Viltrox LAB 135mm vs Samyang AF 135mm | There Can Only Be One Winner!

[@kistovisback]

Thank you for brining the Samyang into the comparison. A lot of reviewers simply ignore it like it doesn't even exist

[@Vantrakter]

Haha, and this potential buyer ignores the Viltrox because it isn't available in Sweden. I haven't seen one local camera store or site mentioning it even. The Samyang is available at a pretty reasonable price although the AF would make me at least look at the used GM ads first. Nice comparison at any rate!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's often a matter of the "latest and greatest". Also, Samyang is really dropping the ball right now with their marketing and promotions. I haven't heard anything from the company since February of 2024, and haven't had any new loaners from them since March of 2023.

[@kistovisback]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Indeed, they seemed to be very active and "up and coming" for a while but not much more recently

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

@Vantrakter - I'm not sure it is available anywhere yet in terms of physical retail. It's just being released.

[@DjInfluencer]

They re not really "reviewers" but sellers

[@Wistbacka]

The fact that Viltrox can produce a fully weather sealed lens, with dual focus motors, and absolutely top tier (if not the best?) optical performance in an all magnesium alloy body at $899, really shows how bullshit all the first party pricing is. First party actually have a lot more revenue streams, so they should be cheaper than third party lenses. It is the same with zoom vs prime lens prices, that make absolutely no sense, other than arbitrarily decided price brackets for a certain type of lens (regardless of manufacturer)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

This lens definitely makes some others seem like a less than amazing value.

[@yukonchris]

Agreed! How can a first party manufacturer justify over $3,000.00 for a standard f/2.8 zoom? Or more to the point, what sort of margin are they realizing on these optics? The answer to the first part is that the consumer is willing to pay and the manufacturer thinks we won't remember once a better value competitor appears. I wonder how things will change if a company like Viltrox develops competitive camera bodies with their own mount and begins selling them for a third of the price? We definitely need new players to stir things up a bit.

[@K9Weddings]

I was really looking forward to the LAB series but now I'm concerned. Price seems fair, optical performance good, actual aperture ring but the weight is far too much. I'm waiting to see what their 50mm and 85mm will be like but if the weight is going to be so much more I think I'll have to pass.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The concern over weight is fair. I suspect that Viltrox will absorb some of that feedback from the 135mm and might make somewhat of a course correction. It's also possible, however, that they'll keep the LAB series F1.2 lenses big, heavy, and optically exceptional, and work at making the Pro Series F1.4 lenses (also in their roadmap) smaller and lighter.

[@raalaa121]

Brand. Once you're established people just want to buy the branded item for the flex.

[@zachmerritt4668]

I got my Samyang over a year ago for $550 USD new. It’s my favorite lens to use for outdoor portraits and areas where I have the space to use it. The sharpness and rendering make it difficult to take a bad photo (outside of user error). The weight difference is huge because the Samyang already feels heavy. But it’s cool to see Viltrox making these other less expensive alternatives for Sony cameras!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a great price for a great lens. Enjoy!

[@amrofarid861]

Samyang has already learned its lesson from the XP (EF mount) series. Lenses with excellent optical performance that are nevertheless huge just don’t sell. The new e-mount lenses have been successful partially because they compete on size and optical performance with Sony and Sigma.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a very valid point. My favorite Samyang lenses are the "Tiny series".

[@technodronesogxl9783]

The best thing about this video is that you substantiate everything said in the 1st video about its unrivaled center sharpness on the MTF charts and real-world photographs. Haters and fanboys will always hate. I have always found your reviews complete and unbiased. Keep up the good work. What's amazing, is even though Christopher Frost said that he did not do the firmware update no one bothered to challenge the difference before calling everyone like Gerald Undone and many many others about the Viltroxs unparalleled sharpness.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That was so unlike Chris. I'm surprised he didn't redo that review.

[@PsychicMedicine94]

I just bought the samyang for under £400. I've recently become a fan of viltrox and this comparison is great. Can't go wrong with either. I love when there's competition in the market

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's an amazing price.

[@danielgibbs5676]

Where did you get it at that price if you don’t mind me asking?

[@PsychicMedicine94]

@@danielgibbs5676 I got it second hand, but virtually brand new condition with box and accessories.

[@joliver4083]

The weight difference is significant and for that alone, I choose Samyang over Viltrox.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

And that's a very fair take.

[@thebitterfig9903]

I remember when 135mm f/2.8 lenses used to be reasonably compact. I feel like there’d be a place for a lens like that, a compact 135/2.8 or f/3.5 even, akin to the Sigma 90/2.8, where it’s just rather small. There kinda-sorta is one for micro 43 with the Olympus 75/1.8, which is a beloved lens in that system, and somewhat similar to what film SLR 135s used to be like. Big lenses have their place, and they often have excellent image quality. But it’s nice for compact alternatives to exist as well.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed. Actually a modern lens that I would love to see would be a 200mm F2.8...particularly one that could take TCs.

