As I’m penning this review, it’s just over six months since I tested the Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro for Sony cameras. Another few months down the line, I’m pleased that Viltrox has now launched Nikon versions of both lenses in Z-mount options. I can’t really call the 50mm the little sibling of the 85mm, as they’re both exactly the same size and weight, and have an identical layout of controls. They look more like identical twins.
That said, while both lenses have the exact same diameter and a 77mm filter thread, the 85mm is an almost imperceptible 2mm or 1/10th of an inch longer. The Nikon Z version is actually 2mm longer again, and 30g or 1oz heavier. There’s really very little in it. The main takeaway is that the 85mm bowled me over with its pro-grade build and handling, as well as it’s top-drawer image quality and all-round performance. That makes the similarity of the two lenses very appealing, as the new addition sets out to be one of the best 50mm lenses on the market.
