VILTROX vs YONGNUO

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is priced at $179.00, while the YONGNUO 35MM F1.8 Art is more budget-friendly at $128.00. This means that the YONGNUO lens is about 28.6% cheaper than the VILTROX. For photographers on a budget, the lower price point of the YONGNUO may be more appealing, allowing them to invest in other photography accessories or lenses. However, it's essential to consider whether the performance differences justify the price disparity.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The VILTROX lens features a bright maximum aperture of f/1.7, providing exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur, making it suitable for portraits and street photography. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens has a slightly narrower maximum aperture of f/1.8. While both lenses allow for creative low-light photography, the VILTROX offers marginally better capabilities due to its larger aperture. This could be a deciding factor for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions.

Optical Design

VILTROX's lens boasts an optimized optical design with 11 elements in 9 groups, including specialized elements to minimize chromatic aberrations, distortion, and flare. Meanwhile, the YONGNUO lens features 10 elements in 9 groups, including 2 aspherical lenses and ultra-low dispersion glass to combat aberration. The slightly more complex design of the VILTROX lens may yield better image quality, especially in terms of sharpness and color accuracy. However, the YONGNUO lens also provides a commendable design that should meet the needs of casual photographers.

Autofocus Capabilities

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is equipped with a new STM motor, allowing for fast, precise, and nearly silent autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for video recording. The YONGNUO lens also offers quiet autofocus, but it does not specifically mention the type of motor used. The advanced autofocus system in the VILTROX lens may give it an edge in dynamic shooting scenarios, ensuring that users can capture fleeting moments with ease. This feature could be crucial for videographers or anyone shooting fast-moving subjects.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, both lenses feature durable metal bodies. The VILTROX lens is lightweight at 170g, promoting portability for on-the-go photographers. The YONGNUO lens, while not specified in weight, includes a metal bayonet and a waterproof membrane, making it suitable for various environments. If you frequently shoot in adverse weather, the YONGNUO's dustproof and waterproof features could be significant advantages. However, the compactness of the VILTROX lens may be more appealing for travel photographers.

Compatibility and Versatility

The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E is compatible with a range of Sony cameras, including models like the ZV-E10 II and a6700, making it versatile for different setups. Similarly, the YONGNUO lens supports a wide array of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras. Both lenses effectively capture images with a perspective similar to the human eye, making them ideal for various photography styles. For photographers who own multiple camera bodies, the compatibility offered by both lenses ensures that they can easily switch between setups.

User Experience and Features

The VILTROX lens includes thoughtful design details such as an extended lens hood for improved contrast and a USB-C upgrade port for firmware updates. In contrast, the YONGNUO lens emphasizes its user-friendly features, such as a minimum focusing distance of 0.35mm and a solid, durable design. While both lenses prioritize user experience, the VILTROX's additional features may enhance the overall usability for serious photographers. This could be a crucial point for users who prioritize long-term performance and adaptability.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E and the YONGNUO 35MM F1.8 Art largely depends on your specific needs and budget. The VILTROX lens offers superior low-light performance, advanced autofocus, and thoughtful design features, making it an excellent choice for serious photographers and videographers. However, its higher price point may deter those on a budget. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens provides excellent value for money, being about 28.6% cheaper and still delivering solid performance for casual photographers. If affordability is a priority, the YONGNUO could be the better option, while those seeking top-tier features and performance might lean toward the VILTROX.