Laowa vs Viltrox
Updated July 2026 — Laowa wins on angle and elements, Viltrox wins on focusing.
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens excels in optical performance and build quality, while the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E offers great value and portability.
Why Laowa is better
Optical Quality
Laowa lens has superior sharpness and minimal distortion.
Wide Angle
Laowa offers a 130.4-degree angle of view.
Build Quality
Laowa features advanced optical design with 15 elements.
Why Viltrox is better
Price
Viltrox is significantly cheaper at $179.
Weight
Viltrox is lighter at 0.37 lbs.
Versatility
Viltrox is compatible with a wider range of APS-C cameras.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Laowa | Viltrox |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.00 | $179.00 |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/1.7 |
| Angle of View | 130.4° | 54° |
| Focusing Distance | 12cm | 35cm |
| Weight | 0.93 lbs | 0.37 lbs |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens is priced at $799.00, while the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E lens is significantly more affordable at $179.00, making it about 77% cheaper. This stark difference in pricing may appeal to different segments of photographers; those on a budget may gravitate towards the Viltrox, whereas professionals or enthusiasts looking for specialized features might justify the investment in the Laowa lens. The price gap reflects the distinct purposes and capabilities of each lens, influencing purchasing decisions based on budget constraints and intended use.
Optical Performance
In terms of optical performance, the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D stands out with a remarkable 130.4-degree angle of view, designed to capture expansive landscapes with minimal distortion. Its "Zero-D" technology ensures that straight lines remain true to form across the image, which is vital for architectural photography. On the other hand, the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E offers a bright f/1.7 maximum aperture, which excels in low-light conditions and provides better control over depth of field. While both lenses deliver exceptional image quality, their strengths cater to different photographic needs—one for ultra-wide landscapes and the other for portraiture and street photography.
Build Quality and Portability
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens is notably lightweight and portable, weighing just 0.93 lbs and measuring 7cm in length. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize mobility. In contrast, the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E weighs only 0.37 lbs (170g), making it incredibly easy to carry around for everyday use. Both lenses are designed with portability in mind, but the Viltrox is the lighter option, which may appeal to those who frequently travel or shoot on the go.
Focusing Capabilities
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens features a minimum focusing distance of 12cm, allowing photographers to capture close-up shots with a unique wide-angle perspective. This capability is fantastic for macro-style photography, creating depth between the subject and the background. Conversely, the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E is designed for portrait photography, providing a 35mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, ideal for capturing natural-looking images of subjects. Each lens offers distinct focusing benefits, tailored to their respective styles of photography.
Compatibility
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens is specifically designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras, providing high-quality performance for professional-grade applications. Meanwhile, the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E is compatible with APS-C format E-mount mirrorless cameras, making it versatile for a broader range of Sony users, including the popular a6600 and a6400 models. This compatibility factor is crucial for photographers when selecting a lens, as it determines how effectively the lens can work with their existing camera systems.
Specialty Features
The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens boasts a sophisticated optical design with 15 elements in 9 groups, including aspherical and ED glasses, which contribute to its exceptional sharpness and control over chromatic aberration. It also features a 77mm filter thread for easy attachment of screw-in filters. In comparison, the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E supports EXIF information transmission and includes a near-silent shutter sound, enhancing the shooting experience, particularly in candid or low-noise environments. While both lenses have unique features, the Laowa lens targets advanced optical performance, while the Viltrox focuses on user-friendly enhancements.
User Experience
The user experience with the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens is geared towards photographers seeking to push creative boundaries with wide-angle shots. Its lightweight design facilitates ease of use, while its optical capabilities allow for creative expression in both landscape and architectural photography. The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E, on the other hand, offers a more traditional shooting experience suitable for a wide range of applications, from portraits to street photography. Its ease of use and compatibility with various Sony cameras make it a practical choice for everyday photographers.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D and the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E ultimately depends on your specific photographic needs and budget. If you're looking for an ultra-wide angle lens with minimal distortion and superior optical quality, the Laowa lens is worth the investment at $799. However, if you're seeking a versatile, lightweight lens for general photography, the Viltrox at $179 offers excellent value. Each lens serves distinct purposes, so your choice should align with your photography style and the scenarios you frequently encounter.