Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S review

A stunner of a macro lens, the MC 105mm boasts a feast of exotic features and top-drawer performance

5 Star Rating
Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S
(Image: © Future)

Digital Camera World Verdict

Nikon’s MC 105mm is something special. Sublime image quality for both general shooting and extreme close-ups is backed up by a super-fast and highly accurate autofocus system, along with highly effective optical VR (Vibration Reduction) that can work in tandem with the in-body stabilizers of Nikon’s full-frame Z-series cameras. Handling exotica includes a multi-function OLED display, a customizable Lens-function button and control ring, plus an autofocus range limiter, along with an electronically coupled focus ring that enables ultra-fine adjustments. Everything’s wrapped up in a tough, weather-sealed construction. Image quality, all-round performance and handling are simply sensational.

Pros

  • +

    Spectacular all-round performance

  • +

    Pro-grade build quality and handling

  • +

    4.5-stop optical VR

Cons

  • -

    Costs 50 per cent more to buy than Nikon’s Z MC 50mm lens, but well worth the extra outlay

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Building on the success of Nikon’s AF-S VR Micro 105mm f/2.8G macro lens for F-mount DSLRs, this new Z-mount lens takes everything to a new level. While it delivers the same full 1.0x macro magnification at its closest focus distance of 0.29m, it has an uprated optical VR system that boosts effectiveness from 3-stops to 4.5-stops. It also adds a feast of handling finery as well as delivering a mighty upgrade in image quality. 

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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.