NiSi 16mm f/2.8 ASPH

The NiSi 16mm f/2.8 ASPH. is a manual focus ultra-wide prime for Fujifilm GFX medium format cameras (Fujifilm G mount). NiSi also offers it for Hasselblad XCD. Its full frame equivalent focal length is about 12.6mm, which NiSi describes as a field of view above 118 degrees. It went on sale in July 2026.

Optical design

The lens has 16 elements in 12 groups. According to NiSi, 3 of them are aspherical glass elements and 4 are ultra-low dispersion elements, and the design is meant to control chromatic aberration and distortion across the large image circle. NiSi says the lens is designed for 100-megapixel sensors. The aperture has 8 blades and runs from f/2.8 to f/22. NiSi states that it produces 8-point sunstars from f/4 to f/22 and recommends f/5.6 for the best resolution.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual. The focus ring turns through 180 degrees. The aperture ring is clicked and gives tactile stop control. The minimum focus distance is 25 cm with a maximum magnification of 0.12x. The angle of view is 118 degrees diagonally, 105.9 degrees horizontally and 89 degrees vertically.

Build and size

The lens has a metal barrel with a weather-sealing ring and weighs approximately 835 g. It measures 88 mm in diameter by 108 mm in length without hood and caps. A screw-in 82 mm filter thread is on the front, which is unusual for a lens this wide. NiSi adds SA+ anti-reflection and hard surface coatings.

Where it fits

In the GFX system the closest native wide-angles are the Fujifilm GF 23mm F4 R LM WR and the zoom Fujifilm GF 20-35mm F4 R WR, which are slower and not as wide, and add autofocus. The Venus Laowa 17mm F4 Zero-D GFX and the Venus Laowa 19mm F2.8 Zero-D GFX are manual alternatives of a similar type. The NiSi is the widest and brightest of these.

Pros and cons

Pros

• 16mm focal length with a field of view above 118 degrees
• f/2.8 maximum aperture is useful for astrophotography
• 82 mm filter thread
• Weather-sealed metal construction

Cons

• Manual focus only, no electronic contacts
• About 835 g, which is heavy for a wide-angle prime
• Close focus distance of 25 cm is only average
• Large 82 mm filters are needed

Verdict

The NiSi 16mm f/2.8 ASPH. is for GFX photographers who want a really wide, bright lens for landscapes, architecture and night skies and accept manual focus. Its filter thread and weather-sealed body make it practical outdoors.