Name: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED
Brand: Nikon

Technical Specifications of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED

Overall score

7.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Mount & Format

1.0

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Lens type

What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

prime

Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.

When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Nikon F

Sensor format coverage

What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.

When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

Full-frame

Filter thread size

What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.

When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

77 mm

Teleconverter compatibility

What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.

When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

Optics & Aperture

8.1

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Minimum focal length

What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.

When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

20 mm

Maximum focal length

What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.

When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

20 mm

Optical zoom

What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.

When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

Maximum angle of view

What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.

When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

94 °

Minimum angle of view

What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.

When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

70 °

Focus & Controls

6.3

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Focus motor

What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.

When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

SWM

Minimum focus distance

What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.

When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum reproduction ratio

What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.

When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Full-time manual focus

What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.

When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

Internal focusing

What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.

When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization

4.2

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Optical image stabilization

What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.

When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)

What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.

When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

Build & Handling

7.0

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.

When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

Lens length

What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.

When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

Lens diameter

What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.

When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Weather sealing (splashproof)

What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.

When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

Metal mount

What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.

When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

Lab Scores

7.9

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DxOMark overall score

What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.

When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark sharpness score

What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.

When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark transmission

What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.

When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark distortion

What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.

When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark vignetting

What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.

When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED vs the average camera lens

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED better than the average camera lens?

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1 lower f-number at telephoto end
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a brighter maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/1.8 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
What it is: The widest aperture available at the long end of the zoom range, affecting light intake and background blur.
When it matters: When you shoot at the long end in low light or want stronger background blur for portraits and sports.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a brighter maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/1.8 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.1.8 vs 2.8
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
What it is: A marked scale that shows the approximate focus distance set on the lens.
When it matters: When you pre-focus manually for street, zone focusing, or repeatable tripod setups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
7 points higher DxOMark score
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (33 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.
When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (33 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.33 vs 26
115.4 g lighter
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is lighter than the average camera lens (410 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is lighter than the average camera lens (410 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.410 g vs 525.4 g
0.1 m shorter minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.2 m vs 0.3 m
1 T-stop lower transmission value
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower T-stop value than the average camera lens (2.1 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.
What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.
When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower T-stop value than the average camera lens (2.1 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.2.1 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop
11.5 mm shorter lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is shorter than the average camera lens (80.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is shorter than the average camera lens (80.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.80.5 mm vs 92 mm
16.7% higher user score
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.
When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).9.44 vs 8.09
1 lower f-number at telephoto end
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a brighter maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/1.8 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
0.1 m shorter minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.2 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
115.4 g lighter
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is lighter than the average camera lens (410 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
11.5 mm shorter lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is shorter than the average camera lens (80.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
7 points higher DxOMark score
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (33 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
1 T-stop lower transmission value
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a lower T-stop value than the average camera lens (2.1 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED worse than the average camera lens?

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2 fewer aperture blades
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
Not weather-sealed
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
5.5 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is wider than the average camera lens (82.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED was released earlier than the average camera lens.
September 2014
8.5 µm higher chromatic aberration
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (17 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.
Not weather-sealed
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.
When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
2 fewer aperture blades
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
What it is: The number of diaphragm blades that shape the aperture opening and influence blur rendering.
When it matters: When the look of out-of-focus highlights matters in portraits, close-ups, or cinematic video.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.7 vs 9
8.5 µm higher chromatic aberration
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (17 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.
What it is: The DxOMark metric that quantifies unwanted color fringing caused by different wavelengths focusing unevenly.
When it matters: When you want to avoid color fringing on high-contrast edges in backlit scenes or detailed subjects.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED has a higher chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (17 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.17 µm vs 8.5 µm
5.5 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is wider than the average camera lens (82.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED is wider than the average camera lens (82.5 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.82.5 mm vs 77 mm
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED was released earlier than the average camera lens.
September 2014
What it is: The date when the lens model was first officially introduced.
When it matters: When you prefer a newer optical design with more modern autofocus, coatings, or stabilization features.
Importance: LOW
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm F 1 8G ED was released earlier than the average camera lens.2014 vs 2016

