The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens is a fast aperture standard zoom lens designed for photojournalism and general photography. Optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both the Nikon FX (full-frame) and DX-format image sensors, this lens also includes two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements and PGM aspherical lenses that help control chromatic aberrations while enhancing sharpness and contrast, even at the widest aperture settings.
The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) feature provides swift autofocus with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation. This G-type lens does not feature an aperture ring on the lens body, resulting in a lighter and more compact lens. Aperture changes are designed to be done via the camera's command dial.
Note:
AF-S feature is not supported by certain older camera models. Please
click here for a list of compatible models.
"G" type lenses are not fully compatible with the F4, N90-series, N70, N8008-series and N6006 (or older model) cameras, only programmed auto or shutter-priority auto exposure mode can be used.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 24 - 70 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon FX/35mm Film Nikon DX |
| Angle of View |
84° - 34° DX Picture Angle: 61° - 22° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.25' (38 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.27x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.7 |
| Groups/Elements | 11/15 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.3 x 5.2" (8.38 x 13.21 cm) |
| Weight | 1.98 lb (900 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
BELIEVE THE HYPE!!
As a preface to the review let me say that I am a full-time professional photojournalist and publish images weekly in glossy magazines and newspapers in most major countries. That being said, this review ...Read complete review
As a preface to the review let me say that I am a full-time professional photojournalist and publish images weekly in glossy magazines and newspapers in most major countries. That being said, this review is for anyone interested but the application of the lens falls in the realm of "heavy use" under ALL conditions (Rain, humidity, sand, dust, heat, cold, inside my bag on my shoulder)
I have written before that I typically HATE zoom lenses because I am a snob for primes. Though, I believe Nikon has always produced superb zoom lenses in very utilitarian focal lengths for professionals and discriminating amateurs alike.
I Read the reviews and not surprised at the raves! So I headed to my local to rent this lens for a week-long assignment. I ended up buying this lens and yanking my deposit on a 24mm f1.4 having been so pleased.
Also, keep in mind I owned the 17-35 2.8 and the 28-70 2.8 years ago and loved them both but always considered them like hammers....just to get a job done. So I have solid footing in comparing the lens to previous Nikon zooms used in the same setting
* Build & Quality is Second only to something Zeiss, or Leica makes. For an AF professional lens, it is WORTH EVERY PENNY in this department. Well balanced in your hand, Sturdy "drum-tight" construction with ample seals. The circumference of the lens makes handling a snap both on and off the body especially considering the weight. Nikon scored BIG with the design in that typically lenses in this class and aperture rating are short and fat and of course relatively heavy. Though not at all excessive, the weight is a reality of producing incredible images and even many amateurs have come to realize a little extra weight in the bag is well worth it.
The focus ring surface is tacky, and moves smoothly when rotated. Silent with no hesitations. There is enough resistance for fast accurate manual adjustments.
The Zoom Ring is PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT!!! For me, I wish my 70-200 VRII Zoom Ring was as good! Smooth as butter with the perfect calibration of resistance. Close your eyes and practice you can practically hit the mark as you go from 24 to 70. The reduced circumference of the lens makes zooming the full range a precise single steady turn. Its the first lens I have been able to zoom while using my AF rear focus switch and get EVERY SHOT in focus on the first time. Again, the rubber is tacky and textured with a beveled edge for using your thumb or full hand or any style to get effective turns fast and accurate over a wide surface.
*The supplied accessories are as usual for Nikon; Excellent. The hood is easy to engage with wide threads and finally a decent lock that wont back out on you. I don't use the carry case but its certainly a nice supplied accessory made of ballistic nylon. I have seen shooters use them in the field for years without any problems so I guess they are rather useful.
* IMAGE QUALITY: well, I rented first as stated before and that sample knocked my socks off!! I tested my sample in the field and in my studio for a couple weeks now and they are the same. I Can't find a weakness in a single aperture for this lens at any focal length. Images are sharp with color reproduction being spot on! The bokeh produced is excellent at all focal lengths to boot.
I have opted for Wide Open 2.8 in Many instances where a flash could have easily been used. As many know 2.8 can be a nail-biter for press shooters at that shallow DOF we get worried and I can tell you this lens has earned my total trust. Images shot wide open are TACK SHARP!
*AF SYSTEM: As fast as can be. NEVER a problem keeping up even in high contrast and tricky situations. Unbelievably quiet you have to just engage the AF and look at the distance scale for fun!
