12 best Nikon lenses

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The famous Nikon brand produces a wide variety of equipment for photographers – both amateur and professional. This also applies to carcasses, lenses, and accessories. It is the original Nikon lenses that will be the subject of today's special magazine review.

Our experts have sorted the most worthy models into two groups: first – beginner / intermediate level at an affordable price; second – premium professional lenses with no cost restrictions. Each group will feature lenses of different specializations – reportage, portrait, macro and other types.

Best Nikon Lenses

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best entry to mid-range Nikon lenses	1	Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G	RUB 9,940
	2	Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR	RUB 14,950
	3	Nikkor AF-S DX Micro 40mm f / 2.8G	17 190 RUB
	4	Nikkor AF-P DX 10-20mm f / 4.5-5.6G VR	RUB 20,490
	5	Nikkor AF-S VR Zoom 70-300mm f / 4.5-5.6G IF-ED	RUB 33,990
	6	Nikkor AF-S DX 18-300 mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR	RUB 37,000
Best Nikon Professional Lenses	1	Nikkor 24-70mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S	RUB 79,990
	2	Nikkor 16-35mm f / 4G ED AF-S VR	RUB 62 490
	3	Nikkor 14-24MM F / 2.8G ED AF-S	RUB 76,990
	4	Nikkor AF 10.5mm f / 2.8G ED DX Fisheye	RUB 50,990
	5	Nikkor AF-S 105mm f / 1.4E ED	RUB 104,880
	6	Nikkor 70-200mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S VR II Zoom	RUB 108,990

Best entry to mid-range Nikon lenses

So let's start with the relatively inexpensive Nikon lenses. Here we mean not the cheapest, but the most worthy models for novice photographers and for those who are already mature enough to replace whale glass with a more conscious choice. The price of individual copies can exceed $ 500, but still this is not a premium segment, but quite affordable for those who have serious intentions to master photography as a profession or art.

Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G

Rating: 4.7

And the first of the first to consider the most inexpensive in the selection, the most standard and also the most understandable lens. This is the first obvious candidate for a replacement for whale glass, however good it may be. It is capable of delivering unexpectedly high aperture rates, beautiful bokeh, and overall impressive image quality. Suitable for all non-full-frame Nikon cameras (not compatible with FX format). The model was announced in 2009, and after more than 10 years it is still in demand.

This is a classic lens, small – 70mm diameter and maximum 52.5mm length, and light – only 200g. Nikon DX mount. The body is plastic, but the bayonet is metal. The focal length is fixed – 35mm.

There are no moving outer parts in the front of the lens, that is, filters can be installed freely. 8 optical elements in 6 groups, including one aspherical. Only the rear lens is responsible for focus – it moves, but does not rotate. The only controls on the body are a compact focusing ring and an AF switch.

Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G achieves good sharpness at all apertures without any problems. Rarely, but it can 'smear', so in special cases it makes sense to make a series and control the sharpness in the process. But for the most part, good detail is guaranteed, even with f / 1.8 aperture, albeit with a slight loss of contrast at the edges. At f / 2.8–4, this effect fades away. The optimal range is f / 5.6–8, and from f / 11, diffraction will already be noticeable.

The obvious weak point of this model is pronounced distortion. Of course, it is not the same as with wide-angle lenses, but still an attentive eye will notice it. It's a bit strange for a lens with such an ordinary focal length, but it is a fact. Therefore 'in-camera' correction functions or post-processing in graphics applications will be necessary.

As for vignetting, it can be noticeable when the aperture is open. If you cover it, the effect almost disappears and will be noticeable only when shooting a solid light background. For portraits, the effect is often even more beneficial than harmful.

As a short summary, the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G is a versatile solution for amateur and semi-professional photography both indoors and during a photo walk. He shows himself best in portrait photography.

This and all entry-level and mid-range models are officially guaranteed for 24 months unless otherwise noted.

Advantages

• compact and robust body;
• no retractable parts;
• high-quality drawing;
• one of the best apertures in the amateur segment;
• high-quality portrait photography;
• good detail;
• price-performance ratio
• two years manufacturer's warranty.

disadvantages

• noticeable distortion.

Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR

Rating: 4.6

The second model in Nikon's selection of the best amateur lenses is half the price of the previous one, but the purpose here is different. This is a superzoom with powerful stabilization capable of covering most of the needs of a novice photographer. It is equally well suited for both portraiture and landscape photography – in this it is as versatile as the previous one, but with an expanded range of possibilities.

