Nikon AF-S 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2012.
The lens belongs to the category
standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Nikon
At launch 2012 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR:
"Popular zoom lens for use with FX-format SLRs.
Offering a highly convenient combination of broad focal range and compact build, this is a great walkabout lens.
The 24–85mm range easily covers the most commonly used focal lengths from wide-angle up to telephoto. Nikon’s Vibration Reduction system ensures sharp, steady images. ED glass elements help deliver stunning sharpness and contrast, even at maximum aperture.
Key features
FX-format standard zoom lens with 24–85mm focal range (36–127.5mm when used with a Nikon DX-format SLR).
Vibration Reduction (VRII) system enables more stable handheld shooting and lets you shoot at shutter speeds up to 4.0* stops slower.
Nikon Super Integrated Coating greatly reduces ghosting and flare and ensures outstanding color reproduction.
Designed specifically for use with Nikon FX-format digital SLR sensors.
ED (extra-low dispersion) glass and three aspherical lens elements ensure high resolution and contrast while minimizing aberrations and distortions.
SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet and accurate autofocus.
Two focus modes: M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus).
Lightweight and compact body.
Weather-sealed rubber lens mount.
Advanced and versatile FX-format standard zoom with VR II image stabilization.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR lens
Covering a versatile wide angle to medium telephoto zoom range, the new AF-S NIKKOR 24–85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR delivers noticeably sharper photos and HD videos thanks to Nikon´s second-generation Vibration Reduction technology (VR II). Shoot at shutter speeds up to 4-times slower than would otherwise be possible for greater low-light capability, and enjoy the benefits of Vibration Reduction during HD video recording—even when using a tripod.
A range of possibilities
Versatile 3.6x standard zoom for brilliant photos and HD videos
The AF-S NIKKOR 24–85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR covers wide-angle and medium telephoto perspectives, making it a great multipurpose lens for photography and HD video recording. At its widest focal length (24mm on FX-format D-SLRs, 36mm on DX-format D-SLRs) it´s ideal for travel, landscapes, interiors, group shots and more. At its longest focal length (85mm on FX-format D-SLRs, 136.5mm on DX-format D-SLRs), it´s ideal for close-ups, portraits, interviews and more.
Razor-sharp, high contrast results
Nikon´s VR II Image Stabilization with Tripod Auto Detect
Nikon´s second generation Vibration Reduction technology (VR II) enables handheld shooting at shutter speeds up to 4-times slower than would otherwise be possible. That opens up new possibilities for low-light shooting. Slow down the shutter speed to capture maximum natural light without sacrificing sharpness. Nikon´s VR II also includes tripod detection, which automatically recognizes when your camera is mounted on a tripod and delivers a specialized VR correction that is ideal for HD video recording.
Unwavering performance
Nikon innovations for consistent performance
Nikon´s innovations in optical design and lens technology have brought forth a remarkable new generation of NIKKOR lenses with unparalleled versatility. The AF-S NIKKOR 24–85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is no exception. From its Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to its Super Integrated Coating (SIC), Extra-low Dispersion Glass Element (ED) and Aspherical Lens Element Design (AS), the AF-S NIKKOR 24–85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is an advanced lens that draws peak performance from today´s D-SLR and HD-SLR cameras."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 24-85 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Nikon AF-S 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/3,5-4,5.
This lens is not considered to have a good aperture value and brightness. It is something to consider before you purchase the lens. To compensate for this you might, while photographing in less favorable light conditions, be forced to either use higher ISO settings (which generates more noise in the image), slower shutter speeds (which may give some motion blur) or flash lightning. Read more at the link below what lens brightness means to you as a photographer.
One thing to consider is that the lens has a variable brightness, which means that depending on how much you are zooming the lens will have a different maximum aperture value. At 24 mm the lens brightness is f/3,5 and at 85 mm the brightness is f/4,5. Through the link below you can read more about what this could mean for you as a photographer.
Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.
- Read more about the aperture and lens brightness
- Read more about changing brightness at different focal lengths
- Read more about how an image stabilizer works
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 72 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 "HB-63".
Images of Nikon AF-S 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR
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.
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
- Light weight (465 gr)
- Poor aperture value with its f/4,5
- A variable lens brightness at different focal lengths
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Nikon AF-S 24-85mm F3.5-4.5 G ED VR.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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