VILTROX vs YONGNUO

Price Comparison

The VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens is priced at $275.00, while the YONGNUO 35MM F1.8 Art Auto Focus Lens costs $128.00. This makes the Yongnuo approximately 53% cheaper than the Viltrox, which is a significant price difference for photographers on a budget. When considering the price-to-performance ratio, the YONGNUO offers an entry-level option that could be appealing for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. The VILTROX, on the other hand, positions itself as a more premium lens, justifying its higher price with features that cater to professional portrait photographers.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, both lenses exhibit solid construction, but they cater to different user experiences. The VILTROX 85mm is designed to be compact and lightweight, weighing only 360 grams, which enhances portability during long shooting sessions. It measures φ69mm x 78mm, making it ergonomic for handheld use. Conversely, the YONGNUO 35MM boasts a metal bayonet and outer shell, which contributes to its durability, while also featuring a dustproof and waterproof rubber ring. This makes it suitable for various environments. Both lenses prioritize user comfort and resilience, but the VILTROX’s lighter design may appeal more to those who prioritize ease of handling.

Aperture and Depth of Field

Aperture plays a crucial role in photography, influencing depth of field and low-light performance. The VILTROX 85mm features a wide F2.0 aperture, excellent for creating stunning bokeh and beautiful portrait shots. This makes it particularly advantageous for photographers focused on portraiture, as it allows for strong background blur. The YONGNUO 35MM, while slightly less wide at F1.8, still provides a large aperture for beautiful background bokeh. Both lenses excel in creating pleasing depth of field, but the VILTROX may have a slight edge for those specifically looking for pronounced bokeh effects in their portraits.

Autofocus Performance

The VILTROX 85mm is equipped with a Stepping Motor (STM) that ensures smooth, quiet, and precise autofocus, making it suitable for both photography and video work. This enhanced autofocus performance is particularly beneficial in dynamic shooting situations. The YONGNUO 35MM also features a quiet autofocus system, making it a good option for video recording. While both lenses provide effective autofocus capabilities, the VILTROX's design is more tailored for professional settings where quick and silent autofocus is critical, especially in portrait photography.

Minimum Focusing Distance

Minimum focusing distance is vital for capturing detail in close-up shots. The VILTROX 85mm has a minimum focusing distance of just 0.74 meters, allowing photographers to get closer to their subjects and capture intricate details in portraits. In comparison, the YONGNUO 35MM offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.35 meters, which is advantageous for general photography and closer compositions. While the VILTROX excels in delivering detailed portrait shots from a distance, the YONGNUO’s shorter focusing distance makes it versatile for various photography styles, including street and product photography.

Optical Quality

Optical quality is a significant factor for any lens. The VILTROX 85mm is engineered with 10 elements in 8 groups, including Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and high refractive index (HR) lenses, which help reduce chromatic aberration and maintain color accuracy. This sophisticated optical design results in crisp and vivid images, ideal for professional use. The YONGNUO 35MM also incorporates advanced optical elements, with 10 elements in 9 groups and 2 aspherical lenses aimed at minimizing aberrations. Both lenses deliver excellent image quality, but the VILTROX may appeal more to professionals who require impeccable sharpness and color fidelity in their work.

Compatibility and Use Cases

When it comes to compatibility, each lens is tailored for different camera systems. The VILTROX 85mm is specifically designed for Nikon Z-mount cameras, including models like the Z6 III and Z8, making it an ideal choice for Nikon users looking for a portrait lens. On the other hand, the YONGNUO 35MM is compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, including the A7 series and ZV-E1. This broad compatibility makes the Yongnuo a versatile option for a variety of Sony camera users. Each lens excels in its respective compatibility, but ultimately depends on the photographer's camera system.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the VILTROX 85mm F2.0 Z Lens and the YONGNUO 35MM F1.8 Art Auto Focus Lens largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're a professional portrait photographer seeking high optical quality, impressive bokeh, and excellent autofocus performance, the VILTROX at $275.00 is a solid investment. However, if you're looking for a more affordable, versatile lens for general photography with a good balance of features, the YONGNUO at $128.00 may be the better choice. Ultimately, both lenses offer unique advantages, catering to different photography styles and preferences.