The unveiling of the Viltrox AF 75mm F1.2 Pro lens designed for Fuji’s X-mount indicated that Viltrox was elevating its optical design game. I provided an enthusiastic review for that lens, as it surpassed expectations. While it was indeed bulky, its optical quality was outstanding, boasting more features than any native Fuji lenses. It delivered remarkable sharpness even at F1.2 (notably impressive on Fuji’s demanding 40MP X-Trans sensor) and produced a pleasingly soft bokeh. Following this, they released the equally impressive AF 27mm F1.2 Pro, which I named Budget APS-C Lens of the Year in my 2023 DA Awards. Last year, Viltrox introduced its premium LAB series for full-frame cameras, featuring the AF 135mm F1.8 LAB FE (which I also praised), achieving similar results in the full-frame category. However, this 135mm model is unique in their lineup since they only plan to release one. On the other hand, they have ambitious plans for key prime focal lengths of 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm. Viltrox is set to launch F1.2 LAB lenses for all these lengths, as well as Pro series lenses with F1.4 apertures. The first full-frame Pro lens has arrived, starting with the longest focal length of 85mm. In this article, we’ll thoroughly evaluate whether the Viltrox AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE is the ideal portrait lens. Priced at just $598 USD, it offers excellent value (plus, using code DA85145OFF at Viltrox will give an extra 5% discount!). I’ve favored the Sigma 85mm F1.4 DN ART lens for years; does this new lens change the game? Discover more through the video review below, the text review that follows, or simply enjoy the galleries beneath.
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Thanks to Viltrox for providing a review copy of this lens. As always, this review is entirely independent. *The tests and most of the images presented in my review cycle have been conducted using the Sony a7RV and the Sony Alpha 1. You can check out the listing for the AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE here.
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85mm lenses are a popular choice among portrait photographers, and for good reasons. While I find the images from a 135mm lens slightly more unique, its longer distance can be limiting in many settings. An 85mm lens allows excellent subject isolation while remaining practical for typical indoor spaces. It also works wonderfully for outdoor portraits.
The Pro design has been extended to this full-frame lens series, incorporating some recent improvements from Viltrox. While the 27mm and 75mm Pro lenses for APS-C utilized STM motors for focusing, the Pro 85mm features innovative VCM (voice coil motor) technology for enhanced focus performance. This lens is equipped with a full array of features, including a clicky or declicked aperture ring, a customizable function button, an AF | MF toggle, weather sealing, and a USB-C port for straightforward firmware updates. Overall, this lens presents a construction and feature quality comparable to GM lenses.
The specifications look promising on paper—but does the Pro 85mm perform effectively in practical scenarios?
Let’s dive into the specifics…
Images Captured with the Viltrox Pro 85mm F1.4
Photos Shot with the Viltrox Pro AF 85mm F1.4
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EQUIPMENT USED:
Acquire the Viltrox AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE @ Viltrox (use code DA85145OFF for 5% off) | B&H | Adorama | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany | Pergear
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Purchase the Sony Alpha 1 @ Camera Canada | B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon | Sony Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany | Ebay
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DISCLAIMER: This article includes affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you click on any product link. As an Amazon Associate, I do earn from qualifying purchases.
