Sirui Aurora 85mm f1.4 review

Sirui has launched into the competitive 85mm prime market with a lens that brings just enough difference to make it stand out among a strong lineup of options from Sony, Sigma, Tokina, and Samyang. Offering a maximum aperture of f/1.4, this full-frame lens is designed for portrait and low-light shooting, delivering impressive subject isolation and a smooth bokeh effect that photographers love in this focal range. Compatible with major full-frame mounts (Sony E, Fuji X, Nikon Z), it appeals to both photographers and videographers seeking versatility, especially for portraiture and cinematic-style shots.

One of the Aurora’s key differentiators is its slightly more compact design, with a 67mm filter thread rather than the typical 77mm size, making it more lightweight and portable. Additionally, it caters to hybrid shooters with features like an on-lens AF lock, weather sealing, and a declickable aperture ring for smooth, silent transitions—a notable advantage for video work. Overall, this lens offers far more functionality than many other options at this price point, making it an exciting, flexible choice for both still and video photographers.

The Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4 has a solid, premium feel from the moment it’s in hand, thanks to an all-metal barrel construction that gives it an undeniable sense of quality. It’s priced competitively compared to higher-end options like the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM, and its build quality stands up well to scrutiny. There’s nothing here to raise concerns; every element feels designed with precision. Notably, the bold “85mm” printed on the lens barrel adds a professional aesthetic touch—I would even have preferred it slightly larger for visual impact.

A standout feature at this price is the declickable aperture ring, an unusual addition that will delight hybrid shooters. The side-mounted switch allows for either click or smooth, click-free transitions, ideal for video work. However, the aperture ring itself could benefit from a tad more friction to prevent accidental adjustments. The focus ring offers adequate resistance for fine-tuning but isn’t quite as “silky” as you’d find on premium lenses. The AF/MF switch on the side is convenient and responsive, while the AF lock button, a simple push-and-hold feature, is especially practical for securing focus at key moments—an excellent feature.

The lens measures roughly 102mm (depending on mount) and weighs in at around 570g, keeping it both compact and manageable for travel. Its aluminium alloy and engineered plastic build keeps weight low without compromising durability. Sirui has included two 67mm filters (UV and Black Mist) with the early release, both high-quality additions that enhance the lens’s appeal for portraiture, particularly in reducing flare and adding a subtle softening effect. This attention to detail in accessories and build quality makes the Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4 not only a versatile choice but one that feels robust and reliable in varied shooting conditions.

As a fixed prime, the Sirui Aurora f/1.4 lens is designed with portrait photography in mind, aiming to maximise subject sharpness while beautifully blurring out the background.

Inside, 14 elements in 9 groups—including Aspherical, ED, and HRI glass—reduce chromatic aberration, flare, and ghosting. For smooth, rounded bokeh, Sirui incorporates a 15-blade aperture, surpassing the 9-blade standard in this range to produce exceptional background blur that enhances portraits.

A major appeal of this lens is its full AF support, including Eye AF and object tracking where available. The physical features include a standard AF/MF switch plus a distinctive AF Lock button for quick focus locking.

At 540g, with a 67mm filter thread and a compact 102mm length, the Aurora is lighter and more compact than many competitors, such as the Samyang 85mm f/1.4. Sirui has built this lens with a weather-sealed aluminium body, adding dustproofing, water resistance, and an antifouling fluorine coating—a practical feature for professionals on the move.

For video and hybrid shooters, the declickable aperture ring offers smooth transitions, typically found only on higher-end lenses.

Straight out of the box, the Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4 impresses with its premium feel, featuring an aluminium barrel and well-executed design details that reinforce its professional quality. While lighter than Sony’s G-Master equivalent, it compares well with the Samyang 85mm f/1.4 in size and weight but brings notable additions like the declickable aperture ring and AF lock button. The focus ring, with a straight knurled texture machined into the metal (rather than rubber), gives a sturdy grip that resists long-term wear, a thoughtful choice for heavy use.

Mounted on the Sony A7 IV, the lens connects snugly with a rubberised weather seal, reassuring for outdoor shoots. Initial tests under rainy conditions showed the lens’s weatherproofing performs well, and in the following session, the AF speed was impressive. The Aurora locks focus quickly and accurately, comparable with Sony’s own lenses, making it reliable for both stills and video.

Evaluating the final images, the optical quality is clear. Portraiture benefits from natural reproduction and detail-rich resolution, allowing for flexible editing. The lens renders subjects with minimal chromatic aberration or distortion, maintaining a true-to-life look without excessive post-processing. The 15-blade aperture produces beautifully smooth, rounded bokeh that enhances subject isolation and adds a cinematic depth to images. Backgrounds blend seamlessly, giving portraits a polished, professional feel. For tonal gradation, especially in product shots, the lens captures subtle contrasts effectively, providing texture-rich details even at challenging light edges.

At its current price, this lens is a bargain, offering premium features at a competitive price point. For portraiture, product photography, or low-light environments, the Aurora 85mm f/1.4 consistently delivers high-quality results with a well-rounded performance.

The Sirui Aurora 85mm f/1.4 sets a high standard in the mid-range portrait lens market, successfully blending impressive build quality, optical precision, and practical features. It holds its own against established options with a premium aluminium build, sharp image reproduction, and smooth 15-blade bokeh that enhances portrait work. The addition of a declickable aperture ring and AF lock button is a real asset for hybrid shooters, making this lens an appealing choice for both stills and video. At $499, it delivers exceptional performance and versatility without the premium price, making it a standout investment for any enthusiast or professional looking to expand their portraiture or low-light capabilities.