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Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G vs Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED

Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.

Verdict at a glance

  • Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is faster by 1.3 stops (f/1.8 vs f/2.8), letting in more light.
  • Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is lighter by 400g.
  • Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G goes wider (85mm vs 105mm).
  • Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED reaches further (105mm vs 85mm).
  • Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G is the newer design (2012 vs 2006).
Specification comparison
Spec AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
Brand Nikon Nikon
Mount Nikon F Nikon F
Type Prime Prime
Focal length 85mm (wider) 105mm
Max aperture f/1.8 (faster) f/2.8
Released 2012 2006
Blades 7 n/a
Format full-frame full-frame
Groups 9 12
Af motor SWM SWM
Elements 9 14
Weight g 350.0 (lighter) 750.0
Filter mm 67 62
Length mm 73.0 116.0
Diameter mm 80.0 83.0
Min focus m 0.8 0.314 (closer focusing)
Max magnification 0.124 1.0
Stabilized n/a Yes

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G

A fast, relatively compact portrait prime for Nikon FX cameras with a silent-wave motor. It also works on DX cameras as a longer lens.

Pros

  • f/1.8 aperture
  • Sharp
  • Fast AF
  • Light for 85mm (350 g)

Cons

  • No VR
  • Purple fringing wide open

Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED

A 1:1 macro lens for Nikon FX cameras with vibration reduction. It doubles as a medium-telephoto portrait lens.

Pros

  • True 1:1 macro
  • Vibration reduction
  • Internal focusing
  • Sharp

Cons

  • Focus breathing
  • Larger and heavier than the 60mm (750 g)
  • Slow focus at close range

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