Definitely the Viltrox I was just getting ready to order the Sony fe len when I came across this video in particular because I've watched several other Videos on the Viltrox but your video sold me. Great video review thanks a lot I will keep an eye on your RUclips page . Roy J. Philadelphia Pa. USA
I used the Sigma 85mm ART then when I had the Sony 85mm f1.8 I found huge difference in contrast, sharpness, colors etc. Sold the 85 Sony immedietly never regretted.
Sony's 85mm f1.8 cat eye bokeh is really a pain in the ass. I bought the Viltrox due to it's price but it surprisingly performed more than well in my wedding jobs. Reliable focusing, sharp images and most of all lovely bokehs!
man, this channel deserves more attention!! great attention to detail and very entertaining. just one question, was this the Viltrox Mark II or the first iteration?
Thanks for the great comparison video! My prediction probably wasn't too far off. I'd also go with the Viltrox any time! Imho it's the 85 with most "bang for the buck" for Sony E mount.
@@fredriksvard2603 Nope. Most people won't notice the difference between f1.8 and f1.4. So if you're on a tight budget it's a waste of money to get a f1.4 lens. And waste of money is never "the best bang for the buck".
Thanks for your review. I've wanted to stray away from the plastic body Sony lenses after having a broken one already so it's good to find a price comparable one that beats the plastic Sony.
I love my Viltrox Mark I. If I ever needed another 85, I might get the M II because it's a bit lighter and better lens hood. That or the Sigma 85 1.4. The Sony lens is still a great lens, but Viltrox gives it a run for its money.
If you have the budget for it, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 is a brilliant lens (I use mine so much - sharpest lens I own!). However, for the money, the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II is an incredible piece for kit. I'd highly recommend it for anyone on a budget. Thanks for your comment 😊
@@TomCalton Thanks for your beautiful videos Tom, I would like to see a (meanly unfair...) comparison between the Viltrox 1.8 and the Sigma 1.4 DN at this point! I'm really corious :)
The lens chart would say otherwise, but the Viltrox definitely has more contrast, which may be what makes it appear sharper in real life situations. It's a very close call though on those portraits.
Thanks for this one, I have been debating between the 85mm 1.4 Sony and the 85mm 1.8 Sony, but the price tags on both of those are very high and had never even heard of VILTROX until your video! Thank you!
Hey Tom I'm a new subscriber and love your style. One thing could you consider including minimum focusing distance in all your lens comparisons? This would be really helpful to me. Thanks man!
I was already tending more to the Viltrox but you kinda gave me last nudge into ita direction, thanks mate. Btw I found the eye image of the Viltrox way better, especially the brows were kinda blurry with the Sony?
Great video!! But I'm a Japanese viewer, so it was a little difficult to understand… sorry… So I will ask you a frank question. Which would you recommend if I buy it now? One more question. Which would you recommend Viltrox or Tokina?
Hey, thanks! Don't worry, always happy to answer any questions ☺️ Out of the Sony and Viltrox, I'd go for the Viltrox. Out of Viltrox and Tokina, I'd go for the Tokina (here's why - ruclips.net/video/RN22ZXgbtfc/видео.html). I hope this helps!
I'm getting the sony A7Iv for my first camera. I don't want to spend more on a lens because obviously the camera alone is expensive. I've been looking at a lot of reviews on a budget lens and the viltrox is win win. This video just confirmed it clearly! Thank you so much
TBH if you are getting a full frame camera without have good lens, that would be a great waste. If your budget is around a brand new a7iv, you can buy an entry level aps-c canon r10 or nikon ZFC and a set of used aps-c lens with different focal length. Lens are far more important than the camera itself. If you only buy one or two viltrox prime lens with an a7iv, there will be a lot of situation that you cant even take a better photo than a iphone 14 pro. Think twice bro.
Great comparison! I see other have commented on this, so I'm not gonna suggest that one colour is better, as this is subjective. But for the slow/fast walk shots, were the lighting (or some settings) very different? Or is it purely optics/coatings that make the Viltrox so much less saturated/pale?
Thanks! There are a number of differences at play, so don't take any notice of the colours and tones in that example. It's purely to demonstrate the lenses ability to track a moving subject whilst in video mode.
Torn between the two! I can get either with only a 120 euro difference between Viltrox and Sony. This will be a working lense so it needs to be consistent and fast to focus. I want to love Viltrox but some people are having focus issues when subject is moving?!
I had no focusing issues with the Viltrox whilst I was testing. The biggest gripe I have with the Viltrox is the fact is not amazingly sharp. The Sony is sharper for sure. It's a really tough call so I don't envy you!
Man I really love this channel! I've got a question; at 7:04 I felt like the colours are washed out compared to sony's...is it because of post processing or the colours from this lens is just like that?
