Viltrox 35mm F1.7: The Perfect Everyday Lens?

Arthur R Shares His In-Depth Review

Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 APS-C Lens Review: Affordable Excellence

The Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 APS-C lens is making waves in the photography world, delivering sharpness and performance that rival more expensive options. In a recent video review, Arthue R extensively tested this lens against competitors, highlighting its strengths and value. Here’s a concise breakdown.

Build and Features: Compact Yet Functional

The Viltrox 35mm is compact and lightweight at 170 grams, making it a portable choice for APS-C cameras. It features a plastic build with a clean design, a metal mount, and a smooth manual focus ring.
Arthue R notes: “It’s not as compact as Sony’s 35mm, but it’s close, and it’s certainly smaller than the Sigma 30mm f/1.4.”
It lacks weather-sealing but includes a USB-C port for firmware updates, showing Viltrox’s commitment to adaptability.

Optical Performance: Crushing the Competition

Arthue R compares the Viltrox to Sony’s 35mm f/1.8, noting that the Viltrox delivers sharper images across the frame. The corners, while slightly vignetted, exhibit better sharpness than the Sony lens.
“In terms of sharpness and chromatic aberration control, this wasn’t even close—the Viltrox annihilates the Sony.”
The lens also excels in producing smooth, creamy bokeh with minimal chromatic aberration, rivaling more expensive models.

Autofocus: Smooth and Reliable

The Viltrox features an STM autofocus motor that performs reliably for both stills and video. Arthue R highlights its accuracy and tracking capabilities, though a faint motor noise may be picked up during video recording.
“The autofocus performance of this lens is as good as any Sigma or Tamron out there.”

Value for Money: Affordable Innovation

Priced at $179, the Viltrox 35mm offers remarkable value. With a 15% discount available at launch, the lens becomes even more appealing for budget-conscious photographers.
Arthue R notes, “The improved optical performance of this lens is significant enough to make it worth it—even without optical stabilization.”
Title

Comparison 

Sharpness
135mm
Viltrox
Sony

Flare & Sunstars
135mm
Viltrox
Sony

Bokeh
135mm
Viltrox
Sony

Distortion & Vignetting
135mm
Viltrox
Sony

Final Thoughts

Arthue R concludes that the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 APS-C lens is an exceptional option for APS-C users seeking high performance without breaking the bank.
“It’s a remarkably better lens compared to what’s considered very good—sharpness, colors, and build all come together beautifully at this price point.”
For photographers looking for a versatile, sharp, and affordable lens, the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 is a standout choice.