I've owned the Viltrox for a few weeks now and am in no way disappointed....Great for portraits and at a fraction of the cost, compared to the Nikon Z 85mm....there's nothing to dislike...it's a win win!
This is the kind of lens review I can dig. Real world comparison without the clinical, lab mumbo jumbo. Too many of the camera kit channels spend too much time with B roll walking around and pointing the camera at something, with little snippets of actual pictures, usually cropped and much smaller in frame. You'd think they had stolen the kit from the shop and were trying to do the review before the cops showed up. Yours are better paced and more about the pictures and how they look. As for these two lens - I don't think the slight picture quality of the Viltrox would put me off, what does is the construction and reliability. Just your "it's a feature" comment when removing the Viltrox lens was enough for me to take a pass. Thanks for the review. Finally -seeing people hanging around without masks was just weird!
I used this lense. I sent it back. The first one I brought needed to be updated and didn’t work but I didn’t know that so I sent it back and brought another. The second worked. But it made my z7II slower. The lens hood was so hard to put on and take off I thought I was gonna break the mount. And also when taking the lens of the camera it gets stuck on the mount which is scary, I didn’t like the experience. And its not weather sealed. I was in the cold shooting and the lens was so cold it was hard to hold. I’d get the invest in the Nikon z 85 s and you’d be happy.
The Nikon 85 1.8S has been my lens that I’ve favored for so many shoots. From portraiture to sports, it’s been an absolute joy to use and I’m so glad I purchased it. It’s delivered EVERY time no matter the style of photography.
@@MattIrwinPhotography shooting with the Z6 and looking into a Z6 II. I MIGHT add a 50 1.8S to my 35,85, and 70-200 Z mount lenses. Your videos have offered some great insight to how the Z system performs. Thanks, Matt!
I've read serval stories about the Viltrox simply "STOPPED WORKING" and the company is not trying to fix them... sending customers back to the seller... this walked me right to the 85mm 1.8S
If Nikon were to drop $200 off their Z 85mm lens, I personally think the Viltrox wouldn't be a consideration for most except the most budget-oriented. It's the consideration that you're most assuredly not getting twice the lens for twice the price, in my opinion. I'm not a fan of the ergonomics or cheap feel of the Nikon Z 85mm lens, either. I'm looking forward to seeing what offerings Tamron and Sigma will bring to the table, but honestly, if Nikon gets their Z 85mm f/1.2 out first, I will undoubtedly buy it. As I spend most of my time outside, the weather sealing gasket IS a big deal to me. Until such a time that better native mount options come my way, this review has shown me that I'm best off sticking to my AF-S 105mm f/1.4E for my go-to portrait lens. Thanks again, Matt!
The chromatic aberrations on the Nikon is outstanding. My Nikon 85 1.4 g is my favourite lens but it chromatic aberrations are not great. Great video mate.
What a great review. And the creative cut-scenes between the segments keep getting better and better every episode. Thank you and cheers from Charlotte!
I got the Viltrox a few weeks ago and plan to use it for some 'home studio' shooting (which is specifically NOT what I usually shoot). So 'good' is 'good enough' for me. I simply can't justify the Sigma Art or Nikon Z prices for something I don't think I'll be using all that much or all that seriously. If and when my studio photography takes off in a big way (which would surprise me), I can always go and get whatever 85mm is the bees knees at that time! Love the nice and relaxed and matter of factly style of your videos... Will watch again.. more.. euhhh.. You know what I mean ;)
Off topic, Matt, but I’d like to see how you clean your mirrorless sensors. In your use cases you must do a bit of maintenance on those sensor surfaces. What do you use; how often - and what is your technique?
Yes that is what blew me away 2 years ago when I first purchased the 50mm 1.8, and I was like 'what is going on here' I made a vid about it as I was so surprised. ruclips.net/video/gY3QVT0HlY4/видео.html Perhaps the new announcements after Easter, fingers crossed ... cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Photography is purely a hobby for me at the moment. I'm not making money from it so the viltrox will be plenty perfect for me. That notwithstanding the Nikon z lens is pretty amazing and I wish I could get that instead
Excellent comparison video Matt! I owned and shot portraiture and corporate headshots with the 85mm f1.4G for over 3 years and absolutely loved it. The only thing that drove me crazy was the chromatic aberration (especially with jewelry on my subjects as well as silver-framed glasses). I can't count the number of hours I spent getting rid of color fringing. I now own the 85mm f1.8 S mount lens and absolutely love it. It is FAR superior to the 85mm f1.4G lens in my opinion. As a result, I would never consider the Viltrox based on this video. Still...I can see the advantages of such a lens if cost is your primary consideration. Cheers!
Yeah Rob, CA is a really problem in post. And the fact that the Z suppresses it is a dream. Personally saving me hours after each shoot. So the price difference is lost for me in the time required in post ...
