Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D 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 Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D is faster by 0.6 stops (f/2.8 vs f/3.5), letting in more light.
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR is lighter by 205g.
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR goes wider (85mm vs 105mm).
- Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D reaches further (105mm vs 85mm).
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR is the newer design (2009 vs 1990).
| Spec | AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D | AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Mount | Nikon F | Nikon F |
| Type | Macro | Macro |
| Focal length | 105mm | 85mm (wider) |
| Max aperture | f/2.8 (faster) | f/3.5 |
| Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Format | full-frame | aps-c |
| Groups | 8 | 10 |
| Af motor | none | SWM |
| Elements | 9 | 14 |
| Weight g | 560.0 | 355.0 (lighter) |
| Filter mm | 52 | 52 |
| Length mm | 104.5 | 98.5 |
| Diameter mm | 75.0 | 73.0 |
| Min focus m | 0.31 | 0.286 (closer focusing) |
| Max magnification | 1.0 | n/a |
| Stabilized | n/a | Yes |
Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D
Nikon's macro prime that reaches 1:1 and doubles as a short telephoto, introduced in 1990. It uses screw-drive autofocus and a 52mm filter thread.
Pros
- True 1:1 reproduction
- Comfortable working distance for insects
- Covers film and full frame
- Takes 52mm filters
Cons
- No VR
- Screw-drive autofocus
- Focus extends the barrel
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