Exploring Viltrox’s new L-mount additions
If you’ve been seeking an affordable and lightweight lens option for your L-mount camera, this company introduces compact and efficient lenses that cater to your needs with its latest offerings. Known as the Air series, these four new autofocus prime lenses are designed to fill a niche in a market that has seen limited options.
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Joining the L-mount Alliance a little over a year ago, Viltrox had been tight-lipped about its commitment to expanding its lens offerings for this mounting system. Until now, the company had released just two autofocus lenses for L-mount, though they’ve been more active with other systems like Z and E mounts. This recent launch marks a significant step in expanding its L-mount lineup.
Packed into this new release are the Viltrox 14mm F4.0, 20mm F2.8, 40mm F2.5, and 50mm F2.0 lenses. True to the Air series’ ethos, these lenses are notably compact and featherweight. For instance, the 50mm F2.0 weighs in at a mere 205 grams (7.2 ounces), making it the heaviest of the series, while the 20mm F2.8 is the lightest at just 159 grams (5.6 ounces).
The design is minimalist, focusing on lightweight build and affordability. Each lens employs a stepper motor for autofocus, offering a balance of simplicity and modern functionality. Firmware can be updated through a USB-C port.
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Compact lenses with unique features
The 14mm F4.0 offers a broad 112.6° field of view. Its design includes 12 elements across 9 groups, featuring 4 ED, 2 HR, and 2 aspherical elements. It can capture sharp details at a close-up distance of 0.13 meters (5.1 inches), with a maximum magnification of 0.23x, and is compatible with 58mm filters.
The 20mm F2.8 provides a closer focusing range of 0.19 meters (7.5 inches) and a magnification of 0.17x. Its structure consists of 10 elements in 8 groups, featuring 2 ED, 1 HR, and 2 aspherical components, and it supports 52mm filters. Indeed, they offer compact solutions tailored for various shooting needs.
The 40mm F2.5, with its 10 elements in 6 groups including 1 ED, 3 HR, and 1 aspherical element, allows for a minimum focusing distance of 0.34 meters (13.4 inches) and a 0.14x magnification ratio. It accepts 52mm filters.
Finally, the 50mm F2.0 presents the largest minimum focusing distance at 0.51 meters (20.1 inches) and a maximum magnification of 0.11x. It comprises 13 elements in 9 groups with 3 ED, 4 HR, and 1 aspherical element, and it fits 58mm filters. Here, too, this brand introduces compact designs that do not sacrifice functionality.
These lenses are available now and are priced at $199 for the 14mm F4.0 and 50mm F2.0, $168 for the 20mm F2.8, and $176 for the 40mm F2.5.
Exploring the Viltrox AF 14mm F4.0 Air
Diving into the Viltrox AF 20mm F2.8
Spotlight on the Viltrox AF 50mm F2.0 Air
Source: dpreview.com
Frequently asked questions
What type of mount are the new Viltrox lenses for?
The new Viltrox lenses are for the L-mount system.
What is the weight of the Viltrox 50mm F2.0 lens?
The Viltrox 50mm F2.0 lens weighs 205 grams (7.2 ounces).
How can firmware be updated on these lenses?
Firmware can be updated through a USB-C port.