Mark Ellington
VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E Mount Lens
Introduction
The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E Mount Lens is a remarkable addition to the world of photography, specifically designed for Sony APS-C cameras. Manufactured by VILTROX, a company known for its innovative optical products, this lens falls into the category of large aperture prime lenses. It is primarily intended for photographers looking for a versatile lens that excels in low-light conditions and gives beautiful background blur, making it perfect for portraits, street photography, and creative shots.
Product Overview
The VILTROX 35mm f1.7 lens boasts a bright f/1.7 aperture, which enhances its capability to perform in various lighting scenarios. With a focal length equivalent to 53mm on full-frame cameras, it captures sharp, vivid images while maintaining a natural perspective that closely resembles the human eye. Additionally, the lens features an optimized optical design with 11 elements in 9 groups, ensuring outstanding image quality by reducing chromatic aberrations and flare.
Appearance and Design
In terms of aesthetics, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E lens showcases a sleek and compact design, weighing only 170g. This lightweight quality makes it highly portable, ideal for photographers on the go. The lens is constructed from durable metal, providing a robust feel while promising long-lasting performance. One of its standout features is the extended lens hood, which not only protects the lens from stray light but also enhances image contrast. Additionally, it includes a USB-C upgrade port for easy firmware updates, ensuring the lens remains compatible with newer camera models.
Key Features and Specifications
- Bright f/1.7 Aperture for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful bokeh.
- 53mm equivalent focal length, perfect for various photography styles.
- Optimized optical design featuring 11 elements in 9 groups.
- Includes 2 High Refractive (HR) elements, 1 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) element, and 1 Aspherical (ASPH) element.
- Compact and lightweight design (170g).
- Fast and near-silent autofocus with new STM motor.
- Low focus breathing for smooth transitions during video recording.
- Extended lens hood for better protection and contrast.
- USB-C port for firmware upgrades.
- 3 Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Experience Using the Product
During my time with the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E lens, I found it to be an exceptional tool in various shooting scenarios. In low-light environments, the f/1.7 aperture did wonders, allowing me to capture images with remarkable clarity and minimal noise. The lens performed admirably during portrait sessions, creating stunning background blur that made my subjects stand out beautifully. Street photography was also a breeze, as the lens captured vivid colors and sharp details without any noticeable distortion.
Using the autofocus feature was a delightful experience; it was fast, precise, and nearly silent, making it an excellent choice for both photography and videography. I appreciated the low focus breathing during video recording, which allowed for seamless focus transitions without distracting shifts in framing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent low-light performance with a bright f/1.7 aperture.
- Compact and lightweight design, easy to carry around.
- Fast and quiet autofocus, suitable for both stills and video.
- High-quality optical design, minimizing aberrations and flare.
- USB-C port for firmware updates ensures longevity and compatibility.
Cons
- The lens may feel slightly bulkier compared to standard kit lenses.
- Some users may find the lack of weather sealing a drawback for outdoor use.
Conclusion
Overall, the VILTROX 35mm f1.7 E Mount Lens is an outstanding choice for photographers using Sony APS-C cameras who seek a versatile, high-quality lens. With its bright aperture, excellent image quality, and compact design, it caters to a wide range of photography styles. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh them, making it a fantastic investment for both enthusiasts and professionals alike. At a price point of $179, it delivers exceptional value for its performance and capabilities.