[@nickscott8488]

Great Review Dustin. I noticed a difference in tone to the Samyang between your two showdown reviews and asked AI to do a compare, amazing how context shapes the tone. The following was from GOOGLE's Language model.......... While both reviews are conducted by the same individual, Dustin Abbott, and discuss the same lens, the Samyang AF 135mm f/1.8, there are noticeable differences in tone due to the differing competitor lenses. Review 1: Samyang 135mm vs Viltrox 135mm- A Restrained Tone When pitted against the Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8, the review adopts a more reserved tone towards the Samyang. The advantages are presented in a factual manner, focusing on price and weight. Price: The review highlights the price drop of the Samyang, making it cheaper than the Viltrox. Weight: The significant weight difference is emphasised, noting the Samyang's advantage in portability However, the review quickly moves on to a lengthy discussion of the Viltrox's strengths, portraying the Samyang as struggling to match up. Abbott even admits it's "hard to find any area of advantage for the Samyang" optically, only noting slightly better corner sharpness. This creates an impression that while the Samyang has its merits, it is ultimately overshadowed by the Viltrox's superior performance and features. Review 2: Samyang 135mm vs Sony 135mm- A More Enthusiastic Tone In contrast, the review comparing the Samyang to the Sony 135mm f/1.8 GM employs a much more enthusiastic tone. The Samyang is presented as a strong contender that punches above its weight class, particularly regarding its price-to-performance ratio. Affordability: The review repeatedly emphasises the Samyang's significantly lower price, presenting it as a "tremendous value". Optical Performance: The Samyang is praised for its optical performance, even surpassing the Sony in areas like distortion, vignetting, bokeh, and edge performance. Feature Set: Abbott highlights specific features that make the Samyang appealing, such as those tailored for astrophotography. While the Sony GM lens is acknowledged for its superior autofocus and build quality, the review frames these as expected advantages given its premium price point. The overall emphasis is on the Samyang's ability to deliver comparable results at a fraction of the cost, making it a compelling option for budget-minded photographers. Conclusion: Context Shapes the Tone The differing tones in these reviews showcase how the context of comparison significantly influences the perception of a product. When compared to a pricier, higher-performing lens like the Viltrox, the Samyang's merits are presented more cautiously. However, when pitted against the top-tier Sony GM lens, the narrative shifts to highlight the Samyang's exceptional value and competitive performance, painting it in a more favourable light.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a pretty deep dive. Obviously the cost of the competitors is a factor. I'm more enthusiastic about an inexpensive lens that manages to perform on a competitive level with a much more expensive one.

[@I922sParkCir]

Dustin, as always, thank you for this in-depth review. I started shooting cheer-leading competitions that are indoor with poor light. I need a high shutter speed and my Tamron 35-150mm just isn't cutting it. Think the Samyang's AF is sufficient? There's lots of movement, but not much coming towards or away from me. I'm also 10-20 meters away, so the focus depth is pretty wide. I also shoot weddings and the Viltrox seems like it would just be punishingly heavy and would generally just get left home. Thank you!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hmmm, sounds like you have two very different needs. No, I don't think the Samyang is sufficient for shooting action. The Viltrox would be, but yes, it is heavy.

[@I922sParkCir]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Those are the answers I was looking for! I guess I'll eventually go with the GM someday. Thank you so much!

[@amrishsharma4788]

Very happy with my samyang. The weight is a massive plus point. When i do close up portraits, i tend to decrease sharpness in post processing as too much unflattering details show up. For a hobby photographer, no point getting gm lenses. Thanx to companies like samyang n viltrox we can get great lenses at affordable prices. Every photographer has to have a 135mm 1.8. You wont regret it once you see the photos you get.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

We've definitely reached a point where the good lenses are almost ridiculously sharp.

[@MOTOJendays]

I wonder why Christopher Frost got such different results. I believe in his tests he claimed the Samyang was sharper. And at close focus on his lens with Viltrox his was soft.

[@SomeonewithaSony]

And his video AF review gave different results…

[@MOTOJendays]

@@SomeonewithaSony That's no surprise. a7riii vs a7rv/a1 isn't a fair comparison.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

He clearly shot his AF results long before the final firmware, which stabilized AF performance. I don't know what to make of us his up close performance results, as the whole design with the floating elements is designed to give very strong up close performance, which everyone else seems to have gotten.

[@kokoeblighatian3631]

I also noticed that his results for the LoCA favors the Samyang significantly (opposite of your results). What do you think of that?

[@technodronesogxl9783]

Christopher admits not having the current firmware update

[@8moments]

I got confused by your report that Viltrox has flatter plane of focus but has an edge performance a little worse than Samyang. By the way thanks so much for this comparison!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Flatter plane of focus up close - due to the floating elements.

[@neutrinostorm]

