Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED lens is a versatile standard zoom lens that has become a staple among professional and amateur photographers alike. Designed for the Nikon F (DX) mount, this lens offers a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range, making it an excellent option for low-light conditions and portrait photography, while its 24-70mm focal length covers a wide range of shooting scenarios — from landscapes to events.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you will notice about the 24-70mm f/2.8G ED is its robust build quality. Encased in a weather-sealed body, this lens is designed to withstand the elements, making it a reliable companion on outdoor shoots. The lens features a professional-grade design with a metal mount and durable glass elements that help ensure longevity. The large zoom ring is smooth and easy to operate, while the focus ring provides precise manual focusing, which is particularly beneficial for detailed work.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of this lens is impressive. It utilizes Nikon's Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and enhance contrast, resulting in sharp, vivid images. The lens also incorporates aspherical lenses that significantly reduce distortion, making it an ideal choice for architectural photography. In terms of bokeh, the lens produces smooth and pleasing background blur due to its rounded aperture blades, which is a bonus for portrait photographers.

However, while sharpness at the center is generally excellent, edge sharpness can vary slightly, especially when shooting at the maximum aperture. Users may notice corner softness in certain conditions, though this is often rectified when the lens is stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6.

Autofocus System

The AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED features Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which provides quick and quiet autofocus performance. It’s a great feature for wedding and event photography, where you want to be discreet. The autofocus system is also reliable in low-light situations, allowing for precise focusing even in challenging environments. However, some users may find that the lens can occasionally hunt for focus in extremely low-light scenarios.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality and weather-sealing for durability.
• Constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range.
• Excellent optical performance with minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations.
• Effective autofocus with Silent Wave Motor for quiet operation.
• Versatile focal length for various styles of photography.

Cons

• Edge sharpness can be soft at maximum aperture.
• Somewhat heavy, which may be a concern for extended usage.
• Higher price point compared to similar lenses.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED is a top-tier lens that offers outstanding performance and versatility for Nikon F (DX) mount users. It excels in numerous photography styles, from portraits to landscapes, making it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as weight and edge sharpness at wide apertures, these are easily overshadowed by its many strengths. If you are in the market for a reliable and high-performing zoom lens, this one should definitely be on your shortlist.