Nikon 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6 DX VR Review

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Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR Specifications

Lens Specifications
Lens TypeZoom Lens
Focal Length10-20mm
Mount TypeNikon F
FormatAPS-C / DX
Compatible Format(s)APS-C
Compatible with TeleconvertersNo
Zoom Ratio2x
Maximum Reproduction Ratio0.17x
Vibration Reduction (Image Stabilization)No
Aperture Information
Aperture RingNo
Maximim Aperturef/4.5
Minimum Aperturef/29
Maximum Angle of View (APS-C or smaller format)109°
Minimum Angle of View (APS-C or smaller format)70°
Optical Information
Lens Elements14
Lens Groups11
Diaphragm Blades7 (Rounded)
Aspherical Elements3
Super Integrated Coat (SIC)Yes
Focus Information
FocusAutofocus
Built-in Focus MotorYes
Pulse Motor (AF-P)Yes
Internal FocusingYes
Minimum Focus Distance0.8 ft. (0.22 m)
Focus Mode SwitchAuto / Manual
G-typeYes
Filter Information
Filter Size72mm
Accepts Filter TypeScrew-on
Physical Characteristics
Weather / Dust SealingNo
Mount MaterialPlastic
Dimensions3.0 in. (77 mm) x 2.8 in. (73 mm)
Weight8.2 oz. (230 g)
Other Information
Available in ColorsBlack

There are 14 elements in 11 groups, including 3 Aspherical elements. How Nikon managed to put all the glass elements including VR reduction into such a tiny body is a puzzle to me. The diaphragm comprises of 7 rounded blades. See what it entails in the chapter on “flare and the front-light handling”. This lens comes with HB-81 Bayonet Lens Hood (included in the price).

Since it is a variable aperture lens, the focal length on it changes as you zoom in from f/4.5 to f/5.6 on the long end:

  • 10 mm – f/4.5
  • 11 mm – f/4.8
  • 13 mm – f/5
  • 15mm – f/5.3
  • 18,5mm – f/5,6

Compared to the previous DX wide-zoom 10-24mm AF-S G, and the even older DX 12-24mm AF-S G, this new version offers a slower aperture at wide end (f/4.5 instead of f/3.5). For landscape photography use, this makes barely a difference. The only noticeable difference of 0,7 EV might be in indoor-action photography or astrophotography, but here neither of the DX Nikon lenses will do a great job.

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