Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 Lab N

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 Lab N is a full-frame autofocus prime for Sony E and a variant of the Lab 35mm F1.2 without the built-in display. Viltrox lists it as AF 35mm F1.2 LAB N FE (Non-Display) next to the standard version, and PetaPixel reported its launch on 23 April 2026. The optics are unchanged, only the control layout differs.

Optical design

Viltrox gives the same optical data as for the display version: 15 elements in 10 groups with 5 ED, 3 high-refractive-index and 2 UA aspherical elements. It uses a dual floating internal focusing system, an 11-blade aperture that closes to F16, a 0.34 m minimum focusing distance and a 0.17x maximum magnification. PetaPixel confirms that the 15-element, 10-group design has not changed.

Autofocus and handling

Focusing is handled by Viltrox's Quad HyperVCM motors with eye and face detection support, according to the manufacturer. The main change is the control layout. The LED display is gone, and a stepped aperture ring replaces the multi-function control ring found on the display version, as PetaPixel describes. The Viltrox page lists a clicked aperture design and mechanical control, so the aperture is set directly on the lens. The product page describes an AF/MF switch and two customizable Fn buttons for the standard version; whether the N keeps them is not stated separately.

Build and size

The lens keeps the all-metal, weather-sealed body and the water and stain repellent front coating. Viltrox specifies about 910 g, which is 10 g less than the display version, with a diameter of 89.2 mm, a length of 121.8 mm and 77 mm filters. The Amazon listing for the N version also states 910 g.

Where it fits

This model replaces nothing in the database, it sits next to the Lab 35mm F1.2 with display. Photographers who prefer a plain aperture ring and no screen on the lens will find it here, as the optical performance is the same. Other fast 35mm choices for Sony E in the database are the Sigma 35mm F1.2 DG DN Art at 1090 g and the Sony Distagon T* FE 35mm F1.4 ZA. A lighter Viltrox option is the AF 35mm F1.8.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Same F1.2 optics and 0.34 m close focus as the Lab
• Stepped aperture ring with direct control on the lens
• Slightly lighter at about 910 g
• Weather-sealed all-metal build

Cons

• Still a large lens for a 35mm
• 77 mm filter size
• No optical stabilizer
• Only offered for Sony E

Verdict

The Lab N is the same bright 35mm F1.2 with simpler, more traditional controls. The choice between the two versions comes down to preference for a display or an aperture ring.