Photographers seeking the perfect ultra-wide lens now have a compelling comparison between Nikon and Viltrox. A recent video by photographer Alex Cooke evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of these two lenses, providing insights for those who work in tight spaces or capture expansive landscapes.
Cooke’s analysis highlights the key differences between the Nikon and Viltrox lenses. The Nikon lens features a zoom capability that extends to 30mm, offering versatility with a control ring and autofocus switch. In contrast, the Viltrox lens maintains a fixed 14mm focal length, emphasizing simplicity and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for travel and hiking.
Price and Portability Considerations
The price disparity between the two lenses adds another layer of interest. The Nikon option positions itself at the premium end of the market, while the Viltrox lens is available at a significantly lower cost. This affordability is complemented by its lighter weight, which matters when maneuvering through challenging environments.
The Nikon’s zoom feature is beneficial, but it also results in a larger 82mm filter thread, increasing accessory costs. The Viltrox, with its 58mm thread, allows for cheaper and lighter accessories, making it more budget-friendly for photographers who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Performance and Usability
Autofocus speed is crucial for many photographers, and the Viltrox lens demonstrates a slightly faster autofocus when transitioning from foreground to background. In terms of minimum focusing distance, the Viltrox offers impressive capability, focusing as close as 13 cm. This feature allows photographers to capture intricate details in the foreground while still framing expansive backgrounds. The Nikon lens, while versatile, maintains a minimum focus distance of 28 cm, which may limit creative options in certain scenarios.
Face tracking tests on a Nikon Z camera body reveal that both lenses perform admirably, ensuring that users will not experience a significant performance gap in this area.
When examining image sharpness, both lenses provide commendable results. At an aperture of f/4, both lenses appear crisp in the center of the frame, with the Viltrox potentially exhibiting a slight edge in sharpness. However, in the corners, the Nikon lens takes the lead when wide open. Stopping down to f/8 levels the playing field, offering clean detail across both lenses.
The video effectively illustrates various use cases for each lens. For photographers who prioritize versatility and enjoy working within the 14mm to 30mm range, the Nikon lens presents a clear advantage. Conversely, for those who frequently shoot without cropping and prefer a straightforward approach, the Viltrox lens proves to be an appealing choice.
In summary, both the Nikon and Viltrox lenses deliver high-quality ultra-wide results when used with a Nikon full-frame Z camera. Photographers must consider their specific needs—whether they require the flexibility of a zoom lens or the lightweight simplicity of a fixed lens—before making a decision. For a comprehensive analysis, viewers can check out Cooke’s video for a detailed exploration of each lens’s capabilities.
