The new Viltrox 85mm f/1.4 FE lens is available for $598 on BHphoto, Amazon US and EU, Viltroxstore, and Pergear.
Priced at $600, the new Viltrox 85mm f/1.4 lens is comparable to the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 ($1,300) and Sony G Master (around $1,800 or more) in terms of sharpness, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
Advantages:
- Sharpness is almost on par with Sigma
- Beautiful bokeh; slightly smoother than that of the Sigma lens
- Autofocus was more accurate than Sigma in tests (24/30 vs 15/22)
- Excellent for video shooting: minimal focus breathing effect and short manual focus travel
- Better minimum focusing distance than Sigma
- Sturdy body (800g), equipped with a USB firmware interface, custom button, and aperture ring
Disadvantages:
- May jitter/shake violently when focusing is difficult
- Larger than Sigma (but more comfortable to hold)
- Internal vibration is more noticeable than usual when turning off the camera
Conclusion:
For Sony photographers, Viltrox can be called the "new king of value for money". Unless you shoot fast-moving subjects (where Sony GM has an advantage), it is definitely the first choice for a portrait lens. "I would not hesitate to use it as my main portrait lens."
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