Nikon AF-S 24-70mm F2.8 E ED VR Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2015.
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 2015 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 24-70mm F2.8 E ED VR:

"Stunning performance. Newfound inspiration.

Super steady and always ready, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR workhorse is prepared to take your work to the next level. With up to 4 stops* of VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization, you can capture sharp, steady handheld stills and HD videos, and shoot at slower shutter speeds in low-light situations without sacrificing sharpness. Pair it with a Nikon full-frame high-resolution DSLR to capture the decisive moment with a thrilling balance of sharpness and soft blur effects. Covering the sweet spot of the zoom range with a fast f/2.8 constant aperture, you´ll be ready for everything from environmental portraits, studio photography, landscape, architecture (exteriors and interiors), press events and weddings.

In pursuit of ultimate image quality
Optical precision to the edge of the frame
A first for NIKKOR lenses, a new Aspherical Extra-Low Dispersion (ASP/ED) element is paired with traditional AS, ED and HRI elements for a thrilling new level of optical precision. Photos and videos take on a beautiful balance of sharpness and soft blur effects, virtually free of flare, ghosting, coma, chromatic or spherical aberration, even at the far edges of the frame. For those who thrive on image quality, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR delivers.

The go-to lens
Versatility, speed and durability
24-70mm is the sweet spot of the zoom range for many photographers, great for everything from landscapes and studio work to weddings and press events. The f/2.8 constant aperture allows for faster shutter speeds to freeze fast action, renders a beautiful bokeh blur and performs brilliantly in low light. Add an electromagnetic diaphragm for fast auto-exposure control plus the protection of Nikon´s fluorine coat on the front and rear glass, and you´ve got the ultimate workhorse for nearly any situation.

Steadier than ever
4.0 stops of Vibration Reduction*
To complete the evolution, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR also includes Nikon´s Vibration Reduction image stabilization technology. It reduces camera shake and vibration up to ~4.0 stops*. Capture sharp, steady handheld stills and HD videos, and shoot at slower shutter speeds in low-light situations without sacrificing sharpness. Versatility, enhanced.

Built for demanding professionals
Capture the shot regardless of environment
With a highly durable build quality designed to withstand the severest shooting environments, Fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements for easy cleaning, a rear rubber gasket to help keep moisture out, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR is ready for your toughest assignments.



Meet Nikon’s workhorse—the most widely used professional lens in the NIKKOR line-up. If you need a single lens that can handle just about any shooting opportunity, this is it.

Stills or video—Nikon’s renowned wide-angle to medium-telephoto zoom responds to the demands of professional use with exceptional integrity.
The 24–70mm zoom range easily covers the sweet spot for everything from landscapes and studio work to weddings and press events. The constant f/2.8 aperture enables exceptional low-light performance and consistent exposure across the entire zoom range. You get exceptional results whether shooting stills or video.

Benefit from quicker AF and an electromagnetic diaphragm that enables exceptional burst performance.
Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor delivers ultra-fast, ultra-quiet autofocus performance with seamless manual override. The addition of an electromagnetic diaphragm enables consistent, more precise exposures during high-speed bursts.

Nikon’s powerful Vibration Reduction offers an impressive four-stop advantage.¹ Shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds without sacrificing sharpness.
Vibration Reduction lets you shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible.¹ Camera shake is minimised, even in low-light situations.

Work with uncompromising image quality. The updated optical construction delivers exceptional resolution all the way to the edge of the frame.
This is the first NIKKOR lens to include an aspherical extra-low-dispersion (ED) glass element that combats chromatic aberrations and coma, and reduces light fall-off. Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat reduces ghosting and flare for greater image clarity.

Stronger
Capture the shot regardless of environment. This fully weather-sealed lens is ready to withstand the rigours of daily professional use.
Nikon has strengthened the construction of this workhorse lens. A fluorine coating applied to the front and rear elements of the lens actively repels water, dust, and dirt without compromising image quality. And the coating makes it easier to clean the glass without damaging the surface. The release lock in the included hood is positioned in a recess to prevent accidental removal."


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 24-70 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.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very 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 24 mm or at 70 mm the aperture value can be f/2,8.

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.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 82 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-74".

Images of Nikon AF-S 24-70mm F2.8 E 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.

  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
  • 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
  • Heavy (1070 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 24-70mm F2.8 E ED VR.

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

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