Lens · prime
Nikkor 20mm f/2.8 AI-S
Nikon · 1984-2020
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 20mm f/2.8 AI-S: 12 elements in 9 groups, 7 aperture blades, 0.25m minimum focus, 62mm filter thread, 260g.
- Focal length
- 20mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.8
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 12 / 9
Known for
- Landscape
- Architecture
- Astrophotography
- Interiors
- Dramatic perspectives
Considerations
- Some barrel distortion
- Vignetting 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)4, level 4 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control3, level 3 of 5
Bokeh: Not relevant at this focal length
Rendering: Wide perspective, good edge sharpness
Colour: Neutral
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Focus ring wear
- Hood bayonet wear
Buying guide
Check close focus mechanism works smoothly. Check aperture blade operation and focus smoothness, and inspect the glass for haze, fungus or cleaning marks.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 20mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 7 |
| Min Focus | 0.25m |
| Filter Size | 62mm |
| Weight | 260g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 12 |
| Groups | 9 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
| Special | CRC (Close Range Correction) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £300 - £450
- Mint
- ~£550
Indicative, no dated source.