Expert reviews

nikonians.org

17/12/2014

Summary of the review

20mm f/1.8G AF-S FX Nikkor Review – Nikonians

Performance and Resolution Overview The review highlights the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G AF-S FX Nikkor as an exceptional ultra-wide-angle prime lens that excels in optical quality and low-light shooting. In resolution testing using a classic USAF chart on a Nikon D800, the lens delivered consistently high lines-per-millimeter resolution numbers from f/1.8 all the way through f/16. It decisively outperformed the older 20mm f/2.8D AF lens at every aperture, particularly in edge resolution and sharpness falloff. When compared to professional zooms like the 14-24mm f/2.8G and the 17-35mm f/2.8, the 20mm f/1.8G retained a slight edge in center resolution, maintaining excellent corner-to-corner sharpness and very low barrel distortion. Pros and Cons Pros: The lens offers stellar wide-open sharpness at f/1.8, high resolution across all apertures, and superb control over edge distortion, making it highly effective for architectural interiors and night/astrophotography. It is also much lighter and more compact to carry around compared to heavy wide-angle zooms. Cons: The reviewer noted a slight loss of contrast when shooting wide open at f/1.8 compared to f/2.8. Additionally, as a prime lens, it lacks the...

nikonians.org

22/01/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon's New AF-S 20mm 1.8G Review – Nikonians

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED is a lightweight, compact, and affordable wide-angle prime lens optimized for FX digital imaging systems. Weighing just 12.6 ounces with a 3.2 x 3.1-inch profile, it serves as a highly portable alternative to heavier wide-angle zooms like the 14-24mm f/2.8 or 16-35mm f/4. Its standard 77mm thread allows photographers to easily attach standard filters, including UV and polarizing options, making it a highly practical choice for landscape, architectural, and astrophotography enthusiasts. In terms of performance, the lens features a quiet Silent Wave Motor with accurate autofocus and an impressive close-focusing distance of 7.8 inches. Key pros include excellent coma performance that keeps stars sharp as pinpoints for astrophotography, minimal chromatic aberration, and a Nano Crystal coat that effectively mitigates lens flare while producing dramatic sunbursts at f/16. On the downside, the primary cons involve slight light fall-off at its widest aperture of f/1.8 and a tendency to cause edge vignetting when utilizing thick filter setups, such as variable neutral density filters. Overall, it is highly recommended as a fast, well-built, professional-grade wide-angle prime...

whatdigitalcamera.com

05/03/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED review – What Digital Camera

The What Digital Camera review highlights the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED as an excellent ultra-wide prime lens tailored for 35mm full-frame DSLRs. A major pro emphasized in the review is the bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, which allows photographers to capture dimly lit landscapes, shoot low-noise astrophotography with sharp stars, and creatively isolate foreground subjects using a shallow depth of field. Optical features are also praised, particularly the Nano Crystal Coating for suppressing flare, and the inclusion of ED and aspherical elements that minimize distortion and maximize sharpness. Additionally, it features a quiet Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and a rear-focusing design, meaning the front element remains static so filter users can easily attach polarizers or ND grads. Conversely, the review notes a distinct con regarding edge performance, pointing out a noticeable drop in resolution at the very outer borders of the frame. The lens also completely lacks Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization system. However, the reviewer minimizes this omission as a secondary drawback, stating that users can comfortably shoot handheld down to 1/30sec while maintaining crisp imagery.

photographylife.com

13/11/2022

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED Review – Photography Life

The Photography Life review of the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED praises the lens for offering exceptional value, with outstanding center sharpness at f/1.8 that reaches maximum performance by f/4, along with minimal distortion and effective control over chromatic aberrations and flare. Pros include high-speed performance for landscapes, no focus shift issues, and reliable, versatile rendering. Conversely, the lens shows weak corner performance at wide apertures, particularly with visible coma at f/1.8 that necessitates stopping down to f/2.8 for astrophotography. Other cons highlighted include heavy vignetting at infinity and a lightweight, plastic-heavy construction that feels less durable than premium alternatives.

dslrbodies.com

13/12/2025

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G Lens Review | DSLRBodies | Thom Hogan

