Viltrox's latest release, the AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO lens, is a game-changer for photographers seeking a compact, full-frame pancake lens. This lens, weighing around 130g and measuring just 23.8mm in length, is a testament to Viltrox's commitment to innovation and practicality. With a focus on combining a fast wide-angle lens with a compact design, the 26mm prime pancake lens offers a unique blend of performance and portability.
One of the standout features of this lens is its optical design. Comprising 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 HR and 2 aspherical elements, it delivers exceptional image quality. The 7-bladed aperture, available between f/2.8 and f/16, provides a smooth and precise control over depth of field, making it a versatile tool for various shooting scenarios.
In terms of autofocus, Viltrox has equipped the lens with an STM motor, which is well-suited for video recording. While the AF might be on the slower side, it ensures smooth and accurate focus transitions, making it ideal for videographers and content creators. The lens's front element moves during focusing, allowing for a near minimum focus distance of 0.2m, which is impressive for its compact size.
The AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO lens is available in two versions: Sony E and Nikon Z. The Sony E version weighs around 130g and measures 23.8mm in length, while the Nikon Z version weighs approximately 170g and measures 25.8mm in length. Both versions feature thin aperture and focus rings, making them easy to handle despite their short lens barrels. The aperture ring uses fixed click stops, providing a tactile and precise control experience.
One notable aspect of the lens is its lack of optical stabilization. Unlike some other lenses, it doesn't offer built-in stabilization, so photographers will need to rely on their camera's IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) if available. Additionally, the lens lacks a front filter thread, but it includes a filter-ready lens hood that accepts 43mm front filters. This design choice adds a layer of versatility to the lens, allowing photographers to customize their setup.
Despite its compact size, the AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO lens includes a USB-C port built into the mount, enabling future firmware updates via the Viltrox Lens App or Viltrox Lens PC client. This feature ensures that the lens remains up-to-date and compatible with the latest technologies.
In terms of price, the lens is available worldwide for $299, which is an attractive offering for those seeking a high-quality, compact full-frame lens. The package includes the lens, a magnetic front lens cap, rear lens cap, filter-ready lens hood, and a soft storage pouch, providing everything photographers need to get started.
In conclusion, the Viltrox AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO lens is a remarkable addition to the market, offering a unique combination of performance and portability. Its compact design, exceptional optical quality, and versatile features make it a must-have for photographers and content creators alike. While it currently only supports Sony E and Nikon Z mounts, the potential for future versions in other lens mounts is exciting, and I eagerly anticipate Viltrox's continued innovation in this space.
