Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
p.1 #1Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I keep reading good things about the Voightlander lenses (thanks Fred for those reviews and pics!), and I'm wondering if I would like them or not. I have not used manual focus before so that will be a learning curve for me. Also, I am used to super sharp lenses and I know that this might not be the case with all of these lenses since they are more about a specific character rather than perfection.
What would you suggest as one to try out first? It will need to be Sony mount. I like being able to get relatively close to the subject, either with macro or a wide angle that can focus reasonably close. large aperture is also nice but not required especially for a wider angle lens.
Right now I just want to get my feet wet and see if I like shooting with one. It will take some time especially with my schedule so I'm not so much into renting but purchasing and if not satisfied then reselling. I will probably go the used route to minimize loss so used $700 or less is preferred.
Thanks!
What would you suggest as one to try out first? It will need to be Sony mount. I like being able to get relatively close to the subject, either with macro or a wide angle that can focus reasonably close. large aperture is also nice but not required especially for a wider angle lens.
Right now I just want to get my feet wet and see if I like shooting with one. It will take some time especially with my schedule so I'm not so much into renting but purchasing and if not satisfied then reselling. I will probably go the used route to minimize loss so used $700 or less is preferred.
Thanks!
Jun 15, 2026 at 09:47 AM
RoamingScott
Offline
Activity
[X]
Details
p.1 #2Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
In before 100 people tell you the 40/1.2 Nokton.
I'd lean towards the 35/2 APO-Lanthar if you're used to sharp optics, it has a great blend of across the frame sharpness and some character still. I use mine confidently wide open all the time.
Edited on Jun 15, 2026 at 09:51 AM · View previous versions
I'd lean towards the 35/2 APO-Lanthar if you're used to sharp optics, it has a great blend of across the frame sharpness and some character still. I use mine confidently wide open all the time.
Edited on Jun 15, 2026 at 09:51 AM · View previous versions
Jun 15, 2026 at 09:49 AM
p.1 #3Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
The 28/1.5, 35/2, 40/1.2, 40/2 and 50/2 are all great starters. You'll love one of those and get a feel for it.
It's all about what focal length you'd like though, we can't pick that for you.
It's all about what focal length you'd like though, we can't pick that for you.
Jun 15, 2026 at 09:50 AM
p.1 #4Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Thanks so much! You two have given me some good ideas. I appreciate the responses.
Jun 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM
p.1 #5Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
ANY!!!!
Ok but I would say on the 40 1.2 I did love it and it is my most regretted sale, but I ended up with a 50 1.2 and it is not quite as nice but really splitting hairs. Every CV i have ever had is a special lens.
Ok but I would say on the 40 1.2 I did love it and it is my most regretted sale, but I ended up with a 50 1.2 and it is not quite as nice but really splitting hairs. Every CV i have ever had is a special lens.
Jun 15, 2026 at 10:07 AM
p.1 #6Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Alan Parker wrote:
The 28/1.5, 35/2, 40/1.2, 40/2 and 50/2 are all great starters. You'll love one of those and get a feel for it.
It's all about what focal length you'd like though, we can't pick that for you.
All of these should be available used in your price range, and depending on your preferences could be a good choice. The basic dimension of choice are: 1) focal length of course; 2) aperture of course; and 3) level of corrections with the 35 f/2 APO and 50 f/2 APO correctly for quite a bit more aberrations.
Oh, and one more lens you might consider is the 50 f/1.2 Nokton. It is an excellent lens as well and only available for Leica M mount and Sony E mount. On the used market you can also find the SE version of the 35 f/1.2 Nokton in your price range.
So Noktons for Sony E mount include:
21 f/1.4 28 f/1.5, 35 f/1.2 SE, 40 f/1.2 (this also come in an SE version), 50 f/1.2 (this also come in an SE version), and 75 f/1.5 (The SE versions are lighter, but the aperture ring cannot be declicked--SE stands for stills edition. Optically they are the same, however).
APO Lanthars for Sony E mount include
28 f/2, 35 f/2, and 50 f/2 and the two macro lenses 65 f/2 and 110 f/2.5
The 40 f/2 is a new pancake lens and is pretty unique for Sony E mount, although a 40 f/2 Ultron pancake was made for Nikon F mount and Canon EF mount.
I hope that helps as you consider which one to get.
Edited on Jun 15, 2026 at 12:34 PM · View previous versions
The 28/1.5, 35/2, 40/1.2, 40/2 and 50/2 are all great starters. You'll love one of those and get a feel for it.
It's all about what focal length you'd like though, we can't pick that for you.
All of these should be available used in your price range, and depending on your preferences could be a good choice. The basic dimension of choice are: 1) focal length of course; 2) aperture of course; and 3) level of corrections with the 35 f/2 APO and 50 f/2 APO correctly for quite a bit more aberrations.