Another great review! Thanks Dustin! But I have a few comments after looking at both your original review of the Samyang a year ago and the two reviews by Christopher Frost. A) Was the Samyang from your current test the same as from your test a year ago? I think the Samyang was a hair better in the middle of the picture on the alpha1 than it is now on the a7rV. At the edge of the picture you now seem to have a completely blurry Samyang - 15:39 in the old review vs the same time frame in the new one (both videos on a 48" OLED 4K monitor next to each other). B) I also have the Samyang and since the a6700 there was a firmware update to v5 absolutely necessary. I think the firmware v3 performed better on your alpha1 if you didn't update to the v5 before testing the lens on the a7rV. This also means that some comparison images to the Viltrox are not really comparable if the focus point is not the same. For example, the leaves at 17:36. C) It is obvious that he fringing on the Samyang is inverse to the Viltrox. The blue edges are then yellow on the Viltrox, so they appear more neutral. But on the other side of the contrasting edges the opposite occurs and the Samyang appears more neutral. D) At least I would like to confirm that there is a lens module on the Samyang lens for DxO users. So if you want to denois your image in post, the result ist lot better. DxO is very slow to create lens modules for viltrox lenses. There are no module for Viltrox 27mm F1.2 and 75mm F1.2 in the Sony-linup even though the lenses have been on the market for over a year. That was the main reason why I decided 4 months ago not to wait for the Viltrox and buy the Samyang based on yours and the Christopher Frost review. Thank you for your great work!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is the same copy (that has been used for less than 300 images since my original review), so I don't think it has had an opportunity to get decentered. I am very careful in my comparison videos to try to get focus as accurate as possible. I do have the most recent firmware on my copy of the Samyang. But yes, it does seem to be performing a little worse in a few areas than it did before.

[@neutrinostorm]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks for your answer! No question, you're doing a fantastic job! I was just making assumptions and things I noticed. This shouldn't be a criticism at all! All the lenses I bought were bought based on your reviews! No purchase turned out to be a bad purchase! Thanks a lot!!!

[@jbaswoll3221]

I picked up the Samuang this year, I don’t like the focusing motor as I tried it for volleyball, it did not perform that well for me. I’m going to try it for wrestling this weekend, which should be better as wrestling is more predictable than volleyball. The weight of the Viltrox is also a deal breaker for me. I’ll be waiting for Sigma mark ii whenever that happens.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm surprised that Sigma hasn't put one out yet.

[@Kay-cy9vi]

They are at two levels of performance, quality and materials used. It's ok samyang lovers love theirs but this review tells you the difference. The sharpness, contrast, bokel, fringing level differences are so obvious.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That was my feeling as well.

[@alexmirza5210]

Well the better bokeh at the frame borders and even lower vignetting of the viltrox might make it the ultimate for astrophotography wide open. My zeiss 135mm apo sonnar gives the most beautiful images, but it has around a stop of vignetting, giving full brightness only over aps-c area.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a fair assessment.

[@SJMPhotography]

Would love to see this showdown format for the Sigma 18-50 F2.8 vs Fuji 16-50 F2.8-4.8!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's my plan, but I've had a hard time getting a Fuji loaner.

[@8_Bit_Explorer]

​@DustinAbbottTWI the 16-55mm F2.8 mk ii just came out. That would be a great comparison since on paper they'd be closer in spec (obviously the price difference is significant)

[@photographerjonathan]

I think the weight makes the Viltrox a no go for me. but when you called it an Otus with autofocus it made me think hmmm. I really don't want heavy glass. but I would only be using the 135 focal range occasionally for special situations. but that's like 70/200 weight. I wish Sigma would come out with a lighter version of their 135. like they did with their 85.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a fair take. For me, I only use a 135mm lens occasionally (portrait shoots, mostly), so pulling it out for specific instances isn't bad.

[@mrcojocaru]

Yeah, 1 lb of weight difference is pretty massive for me. I rarely shoot in controlled environments. I'm always walking around the city

[@Ryan_Secord]

Ok, Dustin, you influenced me to get the LAB despite having just bought the Samyang (Rokinon). The question I have now (having bought the Samyang due to your original rave reviews) is this: did the Samyang deteriorate in performance or IQ over time, or is the Viltrox just this much better than what even a new Samyang would be? Regardless, I foresee using the Samyang in weight-sensitive or potentially rough situations where a lens could take damage, and keeping the LAB for studio use. Every tool has a use case.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do think that my Samyang didn't perform at quite the same level as when initially tested, which is surprising in that it got very little use and was never dropped.

[@Bishoprickyholmes]

Would you recommend purchasing the viltrox lens if you already have the sigma 105 1.4?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you're happy with your lens, the results will not be radically different.

[@johnhernlund539]

Dustin can you compare any of these to the Zeiss 135/2 Distagon? Would be very curious to see how close they come in terms of optics, while also sporting AF.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I did a comparison between the Sony GM and the Milvus version of the APO Sonnar 135mm F2 back in the day. I would say that the LAB is probably a little sharper optically, while I would give the Milvus a slight edge in color (always a Zeiss strength) and perhaps rendering.

[@johnhernlund539]

@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you!

[@Ryan_Secord]

Dustin, I have a question that I only truly trust your expertise on. I thank you in advance. I currently have the Samyang 135 1.8, but this review made me jealous. Being that the Viltrox is indeed a better overall lense for telephoto purposes, I am left wondering what I should upgrade to for my next telephoto option with holiday sales coming up. The question is this: How does the image quality of the Viltrox 135 Lab measure up to the Sony GM II 70-200mm 2.8 (at the 200mm 2.8 range)? More specifically, I am wondering if the 200mm 2.8 focal length is in any way better or on par in terms of IQ/bokeh/etc. Compared to the Viltrox 135mm at 1.8. Possibly, this sort of thing may even make a decent video comparison. Again, thank you.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't have the 70-200 on hand to do that comparison, but the Viltrox is performing on a level even at F1.8 that is rarely matched. It's a shame that it can't be used with a TC, as that would make for a really interesting option

[@kugmofy]

How's the photo AF accuracy for fast moving subjects? I currently have the samyang 135mm and the AF can miss for moving subjects, e.g. people running. Is viltrox better than that?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes. It has much faster and more responsive focus. I could track basketball action at F1.8 without issue.

