Matt - sorry to bother you but im having trouble extracting all the samples. the first 3 shots are ok, the dogs and a lady. The others appear to be corrupted - have downloaded twice and same issues keep occurring on the same shots. Would you be able to re-set and upload again please ? kind regards. Hazard.
This lens is solid but the price is high. Would love to see TTArtisan join the telephoto game since they have been delivering insane bang for the buck in recent years.
I'm one of those photographers that wouldn't use a 135mm very often, so having a reasonably priced one would be great. Fingers crossed it comes to Z mount very soon, it'll pair with my Z8 lovely.
This might be true, however generally there are some compromises. For shooting pros for example, they likely go for the high-end stuff, for everyone else, there's this. So both have a place in the market. For eample their 20mm Viltrox lens is good compared to the Nikon Z 20mm, but the Z 20mm is optically better and faster so if you value those things, the Viltrox may not be a good choice despite it's price. They just offer value for those who maybe cannot afford the high-end OEM stuff.
My main camera is a Canon R6II but I’m using an EF 135/2.0 that I’ve had at least 15 years. The AF works great on this camera as does my EF 85/1.2. I’m switching back to my 1Dx’s to shot sports with my 400/2.8. I have found that in most conditions the DSLR gives a certain snap to an image that the mirrorless can’t reproduce. At night under lights at ISO 16,000 the R6II produces better files.
so i'm not the only that think older DSLR give a different look maybe because it's fullframe with low megapixels, i still use my 5D mark III sometimes with the canon 85 1,4L IS the results always amazed me but the dynamic range is so bad compared to the modern mirrorless but for portraits it's amazing
I will use the Megadap ETZ21 Pro on a Nikon Z Mirrorless Camera. Z50 & Zfc. The Z8 in crop mode comparing the autofocusing between Nikon FX to DX cameras. I do own the Plena but this Viltrox Lens is APSC. Viltrox 75mm f/1.2 is excellent. Problem is waiting for the lenses to arrive. I do know that this is for Sony but if You buy one set of lens and share it across multiple platforms will save a whole bunch of mula. Cheers!
No, this is a full frame lens and Viltrox made it pretty clear on their website otherwise they would have stated 90mm APSC instead it is FE mount (full frame e-mount).
I do have two 135mm F1.8, the old Sigma Canon EF mount which I still use on a Fuji GFX and Sony GM which I bought from people that are losing money on this lens, I am tempted as the price with 15% discount is now at $764, it is a steal of sort, definitely the best value 135mm F1.8. Looking forward to their other lens release over the next year.
To help you a bit - another reviewer said it feels a bit plasticky (the body is plastic) and some elements inside are flopping around when powered off (like some Sigma Art lenses). I don't know why Matt missed to mention these, but it's a sponsored video so ...
It is made of plastic exterior - like alkmost every nikon / sony / canon lens. The elements aren't 'flopping around'. The IBIS module moves, again not uncommon. But agree its not a great feeling.
@@GS-XV No. Sigma art series are actually built like little canons like their 40mm, 105mm, 135mm, I have the Sony GM 135 and also most of the ART series. The GM 135 is not exactly build to the standard of 40mm and 105mm Sigma. The design of this lens is more in the way of a Sigma 135mm f1.8 which also weighs around the same . Sigma has not update its own 40mm, 105mm and 135mm for a long time. Also floating element in lens is nothing new, Zeiss Milvus and Sigma also have floating element design in their 135mm lens and it is not a manufacturing fault or QC but by design.
The TTArtisan 75mm f/2 has become my favourite lens lately for how small and light it is, any FE options for a compact 135mm? - maybe an f/2.8 one or something? - This Viltrox is great, but it's so huge!
Don't know if it will with Nikon's "no 3rd party lens can compete with current or future Nikon Z line-up" The Viltrox 135/1.8 would directly compete w/the Z 135/1.8 Plena I want it too, don't get me wrong, but considering Nikon's conditions, Idk if we'll see it any time soon.
They initially announced this LAB-Serios for Sony AND Nikon Z Mount…since i dont hear anything from the nikon version i assume Nikon has asked them not to release it…
This lens may be the lens that gets me to finally adapt E-mount lenses to my Z camera... I've kind of always been against adapting across brands/systems but considering this lens is about $900 and an adapter for the Nikon Z is about $250, it's still way cheaper than the Plena (not that the Plena is bad, but I Don't shoot enough portraits, or do paid photography really) to justify the price tag of the Plena. But I"m going to hold out for a bit to see if a Z version comes out (because then that would save me on having to adapt).
@@mattgranger I always thought you'd have to have at least 25 cm wrist to wear the Octo properly because of the weird way the bracelet is attached to the lugs. Thnx for the reply.
Good point! I have a really wide but thin wrist if that makes sense. Its like a rounded off rectangle, not circular. So bigger and thinner watches fit me quite well.
