Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR vs VILTROX

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 50mm F2 Full Frame Lens is about 7% cheaper than the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens, priced at $199.00 compared to $213.31. While both lenses are competitively priced within the premium lens market, the slight price advantage of the VILTROX may appeal to budget-conscious photographers. However, the Nikon lens is well-regarded for its build quality and features, which may justify its higher price for some users.

Build and Design

Both the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G and the VILTROX 50mm F2 are designed with portability in mind, but the VILTROX is notably lighter, weighing only 205g. The Nikon lens has a compact design, making it convenient for everyday use and travel photography. Each lens is designed to work seamlessly with their respective camera mounts, ensuring a secure fit. The Nikon lens features a rubber seal to minimize moisture ingress, which enhances its durability in various shooting conditions, while the VILTROX's lightweight construction makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go shooting.

Optical Performance

Optical performance is a strong point for both lenses, but they have different strengths. The Nikon lens incorporates aspherical elements that help minimize aberrations, providing high-quality images with excellent integrity. In contrast, the VILTROX lens features a more complex optical structure with 9 groups and 13 elements, including 3 ED, 4 HR, and 1 aspherical element. This advanced configuration aims to deliver superb optics and impressive image quality, particularly in portraiture and varied shooting environments.

Autofocus System

The autofocus systems differ significantly between the two lenses. The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which allows for quiet and accurate autofocus, making it suitable for both photography and video. The VILTROX 50mm F2, on the other hand, is equipped with a Stepping Motor (STM) that provides fast, reliable, and quiet autofocus, ideal for both stills and video recording. Both systems are designed to enhance the user experience, but the choice may come down to personal preference regarding lens type and compatibility with existing gear.

Aperture and Depth of Field

The Nikon lens has a maximum aperture of f/1.8, while the VILTROX lens offers a slightly narrower maximum aperture of f/2.0. This difference impacts the depth of field and low-light performance. The Nikon's wider aperture allows for better light capture in low-light conditions and can produce a shallower depth of field for stunning background blur. The VILTROX's 9-blade circular aperture, however, contributes to more pleasing bokeh. Photographers seeking to achieve artistic effects in their images may find both lenses suitable, depending on their specific needs.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The minimum focusing distance of the lenses also varies, with the Nikon lens focusing down to 0.3 meters (approximately 1 foot), allowing for versatile close-up photography. The VILTROX lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.51 meters, which is still effective but offers less versatility for macro-style shots compared to the Nikon. Photographers who appreciate working in close quarters may prefer the Nikon for its closer focusing capability.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is specifically designed for Nikon DSLR cameras and offers compatibility with both DX and FX formats; however, it performs optimally in DX crop mode. In contrast, the VILTROX 50mm F2 is tailored for Sony E-mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for users of Sony's full-frame and APS-C formats. This compatibility makes the VILTROX lens a more versatile option for Sony users, whereas Nikon shooters will appreciate the tailored features of the Nikon lens.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G and the VILTROX 50mm F2 ultimately depends on your camera system and specific photography needs. The Nikon lens is slightly more expensive but offers a wider aperture and closer focusing distance, making it ideal for low-light and macro photography. Conversely, the VILTROX lens is lighter, more compact, and features advanced optical construction, offering great value for portrait and general photography at a lower price point. If you are a Nikon user, the Nikon lens is the clear choice, while Sony users will find the VILTROX lens to be a compelling option.