Hi @TomCalton and thanks a lot for making your videos . It's really nice to have different point of view on a same lense . I was wondering if you had some rumours about a 135 mm by Viltrox ? Samyang has done a nice one it seems , but it's still around 1000E and it's not an impulse purchase Well by the way have a good weekend
Thanks Peter. In honesty, I didn't test flare as it's not something I'm personally fussed by, but if enough people want this to be included in future testing then I'm happy to do so. Check out Christopher Frost's channel - I know he's tested this lens before and he also checks for flaring 👍
Dude, I watch videos from such short distance when on my phone and you reaching out with your hand looked so 3D that I felt as if it was an inch away from my mouth. 😂😂😂 Alright, on to the rest of the video! Edit: Full metal lenses are great until you start shooting in winter, so that's not a big advantage to me. What annoys me is the trend of manufacturers omitting the AF/MF switch. With that said, Sony's bokeh and fringing issues are totally unacceptable and with the Viltrox being the only 85mm that's actually budget-friendly, I'd buy that and suck up the lack of said switch instead of paying almost double for the Sony and having to deal with bad bokeh and fringing. That said, I'm probably buying the Tokina when the time to get an 85mm prime comes.
In the Autofocus video tracking part, why do the colors look so different from each other? The Viltrox looks washed out while the Sony looks significantly better.
Please just ignore the colours in that section. Those results were taken months apart - the weather was different, the picture profiles were different and the exposure was different. This should only be used as a measure of the AF accuracy. Sorry for the confusion.
Hey man, thanks for the video! Exactly what I was looking for! btw... When I opened your video I though you're another 100k+ youtuber but when I saw you have just over 1k subs, my mind was blown! You have high quality content, nice video quality, good humour and I enjoyed looking at you and listening to you. So I just subscribed and I'm gonna sit here and I'll wait until you blow up! Good job, mate! btw again... Have you ever tried Samyang 85mm f/1.4? I know it's really good for stills but not that good with video AF. But someone told me the video AF got better after firmware update. Do you have any info about it? Because if the Samyang got better with video AF, I'm taking it. If not, I'll take the Viltrox. Thanks, man! Edit: I just saw your 85mm comparison video, I'll probably take the Samyang! :))
Thank you so much for your comment - really appreciate the kind feedback. We only started the channel in April of this year, so we're relatively new and learning all the time. Fingers crossed we can keep up the momentum though. Thanks for the sub - welcome aboard! 🤘
@@TomCalton You're very welcome, mate! You're almost at 2k subs just from April? That's pretty nice progress I'd say! Yes, best of luck with that! I think you nailed the start :) Thanks man! Looking forward for your next content!
Hi tom , im from indonesia. I bought this lens 2 months ago. And im sure with you, this lens is sharp and autofocus is amazing! I think sony 85mm is overpriced 😂
Very nice review, BUT I’m surprised to hear you say that the Sony’s case is made of plastic. My brother’s has been dropped a few times and has beautiful metal shining through at the unambiguous indentations. ;) Definitely all metal there. I haven’t had a chance to drop the Viltrox on a rock, but I did exactly that (by accident, mind you) with the Sony and it still worked just fine afterwards. So in terms of build quality, I’d say it’s built like a tank confirmed.
Hey Rick. You're indeed correct, it is metal, NOT plastic as I incorrectly stated in the video. You'll have to forgive me for that one. This is quite an old video now and clearly I wasn't used to double checking specs back then like that like I am now! 🤦🏻♂️🤣
I bought the viltrox, but Im slightly dissapointed. Mostly its the Af and that its not tact sharp. Since im using the A7rii it exposes the softness more
Hey Lionel - have you tried updating the firmware? I've heard rumours that this helps improve the AF performance. It'll also increase the maximum aperture value to f/1.6, which is a nice bonus. The sharpness is what it is though, unfortunately. It's a budget lens so you kinda get what you pay for.
@@TomCalton Hey its been a month, and Ive learnt to live with some of it flaws. Mainly sharpness and weight. But Af is decent now, but I would still consider the sony if they have a sale. Thanks for the vid anyways!
Hello Tom, I just suscribed; I just loved this video and the quality of it. I was just wondering if there would be any issue about the auto focus with a Sony A7II due to compatibility. If anyone has the answer, I would be glad to have it. Bell activated mate, definitely going to check all your videos. See ya
Thanks for the sub! I haven't tested this lens on the A7II so I couldn't say for sure - hopefully someone else will see your comment and have the answer for you.
Hey Chris ! I know this was a while ago but if you’re still undecided, I picked the lens up for my a7II about a week ago. Haven’t gotten much of a chance to shoot with it, but around the house in low light it gets really nice shots. There’s a video here on RUclips of a girl in India I believe doing street photography with the same gear. Very nice shots. Not the fastest AF for sure but it’s actually faster than my Sigma 35mm 1.4. Hope this helps !
I have this one on the first A7 and the AF is fine as long as you have enough light, in darker conditions it gets less responsive, but A7 is not very good in that with other lenses anyway. Works quite nicely (surprisingly) in tracking as well. Should be more or less the same on A7 II, probably better.
Hi! Thanks for the great video! I wonder, if the Viltrox is a perfect choice only for hobby photographers or is it okey for those who would like to make a living with that?
