VILTROX vs VILTROX
Updated July 2026 — VILTROX wins on weight and price, VILTROX wins on length and focal length.
The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE excels in image quality and features, while the 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake offers superior portability and affordability. Choose based on your specific needs.
Why VILTROX is better
Image Quality
14mm lens has a more complex optical design.
Close Focus
14mm lens allows for closer shots.
Autofocus Speed
14mm lens features a fast STM motor.
Why VILTROX is better
Portability
28mm lens is lighter and slimmer.
Price
28mm lens is significantly cheaper.
Versatility
28mm lens is suitable for various photography styles.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | VILTROX | VILTROX |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Design | 12 elements in 9 groups | 6 elements in 6 groups |
| Autofocus Type | STM | Standard |
| Image Quality | High | Good |
| Lens Hood | Included | Not Included |
| Coating | Advanced | Standard |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE and VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake
The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE is a full-frame wide-angle lens designed for Sony e-Mount cameras, while the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake is a compact lens tailored for Fujifilm's X-Mount system. The former is priced at $199.00, whereas the latter offers a more budget-friendly option at $99.00, making it about 50% cheaper. This significant price difference invites potential buyers to consider their specific needs in wide-angle photography.
Optical Design and Image Quality
The optical design of the VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE includes 12 elements arranged in 9 groups, featuring advanced elements such as 2 High Refractive and 4 Extra-low Dispersion elements. This composition ensures impressive image quality by minimizing chromatic aberrations and flare. In contrast, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake has a simpler design with 6 elements in 6 groups, including 2 ED and 2 aspherical lenses. While both lenses deliver high-quality images, the 14mm lens's complex design may provide superior performance, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.
Focal Length and Field of View
The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE offers a generous field of view at 112°, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography where capturing expansive scenes is crucial. Meanwhile, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake provides a versatile 28mm focal length, suitable for a wide range of applications, including portraits and environmental shots. The difference in focal length means that the 14mm lens is particularly suited for dramatic perspectives, while the 28mm lens is more adaptable for everyday photography.
Autofocus Performance
Both lenses come equipped with efficient autofocus systems, but their performance characteristics differ. The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE features a fast STM motor that enables quick and accurate focusing, which is particularly beneficial for videographers seeking smooth transitions. On the other hand, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake emphasizes compactness while providing precise autofocus, allowing for quick shooting without complex setups. If speed and accuracy in autofocus are priorities, the 14mm lens may have the edge due to its advanced motor technology.
Size and Portability
In terms of portability, the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake stands out as the lightweight champion, weighing only 60g and measuring just 15.3mm in thickness. This makes it the lightest and thinnest lens from Viltrox, ideal for on-the-go shooting. Conversely, the VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE weighs 170g, which, while still relatively light, is significantly heavier than its counterpart. For photographers prioritizing a compact gear setup, the 28mm lens would be the better choice.
Close Focusing Distance
The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE boasts a minimum focusing distance of 0.13 meters (13cm), enabling stunning close-up shots with intricate details. This feature adds versatility, allowing it to excel in various shooting scenarios beyond just landscapes. The 28mm lens does not specify a close focusing distance, which may limit its capacity for detailed close-ups. If macro capabilities are important for your photography, the 14mm lens has a clear advantage.
Price Comparison
The VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE is priced at $199.00, while the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake is available for $99.00. This represents a price difference of $100, making the 28mm lens about 50% cheaper. For those on a budget or just entering the world of photography, the lower cost of the 28mm lens offers an appealing entry point without compromising too much on quality. However, the additional features and capabilities of the 14mm lens may justify the higher price for more experienced photographers.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the VILTROX 14mm f4.0 FE and the VILTROX 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require a wide-angle lens with superior image quality, advanced autofocus, and close focusing capabilities, the 14mm lens is an excellent investment despite its higher cost. On the other hand, if portability, budget, and versatility are your main concerns, the 28mm lens is a fantastic choice that still delivers quality performance at a significantly lower price.