Sigma 10- vs VILTROX
Updated July 2026 — Sigma 10- wins on portability and aperture, VILTROX wins on focal length and build quality.
The VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens offers excellent low-light performance and autofocus capabilities at a lower price, making it a great value. However, the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN excels in versatility with its zoom range.
Why Sigma 10- is better
Zoom Range
Sigma offers a versatile 10-18mm zoom.
Brand Reputation
Sigma is well-known for high-quality lenses.
Weight
Sigma is lighter than many competitors.
Why VILTROX is better
Low-Light Performance
VILTROX has a larger f/1.8 aperture.
Autofocus Technology
VILTROX features advanced STM motor.
Price
VILTROX is $99 cheaper.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Sigma 10- | VILTROX |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $679.00 | $580.00 |
| Compatibility | Sony E | Nikon Z |
| Autofocus | Reliable | Fast with STM |
| Image Quality | High | Ultra-High |
| Use Cases | Versatile | Diverse |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN and VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z Lens
The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN and the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens cater to different needs, making them suited for specific photography styles. The Sigma lens is priced at $679.00, while the VILTROX lens is more budget-friendly at $580.00, making it about 17% cheaper. This price difference may influence a photographer's choice depending on their budget constraints and intended use.
Optical Performance
When it comes to optical performance, the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN offers a large aperture of F2.8, which is excellent for low-light situations and creative imaging. Its ultra-wide-angle capabilities make it ideal for landscapes and travel photography. On the other hand, the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens boasts a super large aperture of f/1.8, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects. With 12 groups of 15 optical elements, it promises ultra-high resolution and vivid image quality, making it a strong contender for photographers seeking clarity and detail.
Versatility and Use Cases
The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN is particularly well-suited for landscapes, travel, video, and online content creation, thanks to its wide zoom range. It markets itself as the world's smallest and lightest ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for APS-C cameras, enhancing its portability. Conversely, the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens is designed for various photography types, including street photography, architectural details, and astrophotography, thanks to its wide-angle perspective and 105.6° angle of view. This versatility makes the VILTROX lens appealing for Nikon Z mount users looking to capture diverse scenes with a single lens.
Autofocus Capabilities
Autofocus is a critical feature for many photographers, and both lenses excel in this regard. The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN provides reliable autofocus performance, making it a solid choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. However, the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens takes it a step further with its STM stepping motor, which allows for precise and fast autofocus tracking. This feature includes face and eye recognition capabilities, making it particularly effective for portrait photography. The enhanced autofocus technology in the VILTROX lens may give it an edge for those who prioritize quick and accurate focusing.
Build Quality and Portability
Both lenses are designed with portability in mind, but they differentiate themselves in build quality. The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN is compact and lightweight, contributing to its ease of use for travel photographers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. Meanwhile, the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens weighs 19.9oz (565g), making it also relatively lightweight. The addition of a 0.96" LCD display on the VILTROX lens enhances user experience by providing important shooting parameters at a glance. This feature may appeal to photographers who prefer to have immediate access to their settings without needing to navigate through camera menus.
Price Comparison
The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN is currently priced at $679.00, while the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens is available for $580.00. This significant price difference of about $99 could be a deciding factor for budget-conscious photographers. While the Sigma lens offers excellent features for a slightly higher price, the VILTROX lens provides great value, especially for users of Nikon Z mount cameras, without compromising on performance or image quality.
Compatibility
Compatibility is crucial for photographers considering a new lens. The Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN is designed specifically for Sony E mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for those already invested in the Sony ecosystem. In contrast, the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens is compatible with a range of Nikon Z mount cameras, including models like the Z5, Z6, and Z7. This broad compatibility offers flexibility for Nikon users, allowing them to utilize this lens across multiple camera bodies.
Which should you buy?
Deciding between the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN and the VILTROX 16mm f/1.8 Z lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a versatile lens optimized for both low-light performance and autofocus capabilities, the VILTROX lens at $580.00 stands out as a great value. However, if you prioritize ultra-wide-angle zoom capabilities and are using a Sony E mount camera, the Sigma lens is worth the investment at $679.00. Each lens has its strengths, so consider your photography style and preferences to make the best choice.