Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens

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85%
87%
Image Quality
94%
Portability & Weight
82%
Autofocus Speed & Accuracy
85%
Build Quality
88%
Ease of Use
90%
Sharpness & Clarity
72%
Low-Light Performance
91%
Value for Money
80%
Lens Cap Design
92%
Compatibility with Fujifilm X-Mount
85%
Overall Versatility
75%
Customer Support & Warranty
More

Overview

The Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is a compact, wide-angle prime lens designed for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. Its 28mm focal length, offering a 42mm equivalent on APS-C sensors, makes it a versatile choice for those seeking sharp, clear images. With its lightweight design and slim profile, it’s perfect for photographers who need a portable lens without sacrificing quality. The f/4.5 aperture provides a balanced depth of field, ideal for landscapes and environmental portraits. This pancake lens stands out for offering superb optical performance while being incredibly easy to carry.

Features & Benefits

This Viltrox lens weighs just 60g, making it a great choice for on-the-go shooting or travel photography. Its precise VCM autofocus motor ensures that focusing is quick and responsive, even when capturing fast-moving subjects. The lens also features a multi-layer coating that minimizes ghosting and flare, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images. Additionally, the innovative slide cap design provides dust protection and makes it easier to use, especially when quickly transitioning between shots. With its solid build and reliable performance, it’s an excellent tool for everyday photography.

Best For

This pancake lens is best suited for photographers who prioritize portability without compromising on image quality. Fujifilm X-mount camera users will appreciate its compact size and the ability to capture wide-angle shots with excellent sharpness. It’s an ideal option for street photographers and those who frequently travel, as it’s unobtrusive and lightweight. If you enjoy shooting landscapes, architecture, or environmental portraits, the Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF offers versatility and convenience that’s hard to beat.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise this lens for its sharpness and color accuracy, particularly in well-lit conditions. Its lightweight design is a favorite feature among those who value ease of use, especially during long shooting sessions. However, some have reported slight softness at the edges, especially in low-light environments, which may impact the overall image sharpness in certain situations. Despite this, it’s considered a great all-around lens for casual and professional photographers looking for a versatile and affordable option for their Fujifilm cameras.

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Pros

  • Lightweight design at just 60g makes this lens easy to carry during extended photography sessions.
  • Fast and reliable autofocus with the VCM motor works well for quick, spontaneous shots.
  • Sharp and accurate color reproduction makes it great for landscapes and portraits.
  • Compact size fits easily into camera bags, perfect for travel or street photography.
  • The slide cap design is an innovative and convenient feature, providing quick protection.
  • This lens offers great value for those looking for a budget-friendly wide-angle prime lens.

Cons

  • Some users report minor edge softness, especially in low-light conditions or wide-open apertures.
  • Not the best choice for photographers who need a lens with superior build quality for heavy-duty use.
  • Lack of weather sealing may make it unsuitable for outdoor or extreme environmental conditions.
  • Autofocus can be slightly slow in low-light situations or when tracking fast-moving subjects.
  • Although sharp in the center, the lens’s corners may exhibit softness at certain focal lengths.
  • Limited maximum magnification (0.1x) could be a downside for macro photography enthusiasts.

Ratings

The Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens has garnered positive feedback from photographers worldwide, with users highlighting its portability and impressive optical performance. After analyzing verified reviews across multiple platforms and languages, we filtered out spam and off-topic feedback to present a balanced picture. The ratings reflect both the lens's strengths, such as sharpness and ease of use, as well as minor drawbacks, like slight softness in low-light conditions, giving prospective buyers a clear overview of what to expect.

