The objective Viltrox AF 28 mm f/4,5 FE has just been revealed, with the ambition of being the autofocus lens the most compact for hybrid devices full frame from Sony. This pancake is also among the options the most affordable for the E-mount. The lens is currently in a fundraising campaign on Indiegogo, ending on October 13, 2024.
Viltrox AF 28 mm f/4,5 FE : un objectif ultra-pancake
Viltrox, one of the manufacturers Chinese pioneers in optics with autofocus, continues to enrich its range. The manufacturer already offers a extended range lenses for full-frame mirrorless and ASP-C. For 2024, the manufacturer has hinted, through various teasers, of particularly bright, pro-level lenses. But it is with a very different perspective that Viltrox is being talked about again.
The company thus unveils the Viltrox AF 28 mm f/4,5 FEan optic very compact, barely thicker than a hood camera, but still equipped with autofocus. It is intended for full-frame hybrids from Sony, with a really very affordable price.
Here is the list of technical characteristics of the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE :
- focal : 28 mm (42 mm equivalent in APS-C)
- maximum sensor format: plein format
- constant aperture : f/4,5
- angle de champ : 73°
- optical construction : 6 lenses divided into 6 groups (including 2 aspherical lenses and 2 ED lenses)
- diaphragm : N.C.
- minimum focusing distance : 32 cm
- max magnification : 0,11x
- focus : VCM
- stabilisation d’image : non
- tropicalisation : N.C.
- filter diameter : 62 mm
- dimensions : ø 60,3 x 15,3 mm (D x L)
- weight : 60 g
- accessories provided : rear cap
- compatible mount : Sony E
- price at launch: 99 $
The simplest optical formula on the market
The Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE uses a very simplified optical formula, with 6 elements divided into… 6 groupsdont 2 aspherical lenses and 2 ED lenses. A design basicbut which, according to the manufacturer, would provide “impressive” image quality. And this, from the center to the periphery of the image.
The lens aperture is fixed at f/4.5. We do not know the number of lamellae of the diaphragm. This opening is intended to be quite versatilebut will be quite limited in low light. Viltrox highlights the effect Starbust which can appear if you photograph very bright sources. Note that the minimum focusing distance is 32 cm.
An autofocus motor in an ultra-small size
Impressively, despite the small size, the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE has a autofocus motor VCM. He is even compatible with the subject tracking and recognition system integrated into Sony hybrids. A hell of a performance, which should make Panasonic and its Lumix S 26 mm f/8 blush which, in addition to its less luminous aperture, does not have autofocus.
A lens barely thicker than a body cap
What distinguishes this optic is above all its template. We have a stone of only 1.5cm thickpour a diameter of 6 cmall for a weight of 60 g. Combined with a case like the Sony A7C II, the whole thing will fit quite easily into a large pocket, and weigh less than 575 g.
Despite the (very) small size, the Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 comes with a few options. We thus have a port USB-C for firmware updates.
A small latch at the front of the optics allows you to deploy a cover to protect the front lens, especially against dust and splashes. This 28 mm is however not not protected against bad weatherwe will therefore avoid using it in the rain.
Price and availability of the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE
The Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE currently benefits from a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. At the time of writing, the project has already exceeded 125 124 €. The campaign will end on October 13, 2024.
The lens is priced at $89, and will be marketed after the campaign at the very low price of 99 $ (€89). Deliveries should begin just after the end of the campaign.
Our first review of the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 FE
Viltrox goes a little off the beaten track and offers a frankly attractive. Very (very) compactshe could replace a housing plugwithout being thicker. In addition, it is equipped autofocuswhich is quite exceptional for a pancake lens of this type. This makes it really useful for capturing subjects on the spot. In this, the 28 mm of Viltrox is much more practical than a Lumix S 26mm f/8, which only offers manual focus.
Of course, we are not fools. Such compactness will necessarily have an impact on image qualitydespite the manufacturer’s claims. However, we must think of this objective as a temporary solutionpermanently screwed in to be able to trigger as soon as the opportunity presents itself, for example by taking your hybrid out of your pocket. The 28mm focal length is thus very relevant due to its great versatility.
Finally, his very affordable price of $99, allows us to further put into perspective the potential weakness of optical quality.
