Viltrox AF 28mm F4.5 Chip

The Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Chip is a very slim autofocus prime. Separate versions fit Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X and L-Mount cameras. Choose the version that matches your camera mount. It suits photographers who want to keep a small lens on the camera during everyday outings.

On a full-frame camera, 28mm gives a wide view for streets, landscapes and people with their surroundings. Fujifilm X cameras use APS-C sensors, which give a narrower view from the same position. That version works more like a standard lens for everyday scenes.

The main trade-off is the fixed f/4.5 aperture. You cannot open it farther for dim light or stop it down for more depth of field. The small body therefore suits a simple approach to composition and exposure.

The Sony E version weighs 2.1 oz (60 g) and measures 0.6 in (15.3 mm) long and 2.37 in (60.3 mm) across. Other mounts differ, and Nikon Z is heavier. There is no filter thread, so a screw-in filter cannot attach directly.

The fixed focal length means you move to change the composition when the scene allows. On full frame, the wide view can include a foreground object and the street behind it. How much of a room fits depends on where you stand. A smaller sensor includes less from the same position.

At f/4.5, daylight gives more freedom to select a suitable shutter speed and ISO. In dim rooms or evening streets, you may need a higher ISO to control movement. For a still scene, firm support can allow a slower shutter speed. The aperture itself remains unchanged.

Depth of field depends on your focus distance as well as the aperture. Nearby subjects can still have a soft background when the background is far behind them. For scenes that need detail at several distances, choose the focus position carefully because stopping down is unavailable.

The Sony E version focuses as close as 1.2 ft (38 cm), measured from the sensor. Its maximum magnification is 0.11x, useful for everyday objects in their surroundings. Very small subjects remain modest in the frame. The minimum focus distance differs on the other mounts.

There is no built-in stabilization or weather sealing. A camera with body stabilization can help with shake for still scenes. Protect the lens from rain and blowing dust during outdoor use.

An integrated sliding cover closes over the front glass when the lens is not in use. Open it before shooting. The front coating helps resist water and marks during normal use and cleaning.

Six elements sit in six groups. Two aspherical elements help correct distortion and spherical aberration, which can bend straight lines or soften detail. Two ED elements help reduce chromatic aberration, the coloured fringes that can appear at high-contrast edges such as branches against bright sky.