Brightin Star vs VILTROX

Overview of the Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 and VILTROX 35mm f1.7

The Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 are both distinct lenses designed for different types of photography. The Brightin Star lens is a fisheye lens aimed at capturing vast landscapes and unique perspectives, while the VILTROX lens caters to photographers seeking a versatile standard focal length with excellent low-light capabilities. This fundamental difference in design and purpose will guide potential buyers in making the best choice for their needs.

Price Comparison

The Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 is priced at $65.99, making it about 63% cheaper than the VILTROX 35mm f1.7, which retails for $179.00. This substantial price difference may appeal to budget-conscious photographers or those just starting in photography who may not want to invest heavily in lenses initially. The lower price of the Brightin Star lens does not compromise its ability to deliver unique photographic experiences, especially for those interested in fisheye effects.

Build and Design

In terms of size and weight, the Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 is notably compact and lightweight, weighing only 0.75 lb and measuring 1.2 inches in thickness. This makes it highly portable, suitable for travel and outdoor photography. Conversely, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7, while not specified in weight, is designed with thoughtful features like an extended lens hood for better light control and a USB-C upgrade port for firmware updates. This attention to user experience in the VILTROX lens may appeal to more seasoned photographers who value functionality.

Focal Length and Aperture

The Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 offers an ultra-wide field of view at 172 degrees, ideal for capturing expansive scenes such as architecture or starry skies. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 provides a more standard focal length of 35mm, perfect for a variety of photography styles, including portraits and street photography. The f/1.7 maximum aperture of the VILTROX lens allows for exceptional low-light performance, enabling users to create beautifully blurred backgrounds, a feature not present in the Brightin Star lens.

Autofocus and Usability

A key distinction between the two lenses is their focusing systems. The Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 is a manual focus lens that adopts a hyperfocal design, allowing users to capture distant subjects without needing to adjust focus—a convenient feature for quick shots. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 is equipped with fast autofocus powered by a new STM motor, which delivers precise and near-silent focusing. This makes the VILTROX lens more suited for dynamic shooting situations, such as event photography or video recording.

Optical Quality

Both lenses offer unique optical designs to minimize common photography issues. The Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 is designed to create stunning fisheye effects and is suitable for various scenarios, including landscapes and portraits. However, it may not perform as well in terms of optical corrections compared to the VILTROX 35mm f1.7. The VILTROX lens features 11 elements in 9 groups, including high refractive and extra-low dispersion elements, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion, ensuring high-quality images across a range of shooting conditions.

Versatility in Photography

When considering versatility, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 stands out due to its wide array of applications. With a minimum focusing distance of just 0.33 meters, this lens allows photographers to capture stunning close-up images, making it versatile for both portrait and landscape photography. In contrast, while the Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 excels at specific wide-angle shots, its specialized nature may limit its usability in everyday photographic situations, making it less versatile overall.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brightin Star 10mm F5.6 and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that excels in capturing unique wide-angle perspectives, the Brightin Star is an excellent choice at $65.99. However, if you require a lens that offers superior low-light performance, fast autofocus, and versatility for various photography styles, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7, despite its higher price of $179.00, may be worth the investment. Each lens serves its niche effectively, so consider your shooting style and preferences before making a decision.