[@kugmofy]

That's good to know, I'll switch to Viltrox, thanks.

[@kokoeblighatian3631]

Very nice comparison, thanks for all the information and tests. According to some other youtuve channels (CF) where he tested each lens separately in different video, the Viltrox showed significantly more LoCA comparer to the Samyag (which was free of LoCA even at 1.8). Your results show quite the opposite. Could you please comment on that? does this big difference come down to sample variation?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm not sure what to make of Chris' results on this particular lens, as they are really inconsistent with what pretty much all other reviewers found.

[@andreasbuder4417]

I love your Asahi Pentax collection, especially these M42 Takumars and the K1000 :-)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thanks!

[@yukonchris]

I know from experience that when push comes to shove and you have to chose, heavy and bulky lenses tend to get left on the shelf in favour of something smaller and lighter. That by itself is almost enough to sell me on the Samyang over the Viltrox. Of course, the other issue is reliability. Given the newness of the Viltrox, there is no way to know how it will perform over time. The use of an LCD readout and double focus motors suggest a more complex design and therefore more potential points of failure. So, while the Viltrox seems a better performer, optically, in real world use, I'd have to see how things look in a couple of years before even considering the Viltrox. Right now, if I needed a fast 135, I'd probably go with the Samyang.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hmmm, fair enough on your first point. As to your second, I've had to get multiple Samyang lenses replaced due to decentering or sample variation (including my first copy of the 135mm), whereas I haven't had such an issue with Viltrox lenses over the past several years.

[@yukonchris]

@@DustinAbbottTWI I get that, but that's a production issue which you can address immediately. I'm more concerned with the potential for things cropping up over time. I just have no idea how a Viltrox product like this will age.

[@Sacrypheyes]

a few people were reporting the samyang to be slightly sharper than the viltrox, which leads me to think their quality control is probably still lacking and would require quite a bit of luck to get a good copy (or having the opportunity to go through enough copies to find a good one), which is why i've stopped buying their products for years. I haven't bought any viltrox lenses yet, but I hope they won't disappoint as I'm interested in a number of their lenses at this point.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I definitely had to test two copies of the Samyang, as the first one was not performing up to spec.

[@jliang70]

How do they compare to Zeiss Milvus 135m F2.0 ?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's hard to top Zeiss colors, but in terms of sharpness, they are easily as sharp.

[@manoelcarlosvieirademoraes6764]

What do you think about Viltrox 135 vs Nikkor Z plena 135mm?

[@nat-lj8kt]

Plena is too expensive with quite a lot more LOCA but a lot less cat's eyes bokeh. Unlike the GM lens, not that fast to focus either. It however has a name :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do hope to source a Plena loaner if/when I get a Viltrox Z-mount LAB lens.

[@artmaltman]

Fascinating. This is the most perceptive review / comparison of these lenses.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@QuietOC]

Both lenses use floating element to focus. The Samyang's are attached to an STM so they don't shift freely when unpowered.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The floating elements in the Viltrox are more about the up close performance.

[@Sonysparrow]

All other reviewers who made the comparison between these two lenses put the sharpness of the Samyang above the sharpness of the Viltrox. Can it be the that the Samyang here has became some decentered flaw over the time?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's not actually true. I've read and watched other reviews who have highlighted the superior performance of the Viltrox. I did once have a decentered copy of the Samyang, but this is my personal copy that I own and vetted before keeping it.

[@AWAShowme]

Thanks for the great content. That is a weird aperture ring system. I'd be interested to know why they made this choice.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You and me both.

[@pedrol.5417]

How about a comparison against the Sony G Master?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I've done that previously with the Samyang, and at the moment I don't have access to a G Master loaner.

[@pedrol.5417]

I saw it, thanks so much for your great reviews. I think the Viltrox is too heavy to carry all day.

[@tinger20]

Do you have the Plena for comparison?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The short answer is no, but I intend to work very hard to source one for comparison if/when I get my hands on a Nikon Z-mount version of the LAB.

[@MOTOJendays]

@@DustinAbbottTWI This test will definitely be one everyone is looking for. Not only that the results will probably be quite different.

[@2ramona959]

I have the Samyang 135, and it's a really great lens. For me size/weight is pretty important because I'm almost exclusively landscape. So I would still take the Samyang over the Viltrox because of the form factor, b/c I don't need fast AF, … And … because 135mm is just an occasional change-up fun length for me. So I'm not interested in this Viltrox, but it bodes very well indeed for their upcoming 85mm f1.2 release, which I am in the market for. Was on the verge of getting the Sony 85mm f1.4 GM2, but fingers crossed that Viltrox can surpass it for less $ and come in at a reasonable size/weight.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Solid points.

