VILTROX vs Samyang: Mirrorless Lens Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing VILTROX vs samyang mirrorless lens options for Sony E-mount cameras. Both are autofocus primes, but they serve different needs. The Viltrox is an 85mm portrait lens for full-frame bodies. The Samyang is a 12mm ultra-wide lens for APS-C sensors. One offers telephoto compression and shallow depth of field. The other provides a massive field of view for landscapes and interiors. You should choose based on your sensor format and desired focal length.
Key differences
| Aspect | Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II Sony E Lens | Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length | 85mm | 12mm |
| Sensor Format | Full Frame | APS-C |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.0 |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 80cm | not listed |
| Weight | 484g | 213g |
| Optical Construction | 10 elements in 7 groups | 12 elements in 10 groups (1 ASP, 1 H-ASP, 3 ED) |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II Sony E Lens if
- You shoot portraits on a full-frame Sony camera and want background blur.
- You prefer a longer focal length for half-length or full-length subject framing.
- You need a lens with a larger maximum aperture for low-light isolation.
Choose Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens if
- You use an APS-C Sony camera and need an ultra-wide perspective.
- You prioritize a lightweight tool for travel or astrophotography.
- You want weather sealing and a compact metal build for field work.
Verdict: Choose the Viltrox if you need a full-frame portrait lens with creamy background separation. Pick the Samyang if you are on an APS-C body and require an ultra-wide angle for landscapes or interiors. Each lens is specialized for its specific sensor format and focal length needs.
Viltrox vs Samyang Lens Specs
Sensor format compatibility
The Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II is designed for full-frame sensors. This allows you to use it on Sony full-frame bodies without crop factors, providing the classic 85mm portrait perspective. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is specified for APS-C sensors. Using it on a full-frame body would result in significant vignetting. This makes the Viltrox more versatile if you plan to upgrade to a full-frame camera later. The Samyang is strictly for APS-C bodies. You must match the lens to your sensor size to avoid image quality issues or black corners in your photos.
Focal length and use
The Viltrox offers an 85mm focal length, which is ideal for portraits. It helps you maintain a comfortable distance from your subject while isolating them from the background. The Samyang provides a 12mm ultra-wide view. This covers a massive 99.1-degree angle on APS-C, making it perfect for landscapes, architecture, or tight interior spaces. The choice depends entirely on what you shoot. If you photograph people, the Viltrox is the logical choice. If you capture environments or buildings, the Samyang provides the necessary reach and perspective.
Maximum aperture speed
The Viltrox features a large F1.8 maximum aperture. This lets in more light, which is beneficial for low-light scenarios and creates a shallow depth of field for beautiful background blur. The Samyang has a maximum aperture of F2.0. While still fast, it gathers slightly less light than the Viltrox. However, F2.0 is sufficient for most low-light situations and astrophotography. The Viltrox holds a slight technical advantage in light gathering capability. This can help you use faster shutter speeds or lower ISO settings in dim environments.
Build and weight
The Viltrox weighs 484 grams and features an all-metal body structure. It includes a lotus lens hood for protection against flare and weather. The Samyang is significantly lighter at 213 grams. It also has a durable metal build but is designed for portability. The Samyang includes weather sealing and a rear protective glass. For travel or long shooting sessions, the Samyang is easier to carry. The Viltrox is heavier, which may affect balance on smaller camera bodies. Both use metal construction, but the Samyang prioritizes a compact form factor.
Optical construction
The Samyang uses 12 elements in 10 groups, including one aspherical, one hybrid aspherical, and three ED elements. It also features Ultra Multi-Coating to minimize flare and ghosting. The Viltrox uses 10 elements in 7 groups with a nine-blade aperture. Specific optical coatings or special glass types are not detailed in the provided data for the Viltrox. The Samyang lists more specialized elements to correct aberrations. This suggests a focus on high contrast and color accuracy in challenging light. The Viltrox relies on its general optical design for image quality.
Choose the right lens for your needs
Portrait photographers using full-frame Sony bodies
The Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II is built for full-frame sensors, giving you the classic telephoto perspective without crop factors. Its F1.8 aperture allows for shallow depth of field and better low-light performance. The 80cm minimum focusing distance is ideal for headshots and environmental portraits, making it a dedicated tool for this specific genre.
Landscape and architecture shooters on APS-C cameras
The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is an ultra-wide lens designed for APS-C sensors, offering a 99.1-degree angle of view. This focal length is perfect for capturing immersive landscapes, interiors, and astrophotography. The 12 elements in 10 groups, including ED and ASP elements, help minimize distortion and aberrations for sharp wide-angle images.
Travelers wanting a lightweight and compact option
Weighing only 213 grams, the Samyang 12mm F2.0 is significantly lighter than the Viltrox 85mm, which weighs 484 grams. This compact size makes it easier to carry during long travel days. The sturdy metal build and weather sealing add durability without adding bulk, ensuring you have a reliable companion for on-the-go shooting.