Oh, and one more lens you might consider is the 50 f/1.2 Nokton. It is an excellent lens as well and only available for Leica M mount and Sony E mount. On the used market you can also find the SE version of the 35 f/1.2 Nokton in your price range.
So Noktons for Sony E mount include:
21 f/1.4 28 f/1.5, 35 f/1.2 SE, 40 f/1.2 (this also come in an SE version), 50 f/1.2 (this also come in an SE version), and 75 f/1.5 (The SE versions are lighter, but the aperture ring cannot be declicked--SE stands for stills edition. Optically they are the same, however).
APO Lanthars for Sony E mount include
28 f/2, 35 f/2, and 50 f/2 and the two macro lenses 65 f/2 and 110 f/2.5
The 40 f/2 is a new pancake lens and is pretty unique for Sony E mount, although a 40 f/2 Ultron pancake was made for Nikon F mount and Canon EF mount.
I hope that helps as you consider which one to get.
Edited on Jun 15, 2026 at 12:34 PM · View previous versions
Jun 15, 2026 at 10:11 AM
p.1 #7Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Scott's right... we're all going to say the 40 1.2 
. I haven't tried the APO so I can't say one way or another there but have really liked the pics I've seen from it. The 40 is my longest owned lens and I've owned it 3 times. I don't even have a Sony body right now and still own it because one day I will again. I also really liked the Thypoch 28 1.4, but the was adapted M, but I don't think they made any changes other than the mount for e mount. I have the slightly smaller SE version.
. I haven't tried the APO so I can't say one way or another there but have really liked the pics I've seen from it. The 40 is my longest owned lens and I've owned it 3 times. I don't even have a Sony body right now and still own it because one day I will again. I also really liked the Thypoch 28 1.4, but the was adapted M, but I don't think they made any changes other than the mount for e mount. I have the slightly smaller SE version. Jun 15, 2026 at 10:12 AM
p.1 #8Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
They are all good really! Even the character lenses are tack sharp stopped down a stop or two. I really like the Noktons personally - 28mm f/1.5, 35mm f/1.2, 50mm f/1.2 are some of my favorites, and I also like the APO-Lanthars like the 50mm f/2, 65mm f/2 macro and 110mm f/2.5 macro. Honestly, Voigtlander only makes great lenses and the manual focusing experience is top notch and very enjoyable. I'd go with something in the range of what your favorite focal length is.
Jun 15, 2026 at 10:16 AM
RoamingScott
Offline
Activity
[X]
Details
p.1 #9Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I've been doing a head to head between some lenses over on the Nikon forum, of which the 40/2 Septon, 40/1.2 Nokton are included, might be interesting to you.
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1943751/
https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1943751/
Jun 15, 2026 at 12:05 PM
p.1 #10Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I will say this. The 40/1.2 is a lens that reveals itself to you very quickly and obviously. You will quickly get why someone might pick it and prefer it. Lenses like the 50/2 APO will take a little longer to get to know, and maybe to appreciate.
The 40/1.2 IS the perfect starter lens. People want to be clever and give you alternatives, which is fine. But... really, it's the Nokt.
The 40/1.2 IS the perfect starter lens. People want to be clever and give you alternatives, which is fine. But... really, it's the Nokt.
Jun 15, 2026 at 12:24 PM
|
p.1 #11Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
My rec is the APO-Lanthar 28/2, but that may be tough to find in budget.
What are you looking to get out of the experience? Do you want a prime at your favorite focal length that shares something in common with your current kit or are you looking for something that stands as out markedly different from anything you use now?
What are you looking to get out of the experience? Do you want a prime at your favorite focal length that shares something in common with your current kit or are you looking for something that stands as out markedly different from anything you use now?
Jun 15, 2026 at 12:25 PM
p.1 #12Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Greetings Pulper11,
I own quite a few Voigtlander lenses. From 10mm to 110mm and I find them all enjoyable and worth owning. Like many, I do like the 40mm Nokton. It's not perfect, but there's something in the way it renders that I really enjoy. You haven't shared what your preferred focal range is. That would help narrow down the suggestions. If I were looking for an affordable entry into the Voitglander line up, I would consider any of the following: 21mm Color Skopar, 28mm, 40mm, and 50mm Noktons. You should be able to find any of these at a decent price. You might also take a look at the Cameraquest website. They frequently have sales and used lenses for E mount.
Best - Kk
I own quite a few Voigtlander lenses. From 10mm to 110mm and I find them all enjoyable and worth owning. Like many, I do like the 40mm Nokton. It's not perfect, but there's something in the way it renders that I really enjoy. You haven't shared what your preferred focal range is. That would help narrow down the suggestions. If I were looking for an affordable entry into the Voitglander line up, I would consider any of the following: 21mm Color Skopar, 28mm, 40mm, and 50mm Noktons. You should be able to find any of these at a decent price. You might also take a look at the Cameraquest website. They frequently have sales and used lenses for E mount.
