VILTROX 85mm F1.8 Z Autofocus Lens

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87%
92%
Image Quality
88%
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
89%
Low-Light Performance
91%
Value for Money
84%
Build Quality
90%
Portability
86%
Ease of Use
95%
Compatibility with Nikon Z-Mount
85%
Bokeh Quality
82%
Firmware Updates
75%
Focus Accuracy in Low Light
87%
Vlogging Suitability
More

Overview

The VILTROX 85mm F1.8 Z Autofocus Lens is a standout option for Nikon Z-mount users seeking a high-quality, affordable portrait lens. This compact design makes it easy to carry, while the large F1.8 aperture ensures excellent low-light performance. With its fast autofocus powered by an STM motor, this lens excels at delivering sharp, clear images with smooth background bokeh. Whether you're a professional or an enthusiast, this lens offers a balanced combination of price and performance for portrait and general photography.

Features & Benefits

This VILTROX lens is equipped with high-quality optics, featuring one ED lens and four low dispersion elements, ensuring sharpness and clarity even at wide apertures. The nano multilayer coating reduces ghosting and flare, enhancing image quality. Its internal focus structure keeps the lens size compact while improving focus accuracy. Weighing just 540g, the lens boasts a durable metal body that makes it portable yet robust, perfect for photographers on the go. Additionally, the USB Type-C port allows for easy firmware updates.

Best For

This 85mm portrait lens is ideal for photographers seeking a fast, sharp lens for portrait work, especially those who prioritize background blur and subject isolation. It's also well-suited for vloggers and content creators who need quiet autofocus and sharp results for video. Nikon Z-mount users looking for a versatile lens that performs well in low light will find this lens particularly useful. The lightweight, compact build makes it a great option for photographers who need a lens that's easy to carry without compromising on performance.

User Feedback

Users widely praise this VILTROX lens for its sharpness and image quality, particularly in portraiture where detail and background separation are crucial. The autofocus speed and accuracy are often highlighted, with many mentioning how well it tracks subjects in dynamic environments. However, some users noted that there can be occasional focus hunting, particularly in low light situations. Despite this, many find the lens to be an exceptional value, especially when compared to pricier alternatives from established brands.

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Pros

  • This lens offers excellent low-light performance thanks to its large F1.8 aperture.
  • Portrait photographers love the sharpness and smooth background bokeh it delivers.
  • The autofocus is quick and quiet, making it ideal for content creators and vloggers.
  • Its lightweight design (540g) makes it easy to carry, especially for travel or street photography.
  • The durable metal body ensures long-term use and reliability in various conditions.
  • This VILTROX lens provides great value for money when compared to more expensive 85mm lenses.

Cons

  • Some users report occasional focus hunting in low-light environments.
  • At wide apertures, edge sharpness can be slightly soft for some photographers' preferences.
  • The lens may not be fast enough for capturing moving subjects, especially in dim light.
  • While lightweight, the build may feel less premium compared to higher-end lenses.
  • Firmware updates require a USB Type-C connection, which may be inconvenient for some users.
  • It's not the best choice for users seeking an ultra-versatile lens for multiple use cases.

Ratings

The VILTROX 85mm F1.8 Z Autofocus Lens has garnered a range of feedback from global users across various platforms and languages. After filtering out spam, bot-driven, and exaggerated reviews, we’ve compiled authentic, high-quality insights. While this lens impresses in areas like image sharpness and autofocus performance, there are some noted pain points, such as occasional focus hunting in low-light conditions. The overall ratings reflect both its strengths and areas for improvement, giving you a clear, balanced picture of what to expect from this product.

