Viltrox has officially launched its most advanced full-frame prime lens to date, the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE, marking a significant leap forward for creatives seeking ultra-large-aperture performance without compromising portability or control. Designed for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, the lens brings together innovative autofocus technology, refined optical architecture, and intuitive user controls—all within a professional-grade magnesium alloy chassis. This new release not only underscores Viltrox’s growing prominence in the lens market but also sets a compelling benchmark for affordable high-end glass.

At the core of this new optical powerhouse is the revolutionary Quad HyperVCM autofocus system, a proprietary Viltrox innovation that surpasses traditional STM motors with a remarkable 150% increase in focus speed. The system operates quietly and precisely, leveraging a dual floating focus mechanism that intelligently adjusts lens groups to mitigate common optical challenges such as spherical aberration and field curvature. With an impressive 0.34-meter minimum focusing distance, the lens delivers exceptional detail and edge-to-edge sharpness, whether capturing expressive portraits or tight close-ups in dynamic shooting environments.

The lens also excels in video production scenarios, boasting rapid near-to-far transitions with a latency as low as 100 milliseconds. This makes it particularly attractive for hybrid shooters or filmmakers who require responsive, silent autofocus that holds up under demanding conditions. With minimized focus breathing, the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE ensures composition remains stable throughout focus pulls—an essential characteristic for cinematic work.

Viltrox’s optical engineering is on full display with this lens’s fifteen-element configuration, which includes five extra-low dispersion (ED) elements, three high-refractive-index lenses, and two ultra-large aspherical units. This complex arrangement works harmoniously to reduce chromatic aberration and eliminate common issues like onion-ring bokeh—producing smooth, creamy out-of-focus areas even when the aperture is fully open. Meanwhile, the Nano-Hydrophobic Multi-Coating on lens surfaces minimizes flare and ghosting, enhancing performance in challenging backlit or high-contrast lighting conditions. These enhancements make the lens a strong contender for photographers who prioritize image fidelity and bokeh aesthetics.

One of the lens’s standout attributes is its ability to maintain sharpness and image integrity at its ultra-wide F1.2 aperture. Low-light shooters, in particular, will appreciate its ability to gather more light without introducing vignetting at the edges—a typical drawback in large-aperture optics. The result is a striking subject-background separation that brings storytelling and visual depth to portraits, street scenes, and night photography.

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE isn’t just about optical prowess; it also places emphasis on user experience and customization. Photographers can take advantage of a dual Fn button setup and a dedicated control ring, which supports both stepped and stepless aperture transitions. These features are particularly useful for videographers who prefer seamless exposure changes while recording. The lens also integrates a 0.96-inch LCD screen that provides at-a-glance visibility of key settings such as aperture, focus distance, and operation mode—ideal for fast-paced field work where efficiency is paramount.

Viltrox complements this physical control suite with its companion mobile app, allowing users to personalize button assignments, monitor real-time performance data, and even upload startup animations to the lens’s LCD screen. This level of customization is rarely seen in this price range and signals Viltrox’s commitment to bridging high-end functionality with accessibility.

Constructed from aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, the lens weighs under 1kg and is built to endure extreme temperatures ranging from -10°C to +40°C. This robust construction ensures that professionals can rely on the lens in unpredictable outdoor environments without sacrificing precision or handling comfort. Its solid, yet lightweight build makes it suitable for gimbal use, extended handheld shooting, or run-and-gun filmmaking sessions.

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE is not merely a technical showpiece—it is a strategic statement. Priced significantly lower than flagship offerings from first-party manufacturers, the lens is positioned to make professional-grade optical performance accessible to a wider audience. Whether you’re a seasoned content creator, a documentary filmmaker, or a passionate street photographer, the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE offers a compelling mix of speed, control, and image quality.

This launch is part of Viltrox’s broader LAB series initiative, which is designed to push the limits of lens technology while maintaining a practical and ergonomic approach. The company continues to grow its reputation for balancing affordability with performance, making it a rising force among third-party lens manufacturers competing at the top tier.

For those interested in acquiring this next-generation prime, the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE is now available globally. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is set at $999 in the United States, €1099 across Europe, and £959 in the United Kingdom. The lens can be purchased via the official Viltrox online platform or major retailers. For comprehensive product details, visit geni.us/35LAB_PR. Shoppers in the U.S. can order directly at www.amazon.com/promocode/A1E3IF7KEZO9HV, while European buyers can find the lens on Amazon’s Germany site at www.amazon.de/dp/B0F23NB77C.

As competition heats up in the mirrorless lens arena, Viltrox’s AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE serves as both an optical innovation and a reminder that world-class gear no longer demands a five-figure investment. With performance rivaling lenses twice the price, and user-focused features designed for today’s hybrid creators, this release reinforces the brand’s growing stature and ambitious outlook for the future.

Specifications

Specification	Details
Lens Mount	E-mount
Lens Elements	15 elements in 10 groups
Focal Length	35mm
Viewing Angle	64.2°
Aperture	F1.2 – F22
Number of Aperture Blades	11
Minimum Focusing Distance	0.34m to ∞
Focus Mechanism	Dual floating internal focusing system
Focus Motor	VCM (Voice Coil Motor)
Focus Mode	AF / MF
Maximum Magnification	0.17x
Lens Dimensions	Φ89.2mm × 121.8mm
Weight	≈910g (bare lens)
Filter Size	Φ77mm

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