Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S vs Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO

Both are Nikon F lenses for full frame. Here is what actually differs.

Nikon

Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S

f/2.8880 gMF

Full specs

Laowa

180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO

f/4.5

Full specs

Pick the Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S if

You need 1⅓ stops more light for low light or background blur (f/2.8 vs f/4.5)

Pick the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO if

You shoot close-ups: it focuses down to 0.3 m vs 1.8 m

Spec differences

12 differences

Specifications that differ between the Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S and the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO
	Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S	Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO
Brand	Nikon	Laowa
Type	Telephoto	Macro
Max aperture	f/2.8 1⅓ stops faster	f/4.5
Weight	880 g	not listed
Length	138 mm	not listed
Diameter	78.5 mm	not listed
Filter thread	72 mm	62 mm
Min focus distance	1.8 m	0.3 m closer
Max magnification	not listed	1.5×
Aperture blades	not listed	9
Optical design	5 elements / 5 groups	12 elements / 9 groups
Autofocus motor	Manual focus	not listed

4 identical specs hidden: mount, format, focal length, image stabilization. Show all

Mount: Nikon F both
Format: Full frame both
Focal length: 180mm both
Image stabilization: No both

Our notes

Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S

The Nikon Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-S is a telephoto prime lens covering 180mm at f/2.8 for Nikon F mount cameras, with extra-low dispersion glass. It brings distant subjects closer for sports, wildlife and events.

Our notes