Image Quality
92%
Users consistently praise the sharpness and clarity this lens offers. Many mention the vibrant colors and excellent detail retention, particularly in portraits. The bokeh is smooth and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall image quality, making it a solid choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Some reviewers feel that while the image quality is excellent in most situations, there can be slight softness at the edges when shooting wide open at F1.8. A few users have pointed out that this lens performs better when stopped down slightly, which might be inconvenient for some looking for an all-around sharp image at every aperture.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
88%
The autofocus system is fast and quiet, which users particularly appreciate during video shoots and when photographing subjects that move quickly. Many buyers also report that the accuracy is generally excellent, with minimal hunting even in relatively challenging environments. This makes it a great option for both still photography and content creation.
While the autofocus is mostly reliable, some users have noted occasional focus hunting in low-light conditions, which can be frustrating when shooting in darker environments or at night. Additionally, the autofocus can occasionally struggle with subjects that lack contrast, especially when wide open at F1.8.
Low-Light Performance
89%
The large F1.8 aperture allows this lens to perform well in low-light situations, enabling faster shutter speeds without needing to increase ISO. Users have commented on the lens’s ability to capture sharp, clear images even in dimly lit environments, making it a reliable choice for indoor photography, event coverage, and nighttime shoots.
Although the lens performs well in low light, some users have expressed concerns about image quality degradation when shooting wide open at F1.8, particularly in the corners of the frame. Additionally, the focus hunting mentioned earlier can become more pronounced in low-light conditions, which might be an issue for fast-paced or critical shooting situations.
Value for Money
91%
Many users are impressed by the lens’s performance considering its relatively affordable price. It delivers high-quality images, fast autofocus, and good low-light performance without the premium price tag that some higher-end lenses command. This balance of performance and cost makes it a great value for both hobbyists and professional photographers.
A few users feel that while the lens is a good value, the build quality, although solid, may not match the durability and feel of more expensive lenses. Some also pointed out that the image quality at wider apertures could be better, though this is common at this price point.
Build Quality
84%
The lens is built with a solid metal exterior, giving it a premium feel while maintaining a lightweight design at just 540g. Users appreciate the durability of the materials, especially given the lens's price. It's compact, easy to handle, and doesn't feel flimsy during extended use.
Despite the metal construction, a few users have mentioned that the lens feels a bit less robust than some high-end models. Some also noted that the lens can feel a bit more lightweight than expected, which, while making it portable, could be a concern for users who prefer heftier, more rugged designs.
Portability
90%
This lens’s compact design and relatively light weight make it an excellent choice for photographers who value portability. It's easy to pack for travel or take on location shoots, and many users find it doesn't weigh them down, even during long shooting sessions. Its small form factor makes it more versatile for a variety of photography styles.
While portable, some users have noted that the lens's smaller size may make it a bit harder to handle comfortably for those with larger hands. A few reviewers also mentioned that the smaller size might make it feel less substantial compared to bulkier lenses, which some photographers prefer for balance and control.
Ease of Use
86%
Many users find this lens intuitive and easy to use, especially those who are already familiar with Nikon Z-mount cameras. The autofocus is responsive and quiet, while the lens itself is lightweight, making it comfortable for extended shooting. The addition of a USB Type-C port for firmware updates is also a convenient feature for those who want to keep the lens up to date.
A few users have mentioned that the manual focus ring feels a bit stiff and less smooth than expected. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated aperture ring might be a drawback for those who prefer more tactile control over their settings, especially when shooting in more dynamic situations.
Compatibility with Nikon Z-Mount
95%
This lens is fully compatible with Nikon Z-mount cameras, and users report seamless integration with various models. The autofocus works efficiently, and the image quality is optimized for the Z-mount system. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers looking for a dedicated lens to match their Nikon mirrorless cameras.
Some Nikon Z-mount camera users have pointed out that while the lens is compatible, it may not offer the same level of integration or advanced features as lenses designed specifically for the Z-series cameras. However, this is a minor issue for most users, given the lens’s strong performance at this price point.
Bokeh Quality
85%
The bokeh produced by this lens is soft and pleasing, with many users mentioning how it adds a beautiful touch to portrait shots. The out-of-focus areas are smooth, which enhances the subject's presence in the frame, making it a great choice for those who value a high-quality bokeh effect in their work.
Some users feel that the bokeh quality could be improved further, with occasional harshness seen in some shots. This is more noticeable when shooting wide open at F1.8, and could be a concern for those who prioritize a very creamy bokeh effect.
Firmware Updates
82%
18%
The inclusion of a USB Type-C port for firmware updates is a notable feature, as it allows users to keep the lens’s software up to date with minimal effort. This is particularly appreciated by those who want to ensure their lens performs optimally with future camera body updates.
While the firmware update process is a nice addition, some users have found it unnecessary or cumbersome, especially if they don't experience any issues that require firmware fixes. For those who don't mind manual updates, this feature may not feel as essential.
Focus Accuracy in Low Light
75%
25%
While not perfect, many users have praised the lens for its decent focus accuracy in low-light environments, making it usable for shooting in dimly lit conditions. It's still better than many other lenses in this price range, offering a good balance between performance and cost.
The focus accuracy in low light is one of the more frequently mentioned drawbacks, with some users finding it slower or less precise compared to higher-end lenses. The occasional focus hunting in dim lighting can be frustrating for those who require consistent autofocus, especially in critical moments.
Vlogging Suitability
87%
This lens is often recommended for vloggers, as it delivers quiet and fast autofocus while maintaining sharp image quality. The wide aperture allows for great depth of field control, which many content creators value for making their videos visually striking. Its portability also makes it ideal for on-the-go vlogging.
Some vloggers have pointed out that the 85mm focal length may feel a bit too tight for certain types of shots, especially when recording in small spaces. A wider focal length lens might be more versatile for those who need a more flexible field of view for dynamic video content.

