BENOISON vs VILTROX

Price Comparison

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is priced at $96.22, making it significantly cheaper than the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens, which costs $180.00. This means the VILTROX lens is about 87% more expensive than the Nikon lens. For budget-conscious photographers, the lower price of the BENOISON lens offers an attractive option, especially for those who are just starting in portrait photography or who are looking to add a manual focus lens to their kit without breaking the bank.

Compatibility

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed specifically for Nikon cameras, including a wide range of models such as the D3500, D850, and D7500, among others. It is a manual focus lens, requiring users to operate the camera in manual mode for effective use. On the other hand, the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens is compatible with Sony's APS-C E-mount cameras, like the a7IV and a6400. This makes it a versatile choice for Sony users seeking an autofocus portrait lens. Compatibility plays a crucial role in deciding which lens might best suit your existing gear.

Focus Type

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens features manual focus, which means that photographers must manually adjust the focus ring for sharp images. This can be a rewarding experience for those who enjoy the hands-on approach of manual focusing, but it may pose a challenge for beginners. In contrast, the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens offers efficient and reliable autofocus, utilizing a silent STM motor for quick and precise focus adjustments. This feature makes it particularly user-friendly, especially for novices or those who prefer the convenience of autofocus in dynamic shooting environments.

Aperture and Depth of Field

With a large aperture of f1.8, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is excellent for creating beautiful background bokeh and achieving a shallow depth of field, making it ideal for portrait work. The VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens also boasts a wide aperture of f1.7, which not only aids in low-light shooting but also enhances the three-dimensional quality of portraits. While both lenses provide impressive bokeh effects, the slight edge in aperture (f1.7 vs. f1.8) of the VILTROX lens can be appealing for those who prioritize maximum light intake and depth-of-field manipulation.

Optical Quality

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is designed for high-quality portrait photography, providing sharp images with a natural perspective. However, it lacks modern optical technology such as extra-low dispersion (ED) or high refractive index lenses. In contrast, the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens incorporates advanced optical structures, including 4 ED lenses and 3 high refractive index lenses. This design not only reduces distortion but also enhances the overall clarity and quality of the images produced. For photographers who emphasize optical performance, the VILTROX lens may be a more suitable choice.

Weight and Portability

The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens does not specify its weight, but manual focus lenses generally tend to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry. However, the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens is explicitly noted to be lightweight at just 170 grams. This compactness facilitates ease of use and transport, encouraging photographers to take their gear on the go more often. For those who prioritize portability, the lightweight nature of the VILTROX lens could be a significant advantage, especially for travel or street photography.

Use Cases

Both lenses are tailored for portrait photography but excel in different scenarios. The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens is perfect for half-body and full-body portraits as well as street photography, thanks to its natural perspective and beautiful bokeh effects. Conversely, the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens is designed with video shooting capabilities in mind, supporting camera body anti-shake and minimizing focus breathing during shoots. For photographers who also engage in videography, the VILTROX lens's additional features may provide a compelling reason to consider it over the manual focus alternative.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens and the VILTROX 56mm f/1.7 E Lens ultimately depends on your camera system and shooting preferences. If you own a Nikon camera and prefer a budget-friendly manual focus option, the BENOISON lens offers excellent value at $96.22. However, for Sony users seeking a modern autofocus lens with advanced optical quality and video capabilities, the VILTROX lens, despite its higher price of $180.00, may be the better investment. Weighing factors such as compatibility, focus type, and intended use will guide you to the right choice for your photography needs.