Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105/2.8 VR S Macro Lens (105mm f/2.8 Macro)

Overall Rating:

This lens is 3 years old and made in Thailand. It has one aspherical element and three ED elements. Two of the ED elements are rather large front-element ones. It is no where near compact for a 105mm lens. Like most Nikkor Z lenses, it features a stepper autofocus motor which focuses quickly and quietly. In 2021, this lens debuted at a price of $1050 (USD), and it was introduced when 45MP cameras were modern.

Performance

There is a very, very small amount of color fringing in the corners. There is no vignetting or distortion.

Color fringing detail at 3-to-1.

The autofocus is zippy and dead silent. It is a good choice for video w/on-camera mic. There is a ton of focus breathing because the lens must change focal length to focus as close as it does without changing the size of the lens. Using a depth of field calculator is not feasible.

The performance of this lens is much better than the F-mount Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8 G ED-IF VR and is more inline with the Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8 G ED but with a much greater working distance.

Infrared

Infrared performance not tested.

Bokeh

The bokeh looks pleasing. Like all Nikkor Z lenses, the diaphragm is round so specular highlights look natural. Can't see any LoCA, which is great news.

Ghosting & Flaring

This lens exhibits very little ghosting or flaring when photographing a subject with a bright background like the sun behind a tree. This is thanks to the very advanced coatings modern lenses like these use.

Compatibility

Because this is a Z-mount lens designed for Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras, it is not compatible with older DSLR cameras.

Construction

The diaphragm has nine blades and is rounded. Though large, this is a lightweight lens that balances well on a Nikon Z camera.

Specifications

Images

Related links:

• Nikon Nikkor Lens Reviews
• All Lens Reviews