Image Quality
87%
Many users find the image quality of this lens impressive, with sharp details and vibrant color reproduction. The lens provides clear and crisp images, making it ideal for both casual and professional photographers. It handles landscapes and environmental portraits especially well, capturing fine details without much distortion.
However, a few users note that image quality can be slightly inconsistent at the edges, particularly when shooting in low-light conditions. Some also report occasional issues with ghosting or flare, despite the multi-layer coating.
Portability & Weight
94%
The ultra-light design of this lens is a standout feature, with a weight of just 60g. This makes it highly portable and an excellent option for travel and street photographers who need to minimize gear weight without sacrificing performance. Its compact size fits easily in bags or even pockets, enhancing its versatility.
While the portability is generally praised, some users feel that the lightweight construction can feel somewhat flimsy. A few have expressed concerns about the lens's long-term durability, especially with frequent handling in various shooting environments.
Autofocus Speed & Accuracy
82%
18%
The autofocus motor performs well for most users, providing quick and accurate focus for everyday shooting. The VCM motor ensures reliable tracking for both static and moving subjects, making it a solid choice for both casual and street photographers. Many appreciate its silent operation, which is a bonus for video work.
However, some users have reported occasional focus hunting, particularly in low-light scenarios or when shooting fast-moving subjects. While autofocus is generally good, it's not always as fast as some higher-end lenses in similar categories.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality of this lens is solid for its price range. Users appreciate its compact design and the innovative slide cap, which adds both protection and convenience. The lens feels sturdy enough for regular use, with a well-designed mount that fits securely on Fujifilm X-mount cameras.
That said, a small number of users have mentioned that the lightweight build can feel somewhat plasticky. Some feel that the materials used don't inspire the same level of confidence as more premium lenses, though the lens's price reflects this trade-off.
Ease of Use
88%
This lens is highly regarded for its user-friendly design. Its lightweight nature and compact size make it comfortable to handle during long shoots. Photographers also appreciate the simple and intuitive controls, making it easy to adjust settings on the go. The lens is especially favored by those who prefer minimalistic setups.
Some users mentioned that the lack of manual aperture control can be a downside for those used to more hands-on adjustments. A few also noted that it can be tricky to fine-tune focus in extremely low-light conditions, as the autofocus can occasionally struggle.
Sharpness & Clarity
90%
Sharpness is one of the key strengths of this lens, with many users praising its ability to produce detailed, clear images. It excels in daytime and bright conditions, offering a sharp focal plane across most of the frame. The clarity of the images, especially in landscapes and portraits, is highly appreciated by users.
However, some users report slight softness at the edges of the frame, particularly in lower light. While the center sharpness is excellent, these minor edge issues are occasionally noticeable in wider shots or when using a wider aperture.
Low-Light Performance
72%
28%
In good lighting conditions, this lens performs admirably. Users are happy with the clarity and sharpness even in challenging environments. The multi-layer coating helps to minimize ghosting and flare, which is especially useful in night photography or shooting against bright light sources.
When it comes to low-light performance, a few users report softness at the edges of images, even with the lens’s coatings. The lens also struggles a bit with autofocus in darker settings, which could be a dealbreaker for those who frequently shoot in low-light environments.
Value for Money
91%
This lens offers excellent value for money, providing solid performance at a relatively affordable price. For photographers looking for a compact and capable lens without breaking the bank, it's a great choice. Users feel that the lens strikes a good balance between quality, portability, and cost.
A few users feel that the lens could offer even more in terms of features for the price, particularly in areas like low-light performance or autofocus speed. While it’s a great lens for casual photographers, professionals may expect more premium features for the price.
Lens Cap Design
80%
20%
The innovative slide cap design is a popular feature, with many users appreciating how it adds both protection and convenience. It's easy to use, offering quick access to the lens without the need for traditional lens caps. This design is especially appreciated by photographers who are always on the move.
However, some users feel that the slide cap might be prone to wear over time, especially with frequent use. There are occasional concerns about its durability, and a few feel that a more standard lens cap might provide better long-term protection.
Compatibility with Fujifilm X-Mount
92%
As a Fujifilm X-mount lens, it fits seamlessly with a variety of Fujifilm mirrorless cameras. Users have reported no issues with compatibility, and it pairs well with both entry-level and advanced Fujifilm bodies. The lens mount is sturdy, ensuring a secure fit and good communication between the lens and the camera.
The lens is only compatible with Fujifilm X-mount cameras, limiting its versatility for users with other camera systems. This could be a drawback for photographers who switch between different camera brands or use multiple systems.
Overall Versatility
85%
The lens offers good overall versatility, functioning well for various types of photography, from landscapes to street photography. Its compact size and wide-angle focal length make it an excellent all-around lens for casual and travel photographers. The autofocus and portability make it suitable for on-the-go use.
Some users feel that the lens could be more versatile in certain aspects, like low-light conditions or achieving faster autofocus. While it’s a solid performer for general photography, it may not meet the needs of more specialized or professional photographers.
Customer Support & Warranty
75%
25%
Many users report positive experiences with the customer support for this lens, especially regarding warranty claims. The warranty coverage provides peace of mind, and the support team is responsive to inquiries, offering timely solutions when issues arise.
However, a few users have expressed frustration with the lack of readily available documentation or detailed product manuals. Some have also mentioned slower-than-expected response times when reaching out for technical support or warranty inquiries.

Suitable for:

The Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is an excellent option for photographers seeking a compact, lightweight lens for travel or street photography. With its ultra-light design of just 60g, it’s perfect for those who prioritize portability, such as backpackers or casual shooters who need a low-profile lens for everyday carry. This lens is also well-suited for Fujifilm X-mount users who want a versatile wide-angle prime lens for capturing sharp, detailed landscapes, architecture, or environmental portraits. Its fast autofocus and clear image quality, particularly in good light, make it ideal for amateur photographers looking for an affordable but capable solution for general-purpose shooting.

