Viltrox has quietly announced its new 85mm f/1.8 STM lens for Nikon Z cameras, making it the first third-party lens for the mount that features autofocus.
Versions of the 85mm f/1.8 for Sony and Fujifilm have been on the market for a few months and at just $399, it promises a lot of lens for not very much money. As an owner of the FE version, I’ve been impressed with its performance, especially given that it costs $200 less than the equivalent Sony lens (usual price $598, currently discounted to $548).
Nikon mirrorless users will welcome the arrival of third-party glass — especially when it’s so affordable — given that the lens lineup is still relatively limited. The NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S has received excellent reviews but the new Viltrox shaves a good chunk off its regular price tag of $796.95 (currently discounted to $696.95).
Currently only available via Amazon, the first thing that the listing for the new Viltrox mentions is autofocus, emphasizing immediately that it tracks objects and works with Nikon’s eye autofocus.
The lens features 10 elements in 7 groups, 9 rounded aperture blades, and weighs in at 19 oz (540 g).
Like the Sony and Fujifilm versions, the lens has a USB port in order to allow for firmware upgrades. Viltrox just announced updates for the Fujifilm mount, bringing improvements to the focusing speed.
Will you be placing an order? Let us know in the comments below.
Finally a 3rd party Z-lens. That'll shake Nikon's security.
LOL
Sigma needs to stop promising and start delivering. If I can get the DG DN 24-70 2.8 and a 85 1.4 natively on the Z mount. I'll buy a Z6II tomorrow! If not I'll keep waiting for the A74 to upgrade from current camera.