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| Image: Viltrox |
Viltrox has announced its first L-Mount lens after joining the alliance last September. The company will now sell an L-mount version of its AF 16mm F1.8 lens, which has previously been available for E and Z mount cameras.
Optically, the Viltrox AF 16mm F1.8 L is the same as the models released in 2024. It's built around 15 elements in 12 groups, an optical design that includes 3 aspherical elements and 4 ED elements to better manage distortion, chromatic aberration and coma. Viltrox promises ultra-high resolution from the ultra-wide and says it is sharp edge-to-edge even when wide open.
The lens offers a wide F1.8 maximum aperture and can focus as close as 0.27m (10.6"), which is twice the distance of Sony's 16mm F1.8, its closest like-for-like rival. It uses Viltrox's stepper motor for autofocus, which it says is fast and accurate. Viltrox also promises minimal focus breathing, making it a suitable option for video applications.
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| Image: Viltrox |
Like the original E and Z-mount versions, the lens offers plenty of on-body controls. It features two function buttons: one is customizable, while the other enables users to quickly switch between two preset focus distances. A focus ring can be clicked or de-clicked, and it features an AF/MF switch. There's also a 0.96" color display at the top of the lens that shows focus distance, depth of field, and aperture settings.
Unlike some ultra-wide lenses, the Viltrox 16mm doesn't feature a bulging front lens element. The flat lens design reduces the risk of damaging the glass when walking around with it and also allows for a 77mm filter thread. It uses metal construction and weighs 550g (1.2 lbs). It also offers some weather sealing to protect against dust.
The Viltrox AF 16mm F1.8 L is available for purchase for $580.
Press release:
Viltrox Launches AF 16mm F1.8 L for Full Frame
Viltrox’s first L-mount autofocus lens underlines commitment to L-Mount Alliance
Shenzhen, China, [February 5], 2026 – Following its entry into the L-Mount Alliance, Viltrox today announces the release of the AF 16mm F1.8 L, the company’s first autofocus lens for L-Mount systems.
This milestone lens demonstrates Viltrox’s commitment to photographers and filmmakers working within the L-Mount ecosystem, by delivering high-performance optics, advanced autofocus, and professional-level control.
Ultra-wide 16mm view and extraordinary detail
The AF 16mm F1.8 L captures expansive scenes with its ultra-wide 16mm (105.6°) field of view, while precision optical design precisely preserves fine details. There are 15 lens elements in 12 groups, including 3 aspherical and 4 ED (extra-low dispersion) elements. This optical design controls distortion, chromatic aberration, and coma, ensuring consistent sharpness from frame center to edge.
Large aperture up to F1.8
The F1.8 maximum aperture makes this lens excel in low light, enabling faster shutter speeds and lower ISO settings for cleaner, higher-quality images. For example, it is perfect for capturing the Milky Way and other night sky scenes in stunning detail.
Fast, accurate autofocus
Viltrox’s STM stepping motor delivers fast, accurate, and stable autofocus. The lens also supports eye and face detection on compatible cameras, providing reliable subject tracking for photography and video. Focus transitions are smooth and controlled, with minimal focus breathing, making the lens perfect for video production, vlogging, and hybrid shooting workflows.
Comprehensive control for professional workflows
For professional creators, the AF 16mm F1.8 L features an intuitive control layout. At the heart of the user interface is the 0.96-inch color lens info panel, showing real-time data such as a large display of current focus distance, plus depth of field, aperture and other settings. The display is clearly visible in low-light conditions.
A Custom Function Button (Fn1) is user-assignable for quick access to frequently used settings – available functions will depend on the attached camera model. The Focus Preset Button (Fn2) instantly switches between two preset focus distances. The AF/MF Switch selects between autofocus and manual focus.
The CLICK Aperture Ring Switch selects between stepped aperture, for tactile still photography control, or smooth, silent continuous aperture changes for adjustment while shooting video.
Perfect for landscapes and astrophotography
The AF 16mm F1.8 L offers distinct advantages for outdoor and night-sky photography. First among these is the ultra-wide full-frame, high-resolution image quality, with aspherical elements that precisely render point light sources and suppress coma. Tactile, customizable controls streamline field operation, even in low-light. The non-bulbous front element with a 77mm filter thread supports CPL, ND, and other common filters. The high-grade dust-sealing protects the lens in demanding outdoor environments.
Expanding the L-Mount Creative Ecosystem
The launch of the AF 16mm F1.8 L marks Viltrox’s first L-Mount lens, introducing a large-aperture ultra-wide option that combines advanced optical performance with an accessible price point for L-Mount users.
Designed with modern optical engineering, professional control features, and full system-level compatibility, the AF 16mm F1.8 L expands the range of practical, high-performance lens options within the L-Mount ecosystem, supporting photographers and filmmakers with professional yet affordable tools.
Viltrox 16mm F1.8 specifications
| Prime lens |
| 35mm FF |
| 16 mm |
| No |
| Nikon Z, Sony E, Sony FE |
| F1.8 |
| F22 |
| Yes |
| 9 |
| 15 |
| 12 |
| 4 ED, 3 aspherical |
| 0.27 m (10.63″) |
| 0.1× |
| Yes |
| Stepper motor |
| Unknown |
| Internal |
| Yes |
| Yes |
| 550 g (1.21 lb) |
| 85 mm (3.35″) |
| 103 mm (4.06″) |
| Yes |
| 77 mm |
| Yes |
| No |
English (US) ·