Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED-IF Review

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Introduction

The Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 is the worlds first 14mm ultra wide angle zoom with a constant f/2.8 aperture. Nikon has virtually thrown every thing they have into this lens, featuring ED SIC SWM N ASP IF D G and M/A. That's quite a feature pack. The only thing this lens don't have is VR, but who needs VR in a wide angle lens like this anyway? Best of all this is a FX(full frame) lens. It is also compatible with any Nikon DX sized camera, and of course the AF film cameras. If it wasn't for the G type aperture this lens would have been compatible with all Nikon F mount cameras.

Specifications

Lens Construction: 14 elements in 11 groups with 2 ED , 3 ASP and one Nano Crystal Coated.

Picture Angle: 114 - 84° (90 - 61° with DX-format)

Minimum focus distance: 0.9 feet (approx 27cm(telephoto)

Filter Size: None

Lens Hood: Fixed-type flower shaped.

Included accessories: Front/rare cap and CL-M3 Semi-soft Case

Dimensions: approximately 3.9 in. x 5.2 in. (98 x 131.5 mm)

Weight: approximately. 34.2 Oz. (970g)

Diaphragm: 9 rounded blades.

Price From: $1,484.95 USD

Manufacturers web site: Nikon

Positives

• Sharp! Even at f/2.8 this lens shows great performance even in the corners.
• Price, well it's not cheap but it's cheaper then the Nikkor 14mm f/2.8.*
• Wide, On the D3 this lens is Wide!! It does provide a limited range tough. And it's not a replacement for the Nikkor 17-35mm in my opinion.
• Build quality. The build quality is exceptional, and typical for Nikon's Pro Grade lenses.
• Weather sealing.
• Focus, is as fast as there is.

*In Norway that is, In the US the 14-24mm costs more. That said in Norway the 14-24mm costs $ 2700 USD compared to the US price of $ 1550 USD. That's why I get all my lenses from B&H

Drawbacks

• G Type aperture
• DOF/IR markings. At least provide us with a IR mark.
• No filters. Not even a rear type filter is possible.

Verdict

This is an amazing piece of glass, it's performance is truly amazing. With excellent sharpness even in the corners @ f/2.8, you start to realize the potential of this lens. The lens is really well balanced on the D3, the focus and zoom ring have just the right feel to them. The new weather seal on this lens is also a good upgrade over previous lenses made by Nikon. In my tests I did not have any big issues with flare or CA with this lens. People who enjoy ultra wide angle photography will be amazed by this lens, it outperforms the AF 14mm with ease. Comparing it to the 17-35mm, the 14-24mm is still a winner when it comes to the optical quality, with sharper pictures on f/2.8.
Price? well you get what you pay for, and this time it's well worth it's money.

Features
Performance
Build
Value

Price From: $1,484.95 USD

Alternatives

Nikkor AF Nikkor 14mm f2.8D ED. Price From: $1,339.95 USD

Nikkor AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF. Price From: $1,349.95 USD

Nikkor AF 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF. Price From: $499.95 USD

OR if you are on the DX format:

Nikkor AF-S 12-24mm f/4G ED-IF DX. Price From: $839.00 USD

Tokina AF 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5 AT-X 107 DX Price: $529.00 USD

Tokina AF 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X 116 Pro DX Price: $569.95 USD

Tokina AF 12-24mm f/4 AT-X 124AF Pro DX Price: $489.00 USD

Tamron AF SP 11-18mm f/4.5-5.6 Di-II LD Price: $519.00 USD

Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6D EX DC HSM Price: $479.00 USD

*Prices and rebates are subject to change. Listed price is from January 19, 2009.

Sample Pictures

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.