The Nikon 20mm f/1.8G is a lightweight, compact wide-angle prime lens that delivers excellent center sharpness across all apertures and impressive edge-to-edge performance when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. It is highly capable for landscape photography, featuring low, easily correctable linear barrel distortion under one percent and fast autofocus acquisition for an f/1.8 prime. Surprisingly, the lens performs exceptionally well on DX-format camera bodies, effectively operating as a sharp 30mm equivalent prime with fewer wide-open corner issues than seen on full-frame sensors. However, the lens suffers from substantial vignetting on FX bodies at f/1.8, requiring users to stop down to f/2.8 or f/4 to make the shading ignorable. Severe corner blur and field curvature are also present wide open on full-frame cameras. Additionally, video shooters will find it poorly optimized due to the lack of an aperture ring, the absence of electronic aperture control, and a tight focus ring that lacks the precision needed for fine adjustments. Other drawbacks include noticeable longitudinal chromatic aberration and a busy bokeh, alongside an inconsistent 77mm filter size that breaks uniformity with the...

havecamerawilltravel.com

17/11/2024

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S 20mm f1.8G ED Hands-on Test & Review – Have Camera Will Travel

The Have Camera Will Travel review of the Nikon AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED highlights the lens as a versatile, compact, and lightweight option for wide-angle photography, featuring a fast f/1.8 aperture for low-light scenarios and a close 7.9-inch minimum focusing distance. Tested on a D810, it is praised for producing pleasant bokeh and minimal distortion while being lighter and more travel-friendly than faster zoom alternatives. Have While performance is strong, the review notes that the lens's plastic construction is less rugged than pro-level metal alternatives. Optically, the lens exhibits noticeable corner softness and vignetting when shot wide-open at f/1.8, though these issues are effectively addressed by stopping down to smaller apertures.

cameralabs.com

13/11/2014

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G review - Cameralabs

The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 20mm f1.8G ED is a highly recommended ultra-wide prime lens designed for full-frame (FX) and crop-sensor (DX) Nikon DSLRs, filling a critical gap as Nikon’s largest aperture lens under 24mm. Tested on a 36MP D800 body, the lens offers a massive 94-degree angle of view that is excellent for expansive architecture and landscape photography. Its optical design consists of 13 elements in 11 groups, including two aspherical elements, two special glass elements, Nano-crystal coating, and a pro-standard 77mm filter thread. The lens provides an impressive 20 cm closest focusing distance with a 1:4 max magnification and includes basic weather sealing via a rubber grommet at the metal lens-mount. Physically, it weighs 355g, is built with a plastic outer barrel, and utilizes a fast, nearly silent Wave Motor auto-focus system that clocks in at 0.6 seconds from infinity to close-up. Performance testing revealed exceptional autofocus consistency at 98.1% accuracy, alongside great close-distance sharpness even when shooting wide open. However, the review highlights several optical and physical limitations. For pros, the lens exhibits visible green outlining and haloing...

dxomark.com

16/03/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED Reviews: Great results from Nikon's latest wide-angle prime

The DXOMARK review of the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED marks it as a top-performing FX-mount, ultra-wide lens, boasting a competitive 33 overall score on the Nikon D810. Featuring modern optical improvements like two ED and two AS elements, along with a quiet SWM autofocus system, this $797 lens delivers superb edge-to-edge sharpness, particularly at f/2.8. Compared to older 20mm alternatives, the lens showcases significantly improved center-to-corner resolution. Lens Rumors Key pros highlighted by DXOMARK include excellent sharpness, low distortion (0.5%), and minimal vignetting (-1.9Ev). Furthermore, the lens demonstrates good light transmission (2.1 T-Stop) and very low chromatic aberration (7µm), ranking it near the top of its class for image quality. While not explicitly listing major cons, the review positions this lens as a superior, high-aperture upgrade for Nikon users seeking top-tier wide-angle performance. Lens Rumors

henrysnote.com

23/11/2014

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm 1.8G ED - Review - Henry's Note Are you looking for information on how this lens performs on specific camera bodies or comparis...