[@AVerkhovsky]

Nice review and it must be an amazing lens! But heavy... I am not going to trade my Samyang 135 for it. Besides, my Samyang on a1 is able to focus on flying bats in virtual darkness, so I don't find much flaw with its AF. Also, a clean minimalistic design of Samyang appeals to me more than all the bells and whistles of Viltrox. Some reviewers report more CA with Viltrox and other features may be a give and take, and copy variation, so I am not motivated to change. Actually, a curios decision by Viltrox to start their lab series with a lens that has so strong competition in Samyang, in contrast to other excellent lenses by Viltrox that often occupy very specific and unique niches. Given the Samyang is already so good, it's very difficult to justify the choice of Viltrox and offset the weight difference by any additional features. They may have hoped that Samyang was poorly advertised and remained virtually unknown to a broad audience. But of course, I am biased because I already own Samyang and love it too!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a possible take. The Samyang is a good lens, for sure. I've owned it since it came out, though, in full disclosure, I've sold mine to add the Viltrox instead.

[@AWAShowme]

Another great review. I've had the Samyang since launch, and it's one of the sharpest l own. Keep up the good work.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you!

[@mongini1]

Hey Dustin. Please do me a Favor for your and my sanity. If you still have the Files of the Samyang Review from Dec 2022 take those, and scale down the Viltrox images to the same resolution and compare again. Or just Take the Samyang images from this comparison and scale those down to 50MP and compare those - I'd bet my left arm you'll see a significant difference, especially in Closeup resolution. The 10 Mark bill - you zoomed into the text on the top right of the bill - in your Review of the Samyang it was crisp and easily readable. Here in this comparison its a blurry mess - thats not a resolution difference - thats a fatal flaw. Did your Samyang became decentered over time?. I had both videos open side by side, and even considering the extra 10 MP the A7RV has, things don't add up. Would love to hear back from you.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I did the comparison tests on both the Alpha 1 and a7RV, and this is my conclusion. If the Samyang became decentered, I don't know how, as It has been used for less than 300 shots since my review. But yes, I looked back, and the up close performance was better then (though the other chart results seem pretty consistent with my original review).

[@Reviews4fun1]

@@DustinAbbottTWI I’ve seen other cases of decentering and inconsistencies with Samyang lenses. You’re really taking a chance to save a few bucks with them.

[@mongini1]

@@DustinAbbottTWI its odd nevertheless. The difference up close i brutal in my opinion. You might just uncovered a huge QA flaw here. Cause if you didn't use it much, but get such different results 2 years later thats a thing that shouldn't happen at all. And the 2nd thing i realized is the worse CA performance, which could also be a result of a decentered Lens. Maybe 1 internal lens/group became lose over time or slipped because of external forces - we will never know that.

[@mongini1]

@@Reviews4fun1 either i'm extraordinarily lucky or it isnt that bad with their modern lenses, but all 3 i had over the last few years were totally fine. Still using the 35mm 1.8 and 50mm 1.4 Mk II - both of which deliver sharp and contrasty results wide open. Had the 35mm 1.4 II before, but it was too bulky for me, so i switched to the cute little 1.8.

[@HR-wd6cw]

Thank you for doing this. Both lenses looks impressive and are certainly cheaper than the OEM versions, which is great for people like me who might casually shoot portraits, but not enough to spend $2200+ on a lens. $1000 I could do, but not $2200+. Hopefully viltrox releases a 135 for the Z mount as well, which they probably will (otherwise I have to adapt to the Z mount with an adapter, which would still be half the price of a Nikon 135 Plena).

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The plan is for a Z mount version to come.

[@jcphenix1]

The Monster take the cake for bokeh.And micro contrast. Also close focus but this I think is a minor detail with this kind of lens

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's fair.

[@Ryan_Secord]

What a difference from the Frost review. This comparison gives me quite a serious case of buyers remorse for having recently bought the Rokinon/Samyang, albeit for $600 USD flat with no taxes. Possibly an irrational mindset of gear acquisition syndrome, but one I have nonetheless.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

If you were enjoying your lens before the Viltrox was released, then keep enjoying your lens!

[@tomirwinphoto]

Weight Matters. Had the Sigma Art 135 since 2018 and sold it due to its excessive weight and this new Viltrox is even heavier; it’s a lead brick! I replaced my Sigma 135 with the Samyang 135 and am more than satisfied with its IQ, bokeh and overall rendering. And more importantly it’s practically half the weight of the Viltrox. When I’m carrying several lenses the combined weight savings is major consideration for my shoulders and back. And I workout! Since I don’t use the 135 for action sports the focus speed is much less a consideration than the weight savings. As always, I enjoy your thorough analysis.

[@71whitey]

everyone should lift weights

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

As long as you're happy, that's what matters.

[@Liam-c9u3r]

Nice specs, but for the price, Sigma ART lenses offer incredible value. I’d be curious to see if TTArtisan ventures into this focal range.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm actually surprised that Sigma hasn't made a mirrorless specific 135mm F1.8 lens yet.

[@coder543]

The moire patterns from that shirt are surprisingly strong.

[@denizahmet2299]

That's the main problem with high resolution lenses.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I was surprised, too. I don't often run into that anymore.

[@rj10548]

It's a more of a sensor than a lens issue.

