Rokinon vs VILTROX AF
Updated July 2026 — Rokinon wins on angle of view and weight, VILTROX AF wins on aperture.
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 excels in image quality and build, while the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 offers portability and affordability.
Why Rokinon is better
Image Quality
Superior sharpness and clarity with 14 elements.
Build Quality
Robust design suitable for professional use.
Low-Light Performance
Fast f/2.8 aperture for better low-light shooting.
Why VILTROX AF is better
Portability
Lightweight design at only 60g.
Price
Significantly cheaper at $99.
Autofocus
Built-in VCM motor for quick autofocus.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Rokinon | VILTROX AF |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 14mm | 28mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 | f/4.5 |
| Elements | 14 elements | 6 elements |
| Groups | 10 groups | 6 groups |
| Focus Type | Manual | Autofocus |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 and VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 and the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 are two distinct camera lenses designed for different photographic needs. While the Rokinon offers an ultra-wide perspective ideal for landscapes and astrophotography, the VILTROX lens serves as a lightweight option for everyday shooting with Fujifilm cameras. Understanding their features and strengths will help you decide which lens better suits your photography style.
Image Quality and Performance
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 boasts superior image quality with a design that includes 14 elements in 10 groups. This construction contributes to exceptional sharpness and clarity, making it an excellent choice for capturing detailed landscapes and night skies. It also performs well in low-light conditions due to its fast f/2.8 aperture, allowing for bright images even when lighting is challenging.
On the other hand, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 is designed with 6 elements in 6 groups, including 2 ED and 2 aspherical lenses. This configuration ensures that the lens produces sharp, vibrant images, ideal for casual photography and vlogging. The innovative lens design also creates beautiful starburst effects, appealing to those looking for creative flair in their shots.
Focal Length and Versatility
The Rokinon 14mm lens offers an ultra-wide focal length of 14mm, providing a remarkable 115.7° angle of view. This makes it particularly suited for capturing expansive scenes, such as real estate photography or vast landscapes. It is versatile for full-frame cameras, offering a slightly narrower field of view with APS-C models.
In contrast, the VILTROX AF 28mm lens has a focal length of 28mm, which is more suited for general photography. It is characterized by its unique wide-angle perspective, making it a great choice for street photography or environmental portraits. While not as wide as the Rokinon, the 28mm focal length still allows for a versatile range of compositions.
Build Quality and Design
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 lens is built to withstand heavy use, weighing 31.7 oz (900g) with a robust design. Its dimensions of 6.0 x 3.5 x 3.7 inches make it a substantial piece of equipment, ensuring reliability for professional photographers in various conditions. The lens also includes a built-in petal-type hood, enhancing its functionality in bright environments.
In comparison, the VILTROX AF 28mm lens is significantly lighter, weighing only 60g and measuring just 15.3mm thick. This lightweight design makes it the thinnest lens in its category, perfect for photographers who prioritize portability. The lens also features an innovative slide cap design that transforms into a lens cap, adding a fun element to its practicality.
Autofocus Capabilities
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 is a manual focus lens, which allows for precise control over focusing. This can be advantageous in scenarios where precise focus is critical, such as astrophotography. However, the manual focus may not be as convenient for quick, candid shots.
Conversely, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 comes equipped with a built-in VCM motor that ensures quick and precise autofocus. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy capturing spontaneous moments and need a lens that can keep up with fast-paced shooting. The lens also supports face and eye recognition, enhancing its usability for portrait and street photography.
Price Comparison
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 is priced at $231.25, which positions it as a premium option for serious photographers. In contrast, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 is significantly more affordable at $99.00, making it about 57% cheaper than the Rokinon. This price difference reflects the market segments each lens is targeting, with the VILTROX catering to budget-conscious consumers seeking quality without the hefty price tag.
Compatibility and Use Cases
The Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 is compatible with various camera mounts, including Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sony E, making it a versatile choice for photographers using different camera systems. Its wide-angle capabilities make it ideal for landscapes and night sky shots, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 is specifically designed for Fuji X-mount cameras, ensuring seamless integration with Fujifilm’s lineup, including models like the X-T5 and X-H2. Its lightweight and compact design make it an excellent option for travel, street photography, and vlogging, appealing to those who value convenience and portability.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 and the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 ultimately depends on your photographic needs. If you require an ultra-wide-angle lens for landscapes or astrophotography and are willing to invest more for superior image quality and build, the Rokinon is the better choice. However, if you are looking for a lightweight, affordable lens that excels in everyday shooting and offers autofocus capabilities, the VILTROX is an excellent option. Each lens holds its unique strengths, making them valuable tools for different types of photography.