The review on Henry's Note highlights the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED as a lightweight, compact, and highly capable ultra-wide-angle lens that offers outstanding optical performance for full-frame (FX) shooters. A major pro emphasized in the evaluation is its exceptional sharpness, which is remarkably crisp in the center of the frame even when shooting wide open at f/1.8. The lens features a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture that excels in low-light environments, provides great subject separation with smooth bokeh, and boasts a useful close-focusing distance of just 7.8 inches. Additionally, the integration of Nano Crystal Coat and ED glass elements efficiently suppresses chromatic aberrations, flare, and ghosting, while the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures swift, quiet autofocus. Despite its strong overall marks, the review identifies several notable performance cons when the lens is pushed to its limits. The most prominent drawback is the noticeable edge and corner softness when shooting at wide apertures, meaning landscape and architectural photographers will need to stop down to f/4 or f/5.6 to achieve uniform sharpness across the frame. The lens also suffers from visible...

digitalkamera.de

18/01/2016

Summary of the review

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

The Digitalkamera.de review highlights the Nikon AF-S 20 mm 1.8 G ED as a lightweight, robust, and weather-sealed ultra-wide-angle lens ideal for landscape photography, featuring fast, silent autofocus and a practical 77mm filter thread. However, the review notes significant limitations, specifically weak edge sharpness and high vignetting at the maximum f/1.8 aperture. While autofocus operates reliably, peak edge-to-edge resolution requires stopping down to f/8 or f/11, and the design is less optimized for manual focusing, according to the review.

digitalkamera.de

18/01/2016

Summary of the review

Review: Nikon AF-S 20 mm f/1.8 G ED - Digitalkamera.de

The Digitalkamera.de review highlights the Nikon AF-S 20 mm 1.8 G ED as a capable, bright aperture ultra-wide-angle prime for full-frame DSLRs, featuring exceptional resolution, low-light performance, and minimal distortion. Key advantages include its f/1.8 aperture for smooth bokeh, high sharpness across the frame, and a 0.20-meter minimum focus distance for dramatic close-ups. Conversely, the lens exhibits pronounced corner vignetting at f/1.8, which requires stopping down to resolve. While center sharpness is superb, extreme corner sharpness also benefits from stopping down, and the lens relies on some post-processing correction for minor optical artifacts.

radojuva.com

28/07/2020

Summary of the review

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

The Radojuva review of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm 1:1.8G ED N describes it as a compact, fast, ultra-wide-angle prime for full-frame cameras, featuring exceptional center sharpness at f/1.8, Nano Crystal Coat to reduce flare, fast silent autofocus, and a 20 cm minimum focusing distance. While praised for its performance, the lens exhibits significant vignetting and softer corners wide open, requiring stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 for maximum uniformity, alongside noticeable barrel distortion and a predominantly plastic construction.

dxomark.fr

01/09/2014

Summary of the review

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

The DXOMARK review highlights the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED as a high-performing ultra-wide-angle prime lens that dramatically improves upon its 20-year-old predecessor, the f/2.8D. Tested with a lab metric score of 22 when mounted on an APS-C DX body like the Nikon D5600, its optical performance is optimized directly at its maximum f/1.8 aperture. The lens benefits from a redesigned optical structure consisting of 13 elements in 11 groups, including two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and two Aspherical (AS) elements. Its core pros include a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture that provides an extra stop of light, an impressive sharpness (piqué) score of 15 P-Mpix, a highly efficient light transmission of 2.2 TStop, and a very low, easily manageable distortion rate of just 0.4%. DxOMark Despite its strong overall marks, the review identifies specific optical limitations that serve as the lens's main cons. The most notable drawback is its significant vignetting, measuring at -1 EV, which means photographers will experience noticeable corner darkening when shooting wide open. Additionally, while the integration of advanced glass elements helps control chromatic aberration, a...

