Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7 is a compact autofocus prime for APS-C cameras with Sony E, Nikon Z or Fujifilm X mount. It belongs to Viltrox's Air series, which stands for small and light designs. On APS-C bodies, 35mm gives roughly the field of view of a 53mm lens on full frame, according to Viltrox, so it works as a normal lens for portraits, street and travel.

Optical design

The optical construction has 11 elements in 9 groups. Viltrox lists 1 ED element, 1 aspherical element and 2 high-refractive-index elements, plus a nano multi-layer coating against flare and ghosting. The 9-blade aperture ranges from F1.7 to F16. The minimum focusing distance is 0.33 m with a maximum magnification of 0.13x, and the viewing angle is 45 degrees.

Autofocus and handling

Focusing uses a Viltrox STM motor with a lead screw, which the maker describes as quiet, and supports eye and face detection. Focusing is internal. Viltrox points out minimal focus breathing and compatibility with in-body image stabilization for video. The lens has no optical stabilizer of its own. There is no aperture ring; the aperture is set from the camera. USB-C firmware updates are possible, as Viltrox states on the product page.

Build and size

The lens weighs 170 g for Sony E and Fujifilm X and 180 g for Nikon Z. The size is 64 mm in diameter and 56.4 mm in length according to the specification table, while the page text mentions 54.7 mm. It has a metal mount, a water-repellent front coating, a lotus-shaped hood and takes 52 mm filters.

Where it fits

Fast 35mm lenses for APS-C in the database include the Sony E 35mm F1.8 OSS (155 g, with stabilizer) on Sony E and the Fujifilm XF 35mm F2 R WR (170 g) and XC 35mm F2 (130 g) on Fujifilm X. For more light and a heavier body, the Fujifilm XF 33mm F1.4 R LM WR at 360 g and the Viltrox AF 33mm F1.4 are options. The brighter Viltrox lenses for full frame, such as the AF 35mm F1.8, cover a different class.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Very light at 170 g to 180 g
• F1.7 aperture and 0.33 m minimum focusing distance
• Eye and face detection autofocus
• Available for three APS-C mounts

Cons

• No aperture ring
• No built-in stabilizer
• Viltrox does not state weather sealing on the product page
• APS-C only, no full-frame coverage

Verdict

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7 is a light, compact normal lens for APS-C cameras that adds an F1.7 aperture and autofocus with eye detection. It is a good fit for travel and everyday carry.