Lens comparison · Sony E / FE · updated 5 November 2026

Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD vs Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro

Verdict

Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD has more in its favour on paper. The AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro gathers more light for low light and background blur; the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD is the alternative.

Choose the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD for

  • less weight (630g vs 650g)
  • weather sealing

Choose the AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro for

  • a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 2.0 stops more light)
  • a lower price (about £410 vs £440)
90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXDAF 85mm f/1.4 Pro
BrandTamronViltrox
Focal length90mm85mm
Maximum aperturef/2.8f/1.4
Weight630 g650 g
StabilisationNoNo
Weather sealingYesNo
Filter size67mm72mm
Made forFull frameFull frame
New price£799£599
Used at MPB (Sony E / FE)£434–£449£414–£414

More lens comparisons

See all Sony E / FE cameras and lenses.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD better than the Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro?

The 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD offers less weight (630g vs 650g), weather sealing; the AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro offers a brighter maximum aperture (f/1.4, about 2.0 stops more light), a lower price (about £410 vs £440).

Which is better value, the 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD or the AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro?

On Sony E / FE, the Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.4 Pro costs about £410 against about £440 for the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD (MPB used where listed, otherwise new; checked 5 November 2026).

Is f/1.4 worth it over f/2.8?

f/1.4 gathers about 2.0 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 Sony E / FE (and other mounts: Nikon Z).