Canon EF-S 18- vs VILTROX

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is about 17% cheaper than the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM, priced at $275.00 compared to $329.95. This price difference can be significant for photographers on a budget or those who are just starting to build their lens collection. The Canon lens, while more expensive, offers a versatile zoom range that appeals to a wider range of photography styles. However, for those specifically looking for a portrait lens, the VILTROX provides excellent value without compromising on quality.

Build Quality and Design

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm features a compact and lightweight design, weighing 16.9 oz, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm weighs only 340g, which is approximately 12 oz, and has a small form factor at φ69mm x 76mm. Both lenses are designed for ease of use, with the Canon incorporating a zoom ring lock feature to prevent accidental extension. The VILTROX is noted for its portability, making it a great option for photographers who prioritize a lightweight setup without sacrificing performance.

Autofocus Performance

The VILTROX 85mm F2 boasts enhanced autofocus performance, powered by a Stepping Motor (STM) which ensures smooth, quiet, and precise autofocus. This makes it ideal for both photography and video applications. On the other hand, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm also features a high-speed autofocus system, utilizing an inner focusing mechanism and an optimized AF algorithm. While both lenses are equipped with advanced autofocus technology, the VILTROX's design specifically caters to creating stunning portraits with minimal focus noise, making it particularly advantageous for videographers.

Image Quality

Image quality is a standout feature for both lenses. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm is designed for high resolution and contrast, featuring one UD and one PMO aspheric lens that reduces chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range. The VILTROX 85mm, with its 10 elements in 8 groups, includes Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and high refractive index lenses, which contribute to exceptional sharpness and color accuracy. For photographers focused on portraiture, the VILTROX's wide F2.0 aperture allows for stunning bokeh, enhancing the overall quality of the images captured.

Versatility

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm is a versatile lens, suitable for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. Its zoom range of 18-135mm provides flexibility, allowing photographers to adapt quickly to different situations. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm is more specialized, primarily designed for portrait photography with its fixed focal length and wide aperture. While the VILTROX excels in creating professional-looking portraits, the Canon lens offers a broader range of applications, making it appealing for those who need a multi-purpose lens.

Use Cases

When considering potential use cases, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm is ideal for travel and general photography due to its zoom capabilities and image stabilization system, which provides up to four equivalent stops of shake correction. This makes it particularly useful for shooting in various lighting conditions. Conversely, the VILTROX 85mm is tailored for portrait photographers who require a lens that excels in low-light conditions and provides beautiful background blur. Its minimum focusing distance of 0.74m allows for close-up shots, making it perfect for intimate portraits.

Compatibility

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm is compatible with Canon EOS Rebel series DSLRs, while the VILTROX 85mm is designed for Sony E-mount cameras, including models like the a7iv and a9ii. This compatibility is crucial for photographers when selecting a lens, as it determines how well the lens will perform with their existing camera system. Those with Canon cameras will find the EF-S lens to be an excellent fit, while Sony users will benefit from the precision and quality of the VILTROX.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is STM and the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you require a versatile lens for a variety of shooting situations, the Canon lens is a solid choice with its flexible zoom range and image stabilization features. However, if you focus primarily on portrait photography and seek a lens that offers stunning bokeh and sharpness, the VILTROX provides excellent value and performance at a lower price point. Consider your specific requirements to determine which lens aligns best with your photography style.