Viltrox Pro AF 27mm F1.2 X-Mount Review | The Best of Both Worlds?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

This video is sponsored by Fantom Wallet. Visit store.fantomwallet.com and use code DUSTIN15 to get 15% off

[@chandoerrato1969]

hi, why dont you test coma rendition?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I was actually traveling for most of this review period, and didn't have access to the conditions for testing coma.

[@acouragefann]

My two favorite focal lengths (40 and ~105) have somehow not made it to mirrorless full frame, disregarding Sigmas huge DSLR ports - and yet Viltrox has managed to bring them to the APS-C platform. While I won't be enjoying them, I'm really happy to see these types of lenses making it to market at such a reasonable price. This really gives portrait and low light (event) shooters on fuji or sony aps-c an option that I'd say is pretty competitve with anything on FF today.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed. They are both incredibly useful focal lengths even if they aren't the conventional ones.

[@MRatna]

Unfortunately 75mm is not ~105mm apsc. More like 112mm. It really does make a difference. If someone offered a reasonably compact 70mm I’d be all over it.

[@SnIpErX07]

I think E mount do have that. The compact 40mm f2.5 and the Zeiss 40mm f2

[@ChristianThueringer]

​@@MRatna kamlan has a 70mm 1.1 but manual focus

[@acouragefann]

112 vs 105 is like...5%? less than the difference between a 50 and a 55mm lens, and I think most people consider those similar. I dare say it would be rather challenging to tell whether a photo was taken with one focal length vs the other and even at full body portraits there can't be more than a step of difference in working distance.

[@markm83]

Thanks Dustin! As usual, your review is "best in class".

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That is my pleasure.

[@tayplaysgaymes]

This review convinced me to buy the lens. Thank you, Dustin! Absolutely fantastic review.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad I could help!

[@aespitia7915]

hey! may I ask, how do you feel about it after your purchase?

[@zaddy6960]

James Popsys often says he thinks 40mm is the perfect focal length, so I started going to that on my zoom and that got me thinking. And then I started checking this lens out. I ended up buying it. I love the size and weight, it feels premium, and the images are amazing. You don't have to be too close with people, and when filming in 4K, it is super easy to stand back and crop in.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I really like this focal length, too!

[@jameshart3879]

Just found your profile of the back off this review; thank you for such an excellent in-depth review, woth great sample images. Subscribed and look forward to more! 👍

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Welcome aboard!

[@JoaquimGonsalves]

6:06 I have the same issue with my 75 sadly. But otherwise I'm stunned by the image quality of that lens when I used it on a loaner XH2. Insane sharpness and micro-contrast and with very good AF too. Would love to see more in this series of their lenses. The best I've seen for Fuji from third party. Also, very wise to introduce focal lengths with an aperture that is less popular, especially the 75. However, my 75 doesn't change it's focus pull direction when I see the CCW/CW direction setting on the XH2 bodies. Any idea if that was fixed in the update?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I haven't tested that setting change, so I don't know that.

[@JoaquimGonsalves]

@@DustinAbbottTWI No worries..Thank you as always for all your time and efforts. 🙂

[@parmanduke]

One of the best lenses I have ever bought. Razor thin tack sharp and beautiful bokeh.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Totally agree!

[@ryankwan1934]

Probably one of the most important APS-C lens releases of the last five years. It's either this or the Sigma 18-50 or Sigma 10-18. I love the gauntlet that Viltrox is dropping on the traditional lens manufacturers. Fingers crossed that they are ethically produced.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Agreed all around. This is a fantastic lens, and thus far I haven’t heard anything negative about Viltrox’s manufacturing

[@Simsel81]

Dustin, thanks for the video! As soon as the lens is available for E-Mount it would be thrilling to see how it performs against a Sigma 30mm 1.4 which is from an established lens manufacturer for nearly half the price (this lens should be also available for Fuji). Would be interesting to see the comparison of 1.2 vs. 1.4.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I can definitely tell this lens trumps the older Sigma in basically every regard.

[@huangzhilong75]

the CA on 30 1.4 is just so bad, you don’t even need to look for it, it’s the in your face kind of bad

[@bitpuff]

Great review as always. A little too large for my liking given the existing native Fujifilm options. I do own the 75mm 1.2 as that is something far more unique in the Fujifilm lens ecosystem, but I find myself reaching for the Sigma 56 1.4 more often due to its smaller size and weight. Having the XF23 1.4 LM and 35 1.4 already, I think I will pass on this lens. It looks to be a stellar performer though, and as you mentioned, incredible value for performance.

