Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm F4G ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm F4G ED VR is an impressive all-rounder lens that offers versatility for both amateur and professional photographers. Designed for Nikon F (DX) mounts, this lens is perfect for capturing a wide range of subjects, from landscapes and portraits to street photography and events. With its constant f/4 aperture, the 24-120mm lens ensures consistent exposure settings, which is particularly advantageous when shooting in varied lighting conditions.

One of the standout features of this lens is its Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which helps to stabilize images and minimizes camera shake during handheld shooting. This is especially noticeable at longer focal lengths, making it easier to capture sharp images even in low-light scenarios. The optical construction includes Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements to reduce chromatic aberrations, ensuring your images remain crisp and clear with accurate color rendition.

In terms of build quality, the Nikon 24-120mm feels robust and well-constructed. It has a weather-sealed design, making it more resilient to the elements, which is a great advantage for outdoor photographers. The lens barrel is made of high-quality materials that not only provide durability but also a comfortable grip for prolonged usage.

However, despite its many strengths, there are some downsides to consider. The size and weight of the lens can be a bit cumbersome, especially during long shoots where you might prefer a lighter setup. As for image quality, while the lens performs admirably in most situations, some users have reported that sharpness can fall off slightly at the extreme ends of the zoom range. Additionally, the bokeh quality can be somewhat less pleasing when compared to prime lenses or faster zooms.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal length range (24-120mm) suitable for various photography styles.
• Constant f/4 aperture for consistent exposure and depth of field.
• Vibration Reduction (VR) technology for improved handheld shooting.
• High build quality with weather-sealing for durability.
• Good color accuracy and reduced chromatic aberration.

Cons

• Size and weight may be cumbersome for some users.
• Sharpness can diminish at the extremes of the zoom range.
• Bokeh quality may not match that of faster prime or zoom lenses.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm F4G ED VR is a reliable and versatile lens that will appeal to various types of photographers. Its combination of quality construction, VR stabilization, and a flexible zoom range makes it a strong candidate for those looking to cover multiple photographic scenarios with just one lens. While it does have some limitations in terms of size and optical performance at the extremes, its overall capabilities and features make it a worthy addition to any Nikon F (DX) mount kit. Whether you're capturing sweeping landscapes or intimate portraits, this lens is designed to deliver excellent results across the board.