Lens · prime
Nikkor 105mm f/1.8 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2005
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 105mm f/1.8 AI-S: 5 elements in 5 groups, 9 aperture blades, 1m minimum focus, 62mm filter thread, 580g.
- Focal length
- 105mm
- Max aperture
- f/1.8
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 5 / 5
Known for
- Portraits
- Cinema
- Low light telephoto
- Events
Considerations
- Soft wide open
- Manual focus and aperture (Ai/Ai-S F-mount)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Beautiful, smooth, 9-blade rendering
Rendering: Classic portrait rendering with character
Colour: Warm, flattering
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Telescopic hood mechanism wear
- Focus ring stiffness
Buying guide
Check the built-in telescopic hood extends and retracts smoothly. Focus should be smooth.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 105mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Min Focus | 1m |
| Filter Size | 62mm |
| Weight | 580g |
Optical design
| Formula | other |
| Elements | 5 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £500 - £750
- Mint
- ~£900
Indicative, no dated source.