As for a superzoom, this model is quite compact – 78x97mm in size. Weighs 490g. Mount – Nikon F (DX). Compatible with Nikon DX format cameras. The focal length here varies from 18 to 140mm. 7-blade aperture F3.50 – F5.60. There is an optical stabilization unit. 17 optical elements in 12 groups, including one aspherical lens and one low dispersion lens. The viewing angle ranges from 76 to 113 degrees. min. The shortest focusing distance is 0.45m. Focus engine – ultrasonic. Filter thread 67mm in diameter.

The wide rubberized zoom ring takes up more area of ​​the lens when folded. When zooming to the maximum, and even with the hood on, its length doubles. In general, users give the highest marks to ergonomics.

Thanks to its 7.8x optical zoom, the model is well suited for capturing subjects at very distant distances. Lubrication is minimized due to effective vibration damping. It also allows you to easily shoot with a slower shutter speed than usual – up to four stops. The vibration compensation system itself works silently both when shooting photos and videos.

The combination of an aspherical lens and an extra-low dispersion (ED) lens guarantees high resolution and the same high contrast, with low levels of color distortion and aberration.

Finally, the wide range of positions easily allows the lens to be converted from wide-angle to telephoto on the fly with all intermediate positions. Thus, it is optimal for travelers and travel bloggers for shooting a variety of pictures – from wide colorful landscapes to individual distant objects with high detail.

Users have minimal complaints about the lens, and they mostly come from very picky photographers. The only thing that almost everyone is dissatisfied with is the bundle. The kit does not come with a hood, or even a case or even a cover.

Advantages

• compact and lightweight (like a superzoom);
• high-quality optics;
• wide range of positions;
• one low dispersion lens;
• ultrasonic focus engine;
• silent and efficient vibration suppression system;
• ergonomics;
• value for money, quality and features.

disadvantages

• poor equipment.

Nikkor AF-S DX Micro 40mm f / 2.8G

Rating: 4.5

Now let's make a significant transition from a general purpose super zoom to a macro lens. However, it is also not focused on a narrow topic and is quite versatile – it can be used for quite ordinary photography, including portrait photography. This is thanks to the 40mm focal length. It is only marginally more expensive than the previous model.

This model is also compact – 68x64mm in size and twice lighter than the previous one – 235g. The body is plastic, the bayonet is metal. The front lens extends significantly when focusing, but does not rotate, so gradient and polarizing filters can be used unhindered. 9 optical elements in 7 groups. There are no aspherical and low dispersion lenses. Mount – Nikon F (DX). The aperture here is F2.80, the minimum value is F22. Viewing angle – 38.50 degrees. min. The minimum focusing distance is 0.163m. The thread for the filter is 52mm in diameter.

This model has a built-in autofocus engine and the lens can be attached to Nikon D3XXX and D5XXX series cameras. The focusing speed is average, and in macro mode it is frankly slow, albeit reliable. The autofocus engine is quite noisy – it will be heard when shooting a video, and this is the second drawback of this model.

Here we have a whole step less aperture than the first model in the review, but experts do not consider this a disadvantage, highlighting the advantage – the ability to focus at close distances and the ability to give a 1: 1 scale. However, it is worth remembering about aperture and knowing that in poor lighting conditions corresponding artifacts are inevitable.

When the aperture is open, the model gives very good detail, only slightly lower in comparison with the Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G. But as soon as the diaphragm is closed, the situation changes radically for the better. We get optimal results at f / 8.

Another good thing about this model is minimal geometric distortion. For example, the distortion is so insignificant that the overwhelming majority of shots will not need correction. Vignetting is only evident when the aperture is open.

Finally, about subject shooting and macro. The closest focusing distance of 0.163m is minimal in every respect. At this distance, the lens will almost abut the front lens against the object being shot. But there is also a 'pitfall' – the camera will block the light source. But expecting such miracles as from professional lenses with a focal length of 200mm is naive in this case.

Advantages

• compact and lightweight;
• universal – macro, city and portrait photography;
• high detail;
• slight vignetting;
• low geometric distortion.

disadvantages

• noisy autofocus engine;
• slow autofocus in macro mode.

