Viltrox vs VILTROX

Overview of the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E and VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens

In this comparison, we explore two notable lenses from Viltrox: the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E and the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens. The former is designed for Sony E mount cameras, while the latter caters to Nikon Z series cameras. Both lenses boast impressive specifications and features tailored for different types of photography. Understanding their strengths will help you decide which lens best suits your needs.

Price Comparison

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is priced at $176.00, making it about 36% cheaper than the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens, which costs $275.00. If budget is a key concern, the 25mm option presents a more economical choice without sacrificing essential features. However, the price difference reflects the specialized nature of the 85mm lens, which is designed for portrait photography and offers advanced optical characteristics.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E features a bright maximum aperture of f/1.7, which excels in low-light conditions and allows for greater control over depth of field. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens offers an f/2.0 aperture, slightly less than its counterpart but still capable of producing stunning bokeh and professional-quality portraits. For photographers who frequently shoot in low-light settings, the 25mm lens may have the edge, while the 85mm lens’s aperture is well-suited for portraiture.

Autofocus Capabilities

Both lenses are equipped with STM stepper motors for quiet and precise autofocus performance. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E supports face and eye recognition, which is particularly beneficial for capturing dynamic subjects in both photography and video. The VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens also boasts enhanced autofocus capabilities, making it ideal for both photography and video shooting. This similarity highlights a commitment to achieving exceptional autofocus performance in both lenses, catering to the needs of modern content creators.

Build Quality and Design

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E weighs only 170g, making it a lightweight option that is perfect for travel and everyday use. On the other hand, the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens is slightly heavier at 360g but is still designed with portability in mind, measuring φ69mm x 78mm. While the 25mm lens may be more convenient for casual shooting, the sturdier build of the 85mm lens is meant to withstand tougher environments, making it suitable for more extensive portrait sessions.

Optical Performance

The optical design of the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens includes 10 elements in 8 groups, featuring Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and high refractive index (HR) lenses. These elements work together to reduce chromatic aberration while delivering sharp and vivid results. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E, while not specified in as much detail, is also engineered for quality images, particularly in low-light situations. If optical performance is paramount, especially for portrait work, the 85mm lens is likely the superior choice.

Focusing Distance

The VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens offers a minimum focusing distance of just 0.74 meters, allowing for beautiful close-up shots with incredible detail. This feature is particularly advantageous for portrait photographers who want to capture intricate details of their subjects. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E does not specify a close-up distance, which may limit its effectiveness for certain types of detailed shots. For those who prioritize close-up capabilities, the 85mm lens certainly stands out.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is versatile, suitable for a range of photography styles including street photography, landscapes, and casual portraits. Its lightweight design enhances its usability for everyday shooting. Meanwhile, the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens is specifically engineered for portrait photography, making it less versatile but highly effective in its niche. If you're looking for a more all-purpose lens, the 25mm may be preferable; if portrait photography is your focus, the 85mm is tailored for that purpose.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E and the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens ultimately depends on your specific needs as a photographer. If budget constraints are a major factor and you require a lightweight, versatile lens for various shooting conditions, the 25mm F1.7 E is an excellent choice at $176.00. Conversely, if your focus is on achieving stunning portrait shots with advanced optical performance and you are willing to invest more, the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens priced at $275.00 is the way to go. Each lens has its unique strengths, so consider your photography style before making a decision.