Lens Summary
Brand: Nikon
Also Known As: Nikon 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D IF
Lens Type: Zoom Lens
Format: Full Frame / FX
Focus: Autofocus
Lens Mount: Nikon F
Release Date: 2002-02-03
MSRP Price: $188
Made in: Japan
Production Status: Discontinued
Lens Description: Provides maximum 1:2 reproduction ratio from 50-105mmrn. Hybrid-type aspherical lens element for minimized distortionrnI-F (Internal Focusing) technology for fast AF operationrn. Nine-blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural
Nikon AF NIKKOR AF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D IF Specifications
| Lens Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lens Type | Zoom Lens |
| Focal Length | 28-105mm |
| Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format | Full Frame / FX |
| Compatible Format(s) | Full Frame / APS-C |
| Compatible with Teleconverters | No |
| Zoom Ratio | 3.75x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:2 |
| Vibration Reduction (Image Stabilization) | No |
| Aperture Information | |
| Aperture Ring | Yes |
| Maximim Aperture | f/3.5-f/4.5 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
| Maximum Angle of View (Full frame or larger format) | 74°-23 |
| Optical Information | |
| Lens Elements | 16 |
| Lens Groups | 12 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Aspherical Elements | 1 |
| Focus Information | |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Built-in Focus Motor | Yes |
| Internal Focusing | Yes |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.5m |
| Distance Information | Yes |
| Filter Information | |
| Filter Size | 62mm |
| Accepts Filter Type | Screw-on |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Weather / Dust Sealing | No |
| Mount Material | Metal |
| Dimensions | 73×81.5mm |
| Weight | 455g |
| Other Information | |
| Available in Colors | Black |
Lens Construction
MTF Chart
The first one of these I had was noticably soft on the right side. The second, a gift from a friend, is excelent. There are a masive sample variations on this lens: if you can find a good one, you’re set.
It really depends on getting a good copy. Nikon created a “swiss army knife” lens with a complex design in a product created to be a mid-level kit lens. I have read reviews saying everything from “It’s fantastic, and better than the 24-120 F/4” to “It’s very unimpressive.” Well, they’re all correct. In my experience, the sample variation is quite significant.
It took me three tries, but I finally got an excellent copy. WOW. From F/5.6 to F/11, it is nearly as sharp as my 50MM 1.8D. Great color rendition, too. Excellent performance at all focal lengths (for a zoom) in a one pound package. So if you’re willing to buy three or four of these from places that accept returns (and potentially pay return shipping on all but one), you can get an absolutely terrific, lightweight lens for well under $150. If you don’t want to put the time and effort into finding a good copy, I’d recommend passing on this lens.
Just got one in mint conditions for about $70, and must say, i have been really impressed by it, considering that is an old lens, Decently fast AF, Even in low light, sharp, sharp, great Nikon color rendering and contrast, Small size, Useful focal range, “Macro” Function, what else you can ask for such a price? Yes, its not a f/2.8, but, come on…. Together with her smaller sister (which this one replaced) the 28-70 f/3.5-4.5D (Also 9 blades diaphragm), are 2 little gems that you can get for very cheap price but perform as goog as much more expansive lenses.
Same here. Bought it for 70 € with Shipping, incl. original Nikon Box, Caps, even warranty card, plus the (optional) HB-18 Lens Hood, all into excellent condition, like new. For that price, it was a steal.
I have a 24-70 F2.8 and various professional lenses. I bought this off an Indian psychiatrist in absolute mint condition for AUD$150 to go with my 60mm D macro. I guess it’s an emotional attachment to the D series lenses. I like the manual aperture ring and so on – and in this case the manual macro switch. When I tested it, I found the results pretty unimpressive; I then calibrated it carefully using a Spyder lens cal and found it to be about -9 on my D800e and the same on my D750.
I was astounded at the difference calibration made. I’ve owned the 24-85 VR but didn’t really like the plastic build and thought the image quality was average. Of course the 28-105 isn’t stablized, nonetheless I think it’s a precision piece of optical equipment. If used thoughtfully, focused properly and without unrealistic expectations it’s a surprisingly good lens for a very low price. Highly recommended if you get a good one and make sure it’s calibrated accurately.
Here is a shot on my D800e
www.flickr.com/photo…080726302/
Sample Images taken with the lens
www.flickr.com/photo…299723546/
www.flickr.com/photo…106665861/
I´m using this lens in my new nikon d610 and i found that in the macro function it has sharp focus just in the central part of the photography, the rest is out-of-focus. Can you help me. I want to know if it´s normal.
I have had this lens since it was introduced and i find it to be on my camera most of the time. I would say it is a great “Walk around lens” as it is compact and really good performer. Yes the lack of VR might be a big deal to some, if low light is the way you shoot. The good zoom range and fine macro are really great for such a compact lens. I have a great number of landscape and macro shot with this lens.
Will this work as a good walkaround lens with a D600? Between this and the 24-85 VR which one would have better IQ?
Anirban,
you will most likely be better off with the Nikkor 24-85mm VR, I must say. The 28-105mm is not a bad lens, but it is quite old. The newer 24-85 has certain advantages, like the VR and wider angle of view. It also has Nikon’s SWM for silent focusing with manual override. You can read our review by clicking here. If you live in US, you can save a bit on the lens by purchasing it from B&H with some instant savings. If your budget allows, the best option for a walk-around lens is probably the AF-S 24-120mm f/4 VR lens (click here for our review), and it is also part of the previously mentioned rebates program ($300 off regular price). I hope my answer was helpful!