Nikkor AF-P DX 10-20mm f / 4.5-5.6G VR

Rating: 4.5

The next type of lens selected by our experts in Nikon's range of high quality consumer 'glass' is wide-angle and even with an 'over' attachment. At the same time, it is also as compact and lightweight as possible even for the entry-level. Its main purpose is obvious – shooting where the maximum angle of view is required.

Lens dimensions – 77x73mm, weight – 230g. The body is plastic and the bayonet is also plastic. This is slightly alarming, but no systematic complaints have been received, but only comments on this fact. The front lens does not rotate, so polarization filters can be used without restriction. Inside there are 14 optical elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical lenses.

An important point is worth making here. This is the only model in the group to use the AF-P autofocus engine. Its advantage is that it is quieter and faster than almost all AF-S motors. But the technology itself is relatively new, and the lens is inextricably linked to the 'body' in a number of ways. Therefore, autofocus will only work on Nikon cameras not older than 2013 release. Even manual focus will not function on some older cameras. But if the camera is new enough, AF-S technology will definitely please: focus is extremely fast, accurate and quiet.

The focal length of this model is from 10 to 20mm. The DX sensor will have the same coverage as 15-30mm on a full frame sensor. The viewing angle at 10mm is 107 degrees – this is a lot, and you can shoot everything around without retreating anywhere.

As for the features of the resulting picture, the vignetting will turn out to be not very noticeable, and at f / 8 it becomes completely invisible, practically disappears. Sharpness at the minimum focal length is satisfactory even with the aperture open, and as it closes it becomes higher and higher, and significantly. Above f / 11, sharpness begins to degrade due to diffraction. At the edges of the frame, sharpness differs noticeably from the center towards blur, but for an inexpensive ultra-wide angle this is quite the norm.

As for distortion, there are no surprises here – it simply cannot be missing. The remedy is standard – internal camera correction tools or third-party software such as Adobe Lightroom / Camera RAW. We don't even consider this a disadvantage.

Advantages

• compact and lightweight;
• effective stabilizer;
• ultra-wide viewing angle;
• slight vignetting;
• high detail at certain aperture values;
• fast, accurate and silent autofocus;
• high-quality video recording.

disadvantages

• switching focus and stabilizer only through the menu;
• zero backward compatibility with cameras older than 2013;
• plastic bayonet.

Nikkor AF-S VR Zoom 70-300mm f / 4.5-5.6G IF-ED

Rating: 4.5

Next on the list of Nikon's best amateur and mid-range lenses comes the inexpensive classic telephoto zoom lens with stabilizer and variable focal length. Its most frequent and appropriate application is shooting sports, various animals in the wild, as well as portrait photography.

Let's start with the construction. Lens dimensions – 80 × 143.5mm, weight – 745g. Such a striking difference from previous lightweight and compact models is obvious as this is a full-frame telephoto lens. In comparison, this model has a worthy alternative – Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300 mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR, but the presented lens is half the price and is even better in a number of parameters (vignetting, distortion). The body is predominantly plastic, the Nikon F (FX) mount is metal. The front lens unit moves forward when zooming, but not as dramatically as it happens with superzoom, and does not rotate.

The focal length of this model is variable from 70 to 300mm. 9-blade aperture – F4.50-F5.60 with minimum F32. There is autofocus and optical stabilization. 17 optical elements in 12 groups, including two ED elements. The range of viewing angles is from 8.10 to 34.20 degrees. min. The minimum focusing distance is 1.5m. Filter thread 67mm in diameter.

Nikkor AF-S VR Zoom 70-300mm f / 4.5-5.6G IF-ED is the best value for money solution for those who prefer shooting distant subjects. There is not such a wide range of focal lengths as in the next model in the review and due to this it is less versatile, but in terms of optical characteristics, the lens is certainly good. There is minimal vignetting, sharpness is higher, and there is almost no distortion. We have already mentioned its affordable price and compatibility with full-frame cameras, but we will remind you.

From the moments that can be annoying in this lens, we can highlight the drop in AF speed when working in tele mode, as well as the drop in detail when the aperture is open in the same teleposition. But its advantages and, in particular, broad compatibility with both DX cameras with APS-C sensor and equally with full-frame cameras, far outweigh the disadvantages.

Advantages

• relatively compact and lightweight for a telephoto lens;
• effective optical stabilization;
• compatibility with full frame cameras;
• almost complete absence of distortion;
• minimal vignetting;
• affordable price for a lens of this type and class.

disadvantages

• in the teleposition on an open aperture, detail is reduced;
• in telephoto position, the autofocus speed is relatively low.

