BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon - F Lens 420- vs VILTROX

Overview of the Products

When it comes to camera lenses, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E each offer distinct advantages tailored to different photography styles. The BENOISON lens is priced at $67.99, making it significantly more budget-friendly compared to the VILTROX lens, which retails for $179.00. This price difference of about 63% indicates that the BENOISON lens is an attractive option for those on a tighter budget or those looking to explore telephoto photography without a hefty investment.

Design and Build Quality

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens boasts a robust construction, designed for longevity and durability, which is essential for outdoor photography, especially when capturing wildlife or celestial bodies. The lens features a focal length range of 420-800mm and a non-adjustable aperture that varies between f/8.3 and f/16. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is compact and lightweight, weighing only 170g, making it ideal for photographers who prioritize portability. The sleek, durable metal body of the VILTROX lens further enhances its appeal, especially for those who often carry their gear on the go.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of these lenses varies significantly due to their differing designs. The BENOISON lens, while it offers an impressive telephoto range, requires manual focus, which can be challenging for some photographers. Conversely, the VILTROX lens features a bright f/1.7 aperture, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur, making it ideal for portrait and street photography. With 11 elements in 9 groups, the VILTROX lens is optimized to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion, providing superior image quality for a variety of photography styles.

Compatibility and Use

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is specifically designed for Nikon DSLR cameras and is compatible with a wide range of models, including the D850, D750, and D5600, among others. However, it requires manual focus, meaning photographers must adjust the focus ring themselves and operate in manual mode. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is compatible with Sony E-mount cameras, including the newer models like the ZV-E10 II and a6700, and it offers fast autofocus capabilities. This makes the VILTROX lens more user-friendly, especially for those who prefer not to deal with the complexities of manual focus.

Price Comparison

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens is priced at $67.99, which is significantly lower than the VILTROX lens at $179.00. The price difference of approximately $111.01 makes the BENOISON lens a more appealing option for budget-conscious photographers or those new to telephoto shooting. However, the investment in the VILTROX lens may be justified by its advanced features, such as autofocus and a larger aperture, which can enhance the overall photography experience.

Target Audience

The BENOISON Telephoto Lens caters primarily to wildlife photographers or hobbyists looking to experiment with telephoto photography without a large financial commitment. Its manual focus may appeal to those who enjoy the hands-on approach of setting their shots. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E targets a broader audience, including portrait, street, and general photographers who require versatility and ease of use. Its fast autofocus and compact design make it suitable for both amateurs and professionals seeking to capture high-quality images in various settings.

User Experience and Handling

Using the BENOISON Telephoto Lens requires a learning curve due to its manual focus. Photographers must ensure that their camera settings are correctly adjusted to avoid errors related to the lens not being recognized. This hands-on experience can be rewarding for some, as it encourages skill development. In contrast, the VILTROX lens provides a more streamlined user experience with its fast, silent autofocus and thoughtful design details, such as an extended lens hood and USB-C upgrade port for firmware updates. This makes it more appealing for video creators and those who frequently switch between photography and videography.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the BENOISON Telephoto Lens and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E comes down to your specific photography needs and preferences. If you are on a budget and interested in telephoto photography, the BENOISON lens offers great value. However, if you prioritize optical performance, ease of use, and versatility for various photography styles, the VILTROX lens, despite its higher price, may be the better investment.