We are hearing more and more about Chinese compatible lens manufacturers and Viltrox is one of the main players. Recently, we featured the AF 35mm F1.7 Air APS-C available in Sony E, Nikon Z and Fujifilm X mounts.Last November, the manufacturer released an impressive AF 135mm F1.8 LAB 24 x in Sony E mount. Also announced the 36 mm. We can finally mention the very surprising AF 28mm F4.5 Ultra Pancake which is also designed for Sony E-mount hybrids.
To date, Viltrox only offers the 24 x 36 mm AF lens in the Sony E mount but, as we’ve just seen, it also knows how to work with the Nikon Z mount (in APS-C). In fact, since 2022, Nikon has authorized some manufacturers to offer Z-mount optics under license, then the first model of Sigma APS-C fixed focal length lenses was also a Tamron 70-300 mm.
As Viltrox knows the Sony and Nikon optical communication protocols, it is theoretically possible to envision a functional adapter ring design between these two mounts. That’s the promise of the new Viltrox EZ AF Lens Mount Adapter, which is currently available for pre-sale on the manufacturer’s website (first deliveries announced for mid-February 2025).
It’s a full-featured ring to begin with, with body adaptations. The ring, ultra-slim at 4mm thick, attaches to the base of the Sony E-mount lens and then to the Nikon Z-mount hybrid. Then Viltrox announces the possibility of maintaining autofocus (AF-S, Compatible with AF-C, AF-A, AF-F and MF), iris adjustment, EXIF data and optical and sensor stabilization systems. It will even be possible to use the custom keys on some Sony E-mount lenses, with the manufacturer also implementing a USB-C socket on its ring for possible firmware updates.
The manufacturer still announces some precautions. He advises, for example, to avoid pinpoint collimator selection mode in AF-S and with optics equipped with a manual diaphragm ring, he recommends adjusting the aperture with the body.
Availability and price
The new Viltrox EZ AF Lens Mount Adapter ring is available for pre-order on the manufacturer’s website and is offered under the symbolic bar of 100 euros. Deliveries are slated to begin in mid-February 2025.
First opinion
Almost too good to be true! It’s hard to believe that Nikon has given the green light for such a product and, in general, active optical adapter rings work but with compromises in terms of autofocus performance, for example. So we have to test to decide. But if Wiltrox’s promises are fulfilled, this little ring will become a must-have item for Nikonists who will find themselves opening the door to the most advanced frame on the market!