[@nat-lj8kt]

Viltrox impresses on sharpness. However I'm not convinced with your LOCA test. I see different color of fringing on each lens so depending on which false color you look, it may affect it. Samyang has more blue and Viltrox more yellow. It would be great if you could shoot a metal spoon in the sunlight or water droplets against sunlight etc. That can be a bit more brutal test. Both of these lenses are at a level where it's very hard to force any LOCA but i think. This aside, your comparisons are the best and most revealing from a photography perspective and I want to thank you for this review. It's just that some lenses are too close to no aberration and it's really hard to force LOCA. Voigtlander 110mm APO is immune to any method that forces LOCA that lens is the exception and the gold standard to compare to :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

All I can say is that in real world use, I haven't had any fringing issues with the Viltrox. I do love the Voigtlander APO lenses in many ways, but I do sometimes find the bokeh has a bit more hard edges than what I like, and I don't love the straight aperture blades.

[@gitithadani]

The weight makes the viltrox more of a studio lens. The samyang has a better MFD & more magnification. It also has a floating element. Not sure if Viltrox has one. At an absolute level the viltrox performs slightly better but we are talking about diminishing returns. On the other hand one has more of a range with the samyang given the MFD which makes a difference for smaller objects - compression etc. I would not say they are budget lenses - just better value lenses. The sony is a much older lens & it was the only lens in this range so it could command its price. I would expect newer lenses to match or surpass marginally. The other aspect would be stabilization with its weight. For outdoor work I would prefer the samyang anyday.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I agree on your first point, but not your second. The Samyang is rated at 0.24x magnification, while the Viltrox and Sony GM are rated at 0.25x.

[@gitithadani]

@@DustinAbbottTWI my mistake

[@fototrainerchristian]

The price difference is there, here in Austria. Samyang 700€, Viltrox 1200€

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Wow! I find with a lot of European countries that the newness of a lens really impacts price. North American prices tend to stay the same, while the price of many cameras and lenses steadily drops with time in certain European markets.

[@fototrainerchristian]

@@DustinAbbottTWI yes, I agree with you.

[@Kliffot]

Fantastic ! I don't mind the weight, this is a not an EDC lens anyway.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough.

[@technodronesogxl9783]

Nikon rumors said Viltrox was not thinking of doing a Z mount. If this is true its because of Plena lens price protection. They made the 16mm 1.8 Z mount, but this lens threatened their 2000 lens price.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm asking my Viltrox contact, but the plan was always for FE to come first and then Z-mount

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Viltrox says both a Z mount and a Fuji XF mount are coming.

[@technodronesogxl9783]

@DustinAbbottTWI Thanks, Dustin. This is nice to hear.

[@LeoInterHyenaem]

Difficult to imagine the Viltrox impresses you more than any other 135mm on Sony, including the GMaster. I thought the GMaster was optically as good as they go. Surprised to hear the Viltrox is at least as good or even better.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Sharpness is close between the two, but I do feel like the bokeh is smoother on the Viltrox.

[@thefourthquarter7429]

Gerald Undone found that the Vitrox was slightly sharper and better optically than the Sony.

[@justinburley8659]

@@thefourthquarter7429 At this point, sharpness is subjective. Everything is sharp these days, so we should really look at things that aren't related to sharpness. Like color rendering, CA, flaring, (bad flaring doesn't make a bad lens) autofocus, bokeh, digital corrections, and of course weight and size.

[@jamesskintauy6773]

@@justinburley8659 I don't think sharpness is "subjective" Regardless, I get what you're saying. Practically all lenses I've seen for a long time are sharp enough. Based on this review and others, the Viltrox wins on the other optical fronts as well. Also, I don't like (and won't purchase) lenses that lack confident autofocus. Years ago, I sold the very sharp and controlled Sigma 50 F1.4 Art lens because it didn't focus well in anything but perfect conditions. It was great optically, but poor AF is a deal breaker for me. So, the Vitrox won on AF, sharpness, other optical considerations, everything but size / weight. Again, clear cut which I would choose. When this lens becomes available for Nikon I will probably get it. At that point I would probably compare it to a used Nikon Plena and make a choice. This is a niche lens for me, so I'm in no hurry.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes, in the center and mid-frame the Viltrox is a little sharper, but I'm not sure that's the biggest factor here, as the GM is already pretty excellent.

[@randomname931]

Viltrox is the clear winner. They've been knocking it out of the park lately.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

They have had a VERY strong couple of years!

[@OccultDemonCassette]

This might just be something perfect for my uses.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

For a lot of us, 135mm isn't a focal length we use every day, so to be able to get an exceptional performer at a reasonable price point is fantastic.

[@lumenspaul]

i own the samyang but the viltrox is to heavy ,think if i need a another 135 ill get the sony as i can achieve 30fps and still lighter ,although there is always going to be product variance so never going to be definitive ,but you have to welcome these cheaper products i love my viltrox 16mm f1.8 for the money, it does seems samyang have gone cold of late but then so have sony in rather quite year.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm not quite sure what is happening over at Samyang. Other than the V-AF series, they haven't really been putting out anything new.

[@sgpork]

not a fan of heavy and big gear.. even if its cheap.. ill rather it to be small and light even if its expensive.. ill take that

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough. That's a valid point.

[@cameraprepper7938]

Try the Zeiss Batis Apo Sonnar 135mm 2.8 T*, it only weighs 614 g, less than half the weight of the Viltrox !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I found that the biggest challenge for my with the Batis is that it is expensive and only F2.8. It's not really stronger than 70-200mm (or Tamron's 70-180mm G2 or 35-150mm) lenses that cover the same focal length with the same aperture.

