Viltrox 135mm F1.8 LAB FE Review: The Budget Portrait Lens

Reprinted by Viltrox, based on Jason Morris' video, Nov 15th, 2024.

Review of the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE Lens: A Budget-Friendly Portrait Powerhouse

Portrait photography requires a lens that provide smooth bokeh, sharpness, and reliable performance, which can be challenging, especially on a budget. The Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE lens offers an affordable yet high-quality option. In a recent review, Jason  evaluated its features, performance, and how it compares to more expensive alternatives. Below is a detailed overview of the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 and its performance.

Build and Design: "Robust Yet Elegant"

The Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE lens stands out with its high-quality metal construction, described which Jason  as "solid and professional." While relatively heavy, Jason notes that the weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to handle during extended shooting sessions. Its durability is a key advantage for photographers who value rugged gear. However, Jason highlights the lack of full weather sealing, which may be a drawback for those who often shoot in unpredictable outdoor conditions.

Despite lacking full weather sealing, Jason finds the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB to be "sturdy enough for light outdoor use." It offers a confident, tactile experience, making it suitable for both professional and semi-professional environments, with reliable performance in moderate outdoor conditions.

Optical Performance: "Sharpness and Bokeh that Impress"

Sharpness is crucial for portrait lenses, and the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 excels in this regard. Jason highlights its "outstanding sharpness," even when shooting wide open at f/1.8. The image remains sharp from the center to the edges, with only a slight drop-off at the corners. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who need to capture fine portrait details, even in low-light conditions.

Bokeh (the quality of the out-of-focus areas) is another strength of the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB. Jason describes the bokeh as "smooth and creamy," thanks to the lens's large aperture and 135mm focal length. The background blur creates a pleasing separation between the subject and the background, making it an excellent choice for portrait photographers.

Jason Morris highly praises the shooting performance and color rendition of the Viltrox 135mm lens, noting that it produces "natural and vivid tones," enhancing both skin tones and natural landscapes. While some minor chromatic aberration or color fringing may appear in high-contrast settings, it is minimal and easily corrected in post-processing.

Autofocus Performance: "Silent and Swift"

Fast and accurate autofocus is crucial for portrait photography, and the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB excels in this area. Jason  emphasizes that the autofocus is "quick and reliable," even in low-light conditions. On compatible Sony cameras, eye autofocus consistently performs well, ensuring sharp and expressive portraits.

A standout feature of the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB is its silent autofocus motor. Jason praises this, as it allows photographers to shoot without disturbing their subjects, making it ideal for weddings or events. The manual focus ring also provides smooth and precise control for users who prefer fine-tuning, making the lens suitable for both still photography and video work.

Value and Comparison: "A Quality Alternative for the Price-Conscious"

One of the main appeals of the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB is its competitive price. Jason notes that it serves as an affordable alternative to more expensive lenses like the Sony 135mm G Master or Sigma Art series. "It’s a fantastic lens for photographers who want the quality of a premium portrait lens without the hefty price tag," says Jason , making it an attractive option for both hobbyists and professionals on a budget.

While the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB lacks some advanced features found in pricier lenses, it excels in key areas like sharpness, bokeh, and autofocus. With its strong price-to-performance ratio, it’s recommended as a “high-value purchase” for photographers who prioritize image quality over extras like full weather sealing.

Final Thoughts: "A Solid Portrait Lens with Exceptional Value"

In conclusion, the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE is a powerful and affordable option for portrait photographers. Jason recommends it for its sharpness and bokeh, offering excellent performance at a lower price. While it lacks full weather sealing, its overall quality makes it a valuable addition to any kit. For those seeking a high-quality 135mm lens without the high cost, the Viltrox 135mm f/1.8 LAB FE is a "strong, well-rounded choice."

Reprinted from(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtTwceapkpw)