Tokina AT-X Pro 12-24mm F4 DX II Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Tokina and the lens was released 2009.
The lens belongs to the category wide angle zoom lenses, a wide angle lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Tokina

At launch 2009 Tokina wrote this regarding Tokina AT-X Pro 12-24mm F4 DX II:

"The Nikon mount AT-X 124 PRO DX II has a built-in AF motor drive. The motor inside the lens was loaded onto the Nikon mount specification anew. The AF operates smoothly and quietly due to a DC motor that uses a new AF control gear assembly. With the built-in motor, the lens can be used in AF mode with the Nikon D60 and D40 and other silent wave bodies.

The Canon version of the lens already has a built-in AF motor and will benefit from the improved multi-coating.

The optical system of original AT-X 124 PRO DX won awards for its sharpness world-wide. This design was maintained in the AT-X 124 PRO DX II and improved with the introduction of new multi-coating_ system. The new multi-coating helps reduce reflections that can cause flare and ghosting even more than in the AT-X 124 PRO DX.

The AT-X 124 PRO DX II features the one-touch focus clutch mechanism. _ To use the one-touch focus clutch mechanism, move the focus ring forward, towards the front of the lens, for AF or back for MF. This allows for a fast and easy manual over-ride in difficult lighting situations.

Digital single-lens reflex DX lens_ dedicated to digital SLR cameras with APS-C sized sensors. "


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon cameras, but there are two different versions of this lens (one for each brand and mount) so it is important that you ask for and choose the right version when bying the lens.

This lens is designed and meant for Canon and Nikon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 12-24 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 19-38 mm if you have a Canon camera or 18-36 mm if you have a Niko camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.

The lens is to considered fairly bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.

A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 12 mm or at 24 mm the aperture value can be f/4.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. 

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 77 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "BH-777".

Images of Tokina AT-X Pro 12-24mm F4 DX II

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • Heavy (540 gr)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Tokina AT-X Pro 12-24mm F4 DX II.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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