Nikkor AF-S DX 18-300 mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR

Rating: 4.5

Rounding out the magazine's selection of the best entry-level and mid-range Nikon lenses is yet another superzoom, despite the lens of this type we've already reviewed above. The widest range of focal lengths and a number of characteristics that make this model three times more expensive compared to the above-described Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR are just everything here.

So, here we are dealing with a versatile lens with powerful optical stabilization, and its main advantage is coverage of all conceivable focal lengths – from 18 to 300mm. The lens is also compact (comparatively, taking into account the range of focal lengths) – 83x120mm in size with a very significant weight of 830g. Compared to the closest classic example – Nikon 70-200 2.8, the reviewed model is half the size. This is one of the few superzoom so versatile that can be successfully used for wildlife, wide landscapes, and portraits at the same time.

Let's consider the rest of the key characteristics. Aperture of 9 blades F3.50 – F5.60 with a minimum value of F22–32. Mount – Nikon F (DX). 19 optical elements in 14 groups, including 3 aspherical and 3 low-dispersion lenses. Viewing angle – 5.20-76 degrees. min. The minimum focusing distance is 0.45m. Internal focusing on the ultrasonic engine. Filter thread 77mm in diameter.

Now let's describe how this lens behaves in operation. First, there is a purely mechanical feature here – when zooming, the front lens extends so far that it lengthens the lens up to three times. To prevent the zoom from accidentally extending the lens while walking, there is a latch on the body that holds the telescopic structure folded. There is also a small life hack for an additional guarantee not to kill the lens against the wall when walking – never remove the hood, which will serve as a buffer.

Unfortunately, this model has some drawbacks regarding the characteristics of the obtained image. For example, the lens produces pronounced distortion and noticeable vignetting. So post-processing in special programs or internal camera means will be necessary. When the aperture is open, sharpness will decrease noticeably from the center to the edges. The drop in autofocus speed at long focal lengths is the lesser of evils, but can also be annoying.

Advantages

• the widest coverage of focal lengths;
• versatility;
• relatively compact and lightweight;
• effective stabilization;
• Compatible with all Nikon amateur cameras.

disadvantages

• pronounced distortion and vignetting;
• at significant focal lengths, a drop in the autofocus speed;
• at open aperture, the sharpness decreases from the center to the edges.

Summary

Let us summarize in order to guide our readers in their choice as accurately as possible. The presented lenses differ in purpose, size, zoom, weight and cost. In many points they overlap in terms of capabilities and subject areas of shooting, but there are some common points.

So, for example, if you know for sure that you will be shooting portraits, landscapes and portraits in the background of landscapes, then the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR is well suited for you. If you intend to shoot something in dynamics – sports, events, wild fauna, then you need a large focal length, and superzoom telephoto cameras will help here, like Nikkor AF-S DX 18-300 mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR or Nikkor AF-S VR Zoom 70-300mm f / 4.5-5.6G IF-ED. The Nikkor AF-S DX 35mm f / 1.8G is the right companion for every day, including challenging shooting conditions. Well, Nikkor AF-S DX Micro 40mm f / 2.8G can do almost everything, plus 1: 1 macro photography.

In general, to cover all the needs of a beginner, but an actively developing photographer, you may need several lenses of different types at once. All of the above also applies to professional lenses, which we will now consider.

Best Nikon Professional Lenses

The second group of models are the real stars of Nikon's professional range. Their distinctive feature, which is visible to the naked eye, is a golden border around the circumference of the lens body. Prices are different, but they amount to tens of thousands of rubles, and individual copies are more expensive than 100 thousand rubles. But those who are ready to take photographs professionally understand that with the right approach, such an investment will quickly pay off.

Nikkor 24-70mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S

Rating: 4.9

Let us first consider a lens that, in its aggregate characteristics, falls under the conventional category of reportage models. In practice, it is often used by professional photographers to photograph important celebrations and events. Thanks to a sufficiently powerful zoom, the lens allows you to shoot distant objects without any problems.

The key specifications and features of the lens are as follows. Case dimensions – 83x133mm, weight – 900g. Mount – Nikon F (FX) with rubber O-ring. Focal length – from 24 to 70mm. The 9-blade aperture is F2.80 with a minimum value of F22. Lens system of 15 optical elements in 11 groups, of which 3 are aspherical. Viewing angle – 34.20 – 84 degrees. min. The minimum focus distance is 0.38m. Filter thread 77mm in diameter.

