June 4, 2017

Nikkor 20mm lenses

There are quite a few. The 20mm f/2.8 AIS lens is supposed to be a great classic, but they seem to sell for $300 on Ebay. The older 20mm UD f/3.5 is more affordable and also highly regarded.

Nikkor 20mm UD f/3.5 lens (non-AI)

This is another fine Nikkor lens from the old days (1967 - 1974).

UD is a code for an 11 element lens (not "ultra dispersion" glass as you might think.) It has a 72mm filter size.

Bear in mind that, if like me, you are considering getting this to use on a Sony mirrorless camera, there is a 19mm Sigma E mount lens available for $200 that is lighter and decent, with autofocus.

There are a number of 20mm Nikkor lenses.

The f/2.8 AIS version is probably the best, but is more prone to flare and ghosting than the f/3.5.

There is a smaller f/3.5 AI version with 52mm filter threads that is fine for closeups, but not so much for landscapes due to severe field curvature.

There is also a "petite" f/4 version with variable reports on performance.

There is a 21mm lens that should be avoided at all costs. It had to be used on film cameras with the mirror locked up, and will damage the reflex mirror on any digital SLR. It might work just fine on mirrorless cameras.

Feedback? Questions? Drop me a line!

Tom's Digital Photography Info / tom@mmto.org