Viltrox has officially launched its new AF 50mm F1.4 Pro lens for Sony E mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, priced competitively at $549. This Viltrox lens delivers professional-grade optics, fast autofocus, and exceptional video performance—making it a standout in the world of fast standard prime lenses.
Viltrox AF 50mm F1.4 Pro Lens Key Features
- Large F1.4 maximum aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur for stunning portraits
- 0.45m Minimum Focusing Distance: AF 50mm F1.4 Pro has a minimum focusing distance of just 0.45m, offering excellent macro capabilities. With Pro-level ultra-high resolution, every detail is rendered with precision, preserving more intricate details.
- Quiet and Fast Autofocus HyperVCM: This is especially suitable for real-time subject tracking, even with moving subjects, Whether photographing or filming, this lens ensures sharp focus where it matters most.
- Outstanding Sharpness Even at Full Aperture: AF 50mm F1.4 Pro maintains exceptional sharpness even when the aperture is fully open to F1.4, with consistent sharpness from the center to the edges.
- Excellent video shooting performance: The AF 50mm F1.4 Pro delivers outstanding optical performance, with equally impressive video capabilities. When switching focus, the field of view changes minimally, and the breathing effect is negligible, allowing you to capture inspiration anytime.
Pro-Level Optics at an Accessible Price
The AF 50mm F1.4 Pro is built around a sophisticated optical design comprising 15 elements in 11 groups, including eight high-refractive index (HR) elements, three extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses, and one ultra-precision aspherical element. This advanced construction ensures minimal chromatic and comatic aberrations, while Viltrox’s proprietary Advanced HD Nano Coating helps suppress flare and ghosting for clean, contrast-rich images.
The lens also features an 11-blade aperture diaphragm, which contributes to its creamy, onion ring-free bokeh. This makes it an ideal choice for portrait, street, and low-light photography—areas where subject separation and background rendering are critical.
Built for Creators
Beyond still photography, the Viltrox AF 50mm F1.4 Pro is optimized for video creators. It offers quiet and accurate autofocus, powered by a STM stepping motor, ensuring smooth focus transitions. The lens also includes customizable control buttons and an aperture ring, giving users tactile control over exposure settings.
Its weather-sealed construction makes it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots, while the classic 50mm focal length delivers a natural field of view with minimal distortion—perfect for storytelling and documentary work.
Size vs. Performance
While the lens excels in optical and functional performance, it does come with a bit of heft. Weighing in at 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and measuring 111mm (4.37 inches) in length, it’s noticeably heavier than competitors like the Sony 50mm F1.4 GM, which weighs just 516 grams (1.14 lbs). However, many photographers may find the trade-off worthwhile for the added optical elements and robust build quality.
Competitive Pricing
Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Viltrox AF 50mm F1.4 Pro is its affordable $549 price tag. This positions it significantly below the Sony 50mm F1.4 GM and Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art, both of which retail for hundreds more. For budget-conscious professionals and enthusiasts seeking high-end performance without the premium price, this Viltrox lens is a game-changer.
Final Thoughts
With the AF 50mm F1.4 Pro, Viltrox continues to solidify its reputation as a manufacturer that delivers high-quality lenses at accessible prices. This new release is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation, offering a compelling blend of optical excellence, robust build, and affordability.
Whether you’re a portrait photographer chasing dreamy bokeh or a filmmaker in need of reliable autofocus and weather sealing, the Viltrox AF 50mm F1.4 Pro is a lens worth considering. It may not be the lightest in its class, but it certainly punches above its weight in performance and value.
See also AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE lens for Sony E-mount at B&HPhoto and Amazon.
