We are hearing more and more about Chinese compatible Lens manufacturers and Viltrox is one of the key players. Recently, we presented the AF 35mm F1.7 Air APS-C available in Sony E, Nikon Z and Fujifilm X mounts. Last November, the manufacturer also announced an impressive AF 135mm F1.8 LAB 24 x 36 mm in Sony E mount and we can finally mention the very surprising AF 28mm F4.5 ultra pancake also designed for Sony E-mount hybrids.
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To date, Viltrox only offers 24 x 36 mm AF lenses in Sony E mount but, as we have just seen, it also knows how to work with the Nikon Z mount (in APS-C). Indeed, since 2022, Nikon has authorized certain manufacturers of compatible lenses to offer Z-mount optics under license. The first model was also a Tamron 70-300 mm then a series of Sigma APS-C fixed focal length lenses.
As Viltrox knows the Sony and Nikon optical communication protocol, it is therefore theoretically possible to imagine the design of an active adapter ring between these two mounts. This is the promise of the new Viltrox EZ AF Lens Mount Adapter currently available for pre-sale on the manufacturer’s website (the first deliveries are announced for mid-February 2025).
It’s a full-featured ring with, to begin with, the physical adaptation. The ring, extremely thin at 4 mm thick, attaches to the base of a Sony E mount lens and therefore then attaches to a Nikon Z mount hybrid. Then Viltrox announces the possibility of retaining autofocus ( in AF-S, AF-C, AF-A, AF-F and MF), iris adjustment, EXIF data and compatibility with optical and sensor stabilization systems. It would even be possible to use the customizable keys present on certain Sony E mount lenses. The manufacturer has also implemented a USB-C socket on its ring for possible firmware updates.
The manufacturer still announces some reservations. He advises, for example, to avoid the Pinpoint collimator selection mode in AF-S and with optics equipped with a manual diaphragm ring, he recommends adjusting the aperture with the body.
Availability and price
The new Viltrox EZ AF Lens Mount Adapter ring is available for pre-order on the manufacturer’s website and is offered under the symbolic bar of 100 euros. Deliveries are announced to begin in mid-February 2025.
First opinion
Almost too good to be true! It’s hard to believe that Nikon gave the green light for a product like this and, generally, active optical adapter rings work but with compromises in terms of, for example, autofocus performance. We will therefore have to test to judge. But if Viltrox’s promises are kept, this little ring will become a must-have for Nikonists who will find themselves opening wide the doors to the most developed frame on the market!
