Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED review

Fixed-focal-length lenses seem to be flavour of the month right now, particularly with photographers looking for the best-quality optics to match the latest generation of high-resolution sensors. As such, the AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED should prove to be extremely popular.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED ($799.95) is just one of many in the company's series of f/1.8 prime lenses. It's the widest of the bunch, but even when shot at its maximum aperture it is quite sharp in the center. Landscape shooters will want to stop down for edge-to-edge crispness, and the lack of image stabilization is really only a concern when recording handheld video. The lens is a solid performer, and a good choice for any Nikon shooter that wants an ultra-wide-angle prime lens. It can be used with both full-frame and APS-C Nikon cameras. The 20mm ($796.95 at Amazon)  measures in at 3.1 by 3.2 inches (HD), weighs just 12.6 ounces, and uses large 77mm front filters. It can focus as close as 7.8 inches, which certainly doesn't qualify it as a macro lens, but does let you get up close and personal with subjects. When combined with the wide aperture, that allows for a very shallow depth of field. The only control switch on the lens toggles between manual and autofocus cont...

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED is an affordable lens for wide-angle lovers, but you'll want to stop it down for the best image quality.

Ultra-wide field of view; Wide aperture; 7.8-inch close focus

Some edge softness unless stopped down; Modest barrel distortion; Lacks optical stabilization

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR f/1.8G ED Lens review

The Nikon 20mm ƒ/2.8 AF-D has been waiting 20 years for a refresh; it's nice to see Nikon completing its prime lineup in the ƒ/1.8 configuration. The lens isn't exorbitantly expensive, and performs extremely well.