VILTROX vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle

Overview of the VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E and YONGNUO YN35mm F2

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E is priced at $199.00, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is significantly more affordable at $106.00, making it about 47% cheaper. This price difference may play a crucial role for budget-conscious photographers looking for quality lenses. Both lenses cater to different focal lengths and camera mounts, which can affect their suitability depending on the intended use.

Focal Length and Field of View

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E offers a wide focal length of 9mm, providing an ultra-wide 113.8° field of view. This makes it particularly suited for capturing expansive landscapes or dynamic vlogs. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 features a more standard 35mm focal length with a diagonal coverage of 63 degrees. While the VILTROX excels in wide-angle photography, the YONGNUO's focal length is more versatile for general photography, making it ideal for portraits and street photography.

Build Quality and Design

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E is designed to be lightweight and portable, weighing just 175g, which makes it an excellent choice for photographers on the go. It features a lotus-shaped lens hood that helps combat stray light and reduce dark corners in images. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2, while also practical, has a more traditional build structure with 5 sets of 7 lens elements. Both lenses come with protective caps, but the VILTROX's design elements focus more on modern usability, including a USB-C port for firmware updates.

Autofocus Performance

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E is equipped with an STM motor that delivers reliable and fast autofocus, making it suitable for capturing quick moments, such as street scenes or pets in motion. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 supports both auto focus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, providing flexibility for photographers who prefer to have control over their focus settings. While both lenses perform admirably, the VILTROX may edge out in terms of speed, particularly for dynamic subjects.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E has a minimum focusing distance of just 0.13 meters (13cm), allowing for stunning close-up shots with intricate details. This feature makes it incredibly versatile for various shooting scenarios, from capturing details in landscapes to intimate vlogs. In comparison, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 has a minimum focusing distance of 0.25m (0.8ft), which is still respectable but limits the close-up capabilities when compared to the VILTROX.

Image Quality and Optical Design

The optical design of the VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E includes 13 elements in 11 groups, incorporating 3 High Refractive elements, 3 Extra-low Dispersion elements, and 2 Aspherical elements to ensure sharp images from center to edge. This meticulous design enhances color accuracy and minimizes distortion, particularly important for wide-angle lenses. The YONGNUO YN35mm F2 also offers respectable optical quality, with multi-coated lenses that improve transmittance and reduce ghosting and flare, but it may not match the advanced optical specifications of the VILTROX.

Compatibility and Use Cases

The VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E is specifically designed for Sony E-mount cameras, including the a6400, a6500, and a6600, making it a perfect choice for users of those systems. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 is compatible with Canon EF mount cameras, offering a broader appeal for Canon users. Understanding your camera system is crucial when choosing between these lenses, as compatibility will dictate usability.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the VILTROX 9mm F2.8 E and YONGNUO YN35mm F2 largely depends on the photographer's needs and budget. The VILTROX, at $199.00, offers superior wide-angle capabilities, faster autofocus, and a lighter design, making it ideal for those who prioritize portability and wide-field photography. Meanwhile, the YONGNUO, priced at $106.00, is a more budget-friendly option that provides versatility for general photography, especially for Canon users. Ultimately, if you are focused on wide-angle shots and speed, the VILTROX is the better investment; however, if you need a reliable all-rounder lens at a lower price, the YONGNUO is a solid choice.