Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/2.8 Review

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Introduction

February 2007

The Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/2.8, is considered one of Nikons sharpest lenses. It features Nikons NIC coating(Nikon Integrated Coating) and a floating element system in the rear lens group, to maintain its high optical performance at its closest focusing distance. This is most definitely an oldie, but goldie

Specifications

Lens Construction: 6 elements in 5 groups

Picture Angle: 43 degrees (35mm)

Closest focusing: 0.25m/0.9 ft.

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HN-3

Size and weight: 2.5" x 2.8" 10oz, 63.5mm x 70mm 290g

Diaphragm: 7 Bladed

Price from: $ 349.95 USD

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• Sharp. The lens shows great sharpness even at f/2.8.
• DOF / IR markings
  
• Focus, The focus ring has excellent feel to it.

Drawbacks

• Macro, this lens will only go down to 1:2, you will need the PK-13 to get down to 1:1 magnification.

Verdict

This lens is crisp and sharp, with good contrast. The Micro-Nikkor 55mm is excellent for small product shots. In my opinion, if you want a macro lens, go for a manual focus lens, and you might as well go for one of the best, the Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/2.8. In my opinion the Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 is a better buy, it has better infinity focus and it`s sharper wide open. The AF 60mm Micro-Nikkor is a good alternative, which brings the magnification up to 1:1.

Features
Performance
Build
Value

Price from: $ 349.95 USD

Alternatives

Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8D. From $ 369.95 USD

Sigma AF 50mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro. From $ 269.00 USD

Zeiss MF Macro 50mm f/2 ZF Makro-Planar T*. From $ 984.00 USD

Sigma AF 70mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro. From $ 429.96 USD

Tamron SP AF 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro. From $ 489.00 USD

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

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.