The products compared
Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II Sony E Lens
Best for: full-frame portrait photography
- Lens Mount
- Sony E Mount
- Focal Length
- 85mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F1.8
- Sensor Format
- Full Frame
- Focus Type
- Auto Focus, STM
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 80cm
View on Amazon: Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II Sony E Lens Affiliate link
This VILTROX lens is a medium telephoto prime designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. It features an 85mm focal length and a wide F1.8 maximum aperture. The autofocus uses an STM motor for smooth operation. It includes eye focus support and a metal body. You get a minimum focusing distance of 80cm. This setup is ideal for portrait work where background separation matters.
Pros
- 85mm focal length suits portrait framing
- F1.8 aperture allows low-light shooting
- STM autofocus with eye focus support
- All-metal body construction for durability
- Micro USB port for firmware updates
Cons
- Minimum focusing distance is 80cm
- Maximum magnification is only 1:8
- No weather sealing mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You shoot portraits on a full-frame Sony camera
- You want a lightweight prime lens for travel
- You need reliable eye autofocus for subjects
Skip if
- You use an APS-C Sony body
- You require close-up macro photography
- You need a wider angle lens
Verdict: VILTROX 85mm F1.8 II Full Frame Sony E Lens delivers sharp portraits with fast autofocus. It fits photographers who prioritize subject isolation and portability.
Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens
Best for: APS-C landscape and interior photography
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 12mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.0
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Autofocus (Linear STM)
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens Affiliate link
The Samyang 12mm F2 is an autofocus ultra-wide lens designed for Sony E-mount APS-C cameras. It offers a 99.1-degree field of view and a bright f/2.0 maximum aperture. The optical formula includes 12 elements with ED and aspherical glass to reduce aberrations. A linear STM motor drives fast, quiet focusing. At 213 grams, it is lightweight and includes weather sealing for practical use in various conditions.
Pros
- 12mm focal length provides a 99.1-degree angle of view on APS-C sensors
- f/2.0 maximum aperture allows for better low-light performance and background separation
- Linear STM motor enables fast and near-silent autofocus operation
- 12-element optical design with ED and aspherical elements minimizes distortion
- Weighs only 213 grams with weather-sealed metal construction
Cons
- Limited to APS-C sensor format, so it does not cover full-frame sensors
- Maximum aperture is f/2.0, which is slower than the f/1.8 option on the competing VILTROX lens
- Physical dimensions are listed as 5.2 x 5.2 x 6.3 inches, which is larger than typical lens packaging
Good fit if
- You shoot landscapes or architecture on APS-C cameras and need a wide field of view
- You prioritize fast, quiet autofocus for video or action photography
- You want a lightweight lens that weighs under 220 grams
Skip if
- You use a full-frame camera and need a lens that covers the entire sensor
- You require a faster aperture than f/2.0 for extreme low-light situations
- You need a lens compatible with Canon RF-S or Fuji X mounts
Verdict: Samyang 12mm F2 APS-C Ultra-Wide is a practical wide-angle tool for APS-C users who value autofocus speed and low weight. It suits photographers who need a 99-degree view without the bulk of heavier glass.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II Sony E Lens | Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF Ultra Wide Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony E Mount | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 85mm | 12mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F1.8 | f/2.0 |
| Sensor Format | Full Frame | APS-C |
| Focus Type | Auto Focus, STM | Autofocus (Linear STM) |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 80cm | not stated |
| Color | not stated | Black |
| Aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.0 |
| Lens Type | Prime | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 6.3 × 5.2 × 5.2 inches |
| Size | 85mm F1.8 (Full Frame) | not stated |
| Model | not stated | SYIO12AF-E |
Frequently asked questions
Is Viltrox or Samyang better for portrait photography?
Viltrox is the better choice for portraits. Its 85mm focal length on a full-frame sensor provides a classic telephoto perspective ideal for isolating subjects. The f/1.8 aperture allows for shallow depth of field and strong background blur. Samyang offers a 12mm ultra-wide lens, which is not suitable for traditional portrait work.
Which lens is better for APS-C cameras?
The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is designed for APS-C sensors. It provides a 99-degree field of view, making it practical for landscape and interior photography. The Viltrox 85mm lens is specified for full-frame bodies. Using it on an APS-C camera would result in a significant crop factor, changing the effective focal length.
Do these lenses have autofocus?
Yes, both lenses feature autofocus capabilities. The Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II delivers fast autofocus performance, which helps in capturing sharp portraits. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF also includes autofocus, providing speed and convenience for wide-angle shooters. Both are autofocus primes, eliminating the need for manual focusing adjustments.
Can I use these lenses on Sony E-mount cameras?
Yes, both lenses are compatible with Sony E-mount cameras. The Viltrox 85mm F1.8 II is explicitly listed as a Sony E-mount lens. The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is also available in the Sony E-mount version. This ensures direct electronic communication and autofocus functionality on compatible Sony bodies.
Which lens is more portable?
The Samyang 12mm F2.0 AF is described as a low-weight tool. It is designed for users who need a wide view without the bulk of heavier glass. While specific weight data is not provided for the Viltrox, the Samyang is highlighted for its practical portability and ease of handling for APS-C users.
What is the difference in aperture between the two?
The Viltrox 85mm has an f/1.8 maximum aperture, which allows more light and better subject isolation. The Samyang 12mm has an f/2.0 maximum aperture. While both are fast for their respective categories, the Viltrox offers a slightly wider opening, which is advantageous for low-light portrait photography.