Nikon NIKKOR Z 24- vs VILTROX PRO

Price Comparison

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is priced at $2,796.95, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji costs $578.00. This makes the VILTROX about 79% cheaper than the Nikon lens. For photographers who are budget-conscious yet still want a high-quality lens, the VILTROX presents a compelling option. However, the price difference also reflects the distinct functionalities and target users of each lens. The Nikon lens, being a full-frame zoom lens with advanced features, justifies its higher price tag, targeting professional photographers and videographers who require versatility and superior performance in various shooting conditions.

Lens Type and Use Case

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a full-frame zoom lens, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji is a prime lens designed specifically for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. The versatility of the Nikon lens allows for a range of focal lengths—24mm to 70mm—making it suitable for everything from landscape photography to portrait work. In contrast, the VILTROX’s fixed 27mm focal length (equivalent to 40mm) offers a more specialized use, excelling in portrait and street photography due to its large f/1.2 aperture that creates beautiful bokeh. This distinction in lens type is critical for photographers to consider based on their specific shooting needs.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus performance of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is notably faster and quieter than its predecessor, promising a 5x increase in speed and a 50% reduction in noise. This is particularly beneficial for videographers who need to avoid intrusive sounds during recordings. On the other hand, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji also boasts precise and fast autofocus capabilities, including support for eye focus. While both lenses provide excellent autofocus performance, the Nikon lens's advancements cater more to professionals who prioritize speed and discretion in their work.

Build Quality and Features

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II features an internal zoom mechanism, which enhances stability and weather resistance, making it ideal for outdoor shooting and use with gimbals. It also includes a custom control ring that allows users to toggle between click adjustments and smooth transitions. In contrast, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji, while not equipped with an internal zoom, boasts an optical construction of 15 glass elements designed to minimize optical aberrations. Each lens has unique strengths, with the Nikon offering greater versatility and durability, while the VILTROX focuses on achieving high optical quality.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II has a close focusing capability of 9.5 inches at 24mm, allowing for creative close-up shots with a maximum magnification of 0.32x. In comparison, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji has a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches (28cm), which is slightly longer than the Nikon’s. While both lenses allow for close-up photography, the Nikon lens offers greater flexibility for macro-style shots, appealing to photographers who enjoy intricate details in their images.

Bokeh Quality

For photographers who prioritize bokeh quality, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji excels with its f/1.2 aperture, producing creamy, soft backgrounds that enhance portrait photography. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II also delivers beautiful bokeh, thanks to its constant f/2.8 aperture combined with 11 rounded diaphragm blades. While both lenses create aesthetically pleasing backgrounds, the VILTROX’s larger aperture provides a more pronounced bokeh effect, making it particularly attractive for portrait photographers looking to achieve a three-dimensional feel.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is compatible with a range of Nikon Z series cameras, including the Z9, Z8, Z7II, and more, making it a versatile choice for users of Nikon's mirrorless system. In contrast, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji is specifically designed for Fujifilm X-mount cameras like the XH2S, XT5, and XT4, which limits its versatility to a specific brand but ensures optimized performance within that ecosystem. Photographers should consider their current camera system when choosing between these lenses to ensure compatibility and maximize their investment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II and the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji depends largely on your specific needs and budget. If you are a professional photographer requiring a versatile, high-performance zoom lens with advanced features, the Nikon lens is worth the investment at $2,796.95. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that excels in portrait photography with stunning bokeh, the VILTROX at $578.00 is an excellent choice. Ultimately, each lens serves its purpose well, catering to different styles and user preferences.