Hey! Thanks for watching. Yes, it's good for hobbiests, though if you're planning on using it a lot, then you might be better off investing in a higher quality lens - something like the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN
Being totally honest, I feel that analysing the skin tones for both lenses is a little irrelevant. It's something that can easily be changed during post-production. The minute you add a colour grade or filter to an image, it alters all of that anyway. And I can't say I've ever taken a photo and not tweaked the colours in PS or LR afterwards. That said, if a lens gives the images a super obvious colour tint then I will always make a mention of it. Appreciate your feedback though!
Is this viltrox the same design as the Tokina - the optical design looks the same but obviously it doesn't mean the AF and the coatings will be the same.
I don't have the exact details as to how similar these lenses are. All I know is that Tokina and Viltrox have some kind of deal where Viltrox are developing the lenses and then Tokina are buying/licensing the blueprints, tweaking them and then rebranding them as their own. They're definitely doing something to the innards as the Tokina 85mm, for example, is noticeably sharper than the Viltrox.
From the sample photo of the bokeh balls near the lady's head, I otherwise think that Sony is better as the two white balls look wired as if it is a scene from a terror movie whereas the bokeh in the Sony photo looks natural. For sharpness, Viltrox is on the whole better than Sony, but portrait lens of 85mm may not need to be very sharp to expose the imperfect details of the model. The Sony lens is softer and more forgiving to the model and the look and color science of the sample Sony photos also appear more artistic (better for some viewers). Anyway, if the model is in her/his perfect state, then a very sharp lens will be very suitable. Photographers of wedding ceremony should take note of that in my opinion though I am not a photographer at all. Last week I just took some sharp photos during a family gathering and after looking at the photos I took, my relatives asked me not to take any more but only use their phone camera with auto editing app. lol!
do you recommend this for aps-c? or would it be a bit tight? i currently only have sigma 30 1.4 and i'm looking to get something with a bit more reach. i am also looking at Sony E 18-105mm f/4 G and i like the focal range, but it lacks sharpness compared to prime lenses. they are the same price (around $400, but viltrox is brand new and the other one is used). what do you think? or do you have a suggestion for something else that is under $400.
On an APS-C body this 85mm would work out at around a 127.5mm in full frame terms, so yeah, it would be pretty long, but a nice lens for portraits. The bokeh would be miles better than the 18-105mm f/4. If you're after a nice portrait lens for your APS-C, I recently tested the Viltrox and Sigma 56mm f/1.4's, which work out to around 84mm in full frame terms. Both are small and lightweight and pretty affordable. Here's a link to that test if that helps? ruclips.net/video/JJfG4CzwypE/видео.html
@@TomCalton thanks! i will watch your video, but i did watch a video from the other guy that compared those 56 lenses and sigma is miles sharper. the price difference is around $120 here. btw sigma 56mm was my first choice, but i ended up getting 30mm which at the time fit my budget and i didn't have patience to save a bit more $$.
Thanks for watching! Supposedly the main difference is weight. Optically they're meant to be the same, though I've never tested this myself so I'm just taking Viltrox's word on that.
@@TomCalton Uhm, interesting. I checked more deeply, since I own the Mk1 version of this Viltrox 85mm, and one article of AYRN and its comments said: "Optically, this lens is nearly identical to the Mark I version from what I can tell as is the overall design. The mark II currently sells for the same price as its Mark I counterpart but features an upgraded lens hood, faster autofocus, and noticeably lighter construction. Unlike the Mark I, the Mark II version does not yet have a way to upgrade the aperture to a faster, wider f/1.6 aperture." So it will be interesing to compare those two. Thanks again!
I have the first version of this in Fuji mount. I have no problem with it on all my Fuji bodies, the X Pro1, XE1, XT1 and XH1. I loved it immediately after I took a few shots.
great review. I've used the viltrox and love it a lot and it feels great. I did notice in your images the viltrox seemed more yellow and the sony lens seemed to have a more magenta cast? to it, did you notice that or were the 2 images post processed differently?
Yeah, absolutely. So long as the subject doesn't move back and forth too much, you wouldn't notice the focus breathing, which is one of the only downsides to this lens for video.
Some lenses are designed as a slightly "faster", then stopped down a bit for better perfomance. Some Zuiko Digital lenses are like that. One third of a stop is hardly any difference anyway.
@@TomCalton You're absolutely right. That was my bad lol. What do you suggest a used sony 85mm 1.8 for 400$ or brand new viltrox MKII? Thanks in advance!
Differences in IQ, probably are not easily visible, but in my opinion, 370 grs (Sony) wins clearly against 480 grs (Viltrox); specially if you have to carry your bag for 2 or 3 hours.
So, which one would you buy after seeing the results? Let me know in the comments below 📸
I bought the Viltrox after watching several reviews for days ^_^ and I really love it!
I bought the Sony on rebate. Sharpness and weight win for me.
@Junior Briar no one gives a shit that you committing a felony by using a computer or electronic device to access another persons private data.
InstaBlaster
Definitely the Viltrox I was just getting ready to order the Sony fe len when I came across this video in particular because I've watched several other Videos on the Viltrox but your video sold me. Great video review thanks a lot I will keep an eye on your RUclips page . Roy J. Philadelphia Pa. USA
7:09 I like that the Viltrox gives you a fuller beard.