Thank Matt, I didn't realised that I have 2 85mm F1.8, silly me. What I got is the Viltrox like you got and the Nikon G, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm 1:1.8 G, this lens is on my Nikon F5 right now, that one cost me £285 secondhand.
@@MattIrwinPhotography just got the lens on Thursday and used it once so far. Friends came with their 1 year old daughter and I took photos of them outside, covid rules🙄🙄, and the lens and camera just blew me away. It's the first time I've shot people with the Z5 and the eye detect was straight onto them even the toddler. Looking forward to using the camera out and about and when I can in the studio
I always prefer a native lens over these type of no name third party lenses, because if you take care of your Nikkor and you plan to sell it in the future, you'll get much more value out of it than from these third party lenses. You also don't need to worry about AF issues or other compatibility issues. The only 3rd party lenses I own are manual focus.
Thank you for this excellent comparison video I’m curious how the 85 mm z compares to the 70 to 200 mm at 85 mm, a similar video would be great! I’m also patiently waiting for your review of the teleconverters I’d love to see the 1.4 and 2.0 comparison on the 70 to 200 z, a video just like this one thanks for all the great videos you create. I’m a big fan!
Hi Matt, is there any chance you will be doing a review of the Yongnuo 85 1.8 for Z system at any point? There are a couple of reviews out there but not many. The lens looks really good.
I got a 2nd hand Nikon D700 with vertical grip to use until Z8 is released. I can reuse my broken D300 batteries and memories. A hybrid D880 is a dream camera for us screw drive lens users
Can only concur, that Viltrox are simply stunning. It beat all my lenses. The way it can make everything sharp at higher F number in many different distances at the same time, are soo pleasing. Although I am using it on Fuji mount x. But I bet the quality continues into fullframe. Only critic is that I could certainly use a VR version. On a tripod just an over the top lense.
Another great video Matt. Nice to see the 1.4 comparison as well. I think nostalgia plays a small role in the perception of our old favourites! I think the Nikon z1.8 is the go for me as I like the bleeding edge, but if someone handed me a viltrox I’d work with it until the use case (specific job) justified the upgrade. Thanks again for the effort and entertainment. 👍🏻
Great video Matt, super details and great comparison! I got my Viltrox in early February and did notice a little bit of the chroma. But overall I LOVED the lens. I did, however hot swap and the Viltrox died, dead bigtime. Dead as in 100% non functioning. I can't say what or how it happened, but something for people considering the Viltrox is if it goes bad (Just over 1 month in my case) you have no options and will have a $400 paperweight. I'm ONLY saying this for people to add to their thought process when looking to purchase
Like generic medicines, I don’t use them I think from a resale and overall compatibility you’re better off with original lenses if possible The only time I’ve been tempted is with the Leica SL2 where the limited range of focal lengths, ridiculous cost, size and weight leaves some people with no alternative
I have been absolutely crazy waiting for this!! I am excited! Also, today I got my first MacBook (Air, 2017 model). Hopefully I will be able to edit and upload some videos soon! Hope to get your input when I do!
Thanks for the review Matt, as thorough as all your work is, I bought the Z 85mm before the Viltrox was available, very happy with how it performs. The $ difference is a compelling argument to go that way, for anyone who’s in the 85mm market right now. I wonder what else Viltrox has in the pipeline?
Wonder if it's worth using the Nikon 85MM 1.8 f mount on the FTZ instead of the Viltrox. Both just about the same price new, but the f mount version used is about half the price.
Yeah Fel, there are always sales coming and going here in Australia. Also towards the end of the year we also have some pretty large sales. Cheers Matt
Thanks for your vids. Regarding Capture One, I began using it a year ago. I didn't find results any better than Lightroom Classic, which I've used for years. If I shot tethered, which is rare for me, then I'd use CO again.
I still hot swap lenses, always have, but always do it with a gasp and some sense I've destroyed the electronics of both camera and lens, and chastise myself for not turning the camera off. Where does that come from? A don't do it from Nikon in the past? Anyway I gasped at your doing it, as well LOL Love these lens comparison videos. Cheers!, Steven.
PS -- re your "We're shooting in the dark.... It's crazy." When I got my D3 by the time the battery was charged and ready to go it was dark and snowing outside and I went out and shot city scapes and yelled into the night, "OMG, this camera shoots in the dark!"