Seems like a nice lens. Interesting that it has Wi-Fi that becomes potentially operational as soon as the lens is powered. Because of fear of hostile firmware, certain network device brands maybe forbidden in some countries. Now photographers can bring in this potential carrier. I'm not paranoid, just reminding the paranoid people of their fears.
It might. I don't think Viltrox cares. They have similar lenses like the 85 1.8 that compete with the NIkon (Actually they have a few) and Nikon doesn't seem to care. Probably because people have to buy a Nikon camera to shoot wit hthe Viltrox anyway, so even though they may not be getting a lens + body sale, they're at least getting some sale as a result. If Nikon had a problem with Viltrox in general they would have done something about it already, like Canon did, but also look at what it did to Canon. Some canon shooters are still not happy there is no FF third party alternative (in fact, I know at least 2 people who sold their R6's and went with a Z6 III and Z8 because of the third party lens ability).
Good price. no doubt. I guess its easy to come out with something that is as good or sometimes better than orginal but cheaper and bigger and heavier. How about the opposite??.. when can we see eg 135 f1.8 that is like this good as well but size like 50mm and weight 600 grams. I wonder if any company can do that yet. No I guess.. they can only make cheaper but bigger and heavier.
Maybe Sigma can do it. Their 85mm F1.4 HSM was heavy around 1.2 kg and their DG DN Art replacement is 625g. 'And it is a solidly made lens just like most of the Art series Sigmas. Samyang are not exactly build to Sigma standard.
All of us Nikon Z owners wanting this lens ASAP...forgetting about Nikon's "No 3rd party lens can directly compete with current or future Nikkor Z line-up" 😅🙃 Im sure the Plena is incredible...but with Viltrox dropping their lenses & then the pricing range, they're just exposing these bigger companies exploiting their brand name with these insanely priced lenses.
So - you do not use 135 mm? But you want a cheap one? 😁 This is exactly my experience. A 85-100 mm lens you use a lot. A 135 mm not. Why? My own experience is that you have to step away too far from the subject and you lose contact. Indoors you might even hit the wall. Its a lens that almost is a long tele lens mainly meant for catching things at a distance, maybe even without being seen. But sure, if you only want to take head shots maybe. Then it might be OK.
Very good review. Clearly, the Sony system is the best platform for a lens like ths a the AF system of the Sony is fully "specificated" . From the beginning, the Sony Alpha was created to facilitate 3rd party lenses. I hope they create one for the Nikon and the AF is at least good. Clearly, it's not the Plena, it does not have the light corner-to-corner. The Plena is unique. On the other hand, it does not cost 2800$.
Confirmed! More Lens mounts incoming! Launch Sales live until 10 November! Shopify: geni.us/viltrox135
Amazon: geni.us/135LAB
REBLUM FREE TRIAL: geni.us/ReblumTrial
Sample files: learn.mattgranger.com/courses/viltrox135
Matt - sorry to bother you but im having trouble extracting all the samples. the first 3 shots are ok, the dogs and a lady. The others appear to be corrupted - have downloaded twice and same issues keep occurring on the same shots. Would you be able to re-set and upload again please ? kind regards. Hazard.
This lens is solid but the price is high. Would love to see TTArtisan join the telephoto game since they have been delivering insane bang for the buck in recent years.
Price is high?? like when comparing to the Sony GM, Nikon 135 F2, and Zeiss 135 APO ?
I'm one of those photographers that wouldn't use a 135mm very often, so having a reasonably priced one would be great. Fingers crossed it comes to Z mount very soon, it'll pair with my Z8 lovely.
Viltrox lowkey exposing that bigger brands lenses might be a bit too overpriced.
High key.
This might be true, however generally there are some compromises. For shooting pros for example, they likely go for the high-end stuff, for everyone else, there's this. So both have a place in the market. For eample their 20mm Viltrox lens is good compared to the Nikon Z 20mm, but the Z 20mm is optically better and faster so if you value those things, the Viltrox may not be a good choice despite it's price. They just offer value for those who maybe cannot afford the high-end OEM stuff.
They make excellent lenses but when it breaks, you'd cry to death for their customer support. Been there done that.
Most everything in north america is. We get taxed and screwed.
If/when it comes to Z mount, looking forward to a comparison of it against the Plena 135.
I am told it is on its way!
@@mattgranger Let's beat the drum.
@@mattgranger I think this lens has more 3D pop from my research on flickr !!
@@mattgranger I think this lens has more 3D pop from my research on flickr !!
