This Viltrox AF 35mm f1.2 LAB Review highlights a lens that lands with power and precision. As the second full-frame autofocus lens in the Viltrox LAB lineup—following the popular 135mm LAB—this 35mm delivers premium quality and performance at a surprisingly accessible price.
Build and Design
Right out of the box, the Viltrox 35mm f1.2 impresses with its robust, high-end feel. Built with aviation-grade magnesium-aluminum alloy, the lens is clearly designed to endure professional use. Every detail, from the firm control ring clicks to the red weather-sealed metal mount, reflects thoughtful engineering. The package includes front and rear caps, a hard plastic lens hood, and a protective pouch. It rivals—if not exceeds—many OEM lenses in craftsmanship, showing that Viltrox takes this flagship release seriously.
Controls and Usability
Modern design meets practicality in the 35mm LAB’s layout. A digital display, AF/MF switch, aperture click control, and dual function buttons provide advanced customization. These buttons are fully programmable using the Viltrox app, supporting features like A-B focus presets and digital screen toggling. The manual focus and control rings are responsive and well-placed, allowing seamless adjustments even while looking through the EVF.
Paired with both the Sony a7R III and a7R V, the lens handled exceptionally well. Though a bit hefty, that’s expected of a fast f/1.2 prime. Button and dial placement feels intuitive, allowing photographers to get comfortable with the lens quickly.
Stunning Image Quality
The Viltrox AF 35mm f1.2 LAB reveals a lens that excels in color, contrast, and sharpness. At f/1.2, images showcase creamy bokeh and beautiful subject separation. In-studio portrait tests yielded crisp, detailed photos that stood up to the a7R V’s 61MP sensor.
While sharp in the center wide open, some softness appears at the edges. Chromatic aberration exists at f/1.2 but is minor. At f/4, sharpness spreads edge-to-edge and stays strong through f/16. Bokeh becomes more uniform around f/2, losing the “cat’s eye” effect seen wide open.
Flare resistance is also impressive—even when shooting under harsh midday sun. Its close focusing distance of 0.34m makes it versatile enough for detail shots or nature photography.
Autofocus Performance
Inside, Viltrox uses its HyperVCM motor, a dual floating magnetic suspension system built for fast, accurate focusing. Autofocus runs silently and smoothly, particularly on newer bodies like the a7R V. Though slower in continuous AF mode on older cameras like the a7R III, performance remains respectable. Focus breathing is present at f/1.2 but stays within acceptable limits for most shooters.
LCD Display and App Integration
A small top-mounted LCD adds a modern touch, displaying aperture values and focus distance. Users can even upload a custom startup screen image. While optional, this feature proves handy in real-world use.
Viltrox’s companion app allows quick customization of lens functions and seamless firmware updates over Bluetooth. The setup process is fast and user-friendly, requiring little effort to fine-tune settings or apply new firmware.
Pros
Excellent image sharpness and bokeh
Premium build quality
Fast, quiet autofocus
Customizable features via app
Strong flare resistance and close focus
Cons
Noticeable focus breathing at wide apertures
Heavier than average
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Mount | Sony E-Mount |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Lens Construction | 15 elements in 10 groups |
| Aperture Range | f/1.2–f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 11 |
| Focus Range | 0.34 m to ∞ |
| Autofocus Motor | HyperVCM |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.17× |
| Dimensions | Ø89.2 × 121.8 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 920 g |
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
Final Thoughts
This Viltrox AF 35mm f1.2 LAB Review proves that Viltrox is not just competing—they’re leading the charge among third-party lens makers. With its stellar optical performance, strong construction, intuitive handling, and modern features, this lens delivers pro-level results without the usual premium price tag. At $999 and €1.099,00, it represents serious value for photographers working across genres.