Thanks so much Steven. :) Yes I think it happened for me by accident the first few times as I was in a hurry, and since I have never experience any negative outcomes ... so it appears to be fine, I think I will ask NPS for formal Nikon guidance on if it is OK :)
Yes there is this option in Capture One, but i never find it to be that succesful, I should try again, as they keep releasing new versions, perhaps it has become better :)
Hi Matt, I'm using Nikon D5500 with Nikon 50mm f1.8 and 18-140mm. I want to shift to Nikon Z5 or Z6. I have 2 questions. 1st which camera body I should go for? 2nd. As I said 2 Nikon lens I have its good to buy Z5 with FTZ and use my 50mm 1.8 or buy Viltrox 85mm f1.8? I only use camera for family portrait and landscape photos only. No video at all. Dont have lots of budget. Please help to choose with camera body and lens I should go far. Many thanks. CHEERS 🍻
Hi Amit, great to meet you. :) Based on your use-case I would go the Z5. And in time add the 85mm Viltrox. Viltrox are said to be announcing more Z primes lenses in a month or two :)
I have learned the hard way to always buy native glass. Off brand might work now but out comes a new camera body and all of a sudden AF sucks. Learned that lesson years ago with Sigma on Nikon. Buy Nikon now and no worries later.
Matt, when I mount my Viltrox 85mm 1.4 on my Z9 “F_ _” shows up where I expect to see the aperture identified on the monitor. Any idea why it would do that? Thanks, Tom KC3QAC
I expected 1.8G in this comparison for "on budget 85mm" for Z ....but knowing difference between 1.4 and 1.8 we can get the idea. Thanks for this one. 😊
@@MattIrwinPhotography dont worry, Matt Granger have video from 2013 comparing 1.4G vs 1.8G. Im impressed with 1.8g, check @ivansmiljkovicphotoraphy in Instagram, last post at the moment is done with D750 + 85 1.8G.
@@MattIrwinPhotography not really out perfome...but value for buck, 1.8G is the lens to go with. I forgot, but Ricci Talks have direct comparison of 1.8 S , 1.8G and 1.4G. ruclips.net/video/Z9S3zPSyy4U/видео.html Its very good review, but Im was more about real life comparison, thats why we were asking you 😊
I picked up the Z 85 f/1.8 a while back; sadly she does not get as much use as I intended because I have a Sigma 105mm f/1.4 ART lens. Ufda that is a nice lens! I really hope you can get the new Pentax K-3 III for a test run. :^)
Some of those Viltrox shots look nice, the CA giving the shot some character where the Nikon lens was a bit clinical. So, I think it's an excellent choice.
Hmmm good question about the Pentax ... I will reach out to Pentax and see if they are interested in lending me a copy, I would love to try it after 25 years on not using Pentax .... GREAT IDEA !!!
Great to see 3rd party af lenses finally arriving. This will help Nikon to survive as 3rd party support is critical for the longevity of any brand as it shows a potential investor that the industry supports the mount. Sigma and Tamron have supported f mount with lenses as good as the Nikon versions. The nice thing is image stabilization is in the body so that should be similar. How good is the af for both video and portraits. Thanks Matt for putting this video together. I have the Nikon z version but would have given this a look if it had been available
Hi Matt, may I ask since it's been a few months since this video if you're still using the 85mm regularly? I can't help but notice a few reviews on Amazon and BH Photo that for some, this lens essentially bricks itself and becomes unusable. I hope this hasn't been your experience since this video?
Given the high-quality 3rd party lenses from Sigma, Voigtlander, Zeiss, Laowa and others, it's rather odd to say make a sweeping statement on their future proofness.
Third parties don’t know ultimate planned image sensor resolution sizes over say the next 5 years, the also don’t know about how focus might improve or change over time. Indeed optically they can do their best. But they are not privy to the future. Logic suggest if you want 100% future proof from the future of any design upgrades, only OEM know 100%. That is all the statement means. This review was about Viltrox. It is possible and plausible that Nikon share some information with third parties.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hmmm, at Photokina, a public event, Sony and Canon used to show off their high mpx sensors. It was canon who had 100mpx+ sensors on display 4 years ago.
Yep sure, but what does that mean to a lens creator ... a proof of concept sensor vs a released camera. 3rd parties may hedge their bets not knowing what Canon will actually do, and not aim for that resolution, not knowing if and when, or ever. But sure if you are not worried about the 'electronic' future proofing, that is totally cool :) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotographyNever really thought about the relationship between the optics and sensors. And with tiny bit of research, I'd say it's tenuous. Didn't Zeiss and Leica lenses designed for film outdo Nikon and Canon cameras? And when Zeiss specifically designed their Otuses for dslr mount... *boof* everything changed rapidly. So optic designs are primarily going to be designed as optics first. And later adpted to whatever camera tech comes. How quickly did Zeiss knock out lenses for Sony... same optical designs with bits of electronics.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Most likely the Z30 entry-level. Maybe we could get the D500 spirited mirrorless when the Z9 is released, Kind of like when Nikon released the D500 together with the D5
I got a viltrox 56 1.4 for my fuji camera and IMO...Much purple fringing in trees and Just lacking color overall some - compared with Fuji lenses....yes cheaper but you can see why, I think will be the same in daylight on the Z series....WHY buy pro Z series camera and buy cheap Chinese, you will not always get same high level results without Z lens
@@carlosandreviana9448 I'd say it's pretty much the same amount of electronics in mirrorless and dslr, and when you're shooting important event you have to be able to switch lenses pretty fast. It's just a poor design of this particular lens, other lens brands work just fine
@@_koolkat_ I really don't know if it is a good idea swapping lenses with the camera on because the sensor is electrically charged and acts as a dust sucker. This is particularly worrisome with mirrorless, because, unlike dslr's, the sensor is exposed.
