Viltrox Expands AF 56mm f/1.2 Pro Lineup with Nikon Z Mount Version
Viltrox has expanded availability of its AF 56mm f/1.2 Pro by introducing a Nikon Z mount version designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. Previously offered for Sony E and Fujifilm X systems, the lens targets Nikon Z DX users who currently have limited access to fast, native-format prime lenses. With an effective focal length of approximately 85mm, it is positioned primarily for portrait photography.
The optical design consists of 13 elements arranged in eight groups, including one extra-low dispersion element, one ultra-precision aspherical element, and three high-refractive-index elements. This configuration is intended to control chromatic aberrations and maintain consistent sharpness across the frame, even at the maximum aperture of f/1.2. The lens features an eleven-blade diaphragm and can focus down to 0.5 meters, resulting in a maximum magnification of 1:7.7, sufficient for close portraits and detail-oriented subjects rather than macro work.
Physically, the lens reflects its “Pro” designation through a full-metal construction and sealing against dust and moisture. It measures roughly 94 mm in length, uses 67 mm front filters, and weighs 595 grams, making it relatively large and heavy for an APS-C-specific lens. In terms of handling, the Nikon Z version includes an aperture ring with a click/de-click mechanism, an AF/MF switch, a customizable function button, and a USB-C port on the mount for firmware updates. Autofocus is driven by a Dual HyperVCM motor, designed to deliver quiet and accurate focusing compatible with Nikon’s subject detection systems.
In the context of Nikon’s Z DX ecosystem, the AF 56mm f/1.2 Pro fills a notable gap. Nikon’s own fast APS-C primes currently top out at f/1.7 and cover shorter focal lengths, while portrait-oriented options typically require the use of larger and more expensive full-frame lenses. As a result, the Viltrox lens offers an alternative for users seeking a dedicated, high-aperture portrait prime without moving to full-frame optics.
Here are some sample pictures, courtesy of Viltrox:
The Viltrox AF 56mm f/1.2 Pro for Nikon Z mount is now available through authorized retailers at a price of around $580. The pricing aligns with the existing Sony E and Fujifilm X versions and remains well below comparable first-party lenses in other systems, while still occupying the upper end of Viltrox’s APS-C lineup.
