Been thinking about a compact camera setup but would rather not buy a new camera? Getting a pancake lens instead would be an easy and maybe even cost-effective solution. Case in point is the Viltrox 28mm f/4.5, which photographer and YouTuber InkaShashinka recently took for a test around the streets of Tokyo. The big question he sought to answer: Is it worth it?
In the video above, he shares his quick thoughts and sample images of the tiny and inexpensive Viltrox 28mm f/4.5, which he paired with a Sony a7c II. At $99 (he even got it lower at $75) and just a tad bigger than a lens cap, he understood that such a lens will come with limitations. Still, it comes with notable features, such as autofocus, Full-Frame compatibility, and slide cap design to protect the front element. Of course, he also talked about the things he didn’t like about this lens, some of which may also be obvious to most.
So, are you sold on getting a pancake lens for a super compact camera setup? If you’re looking for other options specific to your mount, the good news is, you can get them for cheaper by going secondhand. Here’s a quick list of what’s on MPB to give you a head start: