Viltrox AF 23mm F/1.4

Fujifilm X

Review

The Viltrox AF 23mm F/1.4 is a solid lens choice for Fujifilm X-mount users, particularly those who appreciate a fast aperture for low-light photography and a versatile focal length for street and portrait shots. This lens aims to offer both excellent optical performance and a compact form factor, making it an appealing option for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the Viltrox AF 23mm F/1.4 is its bright f/1.4 aperture, which allows for beautiful background blur (bokeh) and improved performance in challenging lighting conditions. The lens incorporates multiple elements, including aspherical and low dispersion glass, which work together to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure sharp images across the frame. In practical use, images produced with this lens exhibit great detail and contrast, especially when stopped down slightly.

Autofocus System

The autofocus on the Viltrox AF 23mm F/1.4 is generally reliable, and it features a quiet motor that makes it suitable for both photography and video work. It locks focus quickly and precisely, even in low-light environments. However, there have been occasional reports from users experiencing slight hunting in extremely low-light situations. While this is not a deal-breaker, it’s something to note for those entering more demanding shooting conditions.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, the lens feels sturdy and well-constructed, with a metal body that gives it a premium feel. It's relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for extended periods. The design has a classic aesthetic that many photographers will find appealing, and the smooth control rings for both focus and aperture add to the overall user experience.

Versatility

The 23mm focal length on a Fujifilm X-mount camera translates to roughly 35mm in full-frame terms, which is a sweet spot for many users. It’s an excellent choice for street photography, environmental portraits, and casual landscape shots. The fast aperture further enhances its versatility, allowing for creative depth of field control.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Bright f/1.4 aperture for low-light capabilities.
• Compact and lightweight design.
• Good optical performance with minimal aberrations.
• Smooth and precise autofocus, particularly ideal for video.
• Versatile focal length for a variety of photography styles.

Cons

• Autofocus may occasionally hunt in extreme low-light conditions.
• Limited weather-sealing, which makes it less suitable for heavy outdoor use.
• May not compete with higher-end lenses in terms of edge-to-edge sharpness at wide apertures.

Verdict

Overall, the Viltrox AF 23mm F/1.4 is a remarkable lens that combines optical performance with an attractive build and operational ease. While it does have minor drawbacks, its strengths outweigh them, making it a solid choice for both amateur and professional photographers using Fujifilm X-mount cameras. Whether you are shooting candid street scenes or environmental portraits, this lens delivers exceptional quality that can enhance your photography experience.