BENOISON vs VILTROX

Introduction to the Lenses

When comparing the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Nikon and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E mount lens for Sony, it's essential to note their key differences and target audiences. The Nikon lens is priced at $96.22, while the VILTROX lens is significantly higher at $179.00, making it about 86% more expensive. These differences in pricing reflect the unique features and specifications tailored to different types of photographers.

Design and Build Quality

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens boasts a solid manual focus design, intended for use with a variety of Nikon DSLRs. Its construction is straightforward, focusing on delivering high-quality images without the complexities of autofocus. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E features a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 170g. This lens not only offers a durable metal body but also includes thoughtful design elements like an extended lens hood for improved image contrast. The build quality of both lenses serves their respective aims, with the VILTROX prioritizing portability and a modern aesthetic.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The aperture is a crucial factor for photographers, especially those who work in low-light conditions. The 85mm f1.8 lens has a wide aperture of f1.8, which provides excellent background bokeh and depth-of-field effects, making it ideal for portrait photography. On the other hand, the VILTROX lens has a slightly wider aperture of f1.7, giving it an edge in low-light situations. This feature enables the VILTROX lens to produce stunning images with beautiful background blur, ideal for street photography and creative shots. The difference in aperture size, albeit marginal, could affect the choice for photographers prioritizing low-light performance.

Focal Length and Usage

The focal lengths of these two lenses cater to different photography styles. The 85mm f1.8 lens is perfect for half-body and full-body portraits, emphasizing the natural perspective and detail in close-ups. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 lens provides a 53mm equivalent focal length, making it versatile for various photography styles, including landscapes and portraits. This adaptability is crucial for photographers who wish to capture a broad range of subjects without changing lenses frequently.

Autofocus Capabilities

A significant difference lies in the autofocus functionalities of these lenses. The 85mm f1.8 lens is a manual focus lens, requiring users to adjust focus manually, which can be a challenge for those accustomed to autofocus systems. It operates under manual mode, and photographers need to be familiar with manual focusing techniques to achieve sharp images. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 lens features fast and precise autofocus thanks to its new STM motor. This capability enhances the user experience, particularly for those who need to capture fleeting moments in dynamic settings.

Optical Design and Image Quality

In terms of optical design, the VILTROX lens stands out with its advanced construction, featuring 11 elements in 9 groups, including specialized elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion. This design ensures outstanding image quality across various shooting conditions. The 85mm f1.8 lens, while effective, does not boast the same level of optical complexity. Its primary focus is on delivering sharp images for portraiture rather than on advanced optical corrections. Photographers seeking high image quality and fewer optical artifacts may prefer the VILTROX for its superior design.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when choosing between the two lenses. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, making it an economical choice for photographers on a budget or those starting in portrait photography. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 lens, at $179.00, comes with a price premium reflective of its autofocus capabilities and optical design. The VILTROX is about 86% more expensive than the Nikon lens, which could be a decisive factor for many photographers weighing their options.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Nikon and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E mount lens for Sony ultimately depends on your specific photography needs and preferences. If you're looking for an affordable and effective manual focus lens for portraits, the 85mm f1.8 is a solid choice. However, if you require a versatile lens with autofocus capabilities for various photography styles, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 justifies its higher price tag with advanced features and superior optical quality.