Viltrox Announces 50mm f/1.2 and 85mm f/1.2 LAB Lenses for 2026 Release

Viltrox, a prominent lens manufacturer, has officially announced its plans to introduce two new high-performance prime lenses to its esteemed LAB series in 2026. These forthcoming additions, the 50mm f/1.2 LAB and 85mm f/1.2 LAB, are generating considerable excitement within the photography community. The company's revelation, shared through a Reddit discussion, underscores its commitment to innovation and engagement with its user base, promising advanced optics that could redefine expectations for quality and affordability in the market. The move is set to further solidify Viltrox's reputation as a strong contender against established brands.

The announcement follows a lively exchange on Reddit, where a user expressed their wishlist for future Viltrox products. Among the requests were the compatibility of Viltrox's new 2x E-mount teleconverter with Sony's 100mm f/2.8 Macro G Master lens, a 1.4x teleconverter, and notably, the 50mm f/1.2 and 85mm f/1.2 LAB series lenses. Viltrox's official Reddit account, known for its active presence and direct communication with users, promptly responded to these inquiries, confirming the development of the highly anticipated LAB series primes.

In its response, Viltrox affirmed that it is actively working on ensuring compatibility between its recently released 2x teleconverter and the Sony 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM lens, a move that will undoubtedly be welcomed by Sony E-mount users. However, regarding the 1.4x teleconverter, the company indicated that it currently has no information to disclose, suggesting that such a product is either not in development or not yet ready for public discussion.

The most compelling news from Viltrox is the confirmation that both the 50mm f/1.2 LAB and 85mm f/1.2 LAB lenses are firmly on their product roadmap for release in 2026. These new f/1.2 primes will expand Viltrox's existing LAB-series lineup, which currently includes the acclaimed AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB and AF 35mm f/1.2 LAB lenses. These lenses have already earned a reputation for their exceptional optical performance and competitive pricing, making them attractive alternatives to first-party offerings. The existing LAB series lenses are available for both Sony E and Nikon Z mounts, with the E-mount versions typically preceding the Nikon Z variants. It is highly anticipated that this release pattern will continue for the new 50mm and 85mm primes.

The two current Viltrox LAB series lenses have consistently received high praise from reviewers. For instance, Chris Niccolls lauded the Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB for its ability to rival top-tier lenses at a significantly lower cost. He echoed similar sentiments for the 35mm f/1.2 LAB, highlighting its unique visual character and enjoyable handling, despite minor critiques about the aperture ring design. This consistent positive feedback builds considerable anticipation for the upcoming 50mm f/1.2 LAB and 85mm f/1.2 LAB lenses, suggesting they could deliver a similar blend of outstanding performance and value.

If Viltrox successfully replicates the high standards of its existing LAB series in the new 50mm f/1.2 and 85mm f/1.2 lenses, photographers using Sony and Nikon systems are in for a significant advantage. Both Sony and Nikon currently offer their own 50mm f/1.2 lenses, priced at approximately $2,300 and $2,000, respectively. Nikon also has an 85mm f/1.2 lens, the Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 S, which is currently available for around $2,800. Should Viltrox provide comparable performance at a much more accessible price point, it would represent a substantial win for consumers. The company has a proven track record of delivering high-quality optics that challenge the market, fueling optimism that these new lenses will uphold that tradition.

The expansion of Viltrox's LAB series with the 50mm f/1.2 and 85mm f/1.2 primes in 2026 marks an exciting development for photographers. Building on the established success of its predecessors, these new lenses are poised to deliver outstanding optical quality and exceptional value, further cementing Viltrox's position as a formidable force in the lens market by offering compelling alternatives to premium first-party options.