Lens · prime
Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2020
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 AI-S: 8 elements in 8 groups, 7 aperture blades, 0.2m minimum focus, 52mm filter thread, 250g.
- Focal length
- 28mm
- Max aperture
- f/2.8
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 8 / 8
Known for
- Architecture
- Interiors
- Environmental portraits
- Street photography
Considerations
- Barrel distortion visible on straight lines
- Some vignetting wide open
- Hood essential for flare control
- 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 resistance3, level 3 of 5
CA control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control3, level 3 of 5
Bokeh: Adequate, not a strong point
Rendering: Sharp, clinical
Colour: Neutral
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Common issues
- Focus ring stiffness
- Filter thread damage
Buying guide
Check the CRC focusing mechanism works smoothly throughout the range. Ensure the filter thread isn't cross-threaded.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 28mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 7 |
| Min Focus | 0.2m |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Weight | 250g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 8 |
| Groups | 8 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
| Special | CRC (Close Range Correction) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £150 - £250
- Mint
- ~£300
Indicative, no dated source.