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Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G vs Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR

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 DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is faster by 0.6 stops (f/2.8 vs f/3.5), letting in more light.
  • Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is lighter by 120g.
  • Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G goes wider (40mm vs 85mm).
  • Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR reaches further (85mm vs 40mm).
  • Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is the newer design (2011 vs 2009).
Specification comparison
Spec AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR
Brand Nikon Nikon
Mount Nikon F Nikon F
Type Macro Macro
Focal length 40mm (wider) 85mm
Max aperture f/2.8 (faster) f/3.5
Released 2011 2009
Blades 7 n/a
Format aps-c aps-c
Groups 7 10
Af motor SWM SWM
Elements 9 14
Weight g 235.0 (lighter) 355.0
Filter mm 52 52
Length mm 64.5 98.5
Diameter mm 68.5 73.0
Min focus m 0.163 (closer focusing) 0.286
Max magnification 1.0 n/a
Stabilized n/a Yes

Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G

A DX macro lens from 2011 that reaches 1:1 and focuses as close as 0.163m. It is light, at 235g.

Pros

  • 1:1 magnification
  • Light at 235g
  • Silent Wave Motor
  • Close focus of 0.163m

Cons

  • Short working distance
  • DX only
  • Plastic build

Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR

A 2009 DX macro with VR and a 52mm filter thread. It frames like a 127mm lens on DX and gives a comfortable working distance.

Pros

  • VR
  • Long working distance
  • Silent Wave Motor
  • Light at about 355g

Cons

  • DX only
  • f/3.5 is a slow aperture

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