Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX

Canon EF

Review

The Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX is a versatile ultra-wide-angle lens designed specifically for full-frame Canon EF mounts. It has garnered attention for its excellent build quality, image performance, and relatively affordable price point when compared to other high-end zoom lenses in the market.

Build Quality and Design

One of the standout features of the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm is its sturdy construction. The lens features a robust metal barrel that inspires confidence when shooting in challenging conditions. It also comes equipped with weather sealing, which is a valuable addition for photographers who often find themselves in wet or dusty environments. The lens has a sizable front element and a built-in petal-shaped hood, ensuring that you can block unwanted lens flares and protect the glass.

Optical Performance

In terms of image quality, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 excels in producing sharp and detailed images throughout its zoom range. The lens delivers impressive corner-to-corner sharpness, especially at the center, while maintaining excellent contrast and color rendition. The f/2.8 constant aperture allows for good low-light performance, which is beneficial for indoor and night photography. However, some users may notice a slight softness at the edges when shooting wide open, which can be mitigated by stopping down slightly.

Distortion and Vignetting

Like many ultra-wide-angle lenses, distortion can be present in images taken with the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm, particularly at the 16mm end of the spectrum. While this barrel distortion can be corrected in post-processing, it's something to be aware of, especially when photographing architectural subjects where straight lines are crucial. Vignetting is also more noticeable at wider apertures but tends to decrease as you stop down, providing a good overall balance for most shooting scenarios.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system on the Tokina lens is generally quick and reliable, making it a practical choice for various types of photography, from landscapes to architecture. However, it isn’t as silent as some premium lenses, which could be a concern for videographers seeking a whisper-quiet autofocus performance. The manual focus ring operates smoothly, offering precise control for those who prefer manual adjustments or when shooting in challenging lighting situations.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with weather sealing
• Excellent sharpness and contrast
• Constant f/2.8 aperture for low-light performance
• Good optical performance across the zoom range

Cons

• Some barrel distortion at 16mm
• Noticeable vignetting at wider apertures
• Autofocus can be noisy for video work

Verdict

Overall, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX is a fantastic option for photographers seeking an affordable ultra-wide zoom lens for their Canon EF mount camera. It combines great optical performance with a rugged build and versatile features. While it may have a few quirks, such as distortion and vignetting, these can be addressed with proper technique and post-processing. If you’re looking for a reliable lens that excels in a variety of shooting scenarios, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 is certainly worth considering.