OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED vs VILTROX

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 50mm F2 Full Frame Lens is significantly more affordable than the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro lens, costing $199.00 compared to $549.99. This makes the VILTROX lens about 64% cheaper than its counterpart. If budget is a primary concern, the VILTROX lens offers an attractive option without sacrificing quality for a lower price.

Optical Performance

Both lenses excel in optical performance, but their designs cater to different needs. The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens boasts a bright f2.8 aperture and a minimum focusing distance of 7.4 inches, making it ideal for macro photography with 1:1 life-size magnification. In contrast, the VILTROX 50mm features a 9-group, 13-element structure, including aspherical elements, which enhances image quality and minimizes optical aberrations. This lens offers a focal length perfect for portraiture, but lacks the close-up capabilities of the Olympus lens.

Autofocus Features

When it comes to autofocus, the VILTROX lens has an advantage with its STM (Stepping Motor) technology, which provides fast, reliable, and quiet autofocus—ideal for both photography and videography. The OM SYSTEM lens, while equipped with High-Speed Imager AF (MSC), does not specify the same level of speed and quiet operation. For videographers and those who prioritize fast focusing, the VILTROX lens is likely the better choice.

Weight and Portability

The VILTROX 50mm is much lighter at just 205 grams, making it a highly portable option for photographers on the go. In contrast, the OM SYSTEM lens does not specify its weight but is generally heavier due to its more complex construction and weather-sealed design. If you often shoot outdoors or travel frequently, the lightweight nature of the VILTROX lens is a significant advantage.

Build Quality and Design

The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens features a weather-sealed design, enhancing its durability for outdoor use. This makes it suitable for various shooting conditions, including dusty or wet environments. On the other hand, the VILTROX lens prioritizes a compact design, making it lightweight, but it does not mention any weather resistance. For photographers who shoot in unpredictable weather, the OM SYSTEM lens offers peace of mind that the VILTROX lens cannot match.

Close-Up Capabilities

The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens excels in close-up photography with a minimum focusing distance of approximately 7.4 inches and a maximum magnification of 1x. This allows for detailed macro shots that the VILTROX lens cannot replicate, as it has a minimum focusing distance of 0.51 meters and a maximum magnification of 0.11x. If macro photography is your focus, the Olympus lens is undoubtedly the superior choice.

Versatility in Usage

The VILTROX 50mm lens is versatile enough for a range of subjects, particularly portraits, and general photography. Its standard focal length works well in various settings. Conversely, the OM SYSTEM Olympus lens is specifically designed for macro photography, which limits its versatility for other types of shooting. Therefore, if you're looking for a lens that can handle different scenarios, the VILTROX lens may be more advantageous.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro and the VILTROX 50mm F2 Full Frame Lens largely depends on your specific needs. If you're focused on macro photography and require a weather-sealed design, the Olympus lens is the clear winner despite its higher price. However, if budget, portability, and versatility are your top priorities, the VILTROX lens offers great value at a significantly lower price point.