The new Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 Air E lens offers photographers an affordable option for ultra-wide shots on APS-C cameras without sacrificing quality. Priced at just $199, this lens combines sharpness with a bright aperture, making it a compelling choice for both amateurs and professionals. Weighing only 175 grams and featuring a compact design, it is easy to carry, allowing for spontaneous photography.
Versatile Performance and Design
While specifically designed for APS-C cameras, the Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 also provides unexpected coverage on full-frame cameras in crop mode. This versatility gives users the option to switch between systems without needing to invest in additional lenses. On an APS-C camera, the 9mm focal length offers a field of view equivalent to approximately 13.5mm in full-frame terms, which is extremely wide for landscape and architectural photography.
The lens features a maximum aperture of f/2.8, making it suitable for low-light conditions, although noticeable background blur will only occur when shooting at close distances. Reviewers have praised the build quality, noting that while the design is straightforward, it does not feel cheap. The lens includes a metal mount and a USB-C port for firmware updates, enhancing its longevity and usability.
The focus ring operates smoothly, and the autofocus system is both fast and nearly silent, which is especially beneficial for video recording. Despite the absence of weather-sealing and image stabilization—common at this price point—users should find the performance satisfactory for everyday photography.
Image Quality Assessment
Image quality testing reveals that the Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 performs admirably when wide open at f/2.8. The center of the image is sharp with strong contrast, although corners exhibit some softness that improves significantly when the aperture is stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. This enhancement is crucial for photographers seeking clarity in landscapes or interior shots.
When it comes to optical distortions, some are present but are controlled better than expected. With in-camera corrections disabled, vignetting is noticeable at f/2.8; however, it does not completely resolve even when stopped down. This means that brightening the corners in post-processing may often be necessary.
Frost highlights the lens’s performance with light sources, noting that while flare can occur under strong illumination, it rarely detracts from the overall image quality. The control of coma makes the lens suitable for night sky photography, and the seven-blade aperture produces defined sun stars at f/8, adding to its appeal.
In conclusion, the Viltrox AF 9mm f/2.8 Air E lens emerges as a strong contender in the affordable ultra-wide lens market. With its combination of sharpness, compact design, and competitive pricing, it is likely to attract a wide range of photographers. For a comprehensive review, viewers can check out the detailed video by photographer Alex Cooke, who also shares insights from his experiences in both photography and meteorology.
