Laowa vs VILTROX

Overview of the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is a full-frame ultra-wide angle lens, while the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E is a prime lens designed specifically for APS-C sensors. Priced at $699.00, the Laowa offers a unique 122° field of view, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography. In contrast, the VILTROX, priced at $179.00, is about 74% cheaper and focuses on versatility for street and portrait photography with its 35mm focal length, which closely resembles the human eye.

Design and Build Quality

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is notable for its lightweight design, weighing only 377g, which enhances portability during extended shooting sessions. Its compact construction ensures that it won't weigh down your camera gear. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E is even lighter at 170g, making it ideal for photographers who prioritize mobility. Both lenses exhibit a robust design; however, the VILTROX features a durable metal body, providing long-lasting performance without significantly adding to the weight.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite excels with its virtually zero distortion and impressive 122° field of view, making it perfect for wide-angle shots. It comprises 16 elements in 9 groups, ensuring exceptional image quality. The VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E, featuring 11 elements in 9 groups, optimizes image quality by incorporating 2 high refractive elements, 1 extra-low dispersion element, and 1 aspherical element. This results in sharp, vivid images with minimized chromatic aberrations. Both lenses deliver high-quality results, but the Laowa is designed specifically for expansive landscapes.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which is effective for low-light conditions, providing good depth control and background blur. Conversely, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E offers a brighter f/1.7 aperture, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and more pronounced background blur. This difference makes the VILTROX particularly appealing for portrait and street photography in dim environments. The lower f-stop of the VILTROX gives it a significant edge when it comes to creating bokeh effects and capturing images in challenging lighting conditions.

Autofocus Capabilities

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is equipped with autofocus, making it user-friendly for various photography styles. However, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E boasts a new STM motor that delivers fast, precise, and near-silent autofocus performance, minimizing focus breathing. This feature is especially beneficial for videographers who require smooth focus transitions. While both lenses provide autofocus, the VILTROX’s advanced system may appeal more to those who focus on video as well as still photography.

Versatility in Photography

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is tailored for ultra-wide shots, excelling in landscape and architectural photography due to its expansive field of view. It also accommodates close-up photography with a close focusing distance of 14mm. In contrast, the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E is more versatile, suitable for a broader range of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. Its focal length of 35mm, which yields a natural perspective akin to the human eye, allows for creative flexibility in various shooting scenarios.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is significant, with the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite retailing at $699.00 and the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E priced at $179.00. This makes the VILTROX about 74% cheaper than the Laowa. For photographers on a budget or those seeking a lens that covers multiple genres, the VILTROX offers excellent value without compromising on quality. Conversely, the Laowa’s price reflects its specialized design and capabilities for ultra-wide photography.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and the VILTROX 35mm f/1.7 E ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you are a landscape or architectural photographer seeking an ultra-wide angle lens with exceptional optical quality, the Laowa is the clear choice, although at a higher price. However, if you are looking for a versatile, lightweight lens that excels in low-light conditions and offers a natural perspective for street and portrait photography, the VILTROX is an outstanding option at a much more accessible price.