[@9Mtikcus]

After getting the Sigma 56mm F/1.4 and being so impressed with it I ordered the Sigma 23mm F/1.4 (still waiting for that), the 75mm is a focal length I don't need often so I will probably skip it too. The aperture ring really is not a problem for me, I'm happy to use the front dial or an aperture ring. It is good to have more options on Fuji X

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It is great to see X-mount getting so much third party love right now.

[@robertcudlipp3426]

Doubt if Canon is either listening or cares.

[@johnnyway8667]

What would be your top pick between Viltrox 27 mm 1.2 and 13 mm 1.4? I already have Sigma 56mm but need something for video and wider images than 56mm.

[@molybdnum]

Great review highlighting the goldilocks potential here. In terms of size/weight, this is still quite manageable IMHO. Much less overwhelming than something like a Sigma A 35mm f/1.2 or 40mm f/1.4 on FF.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Exactly. That's where I'm at. I have no options to the size on an X-H2. It just feels like a normal camera/lens combination to me.

[@maggnet4829]

The Viltrox is more like an f1.8 lens. Thus, comparing it in weight with the Sony 40mm f1.4 doesn't seem fair.

[@jjchockey]

If only it wasn’t so huge. The 35mm 1.4 is literally a 3rd the size and weight. The 33mm 1.4 is significantly smaller as well. Wish they could have made it a similar size to the OG 56mm. I have the 75mm 1.2 but that size is acceptable for a mid tele lens imo, not for a 27mm though.

[@sulev111]

more weight = bigger muscles = better picture quality

[@brownbear100]

Agree. I don't have the 75, but could justify it to myself ;) to replace my 56 and 90. Like the 56mm field of view too much though. The 27 just doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Sure it's good, but it's huge. And why do people want f1.2 in a portrait lens? Shallower depth of field. But the 33 1.4 (Viltrox's own as well) has a shallower depth of field and the Fuji version very good if not quite excellent bokeh. Or maybe you want to compare to the 23mm 1.4 WR. Sure the 27 will have shallower depth of field, but a 23 is a jack of all trades, documentary, travel, street, events, portrait - and the Fuji one has outstanding close focus abilities. I doubt think you'd want to use the 27 for half of these uses! So, interesting, but a bit of an odd one.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's a fair perspective, but I prefer the image quality from this lens to anything else in the class.

[@jjchockey]

@@sulev111 optically it’s really not that much better than the 23 or 33mm 1.4 from Fuji. You are really just gaining the 1.2 aperature in exchange for the huge size and weight.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I disagree. The 23mm is sharp, but the bokeh is somewhat harsh. The 33mm has nice bokeh, but isn't as sharp. The 27mm has both.

[@ofthenearfuture]

Been waiting for your review of this lens! Thanks for the video. One use case you didn't (directly) touch on was portraiture, which I understand often comes down to focal length and the 75 is probably better for it, but what would be your opinion on this lenses ability? Thanks again

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I had little time to do portraiture because I was traveling. I do think that I will do a short video episode focused around a portrait shoot with this lens.

[@ofthenearfuture]

@@DustinAbbottTWI That'd be awesome, thanks for all your hard work and time producing these reviews.

[@SpinStar1956]

Dustin, thanks for the review; really appreciate the detail and all the examples. I have a X-T4 and a 16-80mm but want a really sharp prime and have concluded it must be 40-43mm equivalent or bust! I used 50mm in FF-film for so many years that I think I can back-up as fast as I can go forward! Just too tight! Also, If I had a 27/28mm, I could use the 16-80mm as a secondary, only when I had too for focal length. I really want to wait for Fuji to come out with one, because I feel they would place it quality-wise with the 23mm and have a LM. However, I have wondered if I bought the Viltrox, that it might be a good 'discounted-stopgap' while waiting for a $900+ Fuji (unless you know something we don't!). Also, I feel that even when Fuji does release, that there will still be enough of a price differential that will allow this one to hold its resale-value. Any thoughts Dustin on Fuji finally caving to an obvious 27-28mm demand; I just can't imagine that gap being forever left open? In fact, I wonder if Fuji fears being able to meet demand of a 27/28mm; for all the versatility-reasons you mentioned--everyone is talking about it. Thank You! EDIT: Also, the hope and wait was that Fuji might have stabilization, which would be important to me!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Hmmm, I would be very surprised to see stabilization on a 27mm lens from Fuji. They have not put OIS in any of their primes outside of a macro lens and the uber 200mm F2. I would just buy the Viltrox. It's an amazing lens, and I'm not convinced that Fuji could do better.

