VILTROX vs VILTROX

Overview of the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E and VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is priced at $179.00, making it about 35% cheaper than the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE, which retails for $275.00. Both lenses are crafted for Sony E-mount cameras but cater to different photography styles and needs. The 35mm option is ideal for a versatile range of photography, while the 85mm is specifically designed for portraiture, offering unique advantages in that domain.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E features a bright f/1.7 aperture, providing excellent low-light capabilities and creating beautiful background blur (bokeh). This large maximum aperture is well-suited for a variety of photography styles, including street photography and portraits. On the other hand, the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE offers a slightly narrower f/2 aperture, which still allows for stunning bokeh but may not perform as well in extremely low-light conditions as the 35mm lens. The difference in aperture size makes the 35mm lens more versatile for different lighting scenarios.

Focal Length and Versatility

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E has a focal length of 35mm, which closely mimics the human eye's perspective. This makes it an excellent option for a wide range of photography, from landscapes to street scenes. Conversely, the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE has a focal length of 85mm, which is specifically tailored for portrait photography, allowing for a more compressed view and enhanced subject isolation. While the 35mm lens excels in versatility, the 85mm lens is dedicated to producing high-quality portrait shots.

Optical Design and Image Quality

The optical design of the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E includes 11 elements in 9 groups, including two high refractive (HR) elements and one extra-low dispersion (ED) element. This design minimizes chromatic aberrations and flare, ensuring outstanding image quality. The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE, with its 10 elements in 8 groups, also employs extra-low dispersion elements and HR lenses to reduce chromatic aberration and maintain sharpness. Both lenses offer impressive image quality, but the 35mm may have an edge in versatility due to its wider aperture and design.

Autofocus Performance

Both lenses feature advanced autofocus technology, but they differ slightly in their approach. The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is equipped with a new STM motor, delivering fast and near-silent autofocus performance, making it ideal for both photography and video recording. The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE also utilizes a Stepping Motor (STM) for smooth and precise autofocus, enhancing its usability for both photo and video. While both lenses excel in autofocus performance, the 35mm lens provides additional benefits like minimized focus breathing, which is particularly advantageous for video work.

Build and Design

Weighing only 170g, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it highly portable for photographers on the go. Its durable metal body ensures long-lasting performance. In contrast, the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE weighs 340g, which is still manageable but almost double the weight of the 35mm lens. The ergonomic design of the 85mm lens, while slightly heavier, is still compact for handheld shooting. If portability is a deciding factor, the 35mm lens stands out.

Close-Up Capabilities

The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.74 meters, allowing for impressive close-up shots with great detail, making it perfect for capturing intricate features in portrait photography. The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E, while not specified for close-ups, is versatile enough to handle various shooting situations, but it does not boast the same close-up capabilities as the 85mm. For photographers interested in detailed, close-up portrait work, the 85mm lens has a clear advantage.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E and the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE largely depends on your specific photography needs. If you seek a versatile lens for various styles, including landscapes and street photography, the 35mm option at $179.00 is a compelling choice. However, if your focus is on portraiture and you need a lens that excels in that domain, the 85mm lens, priced at $275.00, offers unique advantages, such as enhanced bokeh and close-up capabilities. Ultimately, both lenses are excellent in their respective categories, but your decision should align with your primary photography goals.