Overview

The Viltrox AF 35mm f/1.2 LAB lens is the second full-frame autofocus lens in the company’s flagship line, after the 135mm LAB, which was released in 2024. And, like the 135mm LAB lens, the 35mm continues to raise the bar and offers photographers outstanding quality and performance at a much more affordable price. Upon unboxing the  35mm LAB , I was immediately struck by the robust build quality of the lens. It's a fairly large and heavy lens and feels like a premium item. According to Viltrox, the lens is constructed with “aviation-grade magnesium-aluminum alloy,” and it certainly feels extremely well made, from the click of the control ring to the feel of the buttons and switches and the overall size and weight of the lens (it is hefty for sure!). The 35mm LAB is weather-sealed and has a red gasket around the metal lens mount, which I found to be a stylish touch. It comes with a hard plastic lens hood, front and rear caps, as well as a lens pouch, all in a large black box emblazoned with the "LAB" logo. The body of the lens feels like a combination of high-quality plastics and metals, and in no way does it feel cheap or unable to withstand the demands of a professional who is shooting in rough conditions. It feels better made than some premium OEM lenses I've used, and it’s very clear that Viltrox means business with the new 35mm f/1.2 LAB lens from the moment you pick it up and mount it to your camera.