[@SpinStar1956]

@@DustinAbbottTWI Dustin OMG! I just ordered this lens and I have to tell you what happened. This is so insane! So in my Chrome browser, I had this lens on the B&H website and the price was shown as $578. So, I was going to hit the add to cart button, and then I thought I would refresh the browser just to see what my updated delivery date would be. When I did this, B&H lowered the price of the lens to $493! I’ve actually seen B&H do this on a refresh just to try and snare the sale, so it wasn’t too surprising. So at this point it’s like, heck yes let’s do it! Then in selecting my method of payment, I chose PayPal; when it got into the PayPal, it brought up my normal bank credit card, but it had a little selection box below where I could cash in my rewards. As a sidebar: I have always ignored these rewards because they give them to you, they take them away, and most of the garbage they offer is either way beyond what you have, or is just junk you don’t even want in your house, so I never-ever look at these. However, it said that I had something like $406 worth of rewards that I could actually cash in against this purchase! So once again, I said heck yes and selected that option. When the final calculation came out, (and I already verified this final-charge by going into my bank account), my final, out the door price for this lens is $120.57! I’m incredibly happy in all regards at this point; so thank you for replying. It was actually the impetus for finally pulling the trigger. I’m now worried that you had some kind of a deal where I should’ve went through your sponsor or partner program - - if so, I’m sorry! Thanks again, Dustin! 😀

[@SpinStar1956]

@@DustinAbbottTWI well, I did purchase the lens, and after shooting several hundred photos in a regimented diagnostic-manner, this lens is really impressive, at least in my regard! I also found that the 40.5mm equivalency is very much where I want it, and is actually going to be much more flexible than I originally thought. The images that I’m getting are so much better than my 16-80mm f/4, and was especially noticeable when shooting cars; I noticed that the sheen of the paint-finish had a glassy-glisten to it instead of just a grain that gave you the idea that there was a reflectivity there. Also, I have found so many instances, whereby shooting at f-stops wider than f/4, came in so handy (thus opened up a whole new-world of nighttime handheld-photography), and otherwise would a required a tripod for sure! This is now my new ‘standard’ lens, only using the zoom when I find it absolutely necessary. Anyway Dustin, thanks for the review, as it did way significantly in my purchase decision. For anybody else contemplating this lens, I cannot imagine you being disappointed after purchasing it… 😊

[@kzr83]

Great stuff, Dustin. Well... I think my 75mm GAS has been dethroned by this one. Yes I know, apples and oranges. But I already have and love 90m f/2. And I am very disappointed with the min focus distance of the 75mm. Now with this one, it's not just the f/1.2. It's the focal length. I love both 23mm and 33/35mm but sometimes find the former too wide and the latter too long, so... For 1 lens to (most of the time) rule them all, I think this would fit me perfectly.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm with you. The 75mm is amazing optically, but this focal length is so useful for so many things.

[@dimpap1370]

Great video! How would you say it compares to the fuji 33mm 1.4? Do you prefer one over the other? Thank you

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I slightly prefer the Viltrox due to the bigger maximum aperture and slightly better sharpness.

[@induction7895]

They need to make "Pro" Zoom lenses for Fuji X Mount.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I'm on board for that.

[@rogerhampton2844]

I love the look of the lens but struggling with the size (and weight) I’ll have to try one first.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't know...the images make it feel worth the size.

[@sjuhav]

As always a great review with so much useful information presented in a pleasing way. This lens will surely be added to my lens collection. I love the Viltrox 13mm & 75mm already. Over time I have come to appreciate a bit more weight to the lenses and I just get a better feeling when I hold the camera with the lens. Maybe it is as I get older, despite IBIS, feel that the camera is moving around less. I know here I am perhaps going around the general consensus that lighter lenses are to be preferred, which I went after when I was younger.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I have found people report both - some people prefer a bit more heft as they do find it feels more stable in the hands, while others obviously want as light a combo as possible.

[@transikk]

What would be your top pick between 75 mm 1.2 and 27 mm 1.2? 1 do a bit of everything product, landscape and street photography I aleeady got 13mm 1.4

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would lean towards the 27mm for the versatility, particularly if you want to do street.

