Nikon AF-S DX Micro 40mm f/2.8G review

The Nikon AF-S DX Micro 40mm f/2.8G is a full 1.0x macro lens but a bit on the short side

Nikon AF-S DX Micro 40mm f/2.8G
(Image: © Nikon)

Digital Camera World Verdict

Built for Nikon DX (APS-C) format DSLRs, this lens works well for general shooting, with an effective focal length of 60mm in full-frame terms. However, despite delivering full 1.0x magnification at its shortest focus distance, it’s less than ideal for serious macro photography. The working distance between the front of the lens and the subject is uncomfortably short at less than 1.5 inches and the focus ring lacks precision for fine manual adjustments.

Pros

  • +

    Good levels of sharpness

  • +

    Ring-type ultrasonic AF

  • +

    1.0x macro magnification

Cons

  • -

    Short macro working distance

  • -

    Autofocus is a little sluggish

  • -

    Manual focusing lacks precision

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

The DX format Nikon AF-S DX Micro 40mm f/2.8G is wonderfully compact and lightweight, ideal for popping into a spare corner of your camera bag in case you need it. That might happen more often than you think, as it’s very versatile. The focal length and aperture rating make it a good standard prime for general shooting, with the option of quick shutter speeds under dull lighting and a fairly tight depth of field.

Specifications

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

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.