Viltrox AF 28mm F1.8

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Viltrox AF 28mm F1.8 for Nikon Z mount is an interesting addition to the lineup of compact prime lenses available for mirrorless cameras. This lens tickles the fancy of photographers who seek a lightweight, portable option, particularly for street, landscape, and travel photography. Its impressive maximum aperture of F1.8 allows for beautiful bokeh and excellent low-light performance, making it quite versatile for various shooting scenarios.

One of the standout features of the Viltrox AF 28mm is its autofocus capabilities. The lens sports a fast and reliable autofocus system that makes capturing fleeting moments a breeze. In my experience, it locks onto subjects quickly, which is important for those spontaneous street photography captures. Additionally, the autofocus is relatively quiet, so it won't disturb the environment or your subject—an essential factor for nature and candid photography.

The design of the Viltrox AF 28mm is sleek and modern. It's compact and lightweight, which aids in comfort during long shooting sessions. The build quality feels solid in hand, with a good balance that works well with Nikon Z bodies. The lens also features a metal mount, which adds durability and reliability, especially for outdoor use.

However, it's important to note that while the lens performs admirably in many scenarios, it may not be without its flaws. Some users have reported slight chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes, a common issue in lenses at this price point. Additionally, the lens's distortion can be noticeable, particularly if shooting architecture—though this is generally easy to correct in post-processing.

The lens also lacks optical stabilization, which could be a drawback for those who primarily shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds. However, when paired with a Nikon Z body equipped with in-body stabilization, this may be less of an issue.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fast and reliable autofocus
• Lightweight and compact design
• Solid build quality with a metal mount
• Excellent low-light performance with F1.8 aperture
• Good for both street and landscape photography

Cons

• Slight chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes
• Noticeable distortion, particularly in architectural shots
• No built-in optical stabilization

Verdict

Overall, the Viltrox AF 28mm F1.8 is a remarkable lens for Nikon Z users who appreciate a fast prime lens that excels in portability and image quality. While there are minor quirks regarding distortion and chromatic aberration, its strengths in autofocus performance and low-light capability make it a worthy consideration for photographers seeking to expand their arsenal without breaking the bank. Whether you're shooting casual street scenes or capturing landscapes, this lens can be a reliable companion for your creative endeavors.