VILTROX vs VILTROX

Overview of the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z and VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji

The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z is priced at $99.00, making it about 45% less expensive than the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji, which retails for $179.00. These two lenses cater to different user needs, with the 28mm lens designed for Nikon full-frame Z-mount cameras, while the 35mm lens is optimized for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. Understanding their key features will help photographers make an informed choice based on their specific requirements.

Optical Performance

When comparing optical performance, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji boasts a bright f/1.7 aperture, which enhances low-light capabilities and allows for beautiful background blur. In contrast, the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z features a fixed aperture of f/4.5. While the 28mm lens focuses on compactness and lightweight design, the 35mm lens aims for versatility in various shooting conditions. The 35mm lens incorporates 11 elements in 9 groups, including high refractive and extra-low dispersion elements, ensuring outstanding image quality. This combination minimizes chromatic aberrations and distortion, which may make it the preferred choice for photographers seeking superior optical performance.

Design and Portability

The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z is ultra-compact and lightweight, measuring just 65.3mm in diameter and 16.8mm thick, weighing approximately 80g. This design makes it highly portable, ideal for travel and street photography. On the other hand, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji, while not excessively large, is bulkier due to its more complex optical design. It offers an extended lens hood for better protection against stray light, but its weight is not specified, suggesting that it may be less portable than the 28mm lens. For photographers prioritizing portability, the 28mm lens is clearly advantageous.

Autofocus Capabilities

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji features fast, precise, and near-silent autofocus thanks to its new STM motor, making it suitable for both photography and video applications. Additionally, it minimizes focus breathing, ensuring smooth transitions during video recording. The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z does not explicitly mention its autofocus speed or technology, leading to the assumption that it may not match the advanced capabilities of the 35mm lens in this regard. For users who prioritize quick and reliable autofocus, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios, the 35mm lens is likely the better choice.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji also excels in its minimum focusing distance, allowing users to shoot as close as 0.33 meters (33cm). This feature opens up creative opportunities for capturing detailed close-up shots. The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z does not specify its minimum focusing distance, which may limit its versatility in macro photography. Photographers seeking to explore close-up work might find the 35mm lens more advantageous due to its enhanced focusing capabilities.

Aperture and Exposure Control

The fixed aperture design of the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z simplifies exposure control but means that users cannot adjust the aperture settings for varying light conditions. Conversely, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji’s larger maximum aperture of f/1.7 allows for more creative control over depth of field and exposure, particularly in low-light environments. For those who enjoy experimenting with aperture settings, the 35mm lens offers greater flexibility and creative potential.

Additional Features

The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z includes a unique integrated sliding lens cap, eliminating the need for detachable caps and enhancing convenience. This lens also offers USB firmware upgradability, ensuring compatibility with future Nikon Z-mount cameras. The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji features thoughtful design details, such as an extended lens hood for better light management and a USB-C upgrade port for firmware updates. Both lenses include features that enhance user experience, but the sliding lens cap of the 28mm lens stands out for its practicality.

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z retails for $99.00, while the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji is priced at $179.00, making the latter approximately $80 more expensive. This significant price difference may be a key factor for budget-conscious photographers or those new to photography. While the 35mm lens offers enhanced features and capabilities, the affordability of the 28mm lens makes it an attractive option for those looking to enter the world of mirrorless photography without breaking the bank.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the VILTROX 28mm f4.5 Pancake Lens Z and the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 Fuji ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, affordability, and a compact design for casual photography, the 28mm lens is an excellent choice. However, if you seek superior optical performance, low-light capabilities, and greater creative control over depth of field, the 35mm lens is worth the investment. Consider your shooting style, budget, and camera system to determine which lens aligns best with your photographic goals.