Compared to comparable amateur models in terms of key characteristics, this lens has significant advantages inherent to its level. This is reflected both in the significantly higher quality of certain types of materials, and in individual large and small improvements: from a seal ring for the bayonet to a nanocrystalline lens coating designed to eliminate ghosting and flare.

Optically, this model has been worked out deeply and efficiently. Geometric distortion is minimal, and it appears mainly only in the wide-angle position – distortion and perspective distortion are visible. Chromatic aberrations are not noticeable. One of the strengths of this model is incredibly tenacious, high-quality and quiet autofocus. The AF tracking function is almost flawless at all – many independent tests have shown a vanishingly small number of 'defective' frames.

The developers have taken good care of filtering out glare, ghosting and all kinds of parasitic flares. But miracles do not happen, and they still slip through, especially with a backlight. Sharpness and detail can sag slightly at the edges of the frame, but only at open aperture. Starting at F / 5.6, the difference with open aperture will be dramatically for the better. The reason for the drop in sharpness at the edges is diffraction, so an open aperture should be avoided. Alternatively, use a high quality ND filter.

Advantages

• impeccable materials and workmanship;
• attention of the developers to details (seal for the bayonet, etc.);
• wide coverage of focal lengths;
• Nanocrystalline lens coating to prevent glare and ghosting;
• dust and splash protection.

disadvantages

• no stabilizer;
• faulty balancing with compact 'carcasses' in wide-angle mode.

Nikkor 16-35mm f / 4G ED AF-S VR

Rating: 4.8

Second in our roundup of Nikon's best professional lenses is the wide-angle model in every sense. This is a wide angle with the functionality of a zoom lens. Designed to work on full frame cameras.

Let's clarify right away – the full-frame directionality of this model does not at all limit the use of the lens with crop cameras. But here you need to remember that the crop factor will destroy one of the main advantages of the lens – the wide angle of view.

Structurally, this model commands respect, as does virtually all of Nikon's top-end gold-bordered lenses. A durable metal case, high-quality materials, flawlessly strong assembly, high-quality dust and moisture protection – all these are the signs of a premium class. Case dimensions – 82.5x125mm, weight – 685g. Focal lengths range from 16 to 35mm. Aperture F4 with minimum F22. Mount – Nikon F (FX). The lens system consists of 17 optical elements in 13 groups, of which three are aspherical lenses and two are low dispersion. Viewing angle – 63-107 degrees. min. Focusing distance – minimum 0.28m. The thread for the light filter is 77mm in diameter.

The strong point of this model is its excellent tenacious, accurate and quiet autofocus on the ultrasonic SWM engine. A mechanical switch for auto- and manual focusing is located on the lens barrel. Manual autofocus adjustment is also supported.

Another notable advantage is effective stabilization based on the second generation VR II optical stabilization unit. It is able to compensate for shaking when shooting video, and also allows you to take normal high-quality pictures handheld with a relatively long exposure.

Making a conclusion, we can say the same thing with which we started, but more substantively. The Nikkor 16-35mm f / 4G ED AF-S VR is a versatile professional lens capable of capturing landscapes and action reports, portraits and architecture. A wide angle of view combined with a full-frame camera will allow you to fit a lot into the frame. True, this will not do without geometric distortions, though not too critical – a small barrel-shaped distortion with a minimum focal length.

Advantages

• sturdy metal body;
• impeccable materials and workmanship;
• dust and moisture protection;
• fast and quiet ultrasound autofocus engine;
• manual fine-tuning of autofocus;
• effective stabilization.

disadvantages

• drop in sharpness at the edges with an open aperture at minimum focal lengths;
• slight manifestation of distortion at minimum focal lengths.

Nikkor 14-24MM F / 2.8G ED AF-S

Rating: 4.8

Next up in Nikon's selection of the best professional 'glass' comes another wide-angle zoom lens with similar but slightly different characteristics than the previous model. Nikon has been producing this lens since 2013, and it is now in high demand in 2020. Pros agree that this lens is one of the best in the market for landscape photography.

Let's go through the technical specifications. Case dimensions – 98 x 131.5mm, weight – 1000g. The focal length range is from 14 to 24mm. The 9-blade aperture is F2.80 with a minimum value of F22. Mount – Nikon F (FX). Autofocus. 14 optical elements in 11 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses and two low dispersion lenses. Viewing angle – 84 – 114 degrees. min. The minimum focusing distance is 0.28m.

