Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) vs Viltrox AF 28mm f/1.8
Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) has more in its favour on paper. The AF 28mm f/1.8 gathers more light for low light and background blur; the Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) is lighter and cheaper. The Nikon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Viltrox is a third-party alternative.
Choose the Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) for
- less weight (155g vs 330g)
- a lower price (about £160 vs £250)
Choose the AF 28mm f/1.8 for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light)
| Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) | AF 28mm f/1.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Viltrox |
| Focal length | 28mm | 28mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.8 | f/1.8 |
| Weight | 155 g | 330 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | No | No |
| Filter size | 52mm | 58mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £299 | £299 |
| Used at MPB (Nikon Z) | £154–£174 | £219–£284 |
More lens comparisons
See all Nikon Z cameras and lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) better than the Viltrox AF 28mm f/1.8?
The Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) offers less weight (155g vs 330g), a lower price (about £160 vs £250); the AF 28mm f/1.8 offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.8, about 1.3 stops more light).
Which is better value, the Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) or the AF 28mm f/1.8?
On Nikon Z, the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) costs about £160 against about £250 for the Viltrox AF 28mm f/1.8 (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).