Nikon 20mm f/4 AI Review

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Introduction

Nikon's 20mm lenses has been favored by landscape photographers for decades. The Nikkor 20mm f/4 AI was made in quite small numbers, in total there was less then 23000 lenses made. It was produced between 1974 to 1977. It's really compact compared to it's brothers and sisters.

Specifications

Lens Construction: 10 elements in 8 groups.

Picture Angle: 94° (35mm)

Minimum focus distance: 0.3m

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HN-14

Included accessories: Front cap, rear cap.

Size and weight: 63.5mm x 35.5mm x 47.5mm 210g

Diaphragm: 7 straight blades.

Price from: $ Discontinued.

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• Size. Light and compact.
• DOF/IR markings.

Drawbacks

• Prone to flare.
• Softness. Worst in corners, but some softness can be seen at all apertures.
• Second hand price.
• CA. CA is visible un till f/11.

Verdict

This lens has some degree of softness on all apertures. It is usable between f/8 and f/16, but corners stay soft no matter what aperture. CA is clearly visible un till f/11. The Nikkor 20mm f/4 AI is not a great IR lens, acceptable results can be had around f/8 to f/11 tough. Other then that this lens is rather disappointing both for IR and normal photography.

Alternatives

Nikon 20mm f/2.8 AI-S. From: $519.95 USD

Nikon AF 20mm f/2.8D. From: $459.95 USD

Sigma AF 20mm f/1.8 EX. From: $409.00 USD

*Prices are subject to change. Listed price is from May 4th, 2008

Sample Pictures

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