It also removes your tan too, apparently. Pretty impressive! 😂
@@TomCalton 😁
HAHAHAHA
That can confuse the AF system.
Rounder bokeh balls on the Viltrox is the main deciding factor for me. Thanks for the great comparison!
Thanks for watching!
I used the Sigma 85mm ART then when I had the Sony 85mm f1.8 I found huge difference in contrast, sharpness, colors etc. Sold the 85 Sony immedietly never regretted.
Yeah, the Sigma is a big jump up from the Sony
Same. I don't even think the sigma is all that (sony 100-400 looks and operates better on my camera), i just find the sony 85 really dull.
Man, you deserve at least a million subs for this quality video! so underrated.
You're too kind, but thank you! 🤘
Sony's 85mm f1.8 cat eye bokeh is really a pain in the ass. I bought the Viltrox due to it's price but it surprisingly performed more than well in my wedding jobs. Reliable focusing, sharp images and most of all lovely bokehs!
It's a lovely option for nice round bokeh for sure! Really surprised me when I tested it and saw the results.
Sony 1.8 has become my favorite lens ever, but daaamn did that Viltrox keep up 👀 for its price that’s really impressive.
I know, right? I was really shocked! It's a very impressive lens for the price for sure. Thanks for your comment and for checking out the video 👍
@@TomCalton which one should I choose for video between these 2?
I can get both fir the same price
2 days ago I bought the ........ Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II and am super impressed... your video just backs up why I got it!
Is it working good or any problem
@@kamalapuramrajender6859 Fast auto focus and sharp sharp images.. I love it!
I literally just purchased this exact lens and I stumbled across your video.. I couldn’t have been any more reassured thank you! Subbed!
Perfect timing! Thanks for checking out the video and for the sub! Welcome aboard 🤜💥🤛
man, this channel deserves more attention!! great attention to detail and very entertaining. just one question, was this the Viltrox Mark II or the first iteration?
you also earned a subscriber :)
You're too kind! Thanks for the love 👍
This was the Mark II version of the Viltrox.
Welcome aboard! 🎉
Thanks for the great comparison video! My prediction probably wasn't too far off. I'd also go with the Viltrox any time! Imho it's the 85 with most "bang for the buck" for Sony E mount.
I totally agree. Such a great lens for the price!
That would be the sigma 1.4 imo
@@fredriksvard2603 The sigma 85mm f1.4 DG DN is the "best" (but not "for the buck") 😅
@@stefan_becker It's the best for the buck imo. A bad lens can be poor value even if it's cheap, and the other way around.
@@fredriksvard2603 Nope. Most people won't notice the difference between f1.8 and f1.4. So if you're on a tight budget it's a waste of money to get a f1.4 lens. And waste of money is never "the best bang for the buck".
Thanks for your review. I've wanted to stray away from the plastic body Sony lenses after having a broken one already so it's good to find a price comparable one that beats the plastic Sony.
My pleasure - glad the video helped!
I LOVE THIS VIDEO! I was laughing and learning. Great break down!
Thanks! I'm really glad you enjoyed it - thanks for watching 🤜🤛
underrated content, you helped me order my viltrox. thanks!
Thanks! Enjoy the lens ☺️
This was really helpful thanks!! was heading for the Sony but im ordering the Viltrox now :)
Thanks for watching - glad it helped 👍
Hi Tom, I bought this lens last week but haven't used it yet. I was happy to see your review and it's assured me I've made a decent investment.
Hey! Thanks for checking out the video - glad it helped! Enjoy your new lens!
I choose viltrox save a lot of money hehe then same quality as sony.. and client dont know what lenses you use hahahaha
I would agree. Thanks for the comment!
100 bucks pou ds euros isnt that much of a difference
They said Viltrox doesn't work well with a7iv is that true? Or they just trying to sell Sony lens to me?
In Germany theres no price difference
@@cabanerojune1948 r u okay? You seem special
I love my Viltrox Mark I. If I ever needed another 85, I might get the M II because it's a bit lighter and better lens hood. That or the Sigma 85 1.4. The Sony lens is still a great lens, but Viltrox gives it a run for its money.
If you have the budget for it, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 is a brilliant lens (I use mine so much - sharpest lens I own!). However, for the money, the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 II is an incredible piece for kit. I'd highly recommend it for anyone on a budget. Thanks for your comment 😊
@@TomCalton Thanks for your beautiful videos Tom, I would like to see a (meanly unfair...) comparison between the Viltrox 1.8 and the Sigma 1.4 DN at this point! I'm really corious :)
@@TomCalton are you referring to the hsm or the dn version?
any big issues with mark 1?
Definitely the DG DN version - the old version is bi, heavy and slow on mirrorless cameras
To be honest, in the first comparasion for me the left foto was sharper (the Viltrox). LG Bernd
you didnt mention the color rendering i think from your samples the sony has more natural skin tone while viltrox seams to be white is that right ???