Well that's my .02 and I am not a professional review guy so if I left anything out now let me say I have No Complaints ONLY RAVES. I LOVE THIS LENS AND FULLY TRUST IT.
There is NOTHING WORSE when you combine the variables of conditions and operator error etc with gear that can't be relied upon EVERY TIME. Well, this lens lets you worry about the externals and you can rest assured when you pull this out of your bag its all about YOU and the situation you are shooting.
5 stars across the board
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems
Optically outstanding from 30-60mm; "primelike" Image Quality.
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems, sometimes right out of the box. Mine developed an increasingly stiff zoom ring. A review ...Read complete review
Optically outstanding from 30-60mm; "primelike" Image Quality.
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems, sometimes right out of the box. Mine developed an increasingly stiff zoom ring. A review shows that this is a disturbingly common 24-70 problem (do a google search: "Nikon 24-70 zoom ring problem"). While some of the stiff zoom rings were repaired under warranty, many were not. Nikon will then claim "impact damage" as the cause, even if the only impact had been taking the lens off and on the camera and other types of "normal use".
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 1413 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Great Lens. Every day user.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Hadn't fully taken advantage of my D800 til I bought this lens!!! Amazing, crystal clear images. Shot f2.8, @1/25th, hand-held, no flash of interior of abandoned house and the images couldn't have been any better! shooting first wedding with it today! cannot wait!!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Landscape photography
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
If you search other reviews of this lens, you'll find lots and lots of pros who swear by it, and there's a reason why: this is an incredibly flexible, useful, and versatile lens. It's fast, it's sharp across the frame and nearly across the full zoom range, and autofocus speed is second to none. If you're not a working pro, you can sure look like one with this lens on your camera.
The biggest downside is that this lens is huge and heavy. It is nearly 2 pounds of metal and glass all by itself. I think it balances nicely on a D600 body, but anything lighter and I think it'll feel out-of-balance. I'd also highly recommend upgrading your camera strap if you're considering this lens, since the OEM strap with most Nikons is going to be really uncomfortable and unwieldy if you're going to be walking around with this lens all day.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Being a prime lens lover the most I can give any zoom will be 4 stars. That being said, this lens is FAST and SHARP, built like a brick outhouse, this lens is ready for anything you can throw at it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
My D300 and 17-55 f/2.8 took thousands of photos for me before being stolen. Bought a D70 from and friend and this 24-70 lens and it is awesome!! I love it!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Updated older lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Yes, it is on the pricey end of the camera, BUT it really worth it, and I think it is the lens for people who is serious about taking Digital Photography. I'm still learning everyday on taking pictures but it is certainly helps to expand horizon on digital photography and let me see how much more I can do.... it is the best lens I ever get hands down
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Great for landscape, portrait, just about anything!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
The Nikon Nikkor 24-70 2.8 is a must have for any photographer who is serious about achieving a no nonsense professional quality result! You could do a whole wedding with just this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This is what i am looking for. But it has one cons. You cannot use cheap lenses after this one. None of them makes you happy. I have tried some of my friends cheap nikon lenses but They are not satisfying me. looks like I have to buy other high class lenses too.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Is it sharp?...YESDoes it produce great color?...Yes Is it perfect?...NO, not for me.I have the D800 and I like to use the on board flash at times. At less than 35mm, dark shadows appear at the bottom of the images. This was a huge disappointment for me. From 35-70mm, it is great with the flash but I did not spend this much money to be limited by this design issue. The one at the B&H store that I tried on my camera seemed to focus immediately with no hunting, but this one seems to hunt for focus. Unfortunately, I did not try it out using the flash while in the store.I have not had it long enough to evaluate it beyond the most general usage. I am still trying to decide if I will keep it. I love the sharpness but hate the inability to use the on board flash for less than 35mm. I have an auxiliary flash, but when traveling,it is just way too heavy on top of the weight of the camera and this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
It's definitely worth the money.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This lens is reasonably crisp for a zoomable tube and fast (f/2.8).
It covers much of your most important "everyday" focal lengths and is my most used non-prime lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Upgraded from my 24-120 to compliment the lineup I already own. Marked improvement on quality, sharpness all around, and contrast.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
I don't know why I waited so long to get this lens, oh yeah, it's expensive. But you do get what you pay for and this lens is awesome. It fills out my arsenal of lenses from 10-24 up to 80-200 @ 2.8 . Buy it now, you won't regret it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This is a fast lens with a solid construction. I use it most of the time taking pictures of my kids. It's very fast and very quite when focusing. It's smooth zooming in and out. I love this lens so far. I have nothing to go against it.I wish Nikon have this version in VR, but it may cost a fortune. The only down side is its weight. It's heavy.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
As a Wedding photographer and portrait photographer this lense gets the job done and it is crystal clear.. had a lump in my throat buying it but now it has a place in my heart.. glad I bought it ten folds..
