Viltrox vs VILTROX PRO

Overview of the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E and VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E and the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji present two compelling options for photographers, each designed for specific camera systems. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is aimed at Sony E-mount users, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 is built for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. Their differing specifications cater to various photography needs and styles, making it essential to discern their unique advantages.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is significant. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is priced at $176.00, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji comes in at $578.00. This means the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is about 70% cheaper than its Fujifilm counterpart. If budget is a primary concern, the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E offers a more accessible entry point into prime lens photography without sacrificing too much in quality.

Build and Design

In terms of design, the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E weighs only 170 grams, making it an excellent choice for travel and everyday use. Its lightweight construction does not compromise on compatibility with various Sony E-mount cameras, ensuring a seamless user experience. On the other hand, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 XF Fuji, while being heavier, is designed with a robust optical construction of 15 glass elements in 11 groups. This meticulous design aims to minimize optical aberrations, providing high-resolution imagery even at maximum aperture. Thus, if portability is a priority, the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E has the edge, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 is built for those seeking superior optical quality.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

A key difference lies in their apertures. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E features a bright f/1.7 maximum aperture, which allows for good performance in low-light conditions and offers some control over depth of field. In contrast, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 excels with its super large f/1.2 aperture, producing creamy bokeh that enhances portrait photography. This significant difference in aperture size means that the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 can achieve a more pronounced background blur, making it ideal for professional portrait and lifestyle photography where aesthetic quality is paramount.

Autofocus Capabilities

Both lenses are equipped with advanced autofocus systems, but they cater to different needs. The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E utilizes an STM stepper motor that provides a quiet autofocus experience, making it suitable for both photo and video shooting. It supports face and eye recognition, which is particularly advantageous for capturing moving subjects. Conversely, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 features precise and fast autofocus performance, which is crucial for capturing fast-moving objects. It also supports eye focus and EXIF information transmission, making it a robust choice for dynamic photography situations.

Versatility in Photography Styles

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is versatile enough to cater to various photography styles, thanks to its 25mm focal length, which is excellent for street photography, portraits, and even landscapes. Meanwhile, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 shines with its 27mm focal length, providing a 40mm equivalent perspective that is also highly versatile. This lens can handle everything from action-packed snapshots to architectural scenes. The choice between the two lenses may depend on the specific genres of photography you prefer; the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is suitable for a broader range of casual use, while the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 is tailored for more specialized applications.

Special Features

The Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E supports multiple camera shooting modes and offers EXIF information transmission, making it user-friendly for various photography needs. Its lightweight design and ease of use make it an excellent companion for everyday shooting. In contrast, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 includes features like a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches (28 cm), providing greater creative potential for close-up photography. The additional optical elements in the PRO 27mm further enhance its capability to control optical aberrations, making it a more refined tool for serious photographers.

Which should you buy?

Determining which lens to buy hinges on your specific needs and camera system. If you are using a Sony E-mount camera and are looking for an affordable, lightweight lens for general photography, the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E is an excellent choice, especially given its lower price of $176. On the other hand, if you own a Fujifilm camera and prioritize optical quality, low-light performance, and beautiful bokeh, the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2, despite its higher price of $578, offers superior features that justify the investment. In essence, choose the Viltrox 25mm F1.7 E for budget-friendly versatility, or the VILTROX PRO 27mm F1.2 for premium performance in portrait and specialized photography.