Thank you for the great review! FYI: Sony 85mm f1.8 is at a discount on Amazon UK for less than the Viltrox
this is a great comparison ive had my viltrox 85mm for months now its definitely bang for the buck
Thanks for this video, I've already decided which one I'll pick 😀
Which one are you going to get?
@@TomCalton viltrox for sure 😅
I have noticed that on viltrox shadows more darker than on sony
Hi Tom - thanks for your reviews. Would love to see you look at the Viltrox 27mm f/1.2 Pro for X-Mount ...especially vs XF 33mm f1.4 for portraits.
Viltrox is much sharper compare to sony. Infact, the eye in the left i mistook as Sony
The lens chart would say otherwise, but the Viltrox definitely has more contrast, which may be what makes it appear sharper in real life situations. It's a very close call though on those portraits.
Even i got missed.
Thanks for this one, I have been debating between the 85mm 1.4 Sony and the 85mm 1.8 Sony, but the price tags on both of those are very high and had never even heard of VILTROX until your video! Thank you!
Hey Tom I'm a new subscriber and love your style. One thing could you consider including minimum focusing distance in all your lens comparisons? This would be really helpful to me. Thanks man!
Hey, thanks for the suggestion! I will aim to include this in future reviews as a few people have requested this. 😊
The Viltrox 85mm/1.8STM is one of my best and often used lens. All my other Original Brand Lens has not the plasticity of these nice and cheap lens.
Hey brother.
Very helpful discussion, and finally I bought a Viltrox 85mm F1.8 Mark II lens. the AF performance is so fast
Congrats on the new lens! Glad you're enjoying it - it's a brilliant lens 🙌
I was already tending more to the Viltrox but you kinda gave me last nudge into ita direction, thanks mate.
Btw I found the eye image of the Viltrox way better, especially the brows were kinda blurry with the Sony?
You're welcome! Thanks for watching 👍
I found sony slightly better... viltrox image looked a bit processed...
Great video!!
But I'm a Japanese viewer, so it was a little difficult to understand… sorry…
So I will ask you a frank question.
Which would you recommend if I buy it now?
One more question. Which would you recommend Viltrox or Tokina?
Hey, thanks! Don't worry, always happy to answer any questions ☺️
Out of the Sony and Viltrox, I'd go for the Viltrox.
Out of Viltrox and Tokina, I'd go for the Tokina (here's why - ruclips.net/video/RN22ZXgbtfc/видео.html).
I hope this helps!
I'm getting the sony A7Iv for my first camera. I don't want to spend more on a lens because obviously the camera alone is expensive. I've been looking at a lot of reviews on a budget lens and the viltrox is win win. This video just confirmed it clearly!
Thank you so much
TBH if you are getting a full frame camera without have good lens, that would be a great waste. If your budget is around a brand new a7iv, you can buy an entry level aps-c canon r10 or nikon ZFC and a set of used aps-c lens with different focal length. Lens are far more important than the camera itself. If you only buy one or two viltrox prime lens with an a7iv, there will be a lot of situation that you cant even take a better photo than a iphone 14 pro. Think twice bro.
@@tunghamgtsui1186 any 85mm F1.8 would take miles better photo than any current or future iphone, any day or night... period.
Thanks for a nice job!
Subscribed 😎👍
Interesting comparison, never head about that brand before.
Thanks for the sub! Welcome aboard!
Great comparison! I see other have commented on this, so I'm not gonna suggest that one colour is better, as this is subjective. But for the slow/fast walk shots, were the lighting (or some settings) very different? Or is it purely optics/coatings that make the Viltrox so much less saturated/pale?
Thanks!
There are a number of differences at play, so don't take any notice of the colours and tones in that example. It's purely to demonstrate the lenses ability to track a moving subject whilst in video mode.
Thanks 😊 just ordered my viltrox 🙌
Hope you enjoy it! 😁
Viltrox 85 1.8.
It's a great lens 👌🏻
Torn between the two! I can get either with only a 120 euro difference between Viltrox and Sony. This will be a working lense so it needs to be consistent and fast to focus. I want to love Viltrox but some people are having focus issues when subject is moving?!
I had no focusing issues with the Viltrox whilst I was testing. The biggest gripe I have with the Viltrox is the fact is not amazingly sharp. The Sony is sharper for sure. It's a really tough call so I don't envy you!
Thank you. Great explained
My pleasure!
Absolutely nice video, congrats
Thanks bud! Appreciate it as always!
This video is so helpful :) Thank you
My pleasure, glad I could help!
Bro thanks for the review. Gonna buy this lens today. the Viltrox
the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 STM II sounds like it would be an excellent lens.
For the price, it's pretty impressive 🤘
Man I really love this channel!
I've got a question; at 7:04 I felt like the colours are washed out compared to sony's...is it because of post processing or the colours from this lens is just like that?
Have the same observation. Hope this will be answered soon!
the two footages were shot at different days
Hi @TomCalton and thanks a lot for making your videos . It's really nice to have different point of view on a same lense . I was wondering if you had some rumours about a 135 mm by Viltrox ? Samyang has done a nice one it seems , but it's still around 1000E and it's not an impulse purchase Well by the way have a good weekend
Subscribed. Smashing material!