digitalcamaralens.com

11/08/2015

Summary of the review

NIKKOR AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED - Review

The Digital Camera Lens review highlights the NIKKOR AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED as a highly bright, lightweight, and competitively priced ultra-wide-angle prime lens designed for Nikon FX full-frame cameras. It serves as a modern, completely redesigned replacement for older f/2.0 and f/2.8 optics, integrating a 13-element, 11-group construction into a compact footprint that weighs only 355 grams. The lens features an internal focusing design driven by a rear group arrangement that prevents the front 77mm filter thread from rotating. It is physically sealed against the elements using an internal displacement tunnel and a rubber O-ring gasket on its anodized aluminum bayonet mount. The review identifies several notable advantages and drawbacks for real-world usability. On the pros side, the lens delivers a remarkably bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, a very wide 90-degree horizontal field of view, and an impressively close minimum focusing distance of just 20 cm. Its ergonomics are bolstered by a responsive manual focus ring featuring a 1/2 reduction gear, a physical distance window, and full-time manual override capabilities while in autofocus mode. On the cons side, the lens body...

nikonistas.com

09/09/2014

Summary of the review

Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED AF-S Lens - Optics - Nikonistas.com

The Nikkor 20 mm f/1.8 G ED AF-S is a lightweight, ultra-wide-angle prime lens designed for FX-format sensors that provides a 94º angle of view and functions as a 30 mm equivalent lens on DX-format bodies. Originally released in late 2014 to replace the older f/2.8 D version, the lens features an optical construction of 13 elements in 11 groups—including two ED elements, two aspherical elements, and Nano Crystal Coat—along with a rounded 7-blade diaphragm and a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast autofocus. Reviewers and forum users highlight its superb optical sharpness and excellent image resolution even when shooting wide open at f/1.8. Its remarkably short minimum focusing distance of 0.20 meters allows photographers to get incredibly close to subjects to produce beautiful, smooth background blur that is typically rare for an ultra-wide lens. It is heavily praised as a highly versatile option for landscape, interior, night sky, astrophotography, and street photography. The primary pros of the lens include its outstanding sharpness at wide apertures, very well-controlled chromatic aberration, low distortion, minimal vignetting above f/2, and its fast, quiet...

radojuva.com

28/07/2020

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED N is a lightweight, ultra-wide prime lens praised for its high center sharpness, fast f/1.8 aperture, and effective Nano Crystal Coat to reduce flare. It features a 0.2-meter minimum focus distance and fast, quiet autofocus, making it suitable for low-light, interior, and creative close-up photography. YouTube · On the downside, the lens utilizes a plastic build rather than a "tank-like" metal construction. It suffers from significant vignetting and soft corners at f/1.8, notable focus breathing, and a short manual focus throw that hampers precise adjustments, particularly for astrophotography.

saggiamente.com

03/10/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED Review: An Affordable, Quality Wide-Angle Lens

The Saggiamente review highlights the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED as a high-utility, lightweight prime featuring outstanding central sharpness even at f/1.8 and effective flare suppression via Nano Crystal Coating. Key advantages include a versatile 20cm minimum focus distance and a standard 77mm filter thread, making it ideal for creative, close-up wide-angle shots without requiring specialized adapter systems. YouTube ·Scott J. Waldron 📷 Conversely, the lens shows significant vignetting and softer corners at maximum aperture, requiring stopping down to f/4 or smaller for optimal landscape resolution. While highly portable, the predominantly plastic construction may feel less durable to professionals compared to metal-built alternatives.

nikonland.it

29/01/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G AF-S ED: By Popular Demand!

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED is a fast ultra-wide-angle lens that offers significant modern upgrades over its 20-year-old predecessor, the 20mm f/2.8 AFD. Built with a completely renewed optical formula consisting of 13 elements in 11 groups—including two ED glass elements, two aspherical lenses, and Nano Crystal Coat—it represents a major physical and optical redesign. On the plus side, the reviewer heavily praises the lens's outstanding optical performance, noting excellent sharpness, contrast, and vastly improved handling of distortion, vignetting, chromatic aberration, and flare resistance compared to the older model. Additionally, it offers a bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, a shorter minimum focusing distance of 20cm (down from 25cm), and an exceptionally fast and responsive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus system, which the reviewer considers the fastest among Nikon's prime lenses. Conversely, the lens has a few notable downsides related to its physical build and manual handling. Due to its wide aperture design, it is significantly larger and bulkier than the old f/2.8 lens, and its filter thread size has grown from 62mm to a much larger 77mm. It is...

