NEWS  Photography  November 24, 2023  Reading time: ~1 minute)

Max (RS editor)

In a market where budget-friendly full-frame autofocus lenses are a rarity, Viltrox disrupts the norm with its latest offering – the AF 20mm f/2.8 wide-angle lens priced at an astonishingly low $150.

Designed for the Sony E mount, Viltrox hints at an imminent release for the Nikon Z mount within the next few months. Renowned for delivering exceptional performance at unbeatable prices, Viltrox lenses consistently garner high praise and find their place in esteemed guides, including recommendations for the best Sony E mount lenses.

Tailored for astrophotography, landscapes, and architectural photography, the lens boasts an expansive 91.6-degree angle of view in a remarkably lightweight and compact body, weighing in at just 157g. Comprising 8 groups of 10 optical elements, including 2 ED lenses, 1 high refractive index lens, and 2 aspherical lenses, the 20mm lens effectively combats chromatic and aspherical aberrations.

Featuring a maximum aperture of f/2.8, the lens excels in low-light conditions, accompanied by a seven-blade diaphragm enhancing the bokeh quality, as stated by Viltrox. A standout feature is the inclusion of autofocus, a departure from many Viltrox lenses, with a fast and precise STM motor. Eye and face autofocus capabilities further ensure swift focus locking and tracking for both stills and video.

Viltrox emphasizes future-proofing the lens, incorporating a USB port for convenient firmware updates to keep pace with technological advancements. Additional highlights include a minimal focusing distance of 0.19m, enabling wide-angle macro photography, and the HD Nano multilayer coating that minimizes flare and ghosting.

Currently available for the Sony E mount, the lens is priced at $150 on the Viltrox Store  – a compelling bargain for a full-frame AF lens. While users of other mounts may need to exercise patience, the promise of exceptional value makes the wait worthwhile.