I can feel your struggle to acknowledge the incredible quality of the Viltrox lens at an incredibly lower price compared to the Nikon one. I mean.... your point that "(Nikon) are going to design their lenses with the future in mind, whereas a third-party lens cannot" is just nonsense. We have been using third-party lenses for decades. Has that ever been a real problem? Will the Nikkor 85mm magically transform in your cabinet to match future Z mount cameras? If people like you would set aside your brand loyalty and express your opinion more freely, Nikon would not be able get away with charging 200% price for their lenses with practically identical, or let's be generous and say 5% better image quality. Sorry if that sounds rude or aggressive. Just a bit frustrated with Nikon at the moment. It has been two years since this video, and Nikon are still doing the same thing, while actively obstructing third-party manufacturers from creating competition.
lol watch 5 or 6 other Viltrox vids I have made and come back to me. Keep in mind some lenses have been bricked by firmware updates. And that is part of what I mean. This was the first Viltrox lens made for Z, almost 3 years ago. They have steadily improved. I am currently reviewing the Viltrox 27mm 1.2 APSC. It’s a cracker. Check out my 75mm also.
I've owned the Viltrox for a few weeks now and am in no way disappointed....Great for portraits and at a fraction of the cost, compared to the Nikon Z 85mm....there's nothing to dislike...it's a win win!
Yep it certainly performs well for the price :)
This is the kind of lens review I can dig. Real world comparison without the clinical, lab mumbo jumbo. Too many of the camera kit channels spend too much time with B roll walking around and pointing the camera at something, with little snippets of actual pictures, usually cropped and much smaller in frame. You'd think they had stolen the kit from the shop and were trying to do the review before the cops showed up. Yours are better paced and more about the pictures and how they look. As for these two lens - I don't think the slight picture quality of the Viltrox would put me off, what does is the construction and reliability. Just your "it's a feature" comment when removing the Viltrox lens was enough for me to take a pass. Thanks for the review. Finally -seeing people hanging around without masks was just weird!
Thanks so much Mac, really appreciated.
I used this lense. I sent it back. The first one I brought needed to be updated and didn’t work but I didn’t know that so I sent it back and brought another. The second worked. But it made my z7II slower. The lens hood was so hard to put on and take off I thought I was gonna break the mount. And also when taking the lens of the camera it gets stuck on the mount which is scary, I didn’t like the experience. And its not weather sealed. I was in the cold shooting and the lens was so cold it was hard to hold. I’d get the invest in the Nikon z 85 s and you’d be happy.
The Nikon 85 1.8S has been my lens that I’ve favored for so many shoots. From portraiture to sports, it’s been an absolute joy to use and I’m so glad I purchased it. It’s delivered EVERY time no matter the style of photography.
Great share AC. Which body are you on?
@@MattIrwinPhotography shooting with the Z6 and looking into a Z6 II. I MIGHT add a 50 1.8S to my 35,85, and 70-200 Z mount lenses. Your videos have offered some great insight to how the Z system performs. Thanks, Matt!
Cheers A C, they are all great lens choices :) Cheers Matt
I've read serval stories about the Viltrox simply "STOPPED WORKING" and the company is not trying to fix them... sending customers back to the seller... this walked me right to the 85mm 1.8S
Yes i heard it too.. and that is one thing that is stopping me from buying this lens.
If Nikon were to drop $200 off their Z 85mm lens, I personally think the Viltrox wouldn't be a consideration for most except the most budget-oriented. It's the consideration that you're most assuredly not getting twice the lens for twice the price, in my opinion. I'm not a fan of the ergonomics or cheap feel of the Nikon Z 85mm lens, either.
I'm looking forward to seeing what offerings Tamron and Sigma will bring to the table, but honestly, if Nikon gets their Z 85mm f/1.2 out first, I will undoubtedly buy it. As I spend most of my time outside, the weather sealing gasket IS a big deal to me.
Until such a time that better native mount options come my way, this review has shown me that I'm best off sticking to my AF-S 105mm f/1.4E for my go-to portrait lens. Thanks again, Matt!
The chromatic aberrations on the Nikon is outstanding. My Nikon 85 1.4 g is my favourite lens but it chromatic aberrations are not great. Great video mate.
