Viltrox Revolutionizes the Camera Lens Market with Its New Premium Lens That Competes with Sony's Best at Half the Price.
Should Sigma and his team be worried?
Photographers today have access to a wide variety of third-party lenses, thanks to manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron, and Samyang, which offer excellent alternatives to the expensive original optics from brands like Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Fujifilm. In this context, Viltrox stands out as a manufacturer that gained notable recognition in 2024. This Chinese company has focused on the production of photographic and cinematic equipment, successfully launching high-quality lenses at significantly lower prices than their proprietary counterparts.
Recently, I have been using the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 for Nikon Z mount for over a year. This lens is priced at exactly half of the Nikon 85mm f/1.8, and the difference in image quality between the two is virtually undetectable. Viltrox’s reputation is set to be further solidified with the arrival of its new lens, the Viltrox AF 135mm F1.8 LAB, which marks the beginning of its premium 'LAB' series of autofocus lenses. Feedback from those who have tried it reveals that it is an almost perfect lens.
Currently, this new lens is only available for Sony's E mount, compatible with the brand's mirrorless cameras, including the full-frame Sony A7R V. Priced at $764.15 on Amazon, it is currently at a 24% discount from its original value of $999, making it an attractive option compared to the outstanding Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM, which is considerably more expensive.
Although we have not yet completed our review of the Viltrox AF 135mm F1.8 LAB, the overall reception from users has been very positive. The MTF charts published by Viltrox suggest that it offers almost impeccable optical quality, regardless of the aperture in use, even at f/1.8. Additionally, the bokeh, which is essential for fast aperture telephoto lenses, also appears to be of high quality, ideal for portraits, though it is also effective for landscape photography due to the compression provided by this focal length.
While it has been noted that its autofocus performance is fast and silent, there is a slight concern about "focus breathing," which could be a downside for filmmakers working more seriously. However, the aperture ring is an attractive feature, allowing smooth or clicky operation, although it does not have aperture or focus distance markings, which are displayed on a customizable digital screen.
The construction of the 135mm F1.8 is robust, featuring magnesium alloy and advanced weather sealing. However, its weight of 1,235 grams might be a decisive factor for some, as it is considerably heavier than Sony's equivalent. This weight can be manageable when mounted on larger cameras like the Nikon Z8, but it may feel unbalanced when used with more compact models.
Despite its size, Viltrox is capturing the attention of many photographers and rivals in the industry. The LAB series could be the start of an innovative offering in lenses that will attract photographers seeking quality at a reasonable price.
