BENOISON vs VILTROX

Overview of the Lenses

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, while the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE comes in at $176.00. This makes the Portrait Lens about 45% cheaper than the VILTROX. Both lenses cater to different photography needs, with the former aimed at portrait photography and the latter suited for wide-angle shots. Understanding their features can help determine which lens aligns better with your photographic style.

Design and Build Quality

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is a manual focus lens designed specifically for Nikon cameras, making it a reliable choice for Nikon DSLR users. Its sleek design allows for easy handling, though the absence of autofocus means photographers need to be more hands-on with focusing. On the other hand, the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE is a more compact lens at just 157g, enhancing its portability for spontaneous shoots. The use of advanced optical elements in the VILTROX also suggests a focus on high-quality images, making it suitable for both professionals and enthusiasts.

Autofocus vs. Manual Focus

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens lacks autofocus capabilities, which may hinder some photographers who prefer the convenience of auto-focusing. Users must manually adjust the focus, which can be a drawback for fast-paced shooting situations. In contrast, the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE features fast autofocus performance that captures moving subjects efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for action or candid photography, making it a versatile option for those who need both speed and precision.

Aperture and Depth of Field

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens boasts a large aperture of f1.8, allowing for stunning background bokeh and shallow depth-of-field effects, ideal for portraiture and street photography. This lens excels in low-light situations, enabling photographers to achieve beautiful, soft backgrounds that highlight the subject. Conversely, while the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE has a decent aperture of f2.8, it does not achieve the same level of bokeh quality. However, the wider field of view at 20mm makes it excellent for capturing landscapes or architecture.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is specifically designed for a range of Nikon DSLR models, including the D3500, D850, and D7500. This makes it a specialized tool for Nikon users focusing on portrait photography. In contrast, the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE is compatible with various Sony E-mount cameras, including models like the A7 and A6600. This broad compatibility makes it appealing to a wider range of Sony users who enjoy capturing expansive scenes or shooting in tight spaces.

Price Comparison

At $96.22, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens offers significant cost savings compared to the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE, which is priced at $176.00. This represents a price difference of about $79.78, or roughly 45%. For photographers on a budget, the lower price of the 85mm lens makes it an attractive option, especially considering its specialized features for portrait photography. However, the higher price of the VILTROX may be justified for those seeking advanced autofocus capabilities and a wider field of view.

Image Quality and Performance

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens excels in producing sharp, detailed images, particularly in portrait settings where background blur is desirable. The lens's manual focus can result in high-quality shots when used skillfully. The VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE, with its optical structure of 10 elements in 8 groups, promises crisp and clear images with minimal distortion. This makes it particularly effective for wide-angle shots, where image quality can be compromised with lower-quality lenses. Both lenses deliver solid performance, but their strengths cater to different photographic needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the VILTROX 20mm f2.8 FE ultimately depends on your specific photography requirements. If you are a Nikon user focused on portrait photography and appreciate the control of manual focusing, the 85mm lens offers excellent value at a lower price point. However, if you are a Sony user seeking a versatile lens for wide-angle shots with fast autofocus capabilities, the VILTROX is worth the investment despite its higher cost. Each lens serves its purpose well, so your decision should align with your camera system and photographic style.