Nikon AF Nikkor 14 mm F2.8D ED

The Nikkor AF 14mm f/2.8D ED is a good ultra-wide angle lens but it is not a killer offer - especially so regarding its very high price tag. Technically the resolution figures are superb in the center and Okayish (f/2.8) to (just) very good (f/8) at the borders. The lens produces rather heavy vignetting at f/2.8 but beyond the issue is handled really well. In terms of distortions it is not an overly impressive performer but the barrel distortions are less wavy compared to zooms and therefore easy to correct. CAs are moderate for an ultra-wide lens. You may argue that the rather large aperture could produce a nice out-of-focus blur in close focus situations but if you check out the large aperture sample images above you will find that the bokeh is very harsh. Despite its ultra large front element the lens seems fairly resistant against contra light. The build quality of the AF 14mm f/2.8ED is superb although the immense front element is extremely vulnerable and protection filters can not be mounted on this lens. Unless you require an extreme wide-angle for full format purposes the cheaper Nikkor AF-S 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED seems to be a better choice all-in-all.