Thanks so much David :)
What a great review. And the creative cut-scenes between the segments keep getting better and better every episode. Thank you and cheers from Charlotte!
Our pleasure! Thanks so much Charlotte, we love photography and film making, and get to do it all here :) Cheers Matt
I got the Viltrox a few weeks ago and plan to use it for some 'home studio' shooting (which is specifically NOT what I usually shoot). So 'good' is 'good enough' for me. I simply can't justify the Sigma Art or Nikon Z prices for something I don't think I'll be using all that much or all that seriously. If and when my studio photography takes off in a big way (which would surprise me), I can always go and get whatever 85mm is the bees knees at that time! Love the nice and relaxed and matter of factly style of your videos... Will watch again.. more.. euhhh.. You know what I mean ;)
Off topic, Matt, but I’d like to see how you clean your mirrorless sensors. In your use cases you must do a bit of maintenance on those sensor surfaces. What do you use; how often - and what is your technique?
Nikon new z lenses are so amazing. Even at 1,8 are so so much better than f 1.4. can't wait to get new pancakes...
Yes that is what blew me away 2 years ago when I first purchased the 50mm 1.8, and I was like 'what is going on here' I made a vid about it as I was so surprised. ruclips.net/video/gY3QVT0HlY4/видео.html Perhaps the new announcements after Easter, fingers crossed ... cheers Matt
Yay its finally here. Been waiting for this video for a while
I hope it helps to clarify your journey, please let me know if I can answer any further questions. Thanks Cherno. Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thanks Matt. Cheers to you and thanks for the video
Pleasure, which lens do you think you will go for?
@@MattIrwinPhotography Photography is purely a hobby for me at the moment. I'm not making money from it so the viltrox will be plenty perfect for me. That notwithstanding the Nikon z lens is pretty amazing and I wish I could get that instead
I have been waiting for this as well! Although I bought one while waiting 🙂. Very happy with it for the price!!
I think all these videos convinced me to buy the Nikon z mount. Especially at $599 renewed
Excellent comparison video Matt! I owned and shot portraiture and corporate headshots with the 85mm f1.4G for over 3 years and absolutely loved it. The only thing that drove me crazy was the chromatic aberration (especially with jewelry on my subjects as well as silver-framed glasses). I can't count the number of hours I spent getting rid of color fringing. I now own the 85mm f1.8 S mount lens and absolutely love it. It is FAR superior to the 85mm f1.4G lens in my opinion. As a result, I would never consider the Viltrox based on this video. Still...I can see the advantages of such a lens if cost is your primary consideration. Cheers!
Yeah Rob, CA is a really problem in post. And the fact that the Z suppresses it is a dream. Personally saving me hours after each shoot. So the price difference is lost for me in the time required in post ...
@@MattIrwinPhotography same. That’s the reason I really want the 85mm S. The 85mm G 1.8 had so much chromatic aberration!
Thank Matt, I didn't realised that I have 2 85mm F1.8, silly me. What I got is the Viltrox like you got and the Nikon G, Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm 1:1.8 G, this lens is on my Nikon F5 right now, that one cost me £285 secondhand.
Wow that sound like a great price for the Nikon, how do you find it performs? Cheers Matt
I'm really nicely surprised with the Viltrox. That said I'd still prefer my Nikon Z 85. It's probably my favourite lens of those I own :)
Yes the for me currently I think it is the 20mm, 50mm and 85mm cheers Matt
Looks like this will be my next lens later on in the year as I just bought the 24-200 Z lens and it is so far great
Awesome Andrew, how are you finding the 24-200? Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotography just got the lens on Thursday and used it once so far. Friends came with their 1 year old daughter and I took photos of them outside, covid rules🙄🙄, and the lens and camera just blew me away. It's the first time I've shot people with the Z5 and the eye detect was straight onto them even the toddler.
Looking forward to using the camera out and about and when I can in the studio
Awesome, glad to hear it work so well. I am working on the 24-200 review at the moment, should come in a few weeks :)
I always prefer a native lens over these type of no name third party lenses, because if you take care of your Nikkor and you plan to sell it in the future, you'll get much more value out of it than from these third party lenses. You also don't need to worry about AF issues or other compatibility issues. The only 3rd party lenses I own are manual focus.
Personally that has been my mantra too Geek, and it has served me very well :) Cheers Matt
You can sell it for more of course it retains its value better, but you're paying a higher initial price so it doesn't really matter
If I get a 600 native lens and sell it for 400 that's $200 lost. If I get a third party for 300 and sell it for 100 that's the same $200 lost.
@@joshuawilkinson3035 Lots of ifs here.
Thank you for this excellent comparison video I’m curious how the 85 mm z compares to the 70 to 200 mm at 85 mm, a similar video would be great! I’m also patiently waiting for your review of the teleconverters I’d love to see the 1.4 and 2.0 comparison on the 70 to 200 z, a video just like this one thanks for all the great videos you create. I’m a big fan!