Thanks! Welcome aboard! 🙌
I have the viltrox 85.mm but i have issues with focusing on farther subject
Will customer ask what lenses do you use?
What about the lens flare? I had a Viltrox 23mm on my Fuji X series and the flare was red and quite distracting. Nice review anyway!
Thanks Peter. In honesty, I didn't test flare as it's not something I'm personally fussed by, but if enough people want this to be included in future testing then I'm happy to do so.
Check out Christopher Frost's channel - I know he's tested this lens before and he also checks for flaring 👍
@@TomCalton thanks for the tip!
If price is not an issue but image quality, would you prefer to have the Sigma 85 1.4?
Abso-freaking-lutly! The Sigma is strides better in terms of image quality than either of these two options.
I compared the two. At 1.8 there is minimal difference. I was surprised. Minor fringing on both.
Was looking for same.
Thanks a ton bro.
New subscriber
No worries, welcome aboard 🤘🏻
Great review. I decided to buy Viltrox after watching this.
Hope you enjoy your new lens!
what an amazing video bro" love it!
The one thing that i need to know about this lens is the minimal focal distance of the Viltrox, as the Sony is almost 1 meter.
Dude, I watch videos from such short distance when on my phone and you reaching out with your hand looked so 3D that I felt as if it was an inch away from my mouth. 😂😂😂 Alright, on to the rest of the video!
Edit: Full metal lenses are great until you start shooting in winter, so that's not a big advantage to me. What annoys me is the trend of manufacturers omitting the AF/MF switch. With that said, Sony's bokeh and fringing issues are totally unacceptable and with the Viltrox being the only 85mm that's actually budget-friendly, I'd buy that and suck up the lack of said switch instead of paying almost double for the Sony and having to deal with bad bokeh and fringing. That said, I'm probably buying the Tokina when the time to get an 85mm prime comes.
In the Autofocus video tracking part, why do the colors look so different from each other? The Viltrox looks washed out while the Sony looks significantly better.
Please just ignore the colours in that section. Those results were taken months apart - the weather was different, the picture profiles were different and the exposure was different. This should only be used as a measure of the AF accuracy. Sorry for the confusion.
Hey man, thanks for the video! Exactly what I was looking for!
btw... When I opened your video I though you're another 100k+ youtuber but when I saw you have just over 1k subs, my mind was blown!
You have high quality content, nice video quality, good humour and I enjoyed looking at you and listening to you. So I just subscribed and I'm gonna sit here and I'll wait until you blow up!
Good job, mate!
btw again... Have you ever tried Samyang 85mm f/1.4? I know it's really good for stills but not that good with video AF. But someone told me the video AF got better after firmware update. Do you have any info about it?
Because if the Samyang got better with video AF, I'm taking it. If not, I'll take the Viltrox.
Thanks, man!
Edit: I just saw your 85mm comparison video, I'll probably take the Samyang! :))
Thank you so much for your comment - really appreciate the kind feedback. We only started the channel in April of this year, so we're relatively new and learning all the time. Fingers crossed we can keep up the momentum though. Thanks for the sub - welcome aboard! 🤘
@@TomCalton You're very welcome, mate!
You're almost at 2k subs just from April? That's pretty nice progress I'd say!
Yes, best of luck with that! I think you nailed the start :)
Thanks man! Looking forward for your next content!
Hi tom , im from indonesia. I bought this lens 2 months ago. And im sure with you, this lens is sharp and autofocus is amazing! I think sony 85mm is overpriced 😂
Hey, thanks for watching. I'm glad you're enjoying your Viltrox! It's a very impressive lens for the price
Viltrox nya masih bagus sampe sekarang bg? Atau ada nemu masalah setelah beberapa lama pemakaian?
If you stop the Viltrox lens down a little (f2 or f2.2) does the fringing go away? Seriously considering this lens for the Z mount
Nice one, keep going, I'm following you.
Thanks John, welcome abroad! 🤘
which one should buy ? for portrait ? Priority Sharpness & Colour
Thanks for the video, subbed.
Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching 👍
Very nice review, BUT I’m surprised to hear you say that the Sony’s case is made of plastic. My brother’s has been dropped a few times and has beautiful metal shining through at the unambiguous indentations. ;) Definitely all metal there. I haven’t had a chance to drop the Viltrox on a rock, but I did exactly that (by accident, mind you) with the Sony and it still worked just fine afterwards. So in terms of build quality, I’d say it’s built like a tank confirmed.
Hey Rick. You're indeed correct, it is metal, NOT plastic as I incorrectly stated in the video. You'll have to forgive me for that one. This is quite an old video now and clearly I wasn't used to double checking specs back then like that like I am now! 🤦🏻♂️🤣
@@TomCalton Haha, forgiveness is a strong word :D But appreciate it nonetheless.
