Macro (1:1)/

Nikon AF-S DX 40mm F2.8 G Micro Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2011.
The lens belongs to the category standard prime lenses, a normal lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

The lens has macro-capabilities and is able to reproduce things in their true size (1:1) which is good, it tends to be the rule for calling a lens a 'true' macro lens.

Product description from Nikon

At launch 2011 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S DX 40mm F2.8 G Micro:

"This standard DX-format close-up lens captures stunning details at any distance including details practically impossible to detect with the human eye at 1X magnification.

Compact and lightweight DX-format close-up lens
Small enough to be carried everywhere, this standard focal length DX-format Micro-NIKKOR lens provides high resolution and contrast from infinity to life-size (1X). The AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is for taking high quality stills and HD D-Movies and is ideal for shooting general close-ups, delicate flowers, detailed collectables, copy photography, portraits, landscapes and more.

Reveal Hidden Beauty
Sharp images from infinity to life-size (1X)
This standard close-up lens captures the finest details at any distance, including details practically impossible to detect with the human eye (at 1X magnification). It´s a great choice for enticing food photography or detailed product shots. And with its continuous autofocusing from infinity to 6.4 inches (life-size/1X), the AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G ensures sharpness and clarity in every composition.

Carry It With You Everywhere
Stunning portraits and landscapes, too!
The AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is compact, lightweight and versatile enough for everyday photography, including flattering people shots and breathtaking landscapes, so you get brilliant results in most situations without switching lenses.

Isolate Your Subjects
Natural Background Blur (Bokeh)
Wether you´re shooting portraits, food or nature—indoors or outdoors—the AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G´s rounded 7-blade diaphragm renders a beautiful, natural background blur (Bokeh) at its wider aperture settings. Selective focus helps to isolate the subject, creating out of focus backgrounds. "


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is designed and meant for 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 40 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 60 mm on your Nikon 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.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 52 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-61".

Images of Nikon AF-S DX 40mm F2.8 G Micro

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 price (more info)
  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Manages to reproduce things at 1:1 (Macro)
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • Light weight (235 gr)
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S DX 40mm F2.8 G Micro.

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

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