Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S vs Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8
Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S has more in its favour on paper. The Z 20mm f/1.8 S gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF 20mm f/2.8 is lighter and cheaper. The Nikon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Viltrox is a third-party alternative.
Choose the Z 20mm f/1.8 S for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light)
- weather sealing
Choose the AF 20mm f/2.8 for
- less weight (155g vs 505g)
- a lower price (about £110 vs £640)
| Z 20mm f/1.8 S | AF 20mm f/2.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Viltrox |
| Focal length | 20mm | 20mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.8 |
| Weight | 505 g | 155 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | Yes | No |
| Filter size | 77mm | 52mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £899 | £149 |
| Used at MPB (Nikon Z) | £639–£639 | £102–£117 |
More lens comparisons
See all Nikon Z cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S better than the Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8?
The Z 20mm f/1.8 S offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light), weather sealing; the AF 20mm f/2.8 offers less weight (155g vs 505g), a lower price (about £110 vs £640).
Which is better value, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S or the AF 20mm f/2.8?
On Nikon Z, the Viltrox AF 20mm f/2.8 costs about £110 against about £640 for the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/1.8 worth it over f/2.8?
f/1.8 gathers about 1.3 stops more light, which helps indoors, at night and for background blur. If you mostly shoot in good light, the slower lens is usually lighter and cheaper.
Do both lenses fit the same cameras?
Both are available for Nikon Z (and other mounts: Sony E / FE).