Viltrox 85mm ii vs Sigma 85mm for Sony, please :). thanks
Here you go: ruclips.net/video/W7o6_b03sJQ/видео.html
very useful. thanks alot
I bought the viltrox, but Im slightly dissapointed. Mostly its the Af and that its not tact sharp. Since im using the A7rii it exposes the softness more
Hey Lionel - have you tried updating the firmware? I've heard rumours that this helps improve the AF performance. It'll also increase the maximum aperture value to f/1.6, which is a nice bonus. The sharpness is what it is though, unfortunately. It's a budget lens so you kinda get what you pay for.
@@TomCalton Hey its been a month, and Ive learnt to live with some of it flaws. Mainly sharpness and weight. But Af is decent now, but I would still consider the sony if they have a sale. Thanks for the vid anyways!
is the purple fringing from OLD sigma 35mm f/1.4? or NEW version?
Old one
@@TomCalton tq for confirming sir
All time fav brother ❤️
Thanks dude 👍
Hello Tom,
I just suscribed; I just loved this video and the quality of it. I was just wondering if there would be any issue about the auto focus with a Sony A7II due to compatibility. If anyone has the answer, I would be glad to have it.
Bell activated mate, definitely going to check all your videos. See ya
Thanks for the sub! I haven't tested this lens on the A7II so I couldn't say for sure - hopefully someone else will see your comment and have the answer for you.
Hey Chris ! I know this was a while ago but if you’re still undecided, I picked the lens up for my a7II about a week ago. Haven’t gotten much of a chance to shoot with it, but around the house in low light it gets really nice shots. There’s a video here on RUclips of a girl in India I believe doing street photography with the same gear. Very nice shots. Not the fastest AF for sure but it’s actually faster than my Sigma 35mm 1.4. Hope this helps !
I have this one on the first A7 and the AF is fine as long as you have enough light, in darker conditions it gets less responsive, but A7 is not very good in that with other lenses anyway.
Works quite nicely (surprisingly) in tracking as well.
Should be more or less the same on A7 II, probably better.
Hi! Thanks for the great video! I wonder, if the Viltrox is a perfect choice only for hobby photographers or is it okey for those who would like to make a living with that?
Hey! Thanks for watching. Yes, it's good for hobbiests, though if you're planning on using it a lot, then you might be better off investing in a higher quality lens - something like the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN
@@TomCalton Thanks a lot! :)
how about the skin tone, you told us everything but the skin tone, personally, I prefer the sony skin tone over the viltrox.
Being totally honest, I feel that analysing the skin tones for both lenses is a little irrelevant. It's something that can easily be changed during post-production. The minute you add a colour grade or filter to an image, it alters all of that anyway. And I can't say I've ever taken a photo and not tweaked the colours in PS or LR afterwards.
That said, if a lens gives the images a super obvious colour tint then I will always make a mention of it. Appreciate your feedback though!
Is this viltrox the same design as the Tokina - the optical design looks the same but obviously it doesn't mean the AF and the coatings will be the same.
I don't have the exact details as to how similar these lenses are. All I know is that Tokina and Viltrox have some kind of deal where Viltrox are developing the lenses and then Tokina are buying/licensing the blueprints, tweaking them and then rebranding them as their own. They're definitely doing something to the innards as the Tokina 85mm, for example, is noticeably sharper than the Viltrox.
From the sample photo of the bokeh balls near the lady's head, I otherwise think that Sony is better as the two white balls look wired as if it is a scene from a terror movie whereas the bokeh in the Sony photo looks natural.
For sharpness, Viltrox is on the whole better than Sony, but portrait lens of 85mm may not need to be very sharp to expose the imperfect details of the model. The Sony lens is softer and more forgiving to the model and the look and color science of the sample Sony photos also appear more artistic (better for some viewers). Anyway, if the model is in her/his perfect state, then a very sharp lens will be very suitable. Photographers of wedding ceremony should take note of that in my opinion though I am not a photographer at all.
Last week I just took some sharp photos during a family gathering and after looking at the photos I took, my relatives asked me not to take any more but only use their phone camera with auto editing app. lol!
Nice video, do the viltrox need an adapter if so which one did you use
Thanks! Nope, no adaptor needed - it comes available in Sony E-mount 😊
do you recommend this for aps-c? or would it be a bit tight? i currently only have sigma 30 1.4 and i'm looking to get something with a bit more reach. i am also looking at Sony E 18-105mm f/4 G and i like the focal range, but it lacks sharpness compared to prime lenses. they are the same price (around $400, but viltrox is brand new and the other one is used). what do you think? or do you have a suggestion for something else that is under $400.
On an APS-C body this 85mm would work out at around a 127.5mm in full frame terms, so yeah, it would be pretty long, but a nice lens for portraits. The bokeh would be miles better than the 18-105mm f/4.
If you're after a nice portrait lens for your APS-C, I recently tested the Viltrox and Sigma 56mm f/1.4's, which work out to around 84mm in full frame terms. Both are small and lightweight and pretty affordable. Here's a link to that test if that helps? ruclips.net/video/JJfG4CzwypE/видео.html
@@TomCalton thanks! i will watch your video, but i did watch a video from the other guy that compared those 56 lenses and sigma is miles sharper. the price difference is around $120 here. btw sigma 56mm was my first choice, but i ended up getting 30mm which at the time fit my budget and i didn't have patience to save a bit more $$.