[@cameraprepper7938]

@@DustinAbbottTWI "Only" 2.8 ! No, aperture 2.8 is more than enough for a 135mm Lens, just ask fx Mark Galer. I looked throughmost of my best photos from the last 5 years taken with the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, most of those was taken with apertures from 2.8 to 5.6 and those few that was taken with aperture 1.8 wasn´t really that pleasing in "bokeh", it was too much ! Zoom lenses are stupid. I had the Canon EF 135mm 2.0 L, also with that Lens I rarely used aperture 2.0 ! I will say max aperture of fx 2.2/2.5 can be ok for a 135mm, but 2.8 is enough !

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

@@cameraprepper7938 That may be true for you, but my favorite way to shoot 135mm is wide open to capture full body environmental portraits.

[@petrduchac2580]

I would like to hear feedback from someone who will take both lenses on whole day event if the image quality or the weight will matter more at the end of the day :D

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

As I said to another poster: I think it comes down to your tolerance for carrying heavier gear, and how long you typically carry it. If it is for an hour portrait shoot, probably not a big deal. If it is all day for a wedding, very possibly a big deal.

[@cameraprepper7938]

I have had the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM for 5 years now, it weighs 950g, (Samyang 772g, Viltrox 1235g), I think the Sony is a bit too big and heavy, so the Viltrox is HUGE ! I looked through many of my best photos taken with the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM, most of the photos are taken with apertures from 2.8 to 5.6 and I do not think that those few photos I have taken with aperture 1.8 is pleasant to watch. So aperture 2.5/2.8 is plenty for a 135mm, today I would have bought the Zeiss Batis Apo Sonnar 135mm 2.8 T* ,which only weighs 614g, size and weight matters a LOT in the long run. Now I only rarely use the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM when I am driving and go for Landscape photography. My goto portrait Lens have been the Zeiss Batis Sonnar 85mm 1.8 T*, now I use the new Sony 85mm 1.4 GM II.

[@Eye-V.]

Finally someone acknowledging the Samyang exist 👍

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It's weird, but Samyang has really pulled back from marketing and promotions since last spring. I can't hardly strike up a conversation with them, so I'm not really surprised that they aren't on a lot of reviewers' radar.

[@Kay-cy9vi]

Looks like samyang is decentered

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's possible, though it would be strange, as the lens has been used very little and never traveled with.

[@Riskbreaker2009]

SONY GM +21 (best for sports) SAMYANG +19 (best budget lightweight travel) VILTROX +23 (best optics also good af but big and too heavy) Price SONY GM -2 SAMYANG +3 VILTROX +2 Weight SONY GM +1 SAMYANG +3 VILTROX -2 Size SONY GM +2 SAMYANG +1 VILTROX -1 Build quality SONY GM +2 SAMYANG -1 VILTROX +3 Contrast SONY GM +3 SAMYANG -1 VILTROX +3 Sharpness SONY GM +1 SAMYANG +3 VILTROX +3 AF SONY GM +3 SAMYANG +1 VILTROX +2 Vignetting SONY GM +1 SAMYANG +3 VILTROX +3 Distortion SONY GM +2 SAMYANG +3 VILTROX +3 Flare and glare SONY GM +3 SAMYANG +1 VILTROX +3 Sunstars SONY GM +3 SAMYANG +2 VILTROX +3 LOCA SONY GM +3 SAMYANG +1 VILTROX +1

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Not a bad analysis.

[@heybrook819]

I paid USD $565 for the Viltrox 135 after all the discount which I think it’s a steal.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's incredible.

[@Ryan_Secord]

How

[@DanSme1]

Let the "winner" be compared with the Zeiss Batis 135mm. Please?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't really have access to Zeiss loaners right now, but I can tell you that both the Viltrox and the Samyang are sharper than the Batis, though it does have beautiful contrast, color, and rendering.

[@Princeton_James]

I love this lens! Can't wait for their new 1.2 lenses coming out. Those are going to destroy!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Me too!

[@jaegerschtulmann]

Honestly when you’re attaching a 135 to your camera you know it will not be a discreet setup so why not shooting for ultimate image quality and use the viltrox🎉 I have yet to see a lens as sharp as this. It’s truly mind blowing that a company that didn’t exist five or six years ago is going now toe to toe with the major 3 lens manufacturers 😮

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm with you 100%. I'm very impressed with the company.

[@desmondmasikhwa1700]

FYI Viltrox is a 15 year old company now.

[@andreasd.barkas4845]

the viltrox is a perfect clinical lens with a flat overall look . samyang even though is, a modern aesthetic lens , still holds it's own with the imperfections and the better 3d look . sweeter when it comes to resolution at skin tones therefore more pleasing to portraits . at the end of the day i will choose a zeiss for this focal length even though it's a manual lens but if i have to decide between the above i would choose samyang for an everyday use . for the record i owwn the 135 f2 of the samyang line

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hmmm, I actually disagree. I favor the Viltrox's rendering over the Samyang, myself.

[@andreasd.barkas4845]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Dear Dustin you did you job very good as every time revealing the technically pros and cons of every lens with examples, but , at the end of the day even though i respect that, i dislike 2d clinical look of the modern lenses . it's just a matter of taste after all .

