Nikon Nikkor 28mm f/2 AI / AI-S Review

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Introduction

February 2007, Updated February 14, 2009

The Nikkor 28mm f/2 has gone through quite a few upgrades over the years, this model is the last version ( AI-S ), and was released in the 1980`s. At that time it was one of three 28mm prime Nikkor lenses in the lineup. The f/2 was the "PRO" version of them all, and it features Nikons CRC system and the NIC coating. The 28mm prime is a standard wide angle in 35mm photography, on a DX sized Dslr it resembles a 50mm prime.

Specifications

Lens Construction: 9 elements in 8 groups

Picture Angle: 74° (35mm) 53° (Nikon DX format)

Closest focusing: 0.25m/0.9 ft. AI-S

Closest focusing: 0.3m/0.8ft. AI

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HN-1

Included accessories: Lens cap, rear cap.

Size and weight: 63 mm (dia.) x 58,5-68,5 mm (length) 345g AI-S

Size and weight: 64.5 mm (dia.) x 58,5-68,5 mm (length) 355g AI

Diaphragm: 7 straight blades

Price from: $ Discontinued

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• DOF/IR markings, as usual with older lenses the Depth Of Field and the InfraRed markings are provided.
  
• Focus ring. just the right amount of stiffness.
  
• Build quality.
• Contrast, even wide open this lens shows amazingly great contrast.
• Performance wide open, although corners are a bit soft wide open on the D3, I find it more then usable.

Drawbacks

• CA. Small traces of CA can be seen wide open in less then optimal conditions.
  
• Barrel distortion, common with most of Nikons 28mm`s

Verdict

A few samples later, I finally got one that somewhat lives up to it's rumors. Sample #3 is rather good compared to the two first ones that I tested. I also found that the AI version of this lens has a slight performance advantage compared to the AI-S version, at least on the samples I had available. Quite good results can be obtained wide open both on infinity as well as on close focus. Corners are a tad soft wide open and to f/4 on the D3, which is to be expected from a relatively fast "wide angle" lens. On IR a hot spot is detectable at f/11, but not really a big problem un till f/16 tough. Peak performance of the Nikon Nikkor 28mm f/2 is from f/4 to f/8.

Features
Performance AI-S Version
Performance AI Version
IR Performance
Build
Value AI-S Version
Value AI Version

Alternatives

Nikkor 28mm f/2.8. Price from: $ 379.95 USD

Nikkor 28mm f/3.5. Discontinued

Nikon AF 28mm f/2.8D. Price from: $224.95 USD

Nikon AF 28mm f/1.4D. Discontinued

*Prices and rebates are subject to change. Listed price is from April 11, 2008.

Sample Pictures

Note: All sample pictures where taken with the AI version!
Images have been imported to photoshop CS3 through Capture NX 2 thus leaving the original image settings as shot, I. E white balance, sharpening, etc .etc. Full resolution sample images are in RGB color mode. Check out my copyright page for information about usage of these images.