Yeah, in a nutshell, I came to the same conclusion. Go for the Sigma
Excellent presentation
could you use the Sony 85mm as a webcam if the camera was about a meter away?
I want to buy a lens exactly 85mm and I am thinking about this lens and what can you tell me? Does it have autofocus? And is there a map?
Guessed the Sony 85mm. Focus was on the eye not in front.
Nicely done 👍
Thanks! Do you know the difference between Viltrox 1 and Viltrox 2 of this lens you reviewed here?
Thanks for watching! Supposedly the main difference is weight. Optically they're meant to be the same, though I've never tested this myself so I'm just taking Viltrox's word on that.
@@TomCalton Uhm, interesting. I checked more deeply, since I own the Mk1 version of this Viltrox 85mm, and one article of AYRN and its comments said: "Optically, this lens is nearly identical to the Mark I version from what I can tell as is the overall design. The mark II currently sells for the same price as its Mark I counterpart but features an upgraded lens hood, faster autofocus, and noticeably lighter construction. Unlike the Mark I, the Mark II version does not yet have a way to upgrade the aperture to a faster, wider f/1.6 aperture." So it will be interesing to compare those two. Thanks again!
Hello.
The Viltrox doesen`t work well on my fuji xt3.
It`s been upgrated and no focus, no aperture a lot of times.
Thanks but no thanks
Thanks for sharing. That sucks. I've never had any issues with the Viltrox on my Sony cameras. Maybe it's a dud copy?
I have the first version of this in Fuji mount. I have no problem with it on all my Fuji bodies, the X Pro1, XE1, XT1 and XH1. I loved it immediately after I took a few shots.
Looks like Pedro has a dud copy then. Thanks for sharing!
You're so funny 😃 really entertaining review
Thanks bud, glad you enjoyed it!
Is the manual focus quick, linear, and usable for video on the sony one ?
great review. I've used the viltrox and love it a lot and it feels great. I did notice in your images the viltrox seemed more yellow and the sony lens seemed to have a more magenta cast? to it, did you notice that or were the 2 images post processed differently?
I am colour blind, so dont know... but sony seem to have more detail and viltrox more washed out..
Hi does the Tokina really a different lens than the viltrox?
Optically, yes it really is! The Tokina is so much sharper than the Viltrox 👌
What's up with the VIltrox color in the Video AF test?
cheez man you mande it harder for me to pick now a lens :D
Would you recommend the viltrox lens for talking head videos ?
Yeah, absolutely. So long as the subject doesn't move back and forth too much, you wouldn't notice the focus breathing, which is one of the only downsides to this lens for video.
I purchased my Sony 85mm f/1.8 lens used in mint condition for $350 USD which was a pretty darn good price...
That is a very good price! Hope you like the lens 😁
@TomCaltonofficialpage Tom I don't understand this post... Have I actually won anything?
There's a firmware update to the Viltrox that turns it from f1.8 to f1.6
Yeah, I did see that update. I'd be interested to see how it performs at f/1.6
How can you turn an f 1.8 lens in a 1.6 through firmware update when that's a hardware thing?
@@Super01041994 Very curious as well 🤔
Some lenses are designed as a slightly "faster", then stopped down a bit for better perfomance.
Some Zuiko Digital lenses are like that.
One third of a stop is hardly any difference anyway.
Cheaper, better build, much better bokeh. My mind had been made up. Thanks.
No worries, glad you found the video helpful!
You can update the Viltrox to a 1.6lens as it was originally a 1.6 lens!
That's only true with the original MKI version. This MKII model can't be changed to f/1.6.
@@TomCalton You're absolutely right. That was my bad lol. What do you suggest a used sony 85mm 1.8 for 400$ or brand new viltrox MKII? Thanks in advance!
5:36min into clip compare with what, the video show a sigma 135mm not a Sony 85mm...what you made a mistake?
Is Viltrox compatible with Canon 250d?
I don't think so - pretty sure this is only available for mirrorless cameras.
very nice review bro ,just consider buying this
Thanks for watch! Which lens were you considering - the Sony or the Viltrox?
should be Viltrox ,cus i really hate purple fringing
Me too! The Viltrox is a brilliant lens for the price 👍
Differences in IQ, probably are not easily visible, but in my opinion, 370 grs (Sony) wins clearly against 480 grs (Viltrox); specially if you have to carry your bag for 2 or 3 hours.
Which camera you used in this viedeo
Well, I guess I'll actually get the Viltrox then :)
It's a really good lens - this result honestly surprised me!
@@TomCalton on Amazon there are still quite a few People complaining about the unreliable AF, thats something thats holding me back a little bit :/
Great channel
Thanks dude! 🤜🤛
What about the weather sealing?
The Sony has weather sealing, the Viltrox does not.
@@TomCalton Thank you!! Just got the Viltrox and OMG!! It is mindblowing!!!!!
No worries! Glad you like it!