Viltrox vs YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 Lens Large Aperture Auto Focus

Overview of the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E and YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E is designed for Sony E mount cameras and offers a bright f/1.7 aperture, while the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras and features an f/1.8 aperture. Both lenses support auto-focus, but they cater to different camera systems and user preferences, making them suitable for distinct photography styles.

The Viltrox lens is priced at $179.00, whereas the YONGNUO lens is significantly more budget-friendly at $82.00, making it about 54% cheaper. This price difference may influence your purchasing decision, especially if you are looking for a lens on a tighter budget.

Design and Build Quality

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E weighs only 170g, making it exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for travel and everyday use. Its compact design ensures that it does not add much bulk to your camera setup. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is also built with portability in mind, though its weight is not specified, and it features a focus distance indicator at 0.45 meters.

Both lenses are constructed to be user-friendly, but the Viltrox's lightweight nature can be particularly advantageous for photographers who prefer a minimalistic kit. The YONGNUO’s focus distance indicator helps with measuring distance and depth of field, which can be beneficial for beginners.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E boasts a maximum aperture of f/1.7, allowing for excellent low-light performance and greater control over depth of field. This is particularly useful for portrait photography where background blur is desired. The YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8, while slightly less bright, has an f/1.8 aperture, which still provides good low-light capabilities.

The difference of just one-tenth of a stop in aperture size may seem minor, but it can affect the bokeh quality and light-gathering ability. For those who often shoot in dimly lit environments, the Viltrox lens may offer a slight edge over the YONGNUO.

Autofocus and Shooting Modes

Both lenses support auto-focus, but the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E emphasizes its near-silent shutter sound, making it ideal for capturing candid moments without drawing attention. The YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 supports both auto and manual focus modes, catering to photographers who prefer more control over their shooting experience.

Moreover, the YONGNUO lens is compatible with various camera shooting modes, including M, AV, TV, and P modes, which are standard features for Canon shooters. Thus, while both lenses provide auto-focus capabilities, the YONGNUO offers additional versatility in shooting modes, which might appeal to certain users.

Compatibility with Camera Systems

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E is specifically designed for Sony E mount cameras, making it an excellent choice for photographers using models such as the ZV-E10 II or a6600. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, suitable for a wide range of EOS models.

Your camera system will heavily influence your choice between these two lenses. If you own a Sony camera, the Viltrox is the clear option, while Canon users will find the YONGNUO to be a more fitting choice. This compatibility factor is crucial when deciding which lens to purchase.

Versatility in Photography

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E excels not only in portrait photography but also in landscape and street photography due to its 35mm equivalent focal length. This versatility allows it to cater to a variety of creative shooting needs. Meanwhile, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 can also be used for diverse photography styles, thanks to its 50mm focal length, which is a classic choice for many photographers.

Both lenses are capable of creating stunning images, but the Viltrox's slightly wider aperture may give it an advantage in creative situations where low-light performance and depth of field are prioritized.

Price Comparison and Value for Money

The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E is priced at $179.00, making it a more premium option. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 is available for just $82.00, which is a considerable saving. This price difference of $97 indicates that the YONGNUO could be a better value for budget-conscious photographers seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank.

While the Viltrox offers certain advantages in performance, the affordability of the YONGNUO lens cannot be overlooked. If you are looking for value, the YONGNUO provides great features at a significantly lower cost.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Viltrox 35mm F1.7 E and the YONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 ultimately depends on your camera system and specific photography needs. If you own a Sony camera and are looking for a lightweight, versatile lens with excellent low-light performance, the Viltrox is the way to go. However, if you are a Canon user on a budget who values affordability and essential features, the YONGNUO is a commendable choice. Each lens has its strengths, so consider which features align with your photography style before making a final decision.