Manny Ortiz viltrox 85mm lens review: Best Value Portrait Lens for Sony?

Viltrox launched the new 85mm f/1.4 FE lens for $598 at BHphoto, Amazon US&EU, Viltroxstore, Pergear.

Photographer Manny Ortiz reviews the new Viltrox 85mm f/1.4, a $600 lens that challenges the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 ($1,300) and Sony G Master (approx. $1,800+) in sharpness, features, and value.

Pros
– Nearly identical sharpness to Sigma
– Beautiful bokeh; slightly smoother on Sigma
– Autofocus more accurate than Sigma in tests (24/30 vs 15/22)
– Excellent for video: minimal focus breathing, short manual focus throw
– Better minimum focus distance than Sigma
– Solid build (800g), with USB firmware port, custom button, aperture ring

Cons
– Focus can pulse/vibrate aggressively when it struggles to lock
– Larger than Sigma (but better hand comfort)
– Internal rattle when powered off is more noticeable than usual

Conclusion
Ortiz calls the Viltrox “the new king of value” for Sony shooters. Unless you shoot fast action (where the Sony GM excels), this is a top portrait lens choice.

“I wouldn’t hesitate one bit to make this my main portrait lens.”

Affiliate Links
– Viltrox 85mm f/1.4 (B&H Photo), Amazon, Adorama
– Sigma 85mm f/1.4 (B&H Photo), Amazon, Adorama
– Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM (B&H Photo), Amazon,Adorama