prime35mmdiscontinued
Nikkor 135mm f/2.8 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2006
A compact telephoto that's gaining cult status. Uses the standard 52mm filter. Soft wide open but sharp from f/5.6. Excellent value for a quality telephoto prime.
Known for
- Portraits
- Events
- Travel telephoto
- Budget telephoto
Considerations
- Soft at f/2.8
- No ED glass - some CA
- Best performance at f/5.6-8
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)3/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control3/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control5/5
Bokeh: Pleasant, slightly busy
Rendering: Classic telephoto rendering
Color: Neutral
Common Issues
- Focus ring wear
- Aperture blade oil
Buying Guide
Excellent value telephoto. Check focus smoothness. Don't expect stellar wide-open performance - this lens shines at f/5.6-8.
Specifications
MountNikon F
Focal Length135mm
Max Aperturef/2.8
Min Aperturef/32
Aperture Blades7
Min Focus1.3m
Filter Size52mm
Weight435g
Optical Design
FormulaTelephoto
Elements5
Groups4
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
Pricing
£100 - £180
Typical used price
Mint: ~£250
Excellent value. Often overlooked.
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error