Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro

Sony E

Review

The Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro is a compelling addition to the ever-growing roster of fast prime lenses for Sony E mount cameras. Positioned as a versatile walk-around lens, its modest focal length is ideal for a range of photography styles including street, landscape, and portraiture. With a bright maximum aperture of f/1.2, it promises excellent low-light capabilities and a beautiful bokeh effect that many photographers crave.

Build Quality and Design

Viltrox has crafted the AF 27mm F1.2 Pro with a robust construction that feels solid in hand. It features a metal body that lends itself well to durability, making it suitable for everyday use. The focus ring is smooth, providing precise control for manual adjustments. The lens also has a compact form factor, which is advantageous for photographers on the go, as it won’t weigh down your camera bag.

Optical Performance

When it comes to image quality, the Viltrox lens does not disappoint. Sharpness is impressive across the frame, especially when stopped down just slightly from f/1.2 to f/1.4. Bokeh is smooth and creamy, effectively isolating your subject in portraits. Chromatic aberration is well controlled, but some users may notice slight vignetting at wider apertures which is common in fast wide-angle lenses. Overall, the lens performs admirably, particularly in challenging lighting situations where its f/1.2 aperture shines.

Autofocus System

The autofocus on the Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro is fast and accurate, making it a reliable choice for capturing spontaneous moments. It operates relatively quietly, which is a boon for video shooters. However, in certain low-light conditions, the autofocus may hunt slightly, although this is not a severe issue for most scenarios. Overall, the autofocus performance generally aligns with expectations for a lens in this category.

Versatility

This lens's 27mm focal length (equivalent to about 40mm on full-frame) makes it highly versatile. It can function as a street photography lens, a semi-wide-angle for landscapes, or even for environmental portraits. The fast maximum aperture allows creative freedom with depth of field, providing ample opportunities for artistic expression. It’s an excellent choice for creators looking to expand their kit without introducing a bulky lens.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Bright f/1.2 maximum aperture for excellent low-light performance.
• Solid build quality with a metal body.
• Impressive sharpness, especially at f/1.4.
• Smooth and creamy bokeh, perfect for portraits.
• Fast and accurate autofocus capabilities.

Cons

• Slight vignetting at wider apertures.
• Autofocus may hunt in very low-light situations.
• A bit of heft compared to other lens options in this focal length range.

Verdict

The Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro is a strong contender in the fast prime lens segment for Sony E mount cameras. Its excellent optical performance, sturdy build, and versatile focal length make it an attractive option for photographers seeking a dependable and high-quality lens. While there are minor drawbacks, they are easily overshadowed by its many benefits. If you’re in the market for a versatile, fast prime lens, the Viltrox AF 27mm F1.2 Pro is definitely worth considering.