Viltrox has released a new prime lens for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras with an APS-C sized sensor. The low-cost 56mm lens has a fast maximum aperture of F1.7.
Optical design
The Viltrox 56 mm lens has the same field of view as an 85 mm lens on a full-frame camera. This is an ideal focal length for portraits and subtle close ups. It is designed with 11 lens elements in 9 groups. These include four ED (extra-low dispersion) elements to reduce chromatic aberration. There are also three high-refractive lens elements to ensure vivid, crisp details.
Wide maximum aperture
The Viltrox 56 mm lens has a wide maximum aperture of F1.7 with a nine-bladed iris. This means the lens will be ideal for filming in low-light situations. You will also be able to achieve shots with a shallow depth of field very easily. In addition, Viltrox says that the bokeh is “exquisite” in the out-of-focus parts of your images. The minimum aperture is F16.
Autofocus
The autofocus on the 56 mm lens uses an STM stepper motor. Viltrox says that this delivers fast and quiet focusing. The optics have also been designed to give minimal focus breathing. Focus breathing is when your image size changes slightly as you pull focus. In addition, the 56 mm lens has an internal focusing mechanism, so the lens doesn’t change length as you adjust focus. The minimum focus distance is 1.8 feet (0.55 meters).
Compact design
The Viltrox 56mm lens is very compact, measuring only 2.1 inches (54.3 mm) in length and 2.6 inches (65 mm) in diameter. It’s also lightweight at just under 6 ounces (170 g). Despite this, the lens has a durable metal mount as well as an anti-fouling layer and waterproof coating on the front lens element. The filter thread diameter is 52 mm and there’s a USB-C port for firmware updates.
What we think
The Viltrox 56 mm lens is a great budget lens for anyone shooting on a Sony APS-C sensor mirrorless camera. The focal length is a little longer than Sony’s 50mm lens. The maximum aperture is also a little wider at F1.7 versus F1.8 for the Sony. However, the Sony costs nearly $70 more. In addition, the diminutive size and featherlight weight of the Viltrox lens means you won’t get tired walking around with it on your camera. If you don’t have a nifty fifty in your lens bag already, the Viltrox 56 mm lens is worth checking out.
Pricing and availability
The Viltrox AF 56mm F1.7 APS-C lens for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras is available now. It retails at $180. The lens is also already available for Fuji X mount and Nikon Z mount cameras.