My main camera is a Canon R6II but I’m using an EF 135/2.0 that I’ve had at least 15 years. The AF works great on this camera as does my EF 85/1.2. I’m switching back to my 1Dx’s to shot sports with my 400/2.8. I have found that in most conditions the DSLR gives a certain snap to an image that the mirrorless can’t reproduce. At night under lights at ISO 16,000 the R6II produces better files.
so i'm not the only that think older DSLR give a different look maybe because it's fullframe with low megapixels, i still use my 5D mark III sometimes with the canon 85 1,4L IS the results always amazed me but the dynamic range is so bad compared to the modern mirrorless but for portraits it's amazing
For that price, it’s a must have for the Z-mount! And mine favorite 105 1.4E rare characteristic lens🔥
Such a wonderful lens with great results and price.
Good , now 85 1.2 and 35 1.2 for Z mount please (already own the Plena)
have you used the sigma 135 art? curious how you think they compare
I will use the Megadap ETZ21 Pro on a Nikon Z Mirrorless Camera. Z50 & Zfc. The Z8 in crop mode comparing the autofocusing between Nikon FX to DX cameras. I do own the Plena but this Viltrox Lens is APSC. Viltrox 75mm f/1.2 is excellent. Problem is waiting for the lenses to arrive. I do know that this is for Sony but if You buy one set of lens and share it across multiple platforms will save a whole bunch of mula. Cheers!
No, this is a full frame lens and Viltrox made it pretty clear on their website otherwise they would have stated 90mm APSC instead it is FE mount (full frame e-mount).
@@jliang70 Correct on the 135mm. I got mixed up thinking about the 75mm. Cheers!
I do have two 135mm F1.8, the old Sigma Canon EF mount which I still use on a Fuji GFX and Sony GM which I bought from people that are losing money on this lens, I am tempted as the price with 15% discount is now at $764, it is a steal of sort, definitely the best value 135mm F1.8. Looking forward to their other lens release over the next year.
You ain’t helping my GAS, Buddy.
no joke
To help you a bit - another reviewer said it feels a bit plasticky (the body is plastic) and some elements inside are flopping around when powered off (like some Sigma Art lenses). I don't know why Matt missed to mention these, but it's a sponsored video so ...
ruclips.net/video/rxcPFnfNkm0/видео.html
It is made of plastic exterior - like alkmost every nikon / sony / canon lens. The elements aren't 'flopping around'. The IBIS module moves, again not uncommon. But agree its not a great feeling.
@@GS-XV No. Sigma art series are actually built like little canons like their 40mm, 105mm, 135mm, I have the Sony GM 135 and also most of the ART series. The GM 135 is not exactly build to the standard of 40mm and 105mm Sigma. The design of this lens is more in the way of a Sigma 135mm f1.8 which also weighs around the same . Sigma has not update its own 40mm, 105mm and 135mm for a long time. Also floating element in lens is nothing new, Zeiss Milvus and Sigma also have floating element design in their 135mm lens and it is not a manufacturing fault or QC but by design.
The TTArtisan 75mm f/2 has become my favourite lens lately for how small and light it is, any FE options for a compact 135mm? - maybe an f/2.8 one or something? - This Viltrox is great, but it's so huge!
How does it compare to the Plena in image quality. Price not withstanding.
Its not in Z mount, so I can only compare to the Sony GM for now
I have a Sony a6400 what would the focal length be ? also I didn’t hear any mention of any kind of stabilization
Thanks Matt, I look forward to when it ships in Nikon Z mount format.
Don't know if it will with Nikon's "no 3rd party lens can compete with current or future Nikon Z line-up"
The Viltrox 135/1.8 would directly compete w/the Z 135/1.8 Plena
I want it too, don't get me wrong, but considering Nikon's conditions, Idk if we'll see it any time soon.
You and me both!
So does the 85mm f1.8 Viltrox
They initially announced this LAB-Serios for Sony AND Nikon Z Mount…since i dont hear anything from the nikon version i assume Nikon has asked them not to release it…
I was told Z mount is on its way.
I got Samyang and think I'll hold off. That 85 1.2 however...will sell my Sigma DG DN for that 1.2.
This lens may be the lens that gets me to finally adapt E-mount lenses to my Z camera... I've kind of always been against adapting across brands/systems but considering this lens is about $900 and an adapter for the Nikon Z is about $250, it's still way cheaper than the Plena (not that the Plena is bad, but I Don't shoot enough portraits, or do paid photography really) to justify the price tag of the Plena. But I"m going to hold out for a bit to see if a Z version comes out (because then that would save me on having to adapt).
Waiting for Z Mount, as Nikon 135 was way too expensive for this range
Matt, is the body made of plastic and are the focusing elements inside flopping around when powered off?
Plastic body, metal mount. I wouldn’t say elements are flipping around, no. But the ibis moves when off. It’s noticeable.
How is the Sony 135mm f/1.8 still US$2100 in your region? I thought you could buy it brand new for HKD$10900 = US$1400. Still more expensive for sure.
B&H Photo - $2100 plus tax bhpho.to/4f7glgG
I barely use my 85. Maybe, maybe , I'll get this when the Nikon model is released.
