Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE) vs Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Air
Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Air has more in its favour on paper. The Z 40mm f/2 (SE) gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF 40mm f/2.5 Air is cheaper. The Nikon lens is the mount maker's own, while the Viltrox is a third-party alternative.
Choose the Z 40mm f/2 (SE) for
- a brighter maximum aperture (f/2, about 0.6 stops more light)
Choose the AF 40mm f/2.5 Air for
- less weight (130g vs 170g)
- a lower price (about £149 vs £180)
| Z 40mm f/2 (SE) | AF 40mm f/2.5 Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Viltrox |
| Focal length | 40mm | 40mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2 | f/2.5 |
| Weight | 170 g | 130 g |
| Stabilisation | No | No |
| Weather sealing | No | No |
| Filter size | 52mm | 52mm |
| Made for | Full frame | Full frame |
| New price | £299 | £149 |
| Used at MPB (Nikon Z) | £174–£189 | None listed |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE) better than the Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Air?
The Z 40mm f/2 (SE) offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/2, about 0.6 stops more light); the AF 40mm f/2.5 Air offers less weight (130g vs 170g), a lower price (about £149 vs £180).
Which is better value, the Z 40mm f/2 (SE) or the AF 40mm f/2.5 Air?
On Nikon Z, the Viltrox AF 40mm f/2.5 Air costs about £149 against about £180 for the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE) (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).
Is f/2 worth it over f/2.5?
f/2 gathers about 0.6 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, L-Mount).