Lenses too expensive? This lesser-known brand makes awesome, cheap Sony, Nikon, and Fujifilm-fit primes, and these are my favorites

1. Cameras
2. Camera Lenses

Lenses too expensive? This lesser-known brand makes awesome, cheap Sony, Nikon, and Fujifilm-fit primes, and these are my favorites Features By Timothy Coleman published 14 February 2026

I always recommend this lesser-known brand to people when they ask me about cheap camera lenses

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Lenses sure can be expensive for mirrorless cameras. When I first bought a Nikon Z camera, I picked up the versatile 24-70mm F2.8 S to go with it, and that fabulous lens tied me over for a few years until I could afford a second one.

Recently, I have been able to pick up a few more optics because I have found an affordable alternative that doesn't compromise on quality, and that's Viltrox.

I have a few Viltrox prime lenses now, and couldn't be more impressed. Take the new 35mm F1.2 Lab – it's a pro-quality prime ideal for reportage photography and, despite being Viltrox's priciest lens for mirrorless cameras, it costs just one-third the price of Nikon's. It's the same story across the range.

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• I found my dream lens – why the Viltrox 35mm F1.2 LAB never leaves my Nikon camera
• The affordable Viltrox 85mm EVO is my new favorite prime lens for Nikon — here's why
• My dream Nikon lens has finally landed – an affordable 35mm f/1.2 prime

Viltrox makes autofocus lenses for full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras, focusing on Sony E, Nikon Z, and Fujifilm X, and recently released its first L-mount lens, the AF 16mm F1.8.

All Viltrox lenses are well-made, shoot sharp shots, and cost so much less. The only real compromise versus pricier proprietary alternatives is that Viltrox lenses can be a little heavier, and autofocus speed in older models can be a fractionally slower. Otherwise, you're getting the same performance and quality at a significantly lower price.

Viltrox currently only makes prime lenses, ranging between 14mm and 135mm focal lengths for full-frame, or between 9mm to 75mm for APS-C. I've included some of my top picks below, and for the full range, check out viltrox.com.

Written byWritten byTimothy ColemanCameras Editor

I have worked as a tech journalist, photographer and videographer for over 15 years, and three years ago I took the reins as TechRadar's Cameras Editor. I've reviewed all the major camera gear during this time, and personally have six Viltrox lenses in my collection (and have used many more), in addition to proprietary glass. My workhorse camera is a Nikon Z8.

9 of my favorite Viltrox lenses

Viltrox9mm F2.8 E (APS-C for Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X)US$199shop nowViltrox23mm F1.4 Lens (APS-C for Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X)US$239shop nowViltrox56mm F1.4 (APS-C for Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X)US$239shop nowViltrox75mm F1.2 Pro (APS-C for Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X)US$580shop nowViltrox16mm F1.8 (Full-frame for Sony E, Nikon Z, L-mount)US$580shop nowViltrox28mm F4.5 (Full-frame for Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X)US$99shop nowViltrox35mm F1.2 Lab (Full-frame for Sony E, Nikon Z)US$999shop nowViltrox50mm F1.4 Pro (Full-frame for Sony E, Nikon Z)US$549shop nowViltrox85mm F2.0 (Full-frame for Sony E, Nikon Z)US$275shop nowGet daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox

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Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. CATEGORIES Mirrorless Cameras Timothy ColemanSocial Links NavigationCameras editor

Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 

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