After a few weeks’ use, I will be reviewing the 56mm f1.7 Viltrox lens. Viltrox has sent me the lens, but they will not be able to see or comment on this blog.
All opinions are mine. It’s also worth noting that I received this lens before it went on sale. Any quirks may have been fixed with the firmware by the time this review was published.
This lens is available for less than $140. This is a ridiculously low price and makes it one of the fastest primes that are affordable for the Fuji system. Viltrox gets some serious points for making this lens affordable to photographers who may not have been able afford a fast-prime before. Kudos.
This lens is perfect for capturing details and giving a telephoto feel. This focal length is perfect for cityscapes, portraits, and can be paired with a 35mm lens of 23mm. I own the Fujifilm 56mm f1.2 and am currently testing the Fujifilm 50mm f2 lens. This lens was tested with the Fuji XH2, XH2s and XH2s.
Build & Ergonomics
What did you expect for this price? The plastic is not cheap or tacky. It feels similar to the Fuji XC35mm. The metal lens mount will help to reduce wear and tear when removing and putting on the lens. Comparatively, the Fuji XC35mm lens mount is plastic despite costing around $20 more.
The lens mount hides a USB C connector that you can use to update the firmware. The body is still untouched after 2 weeks and a few trips in my bag. The focus dial has a smooth, well-damped motion. The weather seal is not included, but I am not surprised at the price. I have nothing to complain about after my first use.
In terms of ergonomics, this lens is about the same size in length as the Fuji f/2 Primes. However, it’s a bit fatter in diameter. It feels lighter than other 50-56mm lenses I’ve tried. This lens will fit all Fuji cameras.
The lack of an aperture dial is unacceptable to some (including me). I would have paid extra to add that. I don’t know why this wasn’t done with the 27mm prime lens from TTArtisan.