Thank you so much Karen. :) I will add your great idea to our shooting schedule. Cheers Matt :)
Hi Matt, is there any chance you will be doing a review of the Yongnuo 85 1.8 for Z system at any point? There are a couple of reviews out there but not many. The lens looks really good.
Also, love the graphics and good taste in music!
Glad you enjoy it, thank you !!!
@@MattIrwinPhotography m
Hey Matt - Great videos - but didn't you tease us with a video about the Z 2-times teleconverter recently? When is it coming?
It was the 70-200 :) with the TC, it is the next big lens video to come :)
I got a 2nd hand Nikon D700 with vertical grip to use until Z8 is released. I can reuse my broken D300 batteries and memories. A hybrid D880 is a dream camera for us screw drive lens users
Can only concur, that Viltrox are simply stunning. It beat all my lenses. The way it can make everything sharp at higher F number in many different distances at the same time, are soo pleasing. Although I am using it on Fuji mount x. But I bet the quality continues into fullframe. Only critic is that I could certainly use a VR version. On a tripod just an over the top lense.
Another great video Matt. Nice to see the 1.4 comparison as well. I think nostalgia plays a small role in the perception of our old favourites!
I think the Nikon z1.8 is the go for me as I like the bleeding edge, but if someone handed me a viltrox I’d work with it until the use case (specific job) justified the upgrade.
Thanks again for the effort and entertainment. 👍🏻
Great video Matt, super details and great comparison!
I got my Viltrox in early February and did notice a little bit of the chroma. But overall I LOVED the lens.
I did, however hot swap and the Viltrox died, dead bigtime. Dead as in 100% non functioning. I can't say what or how it happened, but something for people considering the Viltrox is if it goes bad (Just over 1 month in my case) you have no options and will have a $400 paperweight.
I'm ONLY saying this for people to add to their thought process when looking to purchase
What about the guarantee of the seller? Is hot swap a cause of exlusion?
Portrait sharpness and boken F1,8/2,8 better Yongnuo 85 or viltrox 85? Thanks
Like generic medicines, I don’t use them
I think from a resale and overall compatibility you’re better off with original lenses if possible
The only time I’ve been tempted is with the Leica SL2 where the limited range of focal lengths, ridiculous cost, size and weight leaves some people with no alternative
Yeah good call Ronald.
One cannot compare those fields.
Thanks for the comparison. 85mm is my next purchase for Z7 so a helpful review.
I have been absolutely crazy waiting for this!! I am excited! Also, today I got my first MacBook (Air, 2017 model). Hopefully I will be able to edit and upload some videos soon! Hope to get your input when I do!
I hope so too! Just let me know when you go live Sourav :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography sure!
So nice to hear people say zed instead of zee for a change.
What would you recommend Viltrox 85 vs Nikon 85 1.8g FTZ adaptor
Thanks for the review Matt, as thorough as all your work is, I bought the Z 85mm before the Viltrox was available, very happy with how it performs. The $ difference is a compelling argument to go that way, for anyone who’s in the 85mm market right now. I wonder what else Viltrox has in the pipeline?
Great to hear Andrew, yes I am keen to know what is next too, I will send them an email and see what they have to say :) Cheers Matt
Wonder if it's worth using the Nikon 85MM 1.8 f mount on the FTZ instead of the Viltrox. Both just about the same price new, but the f mount version used is about half the price.
Awesome review! I hope the Viltrox sells well so that Nikon puts their on sale at least for a week :-D
Yeah Fel, there are always sales coming and going here in Australia. Also towards the end of the year we also have some pretty large sales. Cheers Matt
@michael Cheers! :)
Thanks for your vids. Regarding Capture One, I began using it a year ago. I didn't find results any better than Lightroom Classic, which I've used for years. If I shot tethered, which is rare for me, then I'd use CO again.
I still hot swap lenses, always have, but always do it with a gasp and some sense I've destroyed the electronics of both camera and lens, and chastise myself for not turning the camera off. Where does that come from? A don't do it from Nikon in the past? Anyway I gasped at your doing it, as well LOL Love these lens comparison videos. Cheers!, Steven.
PS -- re your "We're shooting in the dark.... It's crazy." When I got my D3 by the time the battery was charged and ready to go it was dark and snowing outside and I went out and shot city scapes and yelled into the night, "OMG, this camera shoots in the dark!"
Thanks so much Steven. :) Yes I think it happened for me by accident the first few times as I was in a hurry, and since I have never experience any negative outcomes ... so it appears to be fine, I think I will ask NPS for formal Nikon guidance on if it is OK :)
I have that 85 Viltrox for one of my Fuji's. It's a nice lens. I'd really prefer a Nikon 1.2 for my Z7ii. Maybe 2022.
