Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8E ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8E ED VR is a versatile and high-quality zoom lens, well-regarded among both professional and amateur photographers. Designed for Nikon F (DX) mounts, this lens is particularly favored for its exceptional build quality and impressive optical performance.

Build and Design

This lens has a solid and robust construction, featuring a weather-sealed body that allows for use in various environmental conditions. The lens barrel is primarily made of metal, providing a premium feel in the hands. Additionally, the lens is relatively compact for its class, making it an excellent choice for those who need to carry it around for extended periods without being weighed down.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8E ED VR is its exceptional optical performance. With a fast maximum aperture of f/2.8 throughout the zoom range, it excels in low-light conditions and provides stunning depth of field control. The inclusion of extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements greatly reduces chromatic aberrations and enhances color accuracy, resulting in images that are sharp and vibrant even at wider apertures.

Image Stabilization

The lens is equipped with Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which effectively stabilizes images and helps reduce camera shake, particularly useful for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. This feature can be a significant advantage, especially for videographers or those shooting in challenging conditions.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system in the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8E ED VR is fast and precise, ensuring that you rarely miss that perfect shot. The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) facilitates near-silent focusing, which is especially appreciated in environments where noise can be a distraction, such as during weddings or wildlife photography.

Versatility

The 24-70mm focal range makes this lens incredibly versatile, suitable for various photography styles from landscapes to portraits. The lens handles beautifully, allowing for easy zooming and excellent framing adaptability without the hassle of changing lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather sealing
• Outstanding optical performance with sharp and vibrant images
• Fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
• Effective Vibration Reduction (VR) system
• Fast and silent autofocus capabilities
• Versatile focal length suitable for multiple genres of photography

Cons

• Heavier than some other standard zoom lenses
• Higher price point may not fit all budgets
• The lens hood is somewhat bulky, which can be inconvenient for storage

Verdict

In conclusion, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8E ED VR is a fantastic addition to any photographer’s kit, delivering top-notch performance across its zoom range. While it comes with a heftier price tag and some bulk, the quality of the images, build, and versatility more than justify this. This lens is ideally suited for professionals and serious enthusiasts looking for reliability and excellence in their photography. Whether you are shooting events, portraits, or landscapes, this lens is likely to meet and exceed your expectations.