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prime35mmdiscontinued

Nikkor 20mm f/2.8 AI-S

Nikon · 1984-2021

A 94-degree ultra-wide with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness. CRC maintains performance at close focus. Remarkably compact for such a wide lens. Kept in production until 2021.

Known for

  • Landscape
  • Architecture
  • Astrophotography
  • Interiors
  • Dramatic perspectives

Considerations

  • Some barrel distortion
  • Vignetting wide open
  • 62mm filter size (not standard Nikon 52mm)

Optical Characteristics

Sharpness (wide)
4/5
Sharpness (stopped)
5/5
Contrast
4/5
Flare Resistance
4/5
CA Control
4/5
Vignetting Control
3/5
Distortion Control
3/5

Bokeh: Not relevant at this focal length

Rendering: Wide perspective, good edge sharpness

Color: Neutral

Common Issues

  • Focus ring wear
  • Hood bayonet wear

Buying Guide

Exceptional quality for the price. Check close focus mechanism works smoothly. The 62mm filter size differs from the common Nikon 52mm standard.

Specifications

MountNikon F
Focal Length20mm
Max Aperturef/2.8
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades7
Min Focus0.25m
Filter Size62mm
Weight270g

Optical Design

FormulaRetrofocus
Elements12
Groups9
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
SpecialCRC (Close Range Correction)

Pricing

£300 - £450

Typical used price

Mint: ~£550

Prices increased since 2021 discontinuation

Adapts To

Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z

Compatible Cameras

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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error
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