Best - Kk
Jun 15, 2026 at 03:47 PM
p.1 #13Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Thanks everyone. It's really hard to pin down a favorite focal length for me. I mostly shoot sports now and I realize that manual focus is not great for that in general. So this will get me out of my comfort zone and I'm looking forward to some fun with it. So my 400mm which is great for sports is out of the question! I do like my 100mm macro and macro in general. My 8-15 fisheye is great so maybe something ultra wide where I can get really close and focuses close. I really enjoy photos with a wide angle that has something up close and still captures atmosphere even if it is out of focus. when I shoot hockey and use my fisheye or 16-35 F4 with the players up close, those are some of my favorite. I think I would prefer 28 or 35 to a 50. 85 is great too if shooting people with a wide aperture.
I think what you guys have provided already in the suggestions will take a bit for me to think about.
quick question - if I see something used that does not list the mount, do I assume it is a Leica mount?
Thanks again!
I think what you guys have provided already in the suggestions will take a bit for me to think about.
quick question - if I see something used that does not list the mount, do I assume it is a Leica mount?
Thanks again!
Jun 15, 2026 at 05:21 PM
p.1 #14Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
pulper11 wrote:
Thanks everyone. It's really hard to pin down a favorite focal length for me. I mostly shoot sports now and I realize that manual focus is not great for that in general. So this will get me out of my comfort zone and I'm looking forward to some fun with it. So my 400mm which is great for sports is out of the question! I do like my 100mm macro and macro in general. My 8-15 fisheye is great so maybe something ultra wide where I can get really close and focuses close. I really enjoy photos with a wide...Show more →
You can't make any assumption about the mount, although Leica M mount is probably the most common mount for Voigtlander lenses. Voigtlander has made lenses for just about every mount, however. In addition to Leica M mount, they currently make lenses for Sony E mount, Nikon Z mount, Nikon F mount, Canon RF mount, Fuji X mount, and micro four thrids mount, and they have made lenses for Leica LTM mount, Canon EF mount, Pentax K mount, Contax/Yashica mount, Olympus OM mount, and probably a few others I am not thinking of right now. So don't make any assumptions about the mount, if you see a used lens and know that if you want a Sony E mount lens there are a lot out there in the used market.
Thanks everyone. It's really hard to pin down a favorite focal length for me. I mostly shoot sports now and I realize that manual focus is not great for that in general. So this will get me out of my comfort zone and I'm looking forward to some fun with it. So my 400mm which is great for sports is out of the question! I do like my 100mm macro and macro in general. My 8-15 fisheye is great so maybe something ultra wide where I can get really close and focuses close. I really enjoy photos with a wide...Show more →
You can't make any assumption about the mount, although Leica M mount is probably the most common mount for Voigtlander lenses. Voigtlander has made lenses for just about every mount, however. In addition to Leica M mount, they currently make lenses for Sony E mount, Nikon Z mount, Nikon F mount, Canon RF mount, Fuji X mount, and micro four thrids mount, and they have made lenses for Leica LTM mount, Canon EF mount, Pentax K mount, Contax/Yashica mount, Olympus OM mount, and probably a few others I am not thinking of right now. So don't make any assumptions about the mount, if you see a used lens and know that if you want a Sony E mount lens there are a lot out there in the used market.
Jun 15, 2026 at 05:52 PM
p.1 #15Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
Different route then others have suggested, because the 40 f1.2, which I had briefly a few years ago and returned, is a tough lens to learn to use in MF if your not used to it. The DOF of the focus area is very small compared to others and I would recommend a slower MF lens to start with.
I have the 21mm f3.5 CS for Sony and love it. For my Fuji XT5 I got the 2 C/V pancake lenses for X mount , the 18mm f2.8 CS and 27mm f2 and have been using them for my travels around Thailand this last month. Really love the 27mm Ultron F/L (40mm FF eq) and as soon as I get home next month I an getting the 40 mm f2 Septon for my Sony A7RC. The DOF is wider and well suited for zone focusing. The pancakes are small, lightweight, very sharp and have great IQ and contrast. Plus they do not draw attention when in a crowd👍
I have the 21mm f3.5 CS for Sony and love it. For my Fuji XT5 I got the 2 C/V pancake lenses for X mount , the 18mm f2.8 CS and 27mm f2 and have been using them for my travels around Thailand this last month. Really love the 27mm Ultron F/L (40mm FF eq) and as soon as I get home next month I an getting the 40 mm f2 Septon for my Sony A7RC. The DOF is wider and well suited for zone focusing. The pancakes are small, lightweight, very sharp and have great IQ and contrast. Plus they do not draw attention when in a crowd👍
Jun 15, 2026 at 09:29 PM
p.1 #16Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
SpecFoto wrote:
Different route then others have suggested, because the 40 f1.2, which I had briefly a few years ago and returned, is a tough lens to learn to use in MF if your not used to it. The DOF of the focus area is very small compared to others and I would recommend a slower MF lens to start with.
