Nikon AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G

Nikon AF-S 24-85mm

This was an interesting consumer zoom lens that brought a great range on full frame camera’s, faster than normal aperture for consumer lenses with a fast and silent auto-focus system. Back when I was still switching from film to digital, I was using an AF-S 28-70mm f/2.8 as by bread and butter standard zoom lens, and sitting right along side it just in case the worst happened at a job was this lens. I still take a similar approach now with the 17-55mm f/2.8 and the 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 as I can’t imagine showing up for a wedding with a lens that I depend on so much and having nothing available at a moments notice in case the worst happens. In its own right however, the AF-S 24-85mm was a great little lens for the amount of money it cost.

As for build quality, it was a respectable package. Keeping in mind its intended consumer/prosumer audience it felt like its build matched the price asked. Obviously at this price, there are going to be some compromises so it does extend when zooming. The good news is that the front doesn’t rotate so it makes using polarizer much easier. As expected it came with a metal mount, although I don’t understand why there’re not used on all lenses no matter the cost as it gives the user a much better impression if nothing else and the difference in cost must be next to nothing.

Sharpness was good at the wider end to very good at the longer focal lengths, and perhaps even excellent in the centre. Vignetting too was also very well controlled even on my F100, so it would certainly not be a problem if used on a digital cropped sensor camera. Distortion was only an issue when used at 24mm, and by the time it got closer to 85mm it wasn’t enough of an concern to worry about, certainly not on this type of a zoom lens. CA was a little more of an issue however, as it could be noticeable. I’ve certainly seen far worse performers however, and its easy to fix now regardless.

I think this was a very good lens and one that is still available new if it suits your shooting style on digital. I did sell this lens and the 28-70mm together as I was also buying the 17-55mm on the same day to go along with the 18-70mm backup that had come with my camera. It is still a great buy I think as its abilities are better than perhaps expected at the price, and its always a nice feeling to know you’ve got a little more performance than you thought you would for the amount of money you just paid. Even today, a lens worth considering.