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

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens designed specifically for Nikon F mounts, catering to both full-frame and DX-format DSLRs. This lens is especially popular among landscape, architectural, and astrophotography enthusiasts due to its impressive optical quality and constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range.

Build Quality

One of the standout features of the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm is its robust build quality. The lens feels solid and substantial in hand, constructed with a metal mount and a durable body that can withstand the demands of professional use. Additionally, the lens is weather-sealed, providing an added layer of protection against moisture and dust. This is an appealing aspect for photographers who frequent outdoor shoots, especially in challenging weather conditions.

Optical Performance

Optically, the lens holds its own with excellent sharpness across the frame. It performs exceptionally well in the center, with only slight softening noticed at the corners when shooting wide open at f/2.8. As you stop down to f/4 and beyond, corner sharpness improves significantly, making this lens a great choice for landscape photographers looking to achieve that sharp, detailed look across the entire image.

Furthermore, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm incorporates special low dispersion and aspherical elements to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion. When shooting wide-angle images, you may notice a tad bit of barrel distortion, but it is manageable and can easily be corrected in post-processing.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on this lens is relatively quick and accurate, making it suitable for fast-paced photography environments. However, it’s worth noting that the autofocus may not be as silent as some high-end lenses, which could be a consideration for those shooting video or in quiet settings. The manual focus ring is also well-positioned and smooth, providing hands-on control when needed.

Versatility

With a focal length of 16-28mm, this lens covers a useful range for various applications. The wide-angle allows you to capture expansive landscapes and tight interiors, while maintaining excellent depth of field due to the fast f/2.8 aperture. This versatility makes it a great all-around lens for photographers exploring both wide-angle photography and the possibility of low-light conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Solid build quality with weather sealing
• Excellent sharpness, especially at smaller apertures
• Fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range
• Versatile focal length for landscapes and architecture
• Good autofocus performance

Cons

• Slight barrel distortion may occur
• Autofocus can be a bit noisy for video work
• Weighs more than some competitor lenses, which may impact portability

Verdict

Overall, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX is a fantastic lens that excels in both optical performance and build quality. Its weather-sealed design appeals to outdoor photographers, and the sharpness throughout its range makes it ideal for capturing wide landscapes. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as barrel distortion and a slightly noisier autofocus, its strengths truly outweigh these issues. For Nikon F mount users looking for a reliable wide-angle zoom lens, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX is certainly worth considering.