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Sharp, Sharp, Sharp... Beautiful colors.. Use it as my daily walk around lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Shot a wedding with this lens for the first time this weekend and I'm so pleased with the results. This lens is tack sharp. Nice focal range. No regrets.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
BELIEVE THE HYPE!!
As a preface to the review let me say that I am a full-time professional photojournalist and publish images weekly in glossy magazines and newspapers in most major countries. That being said, this review ...Read complete review
As a preface to the review let me say that I am a full-time professional photojournalist and publish images weekly in glossy magazines and newspapers in most major countries. That being said, this review is for anyone interested but the application of the lens falls in the realm of "heavy use" under ALL conditions (Rain, humidity, sand, dust, heat, cold, inside my bag on my shoulder)
I have written before that I typically HATE zoom lenses because I am a snob for primes. Though, I believe Nikon has always produced superb zoom lenses in very utilitarian focal lengths for professionals and discriminating amateurs alike.
I Read the reviews and not surprised at the raves! So I headed to my local to rent this lens for a week-long assignment. I ended up buying this lens and yanking my deposit on a 24mm f1.4 having been so pleased.
Also, keep in mind I owned the 17-35 2.8 and the 28-70 2.8 years ago and loved them both but always considered them like hammers....just to get a job done. So I have solid footing in comparing the lens to previous Nikon zooms used in the same setting
* Build & Quality is Second only to something Zeiss, or Leica makes. For an AF professional lens, it is WORTH EVERY PENNY in this department. Well balanced in your hand, Sturdy "drum-tight" construction with ample seals. The circumference of the lens makes handling a snap both on and off the body especially considering the weight. Nikon scored BIG with the design in that typically lenses in this class and aperture rating are short and fat and of course relatively heavy. Though not at all excessive, the weight is a reality of producing incredible images and even many amateurs have come to realize a little extra weight in the bag is well worth it.
The focus ring surface is tacky, and moves smoothly when rotated. Silent with no hesitations. There is enough resistance for fast accurate manual adjustments.
The Zoom Ring is PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT!!! For me, I wish my 70-200 VRII Zoom Ring was as good! Smooth as butter with the perfect calibration of resistance. Close your eyes and practice you can practically hit the mark as you go from 24 to 70. The reduced circumference of the lens makes zooming the full range a precise single steady turn. Its the first lens I have been able to zoom while using my AF rear focus switch and get EVERY SHOT in focus on the first time. Again, the rubber is tacky and textured with a beveled edge for using your thumb or full hand or any style to get effective turns fast and accurate over a wide surface.
*The supplied accessories are as usual for Nikon; Excellent. The hood is easy to engage with wide threads and finally a decent lock that wont back out on you. I don't use the carry case but its certainly a nice supplied accessory made of ballistic nylon. I have seen shooters use them in the field for years without any problems so I guess they are rather useful.
* IMAGE QUALITY: well, I rented first as stated before and that sample knocked my socks off!! I tested my sample in the field and in my studio for a couple weeks now and they are the same. I Can't find a weakness in a single aperture for this lens at any focal length. Images are sharp with color reproduction being spot on! The bokeh produced is excellent at all focal lengths to boot.
I have opted for Wide Open 2.8 in Many instances where a flash could have easily been used. As many know 2.8 can be a nail-biter for press shooters at that shallow DOF we get worried and I can tell you this lens has earned my total trust. Images shot wide open are TACK SHARP!
*AF SYSTEM: As fast as can be. NEVER a problem keeping up even in high contrast and tricky situations. Unbelievably quiet you have to just engage the AF and look at the distance scale for fun!
Well that's my .02 and I am not a professional review guy so if I left anything out now let me say I have No Complaints ONLY RAVES. I LOVE THIS LENS AND FULLY TRUST IT.
There is NOTHING WORSE when you combine the variables of conditions and operator error etc with gear that can't be relied upon EVERY TIME. Well, this lens lets you worry about the externals and you can rest assured when you pull this out of your bag its all about YOU and the situation you are shooting.
5 stars across the board
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems
Optically outstanding from 30-60mm; "primelike" Image Quality.
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems, sometimes right out of the box. Mine developed an increasingly stiff zoom ring. A review ...Read complete review
Optically outstanding from 30-60mm; "primelike" Image Quality.
