Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55- vs VILTROX

Overview of the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm and VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm is priced at $254.00, while the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is slightly more expensive at $275.00, making the Nikon lens about 7.6% cheaper. Both lenses cater to different photographic needs, with the Nikon lens offering a versatile zoom range, ideal for capturing distant subjects, whereas the VILTROX lens is focused on portrait photography with its wide aperture. Understanding their features will help potential buyers make an informed decision based on their specific requirements.

Build and Design

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm features a compact design with a filter thread size of 58 mm, making it easy to incorporate into various photography setups. It is a 5.5x telephoto zoom lens, which allows for versatility in framing distant subjects. On the other hand, the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE is also designed for portability, weighing only 340 grams and measuring φ69mm x 76mm. This lens is compact and ergonomic, making it suitable for handheld shooting during extended sessions. Both lenses are built with user convenience in mind, but their design serves different purposes.

Optical Performance

The Nikon lens incorporates a High Refractive Index (HRI) lens element and two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements aimed at minimizing chromatic aberration, delivering sharp images even at maximum aperture settings. In contrast, the VILTROX lens also features 10 elements in 8 groups, including ED elements and HR lenses, which contribute to its sharpness and color accuracy. The VILTROX lens's wide F2.0 aperture is designed for stunning bokeh effects, making it particularly advantageous for portrait photography. Both lenses excel in optical performance, but they cater to different photography styles.

Autofocus Capabilities

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR lens is equipped with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), ensuring fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus performance. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios like wildlife photography, where silence is crucial. Meanwhile, the VILTROX 85mm lens utilizes a Stepping Motor (STM) for its autofocus, which also allows for smooth and quiet operation, ideal for both photography and video. While both lenses offer advanced autofocus features, the choice between them may depend on the specific shooting conditions and the type of photography one pursues.

Image Stabilization

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm boasts Nikon’s VR II Image Stabilization technology, which allows for handheld shooting at shutter speeds up to four times slower than usual, helping to achieve sharper still images and stable video capture. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm lens does not specifically mention image stabilization in its features, meaning users may need to rely more on steady hands or additional stabilization equipment during shooting. This aspect gives the Nikon lens a clear advantage for those who often shoot without a tripod.

Minimum Focus Distance

The minimum focusing distance of the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR lens is approximately 4.6 feet, allowing for reasonably close shots. However, the VILTROX 85mm lens excels in this area with a minimum focus distance of just 0.74 meters. This closeness allows photographers to capture detailed close-up shots, making the VILTROX lens particularly suitable for portraiture and detail-oriented photography. The significant difference in focusing distance can influence a photographer’s choice depending on their shooting style and subject matter.

Pricing Comparison

At a price of $254.00, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR lens is more budget-friendly compared to the VILTROX 85mm lens, which costs $275.00. This price difference of $21.00 makes the Nikon lens about 7.6% cheaper. For photographers on a budget or those who require a versatile zoom lens, the Nikon option offers excellent value. Conversely, the VILTROX lens, while pricier, provides features tailored for portrait photography, justifying its higher cost for those specializing in that area.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm and the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE lens ultimately depends on your photography needs. If you require a versatile lens for capturing distant subjects, the Nikon lens offers a good balance of performance and affordability. However, if you're focused on portrait photography and desire a lens that excels in bokeh and close-up detail, the VILTROX lens may be worth the extra investment. Assessing your specific photographic style will help determine the best choice for your needs.