Nice review thanks. Do you try to use lens profile in your software to reduce the purple fringing? In photoshop i can use lens profile for the CA‘s...
Yes there is this option in Capture One, but i never find it to be that succesful, I should try again, as they keep releasing new versions, perhaps it has become better :)
Great Fun Matt
Cheers Ronald :)
It would be great to compare with the older 85 1.4D from nikon
Hi Matt,
I'm using Nikon D5500 with Nikon 50mm f1.8 and 18-140mm. I want to shift to Nikon Z5 or Z6. I have 2 questions. 1st which camera body I should go for?
2nd. As I said 2 Nikon lens I have its good to buy Z5 with FTZ and use my 50mm 1.8 or buy Viltrox 85mm f1.8?
I only use camera for family portrait and landscape photos only. No video at all.
Dont have lots of budget. Please help to choose with camera body and lens I should go far. Many thanks. CHEERS 🍻
Hi Amit, great to meet you. :) Based on your use-case I would go the Z5. And in time add the 85mm Viltrox. Viltrox are said to be announcing more Z primes lenses in a month or two :)
Choice of subject for the photography and comparison can be better.. Anyway very good review as usual..
What would you like to see in this case Bikash? CheersMatt :)
I have learned the hard way to always buy native glass. Off brand might work now but out comes a new camera body and all of a sudden AF sucks. Learned that lesson years ago with Sigma on Nikon. Buy Nikon now and no worries later.
Bought the viltrox 3 weeks ago love it
Hopefully they do the firmware that brings the aperture to 1.6 like the previous version
Wow I did not know that was possible ... cool.
The difference is one third - not that bargain...
Matt, when I mount my Viltrox 85mm 1.4 on my Z9 “F_ _” shows up where I expect to see the aperture identified on the monitor. Any idea why it would do that? Thanks, Tom KC3QAC
Awesome shots!
Thanks a lot OSMIUM :) Cheers Matt
Thank you! Very informative video.
Glad it was helpful Mikko :)
Thanks Matt 😊👍
My pleasure Kahorpam :) Which lens do you think you will go for?
Very interesting results 🤔
Glad you think so! I have to say if you have the extra $400 USD, I would for sure go the Z :)
I expected 1.8G in this comparison for "on budget 85mm" for Z ....but knowing difference between 1.4 and 1.8 we can get the idea. Thanks for this one. 😊
I am sorry, I don’t own one. 😀
@@MattIrwinPhotography dont worry, Matt Granger have video from 2013 comparing 1.4G vs 1.8G. Im impressed with 1.8g, check @ivansmiljkovicphotoraphy in Instagram, last post at the moment is done with D750 + 85 1.8G.
Hi Ivan, did he find the 1.8 out performed the 1.4? :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography not really out perfome...but value for buck, 1.8G is the lens to go with. I forgot, but Ricci Talks have direct comparison of 1.8 S , 1.8G and 1.4G.
ruclips.net/video/Z9S3zPSyy4U/видео.html
Its very good review, but Im was more about real life comparison, thats why we were asking you 😊
I picked up the Z 85 f/1.8 a while back; sadly she does not get as much use as I intended because I have a Sigma 105mm f/1.4 ART lens. Ufda that is a nice lens!
I really hope you can get the new Pentax K-3 III for a test run. :^)
Some of those Viltrox shots look nice, the CA giving the shot some character where the Nikon lens was a bit clinical. So, I think it's an excellent choice.
Hmmm good question about the Pentax ... I will reach out to Pentax and see if they are interested in lending me a copy, I would love to try it after 25 years on not using Pentax .... GREAT IDEA !!!
Who’s the winner?
My hood. Love it!
And you are in the vid in the last 5 ish mins.
I just saw!
Great to see 3rd party af lenses finally arriving. This will help Nikon to survive as 3rd party support is critical for the longevity of any brand as it shows a potential investor that the industry supports the mount. Sigma and Tamron have supported f mount with lenses as good as the Nikon versions. The nice thing is image stabilization is in the body so that should be similar. How good is the af for both video and portraits. Thanks Matt for putting this video together. I have the Nikon z version but would have given this a look if it had been available
Hi Matt, may I ask since it's been a few months since this video if you're still using the 85mm regularly? I can't help but notice a few reviews on Amazon and BH Photo that for some, this lens essentially bricks itself and becomes unusable. I hope this hasn't been your experience since this video?
I’ve seen the reviews on Amazon and that’s what’s keeping me from buying this lense
I just noticed that Viltrox will produce 6 more AF lenses for Nikon Z (3 FF and 3 APS-C) Great news
Is it me or the colour is not the same at the right (9:20)? (The cross shape)
@Matt, Thank you
Cheers, pleasure :)
And that's why I bought nikon
We need 3rd party telephotos lens for Z.. 200-600 or something like 500pf..
