Lens comparison · Nikon Z · updated 5 November 2026

Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) vs Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip

Verdict

Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip has more in its favour on paper. The Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) gathers more light for low light and background blur; the AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip is 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

  • a brighter maximum aperture (f/2.8, about 1.4 stops more light)

Choose the AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip for

  • less weight (60g vs 155g)
  • a lower price (about £90 vs £160)
Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE)AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip
BrandNikonViltrox
Focal length28mm28mm
Maximum aperturef/2.8f/4.5
Weight155 g60 g
StabilisationNoNo
Weather sealingNoNo
Filter size52mm—
Made forFull frameFull frame
New price£299£89
Used at MPB (Nikon Z)£154–£174£90–£90

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/4.5 Chip?

The Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/2.8, about 1.4 stops more light); the AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip offers less weight (60g vs 155g), a lower price (about £90 vs £160).

Which is better value, the Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) or the AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip?

On Nikon Z, the Viltrox AF 28mm f/4.5 Chip costs about £90 against about £160 for the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).

Is f/2.8 worth it over f/4.5?

f/2.8 gathers about 1.4 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).