Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM vs VILTROX
Updated July 2026 — Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM wins on weight and length, VILTROX wins on portability and aperture.
The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM excels in low-light performance and image quality, while the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z offers great value and portability.
Why Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is better
Aperture
Canon has a wider f/1.2 aperture for low-light performance.
Image Quality
Canon lens provides superior bokeh and subject isolation.
Brand Reputation
Canon is known for high-quality optics and reliability.
Why VILTROX is better
Price
VILTROX is significantly cheaper at $99.
Portability
VILTROX is ultra-compact and lightweight.
Convenience
VILTROX features a built-in sliding lens cap.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM | VILTROX |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 45mm | 28mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.2 | f/4.5 |
| Lens Type | Prime | Prime |
| Compatibility | Canon RF | Nikon Z |
| Weight | 600g | 80g |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM and VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z
The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is a standard prime lens that excels in low-light conditions and portrait photography, while the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z offers an ultra-compact design ideal for everyday use. The Canon lens retails at $469.00, whereas the VILTROX lens is significantly more affordable at $99.00, making it about 79% cheaper. Each lens caters to different photography styles and preferences, appealing to various types of creators.
Design and Build Quality
The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is designed to be compact while delivering high-quality images, featuring a large-diameter mount that enhances its optical performance. It weighs more than the VILTROX, which is ultra-compact and lightweight, measuring just 65.3mm in diameter and 16.8mm thick. The VILTROX lens weighs only about 80g, making it incredibly portable. This difference makes the VILTROX a more convenient choice for photographers on the go, while the Canon lens is designed for more serious photography with its superior aperture and build quality.
Optical Performance
When it comes to optical performance, the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is a standout with its f/1.2 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light capabilities and stunning bokeh effects. This lens is equipped with one PMo aspheric lens, aimed at reducing aberrations. In contrast, the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z features exceptional optical performance with 2 aspherical and 2 ED lenses, ensuring sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting. While the VILTROX lens has a fixed aperture, it can still deliver high-contrast images, but it may not match the Canon lens’s low-light performance.
Aperture and Versatility
The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM's f/1.2 aperture allows for faster shutter speeds, providing versatility in various lighting conditions, especially in darker settings. It excels in portrait photography, producing images with a soft background that isolates subjects beautifully. On the other hand, the VILTROX 28mm f4.5's fixed f/4.5 aperture simplifies usage but limits versatility in low-light situations. While it’s excellent for daylight photography and landscapes, it may fall short for indoor or evening shoots.
Convenience Features
The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z boasts a built-in sliding lens cap that eliminates the hassle of misplacing detachable caps, providing immediate access to the lens. This feature enhances user convenience and makes it a practical choice for casual photographers. The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM does not highlight any such convenience features but focuses more on delivering high-quality imagery and performance. Thus, if ease of use is a priority, the VILTROX lens has a clear advantage.
Compatibility
The Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is designed for Canon’s mirrorless system, making it a perfect match for their RF mount cameras. It is ideal for users of Canon's ecosystem who want to elevate their photography. Meanwhile, the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z is compatible with a range of Nikon Z-mount cameras, including the Z7ii, Z8, Z5, Zfc, Z6ii, Z6iii, and Z50. This compatibility makes the VILTROX a versatile choice for Nikon users who need a lightweight lens for everyday shooting.
Price Point
The price difference between the two lenses is significant, with the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM priced at $469.00 and the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z at just $99.00. This makes the VILTROX lens about 79% cheaper than the Canon lens, appealing to budget-conscious photographers who still want decent optical performance. While the Canon lens may offer superior quality, the VILTROX provides excellent value for casual users or those just starting in photography.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM and the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z depends on your specific photography needs and budget. If you prioritize low-light performance, bokeh effect, and overall image quality, the Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for a lightweight, compact lens for daytime photography and want to save on costs, the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z offers exceptional value. Ultimately, both lenses have unique strengths that cater to different types of photographers.