Viltrox announces AF 16mm F1.8 Z, a fast, wide-angle lens for Z-mount

Image: Viltrox

Viltrox has formally announced the release of its AF 16mm F1.8 Z lens, a fast, wide autofocus prime lens for full-frame Z-mount cameras. It joins the lineup next to Viltrox’s existing AF 16mm F1.8 lens for Sony E-mount. Viltrox says the lens is aimed at applications like astrophotography, landscape and architecture.

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The AF 16mm F1.8 Z is built around 15 elements in 12 groups, including 4 ED and three aspherical elements. It has a minimum focus distance of 0.27m (11″) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.1.

A stepper motor drives autofocus. The lens has a nine-bladed aperture.

The lens also includes two function buttons and includes one-click access to infinity focus, a feature that should be popular with astrophotographers. It features a 77mm filter thread. Viltrox describes the lens as “dustproof.”

Although Viltrox is formally announcing the AF 16mm F1.8 Z today, reviews on YouTube began appearing last week.

The AF 16mm F1.8 Z has a suggested retail price of $549 and is available immediately.

Viltrox AF 16mm F1.8 Z specifications

Principal specifications
Lens typePrime lens
Max Format size35mm FF
Focal length16 mm
Image stabilizationNo
Lens mountNikon Z
Aperture
Maximum apertureF1.8
Minimum apertureF22
Aperture ringYes
Number of diaphragm blades9
Optics
Elements15
Groups12
Special elements / coatings4 ED, 3 aspherical
Focus
Minimum focus0.27 m (10.63)
Maximum magnification0.1×
AutofocusYes
Motor typeStepper motor
Full time manualUnknown
Focus methodInternal
Distance scaleYes
DoF scaleNo
Physical
Weight550 g (1.21 lb)
Diameter85 mm (3.35)
Length103 mm (4.06)
SealingYes
Filter thread77 mm
Hood suppliedYes
Tripod collarNo