Lens Summary
Brand: Nikon
Also Known As: Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G
Lens Type: Zoom Lens
Format: APS-C / DX
Focus: Autofocus
Lens Mount: Nikon F
Release Date: 2003-07-22
MSRP Price: $1449
Made in: Japan
Infrared Rating: Good
Production Status: In Production
Lens Description: This high-performance, wide-angle zoom is designed exclusively for use with Nikon’s DX-format, is fast and versatile for travel and portrait work
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Specifications
| Lens Specifications | |
|---|---|
| * Supplied accessories may differ depending on country or area | |
| Lens Type | Zoom Lens |
| Focal Length | 17-55mm |
| Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format | APS-C / DX |
| Compatible Format(s) | DX, FX in DX Crop Mode |
| Compatible with Teleconverters | No |
| Zoom Ratio | 3.2x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 0.20x |
| Vibration Reduction (Image Stabilization) | No |
| Aperture Information | |
| Aperture Ring | No |
| Maximim Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
| Maximum Angle of View (APS-C or smaller format) | 79° |
| Minimum Angle of View (APS-C or smaller format) | 28°50' |
| Optical Information | |
| Lens Elements | 14 |
| Lens Groups | 10 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Elements | 3 |
| Aspherical Elements | 3 |
| Super Integrated Coat (SIC) | Yes |
| Focus Information | |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Built-in Focus Motor | Yes |
| Silent Wave Motor (SWM) | Yes |
| Internal Focusing | Yes |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.2 ft. (0.36m) |
| Focus Mode Switch | Auto, Manual, Auto/Manual |
| G-type | Yes |
| Distance Information | Yes |
| Filter Information | |
| Filter Size | 77mm |
| Accepts Filter Type | Screw-on |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Weather / Dust Sealing | Yes |
| Mount Material | Metal |
| Dimensions | (Approx.) 3.4x4.4 in. (Diameter x Length) 85.5x110.5mm (Diameter x Length) |
| Weight | (Approx.) 26.6 oz. (755g) |
| Other Information | |
| Available in Colors | Black |
| Supplied Accessories | HB-31 Hood, CL-1120 Case, 77mm lens cap, Rear lens cap |
Lens Construction
MTF Chart
It’s my new go to lens! Very smooth zoom ring, but stiff enough that it doesn’t bump out of place. The construction is insane, it truly is a tank of a lens, but definitely worth it if you plan on taking it out to play. My only concern going in is that this lens does not have VR, which third party lenses have for a significantly cheaper price. Because of how I use this lens it isn’t as much of an issue for me, but something to consider if it will make a difference in your work! Check the used market first for a good deal!
I do not know how you can consider this outdated lens, it is by far the best medium zoom lens in the Dx format, no other achieves the MTF values of this lens, there is not even another lens with aperture 2.8 at all focal lengths, yes it is heavy, but as any photographer knows, a lens with good glass and professional construction (Metal, not plastic) is heavy.
Probably Nikon’s best DX zoom lens, made back when Nikon didn’t make a full-frame camera.
(I suspect if Nikon didn’t move up to Full-Frame sensors, they would have other options with this quality.)
This is a pro lens in every way: constant maximum 2.8 aperture, weather sealed at the mount, ED glass, built to take the professional use for which it was intended.
Very sharp lens and very heavy. Has some distortion at 17mm, Very expensive lens in this category. I have compared with cheaper Sigma 17-50 2.8 and Nikon35mm 1.8, both lenses are almost 90% closer to this lens. Not sure why Nikon kept it very expensive about $1400, if you can get an used lens at about $600 – $800 then it really worth buying. Overall its a good lens.
Optimal focal length for any DX body esp D7000 and higher.
Truly sharp lens above the rest of DX mid range zooms.