nikonland.it

12/12/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G vs Sigma 20mm f/1.4 Art

This 2015 review evaluates the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G AFS-ED and the Sigma 20mm f/1.4 Art lenses on a Nikon Df camera, while occasionally referencing the older Nikon 20mm f/2.8 AFD. The Sigma 20mm f/1.4 Art stands out for its exceptional f/1.4 maximum aperture, advanced optical formula with 15 elements, and robust all-metal build. Reviewer Max Aquila highlights its neutral white reproduction, superior distortion correction, and excellent capability for capturing wide environmental portraits with smooth tonal transitions. However, its heavy metal barrel makes it physically "giunonic," weighing a substantial 950 grams and featuring a fixed lens hood that prevents standard filter attachments. Additionally, it has a longer minimum focusing distance of 27.5 cm and tends to slightly overexpose images compared to the Nikon lens. In contrast, the Nikon 20mm f/1.8G is praised for its incredibly lightweight design at just 378 grams and its highly useful, short minimum focusing distance of 20 cm, which allows photographers to capture high-impact close-ups with a compelling bokeh effect. Its images deliver strong contrast, high saturation, and excellent flare control right out of the camera. On...

tecnicafotografica.dndcom.com

N/D

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED is a lightweight, compact wide-angle lens weighing 335 grams that balances well on both full-frame (FX) and APS-C (DX) sensor bodies. It is highly recommended for landscape, reportage, architectural, interior, and astrophotography due to its wide perspective and fast f/1.8 maximum aperture. Equipped with an advanced optical formula featuring two aspherical elements, two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements, and Nano Crystal Coating, the lens delivers excellent sharpness across all apertures and produces rich colors with minimal flare, even when shooting into direct light. It also boasts a short minimum focusing distance of 20 centimeters, allowing for unique close-up shots that isolate foreground subjects while preserving the broader environmental context. The primary advantages of this lens include its swift, silent, and precise Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus system, its vibrant color rendering, and its lightweight portability for long walks. However, its plastic construction can make it feel less solid to hold compared to alternative options, and it entirely lacks weather sealing (weatherproofing) and built-in vibration reduction. Additionally, it exhibits noticeable perspective line convergence typical of...

digifotopro.nl

05/02/2018

Summary of the review

Nikkor 20mm F/1.8G ED Review: A True All-Rounder

The Nikkor 20mm F/1.8G ED is a highly versatile, lightweight ultra-wide-angle lens designed for reportage, expansive landscapes, cityscapes, and drone photography. Mechanically, it features a durable yet light build constructed from high-strength plastics, weighing approximately 355 grams and supporting a 77mm filter size. Optically, the lens functions like a chameleon. When shot wide open at f/1.8, it deliberately prioritizes a smooth and appealing bokeh—aided by seven rounded aperture blades—making it surprisingly well-suited for environmental portraiture despite some minor softness and sferic aberrations in the corners. When stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8, it transitions into a landscape powerhouse, delivering exceptionally sharp, high-contrast imagery from the center all the way out to the edges. The review highlights several clear advantages and drawbacks for prospective buyers: Pros: Excellent Center Sharpness: Achieves outstanding sharpness across the frame when stopped down to f/5.6 and f/8. Superb Backlight Resistance: Highly immune to flare, ghosting, and reflections, making it an excellent choice for unpredictable outdoor lighting. Lightweight & Functional Build: Weighs only 355g, making it highly portable, drone-friendly, and comes bundled with a lens hood and...

kamera-express.be

10/08/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S 20mm F/1.8G ED FX - Camera Express

The Nikon AF-S 20mm f/1.8G ED FX is a lightweight, ultra-wide-angle prime for full-frame DSLRs featuring a fast f/1.8 aperture for exceptional low-light performance,, rapid SWM autofocus, and a 20cm minimum focus distance. It provides superb center sharpness, excellent contrast, and accepts 77mm filters. YouTube · However, the lens exhibits significant vignetting and corner softness wide open, requiring stopping down to f/2.8 or f/4 for improved edge performance. Additionally, it shows coma in the corners, which may require stopping down to f/2.5 for astrophotography, and has a predominantly plastic construction.

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