Viltrox has announced the AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO, a pancake prime lens for Sony E and Nikon Z full-frame mirrorless systems. The lens is the smallest in the EVO line to date and sits in the middle tier of Viltrox’s product range, positioned between the entry-level Air series and the professional Pro series.

The defining characteristic of the AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO is its dimensions: the lens measures 23.8mm in length and weighs approximately 130 grams, figures that make it one of the most compact full-frame autofocus primes currently available for either mount. Despite this, the barrel accommodates two separate control rings: a dedicated aperture ring covering f/2.8 to f/16, and a manual focus ring. The absence of a de-click switch for the aperture ring is the only notable omission at this level. The construction is metal throughout, with dust and splash resistance around the mount. A magnetic front cap enables quick removal and reattachment, and the lens hood incorporates a filter slot for access to rear-mounted filters. A 43mm front filter thread is also present. A USB-C port is built into the barrel for firmware updates and compatibility with the Viltrox Lens app.

Optically, the formula comprises eight elements in six groups, including two aspherical elements and one high-refractive-index element. Autofocus is handled by a gear-type stepping motor. Minimum focusing distance is 20 centimeters, with a maximum magnification ratio of 0.2x. The 26mm focal length produces an 81.2-degree angle of view on full-frame sensors — a position between the conventional 24mm and 28mm reference points. Both Sony and Nikon provide in-camera lens correction profiles for the lens, which Viltrox states results in minimal visible distortion in the final output.

Here are some sample pictures, courtesy of Viltrox: