VILTROX vs YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm
Updated July 2026 — VILTROX wins on elements and groups, YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm wins on weight and focal length.
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 excels in wide-angle photography, while the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 is superior for portraits and low-light conditions.
Why VILTROX is better
Wide Angle
Better for landscapes and architecture
Lightweight
Lighter at 173g compared to 203g
Fast Autofocus
Faster autofocus for action shots
Why YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm is better
Low-Light
Larger aperture of f/1.8 for low-light performance
Versatility
50mm focal length is great for portraits
Price
More budget-friendly at $102.00
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | VILTROX | YNLENS YONGNUO YN50mm |
|---|---|---|
| Autofocus | Fast | Auto/Manual |
| Image Quality | High | High |
| Build Quality | Good | Excellent |
| Compatibility | Nikon Z | Nikon F |
| Price | $176.00 | $102.00 |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 and YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 is a wide-angle lens designed for Nikon Z mount cameras, while the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 is a standard prime lens compatible with Nikon F mount cameras. The VILTROX lens is priced at $176.00, making it about 73% more expensive than the YONGNUO lens, which retails for $102.00. This price difference reflects their distinct features and intended use cases.
Autofocus Performance
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 offers fast autofocus performance, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. It supports EXIF information transmission and has a near-silent shutter sound, making it suitable for dynamic environments. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 features automatic and manual focus options, enhancing user control over depth of field and exposure. While both lenses provide autofocus capabilities, the VILTROX lens may be more advantageous for action shots, whereas the YONGNUO lens caters well to portraiture and detailed shots.
Aperture and Low-Light Capability
The YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 excels in low-light situations with its large aperture of f/1.8, allowing for impressive background blur and enhanced light intake. This makes it an excellent choice for wedding photography and artistic storytelling. On the other hand, the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 has a smaller aperture of f/2.8, which, while still decent, does not match the low-light performance of the YONGNUO lens. For photographers prioritizing low-light capabilities, the YONGNUO lens is clearly the superior option.
Build Quality and Weight
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 weighs only 173g, making it a compact and portable lens suited for various shooting scenarios. Its construction is designed to be sleek, which is particularly beneficial for impromptu shoots. The YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 is slightly heavier at 203g, but it still maintains a lightweight and portable design. Both lenses are constructed with quality materials, including high-precision metal bayonets in the YONGNUO lens. However, the VILTROX lens's lower weight may appeal more to photographers who frequently travel.
Focal Length and Versatility
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 provides a full-frame 20mm focal length, ideal for expansive landscapes and architectural photography. This wide-angle perspective allows for creative compositions in various environments. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 offers a classic 50mm focal length, closely mimicking the human eye's perspective. This makes it exceptionally versatile for portraiture, street photography, and food blogging. Depending on the type of photography you specialize in, your choice may hinge on your preferred focal length.
Optical Structure and Image Quality
Both lenses boast impressive optical structures, ensuring high-quality images. The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 features 10 elements in 8 groups, including 2 ED lenses and 2 aspherical lenses, aimed at reducing distortion and enhancing clarity. The YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8, with its 6 elements in 5 groups, utilizes high-definition nano-coating to minimize light loss and suppress glare. While both lenses promise crisp, clear images, the more complex optical design of the VILTROX lens may yield slightly better results in challenging photographic conditions.
Intended Use and Target Audience
The VILTROX 20mm F2.8 is tailored for photographers who focus on landscape, architecture, and wide-angle shots, making it a strong choice for travel and nature photography. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 is designed for those who prioritize portrait photography, detail work, and low-light performance. Its versatility makes it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike. Depending on your photographic needs, one lens may be more suitable than the other.
Price Comparison
The price difference between the two lenses is significant, with the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 being priced at $102.00 and the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 at $176.00. This makes the YONGNUO lens approximately 42% cheaper than its competitor. For budget-conscious photographers or beginners, the YONGNUO lens provides excellent value without compromising on essential features. However, those seeking specific capabilities may justify the higher price of the VILTROX lens.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, your choice between the VILTROX 20mm F2.8 and the YONGNUO YN50mm 50mm f/1.8 should depend on your specific photographic needs. If you require a fast autofocus wide-angle lens for landscapes or dynamic scenes, the VILTROX may be the better option despite its higher price. However, if you’re focused on portrait photography, low-light performance, and a more budget-friendly choice, the YONGNUO lens is hard to beat. Ultimately, both lenses offer compelling features, making them valuable additions to any photographer's kit.