I have the 21mm f3.5 CS for Sony and love it. For my Fuji XT5 I got the 2 C/V pancake lenses for X mount , the 18mm f2.8 CS and 27mm f2 and have been using them for my travels around...Show more →
The irony is that Voigtlander makes the most lenses for the e-mount (after the M mount, though), but that manual focusing is easier with both Canon and Nikon.
I’ve owned the 40mm f/1.2 in M, Z and RF mount. It’s my constant as I moved to and from camera brands.
Different route then others have suggested, because the 40 f1.2, which I had briefly a few years ago and returned, is a tough lens to learn to use in MF if your not used to it. The DOF of the focus area is very small compared to others and I would recommend a slower MF lens to start with.
I have the 21mm f3.5 CS for Sony and love it. For my Fuji XT5 I got the 2 C/V pancake lenses for X mount , the 18mm f2.8 CS and 27mm f2 and have been using them for my travels around...Show more →
The irony is that Voigtlander makes the most lenses for the e-mount (after the M mount, though), but that manual focusing is easier with both Canon and Nikon.
I’ve owned the 40mm f/1.2 in M, Z and RF mount. It’s my constant as I moved to and from camera brands.
Jun 15, 2026 at 11:26 PM
p.1 #17Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
pulper11 wrote:
...
quick question - if I see something used that does not list the mount, do I assume it is a Leica mount?
Thanks again!
Usually the versions of the corresponding Voigtländer lenses for different mounts look somewhat different, so you could also do a search for the lens in question and compare the search results to the available images for the sales item listing.
M-mount versions are typically recognizable compared to mirrorless versions. Some of the mirrorless versions could look fairly close to each other though, especially the recent E-mount and Canon RF-mount lenses.
...
quick question - if I see something used that does not list the mount, do I assume it is a Leica mount?
Thanks again!
Usually the versions of the corresponding Voigtländer lenses for different mounts look somewhat different, so you could also do a search for the lens in question and compare the search results to the available images for the sales item listing.
M-mount versions are typically recognizable compared to mirrorless versions. Some of the mirrorless versions could look fairly close to each other though, especially the recent E-mount and Canon RF-mount lenses.
Jun 16, 2026 at 12:30 AM
p.1 #18Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I have owned all 21 Voigtländer lenses that Cosina has released in E-mount, and currently I keep 16 of them (including all 5 discontinued models).
The ones I didn't keep are the 10/5.6 (too wide for me / I used it very little), Macro APO-Lanthars 65/2 and 110/2.5 (fairly big and heavy and I don't shoot macro much at all), and the original versions of 40/1.2 and 50/1.2 since I prefer the slightly smaller and lighter SE versions.
As first model to try, I would recommend any of the discontinued Nokton SE models (35/1.2 SE, 40/1.2 SE, 50/1.2 SE) if you can find them 2nd hand as they are nicely sized for such fast lenses and offer the most typical "Nokton experience". Or alternatively any of the APO-Lanthars (28/2, 35/2, 50/2) if you are more into extremely well corrected optics and not after characterful rendering.
The ones I didn't keep are the 10/5.6 (too wide for me / I used it very little), Macro APO-Lanthars 65/2 and 110/2.5 (fairly big and heavy and I don't shoot macro much at all), and the original versions of 40/1.2 and 50/1.2 since I prefer the slightly smaller and lighter SE versions.
As first model to try, I would recommend any of the discontinued Nokton SE models (35/1.2 SE, 40/1.2 SE, 50/1.2 SE) if you can find them 2nd hand as they are nicely sized for such fast lenses and offer the most typical "Nokton experience". Or alternatively any of the APO-Lanthars (28/2, 35/2, 50/2) if you are more into extremely well corrected optics and not after characterful rendering.
Jun 16, 2026 at 12:55 AM
p.1 #19Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I have searched for used Voigtlander Nokton 40mm f/1.2 here in the UK on several occasions but they never seem to come up for sale. Maybe their owners love them too much!
Jun 16, 2026 at 02:37 AM
p.1 #20Which Voightlander lens for my Sony?
I own both canon and sony cameras. is there a benefit to either version of Voigtlander lens (RF vs FE)? Maybe manual focus is better with one camera vs the other? I have the R5ii and R3 along with the A9 and A9iii. thanks!
Jun 19, 2026 at 07:30 AM