10 #14 · Thypoch Simera 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. Review | |
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Final Thoughts
The Simera 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. is the first Typoch lens I’ve had the chance to try, and after spending some time with it, I’m genuinely impressed. Before diving into its performance and comparing it to the Leica 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. Summilux, I couldn't help but notice how strikingly similar the optical design of the Simera is to the Leica's. While they’re not identical, they follow a very similar design philosophy. But would this similarity translate into comparable image quality?
After extensive testing, including blind tests and side-by-side comparisons with the Leica, I can confidently say their output is very similar.
There are subtle differences in rendering, but as you can see from the comparisons, they are minor --- so much so that they may go unnoticed without a direct side-by-side comparison. Both lenses show very similar levels of axial chromatic aberration, which is a good sign for the Simera, as the Leica is well-regarded for its excellent chromatic correction. In terms of lateral chromatic aberration, however, the Simera performs notably better.
Both lenses show similar levels of distortion, field curvature, and optical vignetting, but the Simera shines in certain areas. For example, it has significantly better flare resistance, producing less veiling and ghosting. Its 14-blade aperture also creates more defined sunstars, and specular highlights remain perfectly round at smaller apertures --- something that’s not always the case with the Leica’s nonagonal aperture shape when stopped down.
In terms of resolution and contrast, at infinity distance, the Leica has a slight advantage in the center of the frame, while the Simera excels in the mid-zones. However, at a closer distance, such as the tested 2 meters, the Leica performs slightly better across the frame, including the mid-field. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, as the differences are minor and largely imperceptible in everyday use.
After spending time with the Simera, I can wholeheartedly recommend it. It offers performance on par with the Leica in terms of resolution and contrast, but it also excels in other areas, all at a more affordable price.
Pros:- Compact and lightweight for a fast 50mm lens.
- High resolution and contrast at center and mid-field from wide open.
- Floating design ensures high resolution/contrast at minimal focus distance (0.45m).
- Very low distortion.
- Solid build with tight tolerances; my copy was well-centered and calibrated with the rangefinder.
- Aperture mechanism creates defined 14-pointed sunstars from f/4 onwards.
- Rounded specular highlights when stopped down.
- Lower optical vignetting compared to many other fast 50mm lenses.
- Pleasant modern rendering with high contrast subjects and smooth transitions.
- Unique “mechanical dots” depth of field scale replaces the classic scale.
- Excellent resistance to ghosting and veiling flare.
- Great chromatic aberration control (both lateral and axial).
Cons:- Inconsistent spacing between aperture markings.
- Varying stop increments, transitioning from 1/3 to 1/2 to 1 full stop on small apertures.
- Short focus throw requires precise focusing.
- Focusing rotation with the tab isn’t as smooth as with some top-tier lenses.
- Corners aren’t as sharp at wide apertures.
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