prime35mmdiscontinued
Nikkor 20mm f/3.5 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2005
The budget-friendly ultra-wide. Uses standard 52mm filters where the f/2.8 requires 62mm. Built-in sliding hood. Excellent value for landscape and architecture.
Known for
- Landscape
- Architecture
- Budget ultra-wide
- Travel
Considerations
- Slower than f/2.8
- Some distortion
- Built-in hood doesn't detach
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)4/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast4/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control4/5
Vignetting Control3/5
Distortion Control3/5
Bokeh: Not relevant at this focal length
Rendering: Sharp, good edge performance
Color: Neutral
Common Issues
- Hood mechanism wear
- Focus ring stiffness
Buying Guide
Great value ultra-wide. Check the built-in hood slides smoothly. The 52mm filter compatibility is a significant advantage over the f/2.8.
Specifications
MountNikon F
Focal Length20mm
Max Aperturef/3.5
Min Aperturef/22
Aperture Blades7
Min Focus0.3m
Filter Size52mm
Weight235g
Optical Design
FormulaRetrofocus
Elements9
Groups9
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
SpecialCRC (Close Range Correction)
Pricing
£180 - £280
Typical used price
Mint: ~£350
Good value, overlooked
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error