Beware of stiff zoom ring problems, sometimes right out of the box. Mine developed an increasingly stiff zoom ring. A review shows that this is a disturbingly common 24-70 problem (do a google search: "Nikon 24-70 zoom ring problem"). While some of the stiff zoom rings were repaired under warranty, many were not. Nikon will then claim "impact damage" as the cause, even if the only impact had been taking the lens off and on the camera and other types of "normal use".
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 1413 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Great Lens. Every day user.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Hadn't fully taken advantage of my D800 til I bought this lens!!! Amazing, crystal clear images. Shot f2.8, @1/25th, hand-held, no flash of interior of abandoned house and the images couldn't have been any better! shooting first wedding with it today! cannot wait!!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Landscape photography
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
If you search other reviews of this lens, you'll find lots and lots of pros who swear by it, and there's a reason why: this is an incredibly flexible, useful, and versatile lens. It's fast, it's sharp across the frame and nearly across the full zoom range, and autofocus speed is second to none. If you're not a working pro, you can sure look like one with this lens on your camera.
The biggest downside is that this lens is huge and heavy. It is nearly 2 pounds of metal and glass all by itself. I think it balances nicely on a D600 body, but anything lighter and I think it'll feel out-of-balance. I'd also highly recommend upgrading your camera strap if you're considering this lens, since the OEM strap with most Nikons is going to be really uncomfortable and unwieldy if you're going to be walking around with this lens all day.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Being a prime lens lover the most I can give any zoom will be 4 stars. That being said, this lens is FAST and SHARP, built like a brick outhouse, this lens is ready for anything you can throw at it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
My D300 and 17-55 f/2.8 took thousands of photos for me before being stolen. Bought a D70 from and friend and this 24-70 lens and it is awesome!! I love it!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Updated older lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Yes, it is on the pricey end of the camera, BUT it really worth it, and I think it is the lens for people who is serious about taking Digital Photography. I'm still learning everyday on taking pictures but it is certainly helps to expand horizon on digital photography and let me see how much more I can do.... it is the best lens I ever get hands down
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Great for landscape, portrait, just about anything!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
The Nikon Nikkor 24-70 2.8 is a must have for any photographer who is serious about achieving a no nonsense professional quality result! You could do a whole wedding with just this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This is what i am looking for. But it has one cons. You cannot use cheap lenses after this one. None of them makes you happy. I have tried some of my friends cheap nikon lenses but They are not satisfying me. looks like I have to buy other high class lenses too.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Is it sharp?...YESDoes it produce great color?...Yes Is it perfect?...NO, not for me.I have the D800 and I like to use the on board flash at times. At less than 35mm, dark shadows appear at the bottom of the images. This was a huge disappointment for me. From 35-70mm, it is great with the flash but I did not spend this much money to be limited by this design issue. The one at the B&H store that I tried on my camera seemed to focus immediately with no hunting, but this one seems to hunt for focus. Unfortunately, I did not try it out using the flash while in the store.I have not had it long enough to evaluate it beyond the most general usage. I am still trying to decide if I will keep it. I love the sharpness but hate the inability to use the on board flash for less than 35mm. I have an auxiliary flash, but when traveling,it is just way too heavy on top of the weight of the camera and this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
It's definitely worth the money.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This lens is reasonably crisp for a zoomable tube and fast (f/2.8).
It covers much of your most important "everyday" focal lengths and is my most used non-prime lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Upgraded from my 24-120 to compliment the lineup I already own. Marked improvement on quality, sharpness all around, and contrast.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
I don't know why I waited so long to get this lens, oh yeah, it's expensive. But you do get what you pay for and this lens is awesome. It fills out my arsenal of lenses from 10-24 up to 80-200 @ 2.8 . Buy it now, you won't regret it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
This is a fast lens with a solid construction. I use it most of the time taking pictures of my kids. It's very fast and very quite when focusing. It's smooth zooming in and out. I love this lens so far. I have nothing to go against it.I wish Nikon have this version in VR, but it may cost a fortune. The only down side is its weight. It's heavy.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
As a Wedding photographer and portrait photographer this lense gets the job done and it is crystal clear.. had a lump in my throat buying it but now it has a place in my heart.. glad I bought it ten folds..
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Sharp, Sharp, Sharp... Beautiful colors.. Use it as my daily walk around lens
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Autofocus Lens (Black):
Shot a wedding with this lens for the first time this weekend and I'm so pleased with the results. This lens is tack sharp. Nice focal range. No regrets.