But would be great if doze release on the z mount
Hoping for a Nikon Z mount, thank you for the review!
Do the Batgirl and Royal Oak wear better than the Octofinissimo?
Batgirl is most comfortable bracelet, Octo overall comfort, RO gives a satisfying ego boost haha.
@@mattgranger I always thought you'd have to have at least 25 cm wrist to wear the Octo properly because of the weird way the bracelet is attached to the lugs. Thnx for the reply.
Good point! I have a really wide but thin wrist if that makes sense. Its like a rounded off rectangle, not circular. So bigger and thinner watches fit me quite well.
How will you compare the image quality with the nikon 135mm f1.8 plena?
This vs the Sigma 135mm adapted?
Ask Viltrox to release a Z-mount version, the Plena is way too expensive.
you are great photographer
Thanks!
Seems like a nice lens. Interesting that it has Wi-Fi that becomes potentially operational as soon as the lens is powered. Because of fear of hostile firmware, certain network device brands maybe forbidden in some countries. Now photographers can bring in this potential carrier. I'm not paranoid, just reminding the paranoid people of their fears.
I think I will buy this if it comes to the Z mount.
Im told it is on its way!
The Z mount version will be a no brainer. The plena is good, but it wouldn't be good enough to justify the astronomical price compared to this lens.
Insert the Sigma 135mm 1.8
Good to see Fe here again.
More to come!
I have this feeling that it's not going come out to Nikon z . Due to could hurt there nikon z sales
It might. I don't think Viltrox cares. They have similar lenses like the 85 1.8 that compete with the NIkon (Actually they have a few) and Nikon doesn't seem to care. Probably because people have to buy a Nikon camera to shoot wit hthe Viltrox anyway, so even though they may not be getting a lens + body sale, they're at least getting some sale as a result. If Nikon had a problem with Viltrox in general they would have done something about it already, like Canon did, but also look at what it did to Canon. Some canon shooters are still not happy there is no FF third party alternative (in fact, I know at least 2 people who sold their R6's and went with a Z6 III and Z8 because of the third party lens ability).
Brilliant review 👌 hope they make a 200mm f1.2 for Fuji or for canon rf
200mm f1.2? EXTREMELY unlikely.
That will be bazooka like lens. I will be amazed if they can make a 200mm f1.8 or even F2.
Now if they would just make a 600mm f/4 for $4900.00. Set the world on fire!
Sony GM 135 users must be kicking the air right now ..😅
Good price. no doubt. I guess its easy to come out with something that is as good or sometimes better than orginal but cheaper and bigger and heavier.
How about the opposite??.. when can we see eg 135 f1.8 that is like this good as well but size like 50mm and weight 600 grams. I wonder if any company can do that yet. No I guess.. they can only make cheaper but bigger and heavier.
Like a 50mm? No. But the Samyang 135mm f/1.8 weights 772g.
Maybe Sigma can do it. Their 85mm F1.4 HSM was heavy around 1.2 kg and their DG DN Art replacement is 625g. 'And it is a solidly made lens just like most of the Art series Sigmas. Samyang are not exactly build to Sigma standard.
@@jliang70 there are so many 135mm f/1.8 options right now, I guess Sigma would instead make a 135mm f/1.4 ART and a 135mm f/2.8 I
indian price ????sir
LAB sounds clinical 😂
Maybe should have gone for Latin, like the Plena?
LABORATORIUS
All of us Nikon Z owners wanting this lens ASAP...forgetting about Nikon's "No 3rd party lens can directly compete with current or future Nikkor Z line-up" 😅🙃
Im sure the Plena is incredible...but with Viltrox dropping their lenses & then the pricing range, they're just exposing these bigger companies exploiting their brand name with these insanely priced lenses.
Viltrox make an 85 1.8 that’s directly against Nikons. That was allowed. And the Z version of this lens is coming, so I’m told.
X mount too.
Wow
So - you do not use 135 mm? But you want a cheap one? 😁
This is exactly my experience.
A 85-100 mm lens you use a lot. A 135 mm not.
Why? My own experience is that you have to step away too far from the subject and you lose contact. Indoors you might even hit the wall.
Its a lens that almost is a long tele lens mainly meant for catching things at a distance, maybe even without being seen.
But sure, if you only want to take head shots maybe. Then it might be OK.
Very good review. Clearly, the Sony system is the best platform for a lens like ths a the AF system of the Sony is fully "specificated" . From the beginning, the Sony Alpha was created to facilitate 3rd party lenses. I hope they create one for the Nikon and the AF is at least good. Clearly, it's not the Plena, it does not have the light corner-to-corner. The Plena is unique. On the other hand, it does not cost 2800$.
dang, havent seen you in forever, looking thin!!
Only for Sony 😕😕😕😕😒😒😒
More mounts coming