Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB: plans to release the professional line in Ukraine in 2026
June 3, 2026
Quick Overview: Viltrox has officially confirmed the development of the AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB fast-aperture lens for full-frame Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount cameras, with a planned release in 2026. The lens will become part of the professional LAB series, offering a competitive alternative to flagship Sony GM and Sigma Art lenses at an expected price of around €999—significantly less expensive than the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM ($2,300).
Chinese optics manufacturer Viltrox has confirmed the development of one of the most anticipated lenses of 2026—the AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB. The announcement came through the official VILTROX_US Reddit account, where company representatives answered community questions about upcoming products.
This is not just another lens in the catalog. The Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB will become a key addition to the professional LAB lineup, which already includes the successful 35mm f/1.2 and 135mm f/1.8 models.
What Is the Viltrox LAB Series?
LAB is Viltrox’s flagship lens lineup designed for professional photographers. The series features advanced optical construction with ED (Extra-low Dispersion), HR (High Refractive Index), and UA (Ultra-precision Aspherical) elements.
Every LAB-series lens is equipped with the HyperVCM high-speed autofocus system, a weather-sealed metal body, and an integrated LED display for viewing shooting parameters.
AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB Technical Specifications
Although Viltrox has not yet revealed full specifications, the expected features can be estimated based on existing LAB-series lenses and the professional Pro lineup.
The anticipated optical design is expected to include 15 elements in 11 groups, featuring multiple ED elements, high-refractive-index (HR) glass, and UA aspherical elements to minimize chromatic aberrations.
The Dual HyperVCM autofocus system is expected to provide fast and precise focusing for both photography and video production while minimizing focus breathing.
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Comparison with Competitors
Viltrox’s key advantage is pricing. At the expected €999 price point, the lens will cost significantly less than its direct competitors.
The Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 GM retails for $2,300, while the Sigma 50mm f/1.2 DG DN Art costs $1,540. Viltrox offers savings of 50–70% without major compromises in image quality.
For photographers in Ukraine, this means access to professional-grade fast-aperture optics without spending an entire month's income on a single lens.
Release Plans and Availability in Ukraine
Viltrox has confirmed that the AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB will launch during 2026. While an exact announcement date has not been disclosed, analysis of previous company releases suggests a summer-to-autumn 2026 launch window.
The official Viltrox store already ships orders from European and U.S. warehouses. Delivery to Ukraine typically takes 14–21 days through official distributors or international shipping services.
Pre-orders for the AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB are expected to become available immediately following the official announcement due to the popularity of the LAB series.
Conclusion
The Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB looks set to become one of the brand’s most exciting releases of 2026, especially for photographers seeking a fast-aperture portrait lens without paying Sony GM-level prices. While the complete specifications have not yet been disclosed, its inclusion in the LAB series already suggests a professional-grade build, fast autofocus, and an advanced optical design.
For Ukrainian users, the main questions remain the official launch date, final pricing, and availability through authorized channels. If the expected price of around €999 is confirmed, the Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB could become a compelling alternative to more expensive 50mm f/1.2 lenses for Sony E and Nikon Z systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the Viltrox AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB be released?
Viltrox has officially confirmed a 2026 release but has not provided a specific launch date. According to photography community discussions, the announcement is expected in the second half of the year.
How much will the lens cost?
The official price has not yet been announced, but analysis of existing LAB-series models (AF 35mm f/1.2 at €999 and AF 135mm f/1.8 at €999) suggests a price point of approximately €999.
Will there be a Canon RF version?
Viltrox has currently confirmed only Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount versions. A Canon RF version may be released later, but it has not been officially announced.
How does the AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB compare to the Viltrox Pro series?
The LAB series is Viltrox’s flagship lineup, featuring premium optics, an LED display, and a metal construction. The Pro series (such as the AF 50mm f/1.4 Pro) focuses on balancing image quality and portability. The LAB model prioritizes maximum aperture performance with f/1.2 versus f/1.4 in the Pro series.
Does the lens support Eye AF and face detection?
Yes. All modern Viltrox autofocus lenses support eye and face detection systems on Sony and Nikon cameras. The AF 50mm f/1.2 LAB is expected to offer full compatibility with these features.
Is the lens available for pre-order in Ukraine?
At the time of writing (May 2026), pre-orders have not yet opened. It is recommended to monitor the official Viltrox website and Ukrainian photography equipment distributors for updates.
What warranty and support are available in Ukraine?
Viltrox provides a 12-month international warranty on all lenses. In Ukraine, service support is available through authorized distributors or directly via the company’s European service center.