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?
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?
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.
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?
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".
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 :)
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!
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.
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 👍
Yes, sorry about this. This footage was shot on entirely different days using entirely different White Balance settings and with different picture profiles, so please just ignore the colour differences.
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!
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!
just bought this for my sony a7III, does anyone have manual focusing issues? and also when shooting with a timer, it tends to render my camera dead, and i have to turn it off and back on again to get the same results. i am on the latest firmware for my camera and lens. anyone know the problem?
@@TomCalton ; thanks! i have, and it was due to how it was delivered. the delivery guy threw it at my front door. i’m receiving my item in a few days so all is good. love the videos btw, big fan
No grade has been added to either piece of footage. One was shot with PP8 picture profile enabled, the other without (by mistake 🤦♂️). Also one was shot in winter on an overcast day, the other in summer, so Paul had more of a tan and the light was generally warmer in tone.
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
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!
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.
why on 4:33 the right picture look like photoshop , on dark circle ? i mean the skin seems to soften a small spot , on the viltrox the eyebrow is sharp on sony totally blur, on the right of the eyes the sony is sharp but viltrox blur, but on the inside of the eye viltrox clean and sony blur
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.
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.
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 😂
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.
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
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!
@@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!
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
Rounder bokeh balls on the Viltrox is the main deciding factor for me. Thanks for the great comparison!
Thanks for watching!
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.
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.
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 ???
Man, you deserve at least a million subs for this quality video! so underrated.
You're too kind, but thank you! 🤘
So, 4 years later - is the Viltrox still working? Any dramas with reliability?
What's up with the VIltrox color in the Video AF test?
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 LOVE THIS VIDEO! I was laughing and learning. Great break down!
Thanks! I'm really glad you enjoyed it - thanks for watching 🤜🤛
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.
Will customer ask what lenses do you use?
underrated content, you helped me order my viltrox. thanks!
Thanks! Enjoy the lens ☺️
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 🤜💥🤛
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
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! 🎉
Would be a good idea to mention at the top of the video what mounts the lens is available in so people know if the info even applies to them
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.
This was really helpful thanks!! was heading for the Sony but im ordering the Viltrox now :)
Thanks for watching - glad it helped 👍
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...
Thanks for this video, I've already decided which one I'll pick 😀
Which one are you going to get?
@@TomCalton viltrox for sure 😅
This video is so helpful :) Thank you
My pleasure, glad I could help!
Absolutely nice video, congrats
Thanks bud! Appreciate it as always!
Subscribed. Smashing material!
Thanks! Welcome aboard! 🙌
Thank you for the great review! FYI: Sony 85mm f1.8 is at a discount on Amazon UK for less than the Viltrox
Thanks 😊 just ordered my viltrox 🙌
Hope you enjoy it! 😁
Was looking for same.
Thanks a ton bro.
New subscriber
No worries, welcome aboard 🤘🏻
which one I should buy for video shooting on bright sunny day (most of the time) and some interior shooting (yachts, hotels crusie ships etc)......
To be honest, in the first comparasion for me the left foto was sharper (the Viltrox). LG Bernd
Thank you. Great explained
My pleasure!
Viltrox 85 1.8.
It's a great lens 👌🏻
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.
could you use the Sony 85mm as a webcam if the camera was about a meter away?
what an amazing video bro" love it!
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.
which one should buy ? for portrait ? Priority Sharpness & Colour
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
Thanks for a nice job!
Subscribed 😎👍
Interesting comparison, never head about that brand before.
Thanks for the sub! Welcome aboard!
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!
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 👌
I have the viltrox 85.mm but i have issues with focusing on farther subject
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
this is a great comparison ive had my viltrox 85mm for months now its definitely bang for the buck
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
is the purple fringing from OLD sigma 35mm f/1.4? or NEW version?
Old one
@@TomCalton tq for confirming sir
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".
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!
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.
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.
Bro thanks for the review. Gonna buy this lens today. the Viltrox
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.
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.
All time fav brother ❤️
Thanks dude 👍
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?
Which camera you used in this viedeo
Is the manual focus quick, linear, and usable for video on the sony one ?
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
Thanks for the video, subbed.
Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching 👍
Great review. I decided to buy Viltrox after watching this.
Hope you enjoy your new lens!
Is Viltrox compatible with Canon 250d?
I don't think so - pretty sure this is only available for mirrorless cameras.
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!
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 😊
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
Nice one, keep going, I'm following you.
Thanks John, welcome abroad! 🤘
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!
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!
5:36min into clip compare with what, the video show a sigma 135mm not a Sony 85mm...what you made a mistake?
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.
How is this lense for video
Here's a more in-depth review comparing it to the other f/1.8 lenses with some more video tests included: ruclips.net/video/s338nzgL8TA/видео.html
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!
7:15 Is the color setting different?
Yes, sorry about this. This footage was shot on entirely different days using entirely different White Balance settings and with different picture profiles, so please just ignore the colour differences.
Thx for clarifying tom
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. 😊
Viltrox 85mm ii vs Sigma 85mm for Sony, please :). thanks
Here you go: ruclips.net/video/W7o6_b03sJQ/видео.html
the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 STM II sounds like it would be an excellent lens.
For the price, it's pretty impressive 🤘
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 🙌
It’s viltrox is 270$ in my country should i get it????
Yea I would say look around I just grab one for$150
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!
just bought this for my sony a7III, does anyone have manual focusing issues? and also when shooting with a timer, it tends to render my camera dead, and i have to turn it off and back on again to get the same results. i am on the latest firmware for my camera and lens. anyone know the problem?
Very weird. It might be a bad copy of this lens. It might be worth returning it for a replacement.
@@TomCalton ; thanks! i have, and it was due to how it was delivered. the delivery guy threw it at my front door. i’m receiving my item in a few days so all is good. love the videos btw, big fan
How annoying! I hope the replacement is better.
Thanks for watching and for your comment!
7:06 whats with those colours??
No grade has been added to either piece of footage. One was shot with PP8 picture profile enabled, the other without (by mistake 🤦♂️). Also one was shot in winter on an overcast day, the other in summer, so Paul had more of a tan and the light was generally warmer in tone.
@@TomCalton ahhh ok! i wonder kind of worried haha
You're so funny 😃 really entertaining review
Thanks bud, glad you enjoyed it!
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! :)
very useful. thanks alot
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!
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!
why on 4:33 the right picture look like photoshop , on dark circle ? i mean the skin seems to soften a small spot ,
on the viltrox the eyebrow is sharp on sony totally blur, on the right of the eyes the sony is sharp but viltrox blur, but on the inside of the eye viltrox clean and sony blur
Yeah, that blurring is just my shit Photoshop work which shouldn't have made it in to the video to be honest. 🤦♂️
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.
Excellent presentation
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.
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?
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.
@@GT1211-j3j any 85mm F1.8 would take miles better photo than any current or future iphone, any day or night... period.
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.
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
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 👍
Cheaper, better build, much better bokeh. My mind had been made up. Thanks.
No worries, glad you found the video helpful!
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!
Guessed the Sony 85mm. Focus was on the eye not in front.
Nicely done 👍
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!
cheez man you mande it harder for me to pick now a lens :D