This model provides a perfectly calibrated and thoughtful range of focal lengths. The 2mm difference on the lower border with the previous model is of great importance in this context. 14mm makes it possible to shoot three-dimensional landscapes with tangible depth and 'bulge', as well as to shoot from a low point with a closed aperture with an extended depth of field (DOF).

It is also worth mentioning that this is a fast lens, and the f / 2.8 aperture here does not open up obvious horizons for everyone. So, if landscapes are most often shot with a closed aperture, then astrophotography requires the opposite. And the Nikkor 14-24MM F / 2.8G ED AF-S is capable of capturing stunning images of the Milky Way, aurora borealis and other mesmerizing objects of the night sky.

The lens delivers outstanding sharpness, even at wide open apertures and around the edges of the frame. This is quite a rarity and is of particular importance when a photo is supposed to be printed in large size. There will still be a difference in sharpness between the center and the edges, especially on wide. But it will be the difference between 'very sharp' and 'sharp', not 'sharp' and 'blurry'.

And one more noticeable advantage of this model is vanishingly small geometrical distortions of the horizon even with strong camera tilts. The barrel effect is also extremely negligible. Professional photographers masterfully use natural perspective distortion in vertical direction to scale mountains and other hills, as well as for the effect of spreading the foreground.

Advantages

• sturdy metal body;
• reliable protection against dust and moisture;
• high-quality autofocus;
• manual fine-tuning of autofocus;
• minimal geometric distortion;
• outstanding sharpness, including open-aperture and edge-to-edge sharpness;
• large aperture (can capture the night sky beautifully).

disadvantages

• a lot of parasitic reflections from the lens surfaces;
• user concerns about unprotected convex anterior lens.

Nikkor AF 10.5mm f / 2.8G ED DX Fisheye

Rating: 4.7

If we completed the review of the previous model on a convex front lens, then in the case of the Nikkor 10.5mm f / 2.8G ED DX Fisheye, this very lens is most pronounced even in its name. This is a professional fisheye lens with a corresponding range of tasks.

This is not just a 'fishy', even a professional one. Its equivalent focal length is 16mm, which means that on Nikon DX cameras it will be almost the complete equivalent of the full-frame Nikon AF Fisheye Nikkor 16mm 1: 2.8D. In addition, it provides a completely unthinkable 180-degree angle of view at the time of the announcement, an outstanding depth of field and a whole range of bright parameters.

Let's take a look at the Nikkor 10.5mm f / 2.8G ED DX Fisheye specifications. Case dimensions – 63×62.5mm, weight – 300g. The focal length is 10.5mm. The 7-blade aperture is F2.80 with a minimum value of F22. Mount – Nikon F (DX). 10 optical elements in 7 groups, including one low dispersion lens. The viewing angle is 180 degrees. min. The minimum focusing distance is 0.14m.

Let's clarify one point right away. This lens has a 'screwdriver' focusing motor. This is not a flaw of engineers, but purely 'historical' reasons, but for this the model gets its well-deserved minus in the list of shortcomings. It will work fully only with 'carcasses' that support AF optics, and on Nikon D40 / 60 cameras it loses the autofocus capability. But at wide angles, this nuisance looks less critical, since the depth of field in the Nikkor AF 10.5mm f / 2.8G ED DX Fisheye has a significant margin.

One of the important advantages of this model is its minimal weight. This is one of the lightest and most compact DSLR 'fish'. Another point that experts highlight in it is the ability to confidently keep the sun in the frame. Opinions about flare are polarized, but information about lens instability to flare raises doubts about its complete objectivity.

When shooting objects at close range, it is important to take into account that the minimum distance for this model is very short – only 0.14m, but at the same time it does not have internal focusing, and when aiming, the front lens moves slightly forward. That is, the camera should be brought too close to the object being filmed with extreme caution.

Advantages

• compact and lightweight;
• low dispersion lens in the system;
• viewing angle 180 degrees;
• aperture ratio;
• depth of field;
• speed.

disadvantages

• noisy;
• 'screwdriver' autofocus drive.

Nikkor AF-S 105mm f / 1.4E ED

Rating: 4.7

There was a place in our review for Nikon's top-end portrait optics. The presented professional model came out relatively recently, but immediately received the most positive feedback in professional circles.