[@momchilyordanov8190]

You, English speaking folks, have one very good saying - horses for courses. It applies here, I believe. Objectively, Viltrox is the better lens. But depends on what one is looking for. I shifted to Sony, after they came up with the 2nd gen. of the 7c series. I wanted the "maximum IQ in a small package" system. Hence, I went for lenses that give very good sharpness and overall rendering, but are small and light. And this 1.2 kg mammoth is the exact opposite. For my "course", Samyang all the way :)

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a fair point.

[@vladivanovich]

Great comparison as always, however, I hate that I immediately noticed the collar of your shirt is uneven in the first couple of minutes and made me realize I am becoming more of an adult…

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

LOL :)

[@cobra2079]

Samyang p4p champ for me!!🙌💪

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough.

[@briankavo]

I hope Viltrox release the 135mm lens for Fujifilm.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Sure...though that's a big, heavy lens for APS-C.

[@thefourthquarter7429]

Not particularly close comparison. I would choose the Viltrox just based on AF speed / confidence. The fact that its better optically in every way is icing on the cake. Obviously its heavier and if its too heavy for you get the Sony or Samyang.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's pretty much my take.

[@AVerkhovsky]

My Samyang on a1 focuses (not 100%, but mostly) on flying bats in virtual darkness. Can't ask more from autofocus )

[@JoeHeisler]

Man that Viltrox is a lot heavier than the Samyang which gives me pause, around 463g heavier (both without caps/hoods). But I do find the AF and up close performance bothers me a bit on the Samyang so I am still considering getting the Viltrox to replace it

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think it comes down to your tolerance for carrying heavier gear, and how long you typically carry it. If it is for an hour portrait shoot, probably not a big deal. If it is all day for a wedding, very possibly a big deal.

[@RT_HK]

Rarely use 135mm, it's not attractive no matter how cheap/good us it.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Fair enough, though this is going to be some photographer's favorite focal length.

[@alyousuf]

Im very shocked at this comparison because a few years back when you first did the Samyang and compared it to the sony, it was flawless. Now all of a sudden its "soft"? Is this a paid advertisement for Viltrox?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Where are you getting "soft" from? That's not my take at all. It's still an extremely sharp lens, but the Viltrox is just better. Also, that original review was on the 50MP Sony Alpha 1; this comparison is on a 61Mp Sony a7RV. That extra resolution does make a difference.

[@alyousuf]

​@@DustinAbbottTWI11:54 and 12:06

[@mongini1]

i just rewatched the review of Samyang, and i think you're onto something... Sure it was """"only"""" 50 MP but that doesnt explain the softness showing here. Especially the closeup quality was on a whole nother level in the Samyang Review. The detail and contrast he showed there is on par with the Viltrox IMHO. @DustinAbbott if you read this: if you still have the files of the Samyang from your initial review: Take them, scale down the Image of the A7RV and Viltrox Lens to the A1 resolution and compare again. I'd bet my left arm that the results will be way closer. Or just compare the scaled down Samyang images to the ones you took with the A1 back then. I had the Videos open Side by Side and the Samyang Review looks waaaaaaaaaay crisper even when scaled UP to match them.

[@shihjehwu4193]

@@alyousuf Dustin showed images from both cameras for "direct comparison". You can judge by your own eyes. It's not fair to say that he received some favor to say something good for Viltrox. To be "Soft" or sharp is by comparison, right?

[@carjac820]

That’s what really happens when a sharper lens exists. You’ll immediately notice the softer lenses.

[@mitchellweitzman9329]

So it’s basically a Nikon Plena , for $1,500 less

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I haven't tested the Plena yet, but I can imagine that's probably somewhat true.

[@mitchellweitzman9329]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Yeah for a company that has seemingly welcomed past Viltrox offerings onto Z mount, won't be surprised if they choose or already chose to block this one.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't think so. I know that the Z mount version is planned.

[@Jwitherow1964]

Viltrox still waiting on the 85 1.2

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That will probably be next year at the earliest. I haven't really seen any updated dates on further LAB lenses.

[@Reviews4fun1]

Samyang images look like a cell phone. Viltrox is too heavy. Conclusion: neither!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Cell phone? I'd like to see that cell phone, as this is an amazing optical instrument.

[@Reviews4fun1]

@@DustinAbbottTWI they look flat compared to the Viltrox and have a fake-sharp look you see on the cell phone photos. It’s hard to describe but the contrast falloff is abrupt with the Samyang instead of gradual when you look at the portraits for example.

[@mongini1]

@@Reviews4fun1 you obviously have no clue of what you are talking about here..

[@nat-lj8kt]

I beg to differ. If Samyang 135mm images are bad, then 95 out of 100 modern lenses are also much much worse. This Samyang optically belongs in the top 5%. I sold my Zeiss 135mm f2 APO when I got the Samyang after testing and seeing better performance except maybe just a bit more astigmatism. However it beat the Otus quality Zeiss in everything else. I think you have no idea what you are talking about

[@Reviews4fun1]

@@mongini1 mmmk dude I’ll take your random word for it. Watch the video. See for yourself.

[@yevnv6292]

Viltrox is obviously paying you, 😂

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That would be nice...but unfortunately both Viltrox and Samyang paid me the exact same (by the way, the Samyang is my personal copy of the lens)

[@yevnv6292]

@ keep up the good work, brother.

[@itsknotme65]

❤ thankyou for this

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

You're welcome.