[@CMVFactory]

Always appreciate great reviews. thank you I have a question. I'm using XF 23mm 1.4 (new) and XF 50mm 1.0 for video on X-H2S. Can this lens replace the XF50mm 1.0? (I don't take pictures at all. It's mainly for quick portrait beauty shots using a gimbal.) The reason I'm trying to change is that the focus of the 50mm 1.0 is too slow and heavy. And focus doesn't hold well compared to the 23mm. I wish I could have swapped both the 23mm and 50mm with this lens. I've used the 33mm 1.4 before and was happy with it, but the distance makes the 27mm more attractive. Please comment.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It certainly should hold the subject well, though it won't have as much subject isolation.

[@CMVFactory]

@@DustinAbbottTWI thank you It's been very helpful.

[@David-pm9nm]

Greeting! Could you please make a video comparing the Viltrox 27mm 1.2 and the Sigma 23mm 1.4 for video recording? Or tell me which one is better for Fuji X-t 4. I'm a videographer and I'm not sure which of these two lenses to buy for video recording. Similar focal length, but I prefer the bokeh on the Viltrox. It seems to me that both lenses have a problem with autofocus for video and with focus breathing. Can the new firmware fix this problem? Thank you!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I do have such a video planned.

[@anastasiospapatsoris5642]

Great review Dustin. Thank you!

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JamesPaulGomez]

Just ordered mine! Have to pick it up in Buffalo and bring it back to Toronto 😅

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I think you'll find it is worth the drive.

[@ManuelAguilar-x5f]

Nice review as always...How is the AF speed vs XF 23mm 1.4 LM?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I would say the Fuji is slightly faster, but that the Viltrox is fast enough for most applications.

[@ManuelAguilar-x5f]

thank. you!@@DustinAbbottTWI

[@knuckles9045]

Really hope its as good on Sony Emount! Will look forward to your eval

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I suspect it will be better in terms of autofocus and features.

[@ryanbeer5262]

Optically this lens is spot on. It just seems bigger/heavier than necessary. I'm guessing from the corner falloff that it won't cover FF? I'm not opposed to heavier lenses, still waiting for someone to make an af 135 f2ish for fuji.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

The 75mm definitely didn't cover the full frame image circle, so I doubt this one will, either, but we'll see when I have access to an E-mount version.

[@MRatna]

FujiFilm already has. Their 90mm f2 is exactly that and is likely the sharpest lens they make. Unfortunately it’s just not my favorite focal length.

[@ryanbeer5262]

@@MRatna uhm, no they don't. I mean a big fat heavy 135 f2/210mm equivalent.

[@NickErickson]

Thinking of selling my Sigma 18-50mm f2.8 to get this lens. I have the 75mm f1.2 and it is absolutely stunning

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I doubt you'll be disappointed. This is a lovely lens optically.

[@rsat9526]

I got Viltrox 27mm, 75mm and Sigma 18-50mm, 56mm.... I have not touched my Sigma lenses much these days lol

[@Icelandscapes]

A great review Dustin.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@M.Redsky]

Is that barrel a sauna?

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Yes it is. We love it!

[@M.Redsky]

@@DustinAbbottTWI is it electric hear or gas?

[@klklkl427586]

Looks fantastic for photography, for video take Viltrox 23mm f1.4 and save some money.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

I don't know - the overall picture quality is so much more special from the 27mm

[@klklkl427586]

@@DustinAbbottTWI It sure is. Although for video i would take 23 for smother focus and less breathing

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

That's fair.

[@milwman1958]

How is the lens at Night, Will the highlights hold up? Scott

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

It seems to perform well in low light.

[@Jwitherow1964]

Looking good Brother

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

Thank you

[@maggnet4829]

Swirly bokeh, that's a really bummer. 😢 I know some like it, but I think it's very distracting. PS: While everyone raves about metal lenses, I wish they where made from good light plastic instead. Never saw a lens break at its barrel.

[@DustinAbbottTWI]

How many metal lenses have you seen break at the barrel? That's not something I've seen with the hundreds of lenses I've reviewed.

[@maggnet4829]

@DustinAbbottTWI My point was that lenses with plastic barrels don't break too. So why do we use metal, if it's heavier but doesn't bring any advantages I can think of? The only exception I can see is the part where filters get screwed in. However, metal tends to bend there, which is just as bad.