The dimensions of this “portrait” are quite decent – 94.5x106mm, and an impressive weight – 985g. The focal length is 105mm. The aperture of 9 rounded blades is f / 1.4 with a minimum value of f / 1.6. 14 optical elements in 9 groups, including 3 low dispersion lenses. Angle of view with full frame cameras is 23 ° 10 'and 15 ° 20' with DX type cameras. The minimum focusing distance is 1 meter. The thread for the filter is 82mm in diameter. Individual lenses (not exact information) contain fluorine or nanocrystalline Nano Crystal Coat.

This lens has received a number of innovations and progressive approaches from the developers. For example, an updated electromagnetic mechanism for controlling the operation of the diaphragm has been introduced here. Thus, the capabilities of the camera in high-speed shooting are significantly increased. Also, one of the first points that immediately gets approval from any user is fast autofocus.

On the other hand, against the background of the advantages, it looks strange and very upsetting the lack of a stabilization system. Such a decision of the developers is at least strange. In any handheld portrait shooting, shake is inevitable and, as a result, frame blur. Photographers defeat this nuisance by changing the shutter speed to critical values.

What gets literally rave reviews from the pros is the bokeh. In this regard, this model is capable of miracles. This special magic is provided by a characteristic effect: at f / 1.4 – f / 1.8, background highlights become elongated at the edges of the frame, and more than f / 1.4 become rounded throughout the frame, creating a bewitching symmetry.

Vignetting is present at open aperture, but it is not too intrusive and does not strike the eye directly. As for the sharpness, no one has any questions about this model – the design, the quality of the materials, the modern and well thought-out optical scheme guarantee sufficient sharpness throughout the entire frame area.

Chromatic aberrations are almost inevitable at open aperture, but already at f / 2 they almost completely disappear.

Advantages

• innovation;
• improved and accelerated diaphragm operation;
• fast autofocus;
• stunning bokeh;
• sharpness;
• slight vignetting even at open aperture.

disadvantages

• there is no stabilization system.

Nikkor 70-200mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S VR II Zoom

Rating: 4.7

And the review of the best Nikon lenses according to the magazine is completed by a bright representative of the top line of Nikon optics – a fast telephoto lens Nikkor 70-200mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S VR II Zoom. Combined with features and quality feedback from sophisticated photographers and prominent reporters, this is one of Nikon's best professional lenses.

Let's look at the main technical characteristics first. The focal length range of this model is from 70 to 200mm. Aperture F2.80 of 9 blades, minimum value F22. Mount – Nikon F (FX). Built-in autofocus and optical stabilization. 21 optical elements in 16 groups, of which as many as 7 low dispersion lenses. Viewing angles – from 12.20-34.20 degrees min. The minimum focusing distance is 1.4m. Internal focusing. Filter thread 77mm in diameter. Full-frame image format 36x24mm.

This is the largest and heaviest lens in our review – 87x209mm in size and 1540g in weight. It is produced directly in Japan, and no one has any questions about the assembly. There is no data on protection from external factors, but the presence of a rubber seal on the bayonet hints at at least basic dust and moisture protection.

One of the most effective optical image stabilization systems can be observed in this model. According to the manufacturer and the instructions in the documentation, stabilization compensates for up to three stops in exposure. In numerical terms, this means the ability to shoot at shutter speeds up to 8 times slower than with a lens without a stabilizer. And, by the way, the stabilizer does not turn on unconditionally – a simple switch on the body of the stabilization system can be turned on and off.

Focusing on the Nikkor 70-200mm f / 2.8G ED AF-S VR II Zoom is fast and quiet thanks to the waveform SWM engine. The focusing distance for the entire focal length range is large – 1.4 meters, but at the same time, at a focal length of 200 mm, the lens allows you to take macro shots with a magnification of 1: 8.3. However, such a large MDF is inconvenient, especially at a 70mm focal length, so our experts consider this a disadvantage.

Another bottleneck in this model is the Focus Breathing effect, which manifests itself in changing the angle of view when focusing. This is only a feature, not a disadvantage, since it is an inevitable consequence of an important advantage – the internal type of focusing.

Advantages

• wide range of focal lengths;
• aperture ratio;
• 7 low dispersion lenses;
• internal focusing;
• effective stabilization;
• one of the best Nikon lenses in terms of a combination of factors.

disadvantages

• too large MDF.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.