Hello friends! If you’re like me and love photography, you’ve probably come across the Nikon 24mm AI-S lenses. These are classic manual focus lenses from Nikon’s legendary AI-S series, and today, we’re talking about two popular options—the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S vs Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S.
When deciding between these two lenses, it can be tricky! Both have their unique strengths and are built to last, but depending on what you shoot, one may be better for you than the other. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you figure that out!
But first, let me quickly break down the main differences between these two lenses.
Comparison Table: Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S vs Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S
| Feature | Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S | Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | f/2 | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 | f/22 |
| Weight | 380g | 250g |
| Filter Size | 52mm | 52mm |
| Lens Construction | 11 elements in 9 groups | 9 elements in 9 groups |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.30m (1 foot) | 0.30m (1 foot) |
| Price Range (Used) | $250-$400 | $150-$300 |
1. Which is Better in Low Light: Nikon 24mm f/2 or f/2.8?
Okay, so let’s dive into one of the biggest questions everyone asks: which lens is better in low light? If you’ve ever shot in low-light conditions, you know how important having a wide aperture can be.
The Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S lens has an f/2 aperture, which means it lets in more light than the Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S. That extra bit of light helps when you’re shooting in dim places like indoor events, night scenes, or even a cozy café. With the f/2 lens, you can use a faster shutter speed or keep your ISO lower, giving you cleaner, sharper images with less noise.
Meanwhile, the f/2.8 lens is still good, but it just can’t quite match up when it comes to low light. You might need to slow down your shutter or bump up your ISO, which could introduce noise into your shots.
So, for low-light photography, I would recommend the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S. But don’t worry—the f/2.8 is still great for everyday shooting!
2. Size, Weight, and Handling: Is the Extra Size of the f/2 Worth It?
Let’s talk about how these lenses feel in your hands! The Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S is noticeably smaller and lighter compared to the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S. This difference in weight and size can actually make a big difference when you’re carrying your gear around for hours.
The f/2.8 version weighs 250g, which makes it easier to carry if you’re walking around all day or traveling. The f/2 version weighs 380g, which isn’t super heavy but still adds a bit more bulk to your camera bag.
Now, if you shoot landscapes or street photography where you’re constantly on the go, a lighter lens can make your life easier. Plus, a smaller lens is more discreet, which is perfect if you like to keep a low profile while shooting on the streets!
That said, if you value durability and a slightly faster aperture, then the f/2 lens might be worth the extra weight. It has more lens elements inside, so it’s a bit bulkier, but it’s built like a tank! So, the f/2.8 is easier to handle, while the f/2 is tougher.
3. Sharpness and Image Quality: Nikon 24mm f/2 vs f/2.8
Both of these lenses offer incredible sharpness, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S performs well at wider apertures, but it can be a little softer when shot wide open at f/2. You’ll notice this mostly in the corners of the image. However, once you stop down to f/2.8 or f/4, the sharpness improves a lot!
On the other hand, the Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S is known for being sharper across the entire frame, even wide open. If you shoot landscapes or architecture, where sharpness from corner to corner is super important, the f/2.8 version might be the better choice.
Also, the f/2 lens has more contrast and slightly better color rendering compared to the f/2.8. But again, both lenses deliver excellent image quality overall, especially once you stop them down a bit.
4. Which One is Better for Bokeh?
When it comes to creating that beautiful blurry background (bokeh), both lenses can deliver, but the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S has a clear advantage because of its wider f/2 aperture.
The f/2 lens allows you to get a shallower depth of field, which helps to create more separation between your subject and the background. If you like shooting portraits, street shots, or anything where you want that soft, dreamy background, then the f/2 version will give you better results.
That being said, 24mm is still a wide-angle focal length, so don’t expect the bokeh to be as dramatic as a portrait lens. But if you need a little extra separation, go for the f/2 lens.
5. Price and Value for Money: Nikon 24mm f/2 vs f/2.8
If you’re on a budget (which most of us are), the Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S might be the better deal. On the used market, it tends to be cheaper than the f/2 version, sometimes by $100 or more! Prices can vary depending on the condition, but typically the f/2.8 version goes for $150 to $300, while the f/2 version can go from $250 to $400.
Now, the extra money for the f/2 might be worth it if you need the extra low-light performance or you really want that slightly better bokeh. But if you’re just looking for a solid wide-angle lens that delivers excellent image quality without breaking the bank, the f/2.8 version is a fantastic choice.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Get?
At the end of the day, both the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S and Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S are awesome lenses. It really comes down to your personal shooting style and what you prioritize in a lens.
- If you shoot a lot in low light, need that extra bokeh, or just love the feel of a solid, heavier lens, go for the Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S.
- If you want something lighter, sharper across the frame, and a bit more budget-friendly, then the Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S might be your perfect match.
I hope this comparison helped you decide which lens is right for you! No matter which one you choose, you’re going to get a piece of classic Nikon glass that delivers beautiful images.
In Short:
- Nikon 24mm f/2 AI-S: Great for low light, better bokeh, but heavier and more expensive.
- Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S: Cheaper, lighter, and sharper across the frame, but not as good in low light.
Whatever lens you pick, get out there and start shooting amazing photos! Happy clicking!