Suitable for:

The VILTROX 85mm F1.8 Z Autofocus Lens is a great choice for portrait photographers and content creators, especially those using Nikon Z-mount cameras. Its sharpness and bokeh are highly appreciated for delivering beautiful portraits with smooth background separation. This lens is also ideal for vloggers who require a quiet autofocus system and want to shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing image quality. The compact design and lightweight build make it a convenient tool for those who need a portable lens for on-the-go shooting or travel. Additionally, photographers looking for an affordable alternative to higher-end 85mm lenses will find this option offers excellent value without compromising essential performance.

Not suitable for:

However, this lens may not be the best fit for users who demand flawless autofocus performance in all conditions. Some reviewers report occasional focus hunting in low light, which can be an issue for fast-paced shoots or when working in dim environments. Additionally, those who prioritize superior edge-to-edge sharpness at wide apertures may find this lens slightly lacking, especially when shooting wide open at F1.8. If you're looking for a heavy-duty lens with premium construction and feel, or if you need an ultra-fast autofocus system for fast-moving subjects, this might not meet all of your needs. It is also not recommended for vloggers needing a more versatile, wide-angle lens.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: This lens has a focal length of 85mm, ideal for portrait photography and delivering natural compression.
  • Aperture: The lens features a large F1.8 aperture for improved low-light performance and a shallow depth of field.
  • Autofocus System: Equipped with an STM motor, this lens offers fast and quiet autofocus, suitable for both stills and video work.
  • Mount Type: This lens is compatible with Nikon Z-mount cameras.
  • Lens Construction: The lens is constructed with 7 groups and 10 elements, including one ED lens and four low dispersion elements to minimize chromatic aberrations.
  • Coating: The lens features a nano multilayer coating that helps reduce ghosting and flare, improving contrast and color accuracy.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The minimum focus distance of this lens is 80cm, making it suitable for portrait and medium-distance subjects.
  • Maximum Magnification: This lens offers a maximum magnification of 1:8, providing moderate macro capabilities.
  • Weight: Weighing 540g, this lens is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go photography.
  • Dimensions: The lens measures approximately 4.72 x 5.51 x 5.51 inches, offering a compact form factor for portability.
  • Material: This lens features a durable metal exterior, ensuring long-lasting build quality while maintaining portability.
  • Firmware Updates: The lens includes a USB Type-C port for firmware updates, allowing for easy software enhancements.
  • Bokeh Quality: The large F1.8 aperture allows for smooth and creamy background bokeh, making it well-suited for portrait photography.
  • Compatibility: This lens is designed specifically for Nikon Z-mount cameras and is not compatible with other camera systems without an adapter.
  • Ideal Use: This lens is particularly suited for portrait photography, content creators, and vloggers due to its sharpness and smooth autofocus.

FAQ

This lens is ideal for portrait photographers, vloggers, and content creators. Its fast autofocus and large F1.8 aperture make it excellent for low-light situations and delivering smooth background bokeh.

Many users have praised the autofocus speed and accuracy of this lens, especially for portraits and video work. The built-in STM motor ensures quiet and smooth focusing, making it a good choice for video recording.

This lens is specifically designed for Nikon Z-mount cameras, so it is not compatible with other camera systems without an adapter. Make sure you have a Nikon Z-mount camera before purchasing.

Yes, the large F1.8 aperture of this lens allows for better performance in low-light conditions, making it a great choice for shooting in dim environments or at night.

Weighing just 540g and with compact dimensions (4.72 x 5.51 x 5.51 inches), this lens is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it a solid option for photographers on the go.

Users report sharp images with great clarity, even at wide apertures. The lens features high-quality optics with one ED lens and four low dispersion elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and deliver crisp, high-contrast images.

Yes, this lens includes a USB Type-C port for firmware updates. This allows you to keep the lens up to date with any performance improvements or bug fixes released by the manufacturer.

Some users have noted occasional focus hunting in low-light conditions, but this is not a widespread issue. Overall, the lens performs well in most lighting scenarios.

The minimum focus distance for this lens is 80cm (approximately 2.6 feet), which is ideal for portraits but may limit its versatility for close-up or macro photography.

Many users find this VILTROX lens to be an excellent value for its price. While it may not match the build and features of premium 85mm lenses, it offers strong performance, especially in autofocus and image quality, at a much more affordable price.