Tokina AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX Nikon F (DX/FX)
Review
The Tokina AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX is a versatile wide-angle zoom lens designed for Nikon F mounts, particularly appealing to both amateurs and professionals seeking a reliable option for landscape, architecture, and interior photography. This lens strikes a balance between performance, build quality, and price, making it a strong contender in the wide-angle category.
One of the most noteworthy features of the Tokina 17-35mm is its robust construction. The lens feels solid in hand, with a durable metal barrel that can withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting. This build quality is accompanied by a weather-sealing feature, allowing photographers to use this lens in varying conditions without worrying about moisture and dust compromise.
Optically, the lens delivers impressive sharpness across the frame, particularly when used between f/5.6 and f/8, making it a favorite for landscape shots where detail is crucial. Its wide-angle perspective is conducive to capturing expansive scenes, and the minimal distortion at the wide end further enhances its usability for architectural photography. The Tokina AT-X also exhibits excellent color rendition and contrast, which can elevate image quality straight from the camera.
However, the lens is not without its downsides. One of the primary concerns is the relatively slow maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the zoom range. While this may not be an issue for landscape and architecture photography, it could limit low-light performance and depth-of-field control for portrait work. Additionally, some users have reported that the autofocus is somewhat slower than expected, which can be undesirable in fast-paced shooting scenarios.
The lens does come with a built-in lens hood, which is a plus, but some might find the lack of a focus switch frustrating. The focus ring is not as smooth as one might hope, which can hinder manual focus adjustments in certain situations.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent build quality with weather sealing
- Sharpness is impressive, especially at mid apertures
- Minimal distortion, ideal for architectural photography
- Good color rendition and contrast
Cons
- Slow maximum aperture of f/4 limiting low-light capabilities
- Autofocus can be slower compared to competitors
- Focus ring not as smooth as desirable
Verdict
The Tokina AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX lens provides exceptional value for Nikon F mount users looking for a wide-angle option without breaking the bank. With its solid build and sharp optics, it’s well-suited for landscape and architectural photography. However, potential buyers should weigh the limitations of the aperture and autofocus speed against their specific photography needs. Overall, for those prioritizing durability and image quality in a budget-friendly lens, the Tokina AT-X 17-35mm f/4 Pro FX is a compelling choice.