Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR review

The Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is a smart choice for landscapes

Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR
(Image: © Nikon)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The mighty Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED might seem the most obvious contender for an ultra-wide landscape zoom for Nikon’s FX format DSLRs, but we actually prefer the equivalent Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art. Compared with both of those, Nikon’s 16-35mm lens naturally has a less generous maximum viewing angle and aperture rating, but is less expensive to buy and has the advantages of featuring a filter attachment thread and optical stabilization. For landscape photographers, it’s the most sensible option.

Pros

  • +

    Generous maximum viewing angle

  • +

    77mm filter attachment thread

  • +

    Optical VR

Cons

  • -

    Less ‘wide-angle’ than some

  • -

    f/4 rather than f/2.8 aperture

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The Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is relatively compact compared with Nikon’s 12-24mm zoom and only about two-thirds of the weight, while adding the bonus of optical VR. It’s also less pricey to buy and has a detachable hood that enables the inclusion of a 77mm filter attachment thread. Overall, it’s a great choice for shooting landscapes, cityscapes and architectural interiors, although its f/4 aperture makes it less ideal for astrophotography.

Specifications

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Matthew Richards

Matthew Richards is a photographer and journalist who has spent years using and reviewing all manner of photo gear. He is Digital Camera World's principal lens reviewer – and has tested more primes and zooms than most people have had hot dinners! 

His expertise with equipment doesn’t end there, though. He is also an encyclopedia  when it comes to all manner of cameras, camera holsters and bags, flashguns, tripods and heads, printers, papers and inks, and just about anything imaging-related. 

In an earlier life he was a broadcast engineer at the BBC, as well as a former editor of PC Guide.