Not suitable for:

This lens may not be the best choice for professionals or enthusiasts who require the highest level of optical performance across all conditions. Some users have pointed out that it struggles with edge sharpness in low light, which could be a drawback for those who frequently shoot in challenging lighting. Additionally, while the lens offers portability, its lightweight build might not feel durable enough for photographers who need a more robust, weather-sealed lens for heavy-duty use. If you often shoot fast-moving subjects or need a lens with superior low-light autofocus, this wide-angle lens may fall short of your needs.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens has a 28mm focal length, which is equivalent to 42mm on Fujifilm X-mount cameras with an APS-C sensor.
  • Aperture: The maximum aperture is f/4.5, providing a balanced depth of field for wide-angle shots.
  • Weight: The lens weighs only 60g, making it highly portable and easy to carry for on-the-go photography.
  • Lens Mount: This lens is designed specifically for Fujifilm X-mount cameras, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of models.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The minimum focus distance is 0.34m (approximately 1.1 feet), allowing for relatively close-up shots.
  • Maximum Magnification: The lens offers a maximum magnification of 0.1x, suitable for wide-angle photography but not ideal for macro-style shots.
  • Focus Motor: The lens features a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) autofocus system for fast and precise focusing.
  • Coating: A multi-layer coating is applied to the lens to minimize ghosting and flare, improving image clarity and contrast.
  • Lens Construction: The lens is built with 6 elements in 6 groups to ensure optimal image quality and minimize distortion.
  • Aspherical Lenses: It incorporates 2 aspherical lens elements to reduce chromatic aberrations and ensure sharp images.
  • ED Lenses: The lens includes 2 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements to enhance color accuracy and reduce optical distortions.
  • Cap Design: The lens features an innovative slide cap design that makes it quick and convenient to cover and uncover the lens.
  • Field of View: With a 28mm focal length, the lens provides a wide 75.4° field of view, making it ideal for landscapes and architecture.
  • Size: The lens has a compact and lightweight form, making it a practical choice for street and travel photographers.
  • Compatibility: The lens is compatible with all Fujifilm X-mount mirrorless cameras, offering versatile performance across the range.
  • Sharpness: Users praise the lens for its sharpness, particularly in the center of the frame, even at wider apertures.
  • Bokeh: Due to its f/4.5 aperture, the lens produces a moderate bokeh effect, which works well for some types of portraiture.
  • Performance in Low Light: Some users report slight softness at the edges, especially when shooting in low-light conditions or at wider apertures.

FAQ

This lens is lightweight at only 60g, making it highly portable for on-the-go photography. Its compact size means it can easily fit in a small camera bag, and the 28mm focal length offers a versatile perspective for both wide-angle shots and close-ups. These features make it a great option for street and travel photographers who value portability and convenience.

Yes, this pancake lens is designed specifically for Fujifilm X-mount cameras. It works with a wide range of Fujifilm models, providing a perfect fit and optimal performance. Be sure to check your camera's compatibility with third-party lenses, though, to avoid any potential issues.

The lens uses a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) autofocus system, which delivers fast and precise focusing. This allows for quick reactions during shoots, especially when capturing moving subjects or in dynamic environments. Users have generally praised the accuracy, although autofocus can occasionally be slower in low-light conditions.

Expect sharp images with excellent color accuracy, especially in the center of the frame. The multi-layer coating reduces ghosting and flare, ensuring clear, contrast-rich shots. However, some users have mentioned mild softness at the edges, particularly in low-light settings or at wide-open apertures.

The lens is lightweight and compact, but it is not built for heavy-duty use. While it feels solid, it lacks weather sealing, so it's best suited for casual or everyday photography. If you plan on using it in harsh weather conditions or for intense outdoor shoots, you might want to consider a more robust lens.

The minimum focus distance is 0.34 meters (about 1.1 feet), allowing you to capture subjects up close. This makes it suitable for both wide-angle and some macro-style shots, though it's not a true macro lens with extremely close focusing capabilities.

Yes, the Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is well-suited for video work, especially for run-and-gun or handheld shoots. The precise autofocus and compact design make it a good option for videographers who need a lightweight lens that won't compromise on image quality. However, some users have noted that its autofocus performance can be slower in low-light conditions, which might be a factor to consider for video.

The lens does not include a lens hood, but it does come with a slide cap, which serves as a protective cover. This design is convenient for quick use, though you might want to buy an additional lens hood separately if you need extra protection from light flares or physical damage.

The primary advantages are its compact size and lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for photographers who prioritize portability. The lens also provides good sharpness and color accuracy, especially for a budget-friendly option. Additionally, its wide-angle focal length (28mm, 42mm equivalent) is versatile enough for landscape, architecture, and environmental portrait shots.

While the Viltrox 28mm F4.5 XF Pancake Lens is generally well-regarded, some users have reported edge softness in certain conditions, especially in low light. Additionally, while it's a compact and portable lens, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty photographers who need a more durable or weather-resistant option.