VILTROX vs VILTROX AF

Overview of the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens

The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is designed for Sony E-mount cameras and is targeted primarily at portrait photographers. Priced at $275.00, this lens boasts a wide F2.0 aperture, which allows for excellent control over light and depth of field, creating stunning bokeh. The lens’ construction includes 10 elements in 8 groups, which ensures sharpness and color accuracy, making it a reliable choice for professional-quality images.

This lens is engineered with a Stepping Motor (STM) for enhanced autofocus performance, ensuring that both stills and video capture are smooth and precise. The compact and lightweight design, weighing only 340g, makes it suitable for long shooting sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, with a minimum focusing distance of 0.74 meters, it delivers impressive detail in close-up shots.

Overview of the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens

The VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is an ultra-light and slim option for Fuji X-mount users, retailing at a significantly lower price of $99.00. Its wide-angle perspective is ideal for landscape and street photography, appealing to those who appreciate a broader view in their shots. Weighing just 60g and measuring only 15.3mm in thickness, this lens is the lightest and thinnest in the Viltrox lineup, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting and vlogging.

The lens features 6 elements in 6 groups, including 2 ED lenses and 2 aspherical lenses, ensuring sharp and vibrant images. The innovative slide cap design not only protects the lens but also adds a unique touch to the shooting experience. Coupled with efficient autofocus capabilities powered by a built-in VCM motor, this lens is designed for quick and effortless shooting, supporting face and eye recognition.

Image Quality Comparison

When it comes to image quality, the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens excels with its advanced optical design. The inclusion of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and high refractive index (HR) lenses significantly reduces chromatic aberration, delivering crisp and vivid results. Photographers seeking professional-quality portraits will find this lens particularly appealing due to its ability to produce stunning bokeh and detail.

In contrast, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens also provides excellent image quality, but its strengths lie in wide-angle photography. The combination of ED and aspherical elements ensures sharpness and vibrant colors, while the unique front element creates beautiful starburst effects. However, the 28mm focal length may not offer the same depth of field control as the 85mm lens, which could be a deciding factor for portrait photographers.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus performance of the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is powered by a Stepping Motor (STM), which provides smooth, quiet, and precise focusing. This feature is essential for both photography and video, allowing for seamless transitions and sharp focus on subjects. The lens’s design caters to those needing reliable autofocus in various shooting conditions.

On the other hand, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens utilizes a built-in VCM motor that delivers efficient autofocus, ensuring quick and effortless shooting. It also supports face and eye recognition, making it an excellent choice for photographers who frequently capture moving subjects. While both lenses feature effective autofocus systems, the choice may come down to the specific needs of the photographer, whether they prioritize precision or speed.

Design and Portability

The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens is designed with portability in mind, weighing in at 340g and measuring φ69mm x 76mm. Its compact design allows photographers to carry it easily during long shoots, making it an ergonomic choice for portrait sessions. The build quality also ensures reliability in challenging shooting conditions.

Conversely, the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens takes portability to the next level with its weight of only 60g and a thickness of just 15.3mm. This ultra-slim design makes it incredibly easy to carry, fitting comfortably in a pocket or small camera bag. Its lightweight nature is particularly beneficial for travel and street photography, where convenience is key.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two lenses is substantial. The VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens retails for $275.00, while the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is priced at just $99.00. This makes the 28mm lens about 64% cheaper than its 85mm counterpart. Budget-conscious photographers may find the 28mm lens more appealing, especially if they are looking for a versatile lens without a significant investment.

However, the higher price of the 85mm lens reflects its specialized features and capabilities, particularly for portrait photography. Thus, while the 28mm offers great value, the 85mm may justify its cost for those who prioritize image quality and depth of field control.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the VILTROX 85mm F2 EVO FE Lens and the VILTROX AF 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you are primarily focused on portrait photography and require a lens that delivers exceptional bokeh and detail, the 85mm lens is the superior option, despite its higher price. It excels in image quality, autofocus performance, and offers a professional-level experience.

On the other hand, if you seek a lightweight, portable lens for general photography, travel, or vlogging, the 28mm lens is an excellent choice. Its affordability, compact design, and versatility make it ideal for on-the-go shooting. Therefore, assess your photography style and budget before making a decision, as both lenses offer distinct advantages tailored to different needs.