Let's see what Sigma or Tamron have in stall for us. :)
Given the high-quality 3rd party lenses from Sigma, Voigtlander, Zeiss, Laowa and others, it's rather odd to say make a sweeping statement on their future proofness.
Third parties don’t know ultimate planned image sensor resolution sizes over say the next 5 years, the also don’t know about how focus might improve or change over time. Indeed optically they can do their best. But they are not privy to the future. Logic suggest if you want 100% future proof from the future of any design upgrades, only OEM know 100%. That is all the statement means. This review was about Viltrox. It is possible and plausible that Nikon share some information with third parties.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Hmmm, at Photokina, a public event, Sony and Canon used to show off their high mpx sensors. It was canon who had 100mpx+ sensors on display 4 years ago.
Yep sure, but what does that mean to a lens creator ... a proof of concept sensor vs a released camera. 3rd parties may hedge their bets not knowing what Canon will actually do, and not aim for that resolution, not knowing if and when, or ever. But sure if you are not worried about the 'electronic' future proofing, that is totally cool :) Cheers Matt
@@MattIrwinPhotographyNever really thought about the relationship between the optics and sensors. And with tiny bit of research, I'd say it's tenuous.
Didn't Zeiss and Leica lenses designed for film outdo Nikon and Canon cameras? And when Zeiss specifically designed their Otuses for dslr mount... *boof* everything changed rapidly.
So optic designs are primarily going to be designed as optics first. And later adpted to whatever camera tech comes.
How quickly did Zeiss knock out lenses for Sony... same optical designs with bits of electronics.
Damn, I want Nikon to make more DX cameras so Viltrox will be convinced to sell the rest of its lenses to Z-mount.
Yeah lets hope another one comes this year :) D500 style?
@@MattIrwinPhotography Most likely the Z30 entry-level. Maybe we could get the D500 spirited mirrorless when the Z9 is released, Kind of like when Nikon released the D500 together with the D5
Yep nice one :)
Always write the Lens name on samples ... its very confusing to know which one is viltrox and which one is nikkor sample...!
I got a viltrox 56 1.4 for my fuji camera and IMO...Much purple fringing in trees and Just lacking color overall some - compared with Fuji lenses....yes cheaper but you can see why, I think will be the same in daylight on the Z series....WHY buy pro Z series camera and buy cheap Chinese, you will not always get same high level results without Z lens
these lenses die pretty fast if you put them on, or take them off without turning camera's power off... happened to two of them within a month on a Z6
You should NEVER do that on a mirrorless camera
@@carlosandreviana9448 why ? everyone do it on dslr's
@@_koolkat_ exactly :) on the dslr's. There are too many electronic components in the mirrorless cameras and lens
@@carlosandreviana9448 I'd say it's pretty much the same amount of electronics in mirrorless and dslr, and when you're shooting important event you have to be able to switch lenses pretty fast. It's just a poor design of this particular lens, other lens brands work just fine
@@_koolkat_ I really don't know if it is a good idea swapping lenses with the camera on because the sensor is electrically charged and acts as a dust sucker. This is particularly worrisome with mirrorless, because, unlike dslr's, the sensor is exposed.
I gotta say, your hot swapping makes me cringe.
Agree! It’s almost like violating a religious commandment or pulling back on the stick in a stall! But if Matt needs to go, I guess he needs to go!
Yes i might reach out to Nikon and get there formal thoughts on this matter. Might be a good idea :)
I can feel your struggle to acknowledge the incredible quality of the Viltrox lens at an incredibly lower price compared to the Nikon one. I mean.... your point that "(Nikon) are going to design their lenses with the future in mind, whereas a third-party lens cannot" is just nonsense. We have been using third-party lenses for decades. Has that ever been a real problem? Will the Nikkor 85mm magically transform in your cabinet to match future Z mount cameras?
If people like you would set aside your brand loyalty and express your opinion more freely, Nikon would not be able get away with charging 200% price for their lenses with practically identical, or let's be generous and say 5% better image quality. Sorry if that sounds rude or aggressive. Just a bit frustrated with Nikon at the moment. It has been two years since this video, and Nikon are still doing the same thing, while actively obstructing third-party manufacturers from creating competition.
lol watch 5 or 6 other Viltrox vids I have made and come back to me. Keep in mind some lenses have been bricked by firmware updates. And that is part of what I mean. This was the first Viltrox lens made for Z, almost 3 years ago. They have steadily improved. I am currently reviewing the Viltrox 27mm 1.2 APSC. It’s a cracker. Check out my 75mm also.
Как владелец viltrox 23 и 56мм скажу что линзы плохие. У них кривое поле изображения и резкость плохая. Буду продавать