Nikkor 28mm f/2 AI-S Review

Introduction

The Nikkor 28mm f/2 has gone thru allot of upgrades over the years, This model is the last manual focus version, and was released in the 1980`s. At that time it was one of three Nikkor 28mm prime lenses in their lineup. The f/2 was the "PRO" version of them all, and it features Nikons CRC system. The 28mm prime is a standard wide angle in 35mm photography, on a DX sized Dslr it more 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.

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) 360g

Diaphragm: 7 bladed with straight blades

Price from: $ Discontinued

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• DOF/IR markings.
• Focus ring. just the right amount of stiffness.
• Build quality

Drawbacks

• CA. There are small traces of CA
• Softness wide open.
• Barrel distortion, common with most of Nikons 28mm`s

Verdict

This lens is soft wide open, more then I would prefer, beyond f/2.8 the pictures gets sharper. The sample reviewed here seems to lack a bit of contrast, as well as having some degree of softness to it at all apertures. I would like to say this is a bad sample, but since more people in Norway have had the same problem with the 28mm f/2 AI-S it gets more difficult. Reports outside Norway says this is a sharp lens when stopped down to f/2.8, and with no problem with softness when stepped further down. So either Norway got a handful of bad samples, or Norway got a shipment of B products of this lens. As I don't have any other samples of this lens, there really is no final verdict here. My opinions of this lens can not reflect on other 28mm f/2 AI-S lenses on the market, but rather just an opinion about the sample I tested here.

Alternatives

Nikkor-H 28mm f/3.5. Discontinued

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

Nikon 28mm comparison chart

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

Sample Pictures