Viltrox has officially launched the AF 16mm f/1.8 L, marking its first autofocus lens for the Leica L-Mount system.
Priced at $580 USD, this ultra-wide prime lens underscores Viltrox’s commitment to the L-Mount Alliance by delivering advanced optical performance, fast autofocus, and professional-level control features.
Check availability at B&H, Amazon.
Ultra-Wide Perspective
The AF 16mm f/1.8 L offers a 105.6° field of view, capturing expansive landscapes, architecture, and astrophotography scenes with extraordinary detail. Its optical design includes 15 elements in 12 groups, featuring 3 aspherical and 4 ED elements to minimize distortion, chromatic aberration, and coma. The result is consistent sharpness across the frame, even in demanding conditions.
Large Aperture Performance
With a maximum aperture of f/1.8, the lens excels in low-light environments, enabling faster shutter speeds and lower ISO settings. This makes it particularly effective for night sky photography, including capturing the Milky Way with clarity and precision.
Fast, Accurate Autofocus
Powered by an STM stepping motor, the AF 16mm f/1.8 L delivers fast, stable, and quiet autofocus. It supports eye and face detection on compatible cameras, ensuring reliable subject tracking for both stills and video. Smooth focus transitions and minimal focus breathing make it an excellent choice for video production and hybrid workflows.
Professional Controls
The lens integrates a 0.96-inch color info panel, displaying real-time focus distance, depth of field, and aperture settings. Additional controls include a customizable Fn1 button, a Focus Preset button (Fn2), and an AF/MF switch. The CLICK Aperture Ring Switch allows users to choose between stepped aperture control for photography or smooth, silent adjustments for video.
Optimized for Outdoor and Astro Work
Designed with astrophotographers and landscape shooters in mind, the AF 16mm f/1.8 L features a non-bulbous front element with a 77mm filter thread, supporting CPL, ND, and other filters. Dust-sealing ensures durability in challenging environments, while customizable controls streamline field operation in low-light conditions.
Price and Availability
The Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 L is available now at a retail price of $580 USD. Purchases can be made through the Viltrox official store, as well as major retailers including Amazon and B&H Photo.
Buy the Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 L Lens
Check Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 L Prices on Amazon
Check Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 L Prices on B&H Photo
Tip: Best choice if you want an affordable ultra-wide autofocus lens for Leica L-Mount cameras.
Final Thoughts
The Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8 L represents a significant milestone for Viltrox, expanding the L-Mount ecosystem with a professional yet accessible ultra-wide prime. With its combination of advanced optics, fast autofocus, and customizable controls, it is poised to become a go-to lens for landscapes, astrophotography, and video creators working within the L-Mount Alliance.
