Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Lens Review – A Compact Choice for Everyday Photography

Posted on April 13, 2025  •  2 minutes  • 393 words

Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Lens Review – A Compact Choice for Everyday Photography

Hello everyone — did you miss me?

Today, I’m back with a fresh topic and a new addition to my photography gear: the Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 pancake lens, a compact gem I picked up for my Fujifilm X-T20. I’ve been searching for a slim and portable lens to make my setup more lightweight, and this one seemed like a great fit.

First Impressions: The Lens

What makes this lens stand out right away is its built-in lens cover — no need for a separate lens cap! It’s super convenient, especially when you’re on the move and want to shoot quickly.

However, it’s important to note that the maximum aperture is f/4.5, and there’s no option to open it wider. This limitation means less control over depth of field and low-light performance. Without a wide aperture, your main tools for adjusting exposure are ISO and shutter speed, which can be a challenge in darker environments.

Despite these limitations, Viltrox has managed to create a lens that’s impressively compact and travel-friendly — perfect for carrying in your pocket or daypack. And the price? Around $70, which is a bargain for what it offers.

Testing It Out in Kasukabe

To test the lens, I went on a day trip to Kasukabe — yes, if you grew up in the 90s, you heard that right: it’s Shin-chan’s hometown! I snapped a few shots while wandering around, and the results were interesting, especially considering the size and price of the lens.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For me, this lens fits into a gray zone. It’s not perfect, but it serves a purpose:

• ✔️ Great for everyday carry
• ✔️ Ideal for spontaneous street photography
• ✔️ Discreet — people won’t even notice you’re taking pictures
• ❌ Vignetting in bright conditions
• ❌ Limited performance in low light due to fixed aperture

In the end, it’s not my go-to lens for serious photography trips, especially when I know I’ll want full control over my shots. But for quick outings, casual strolls, or capturing unexpected moments, it’s a solid and affordable choice.

Have you tried this lens or something similar? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
And don’t forget to check out my 2024 photo diary to see how this lens fits into my broader photography journey.