Last November, Viltrox released an autofocus-equipped 20mm f/2.8 lens for Sony E-mount. Today, the company announced it is also bringing the lens to Nikon Z-mount.
When it was initially announced, the full-frame lens was best compared to the Sony 24mm f/2.8 G which not only carries a similar focal length, but is also relatively small and compact — two features that Viltrox notes are benefits of its 20mm lens.
Its availability on Nikon Z actually fits a more pressing need as that system is not as filled-out as Sony’s. Nikon has a pancake 26mm f/2.8 and the 28mm f/2.8 when it comes to small size and fills the focal range with the 20mm f/1.8, but doesn’t have anything that comes in at that wide 20mm focal length in a super-small, affordable package.
Nikon’s 20mm f/1.8 offers a faster aperture but does so at a weight of 505 grams and is 4.27 inches long. By comparison, the Viltrox 20mm f/2.8 weighs 173 grams (slightly heavier than the E-mount version that weighs 157 grams) and measures about 2.4 inches long.
As noted in our previous coverage, the Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8 FE lens features a construction of 10 elements organized across eight groups, including a pair of ED lens elements, two aspherical lenses, a high refractive index element, and what Viltrox calls its “HD Nano” multilayer coating.
As is the case with most autofocus lenses out of China, Viltrox’s 20mm f/2.8 employs a STM motor that it calls “noiseless” and “reliable.” Viltrox adds that it is capable of precise focusing as well as supports eye AF and features low latency and low vibration. The company adds that not only are all autofocus needs met with the lens, it also supports video shooting and works with a camera’s in-body image stabilization.
The Viltrox 20mm f/2.8 has a close-focusing distance of 0.19 meters (7.5 inches) and features an aperture range of f/2.8 through f/16 via a seven-bladed diaphragm.
In PetaPixel‘s coverage of the Sony E-mount version, multiple reviews were mentioned that praised the lens as excellent value for the money. It is unlikely that performance will be different on Nikon Z-mount. Below are a few sample photos taken with the lens using either a Nikon Zf or Z7 II:
The Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8 for Nikon Z-mount is available now for $145 from Viltrox’s online store or $158 on amazon.
Image credits: Viltrox