Tokina ATX-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF review

The Tokina ATX-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF is a bit of an APS-C format legend for DSLRs, reinvented

Tokina ATX-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF
(Image: © Tokina)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The first edition of this lens quickly made a name for itself as the only f/2.8 ultra-wide-angle zoom for Canon and Nikon DSLRs. The Mark II added an internal autofocus motor in the Nikon mount option, whereas this was previously only featured in the Canon edition, and the relatively recent ATX-i (interactive) version gets a cosmetic makeover, aiming to more closely match modern DSLRs. The f/2.8 constant aperture is the main selling point, backed up by sharp image quality and strong build quality, but the outright zoom range can feel a little restrictive.

Pros

  • +

    Fast and constant f/2.8 aperture

  • +

    Good center-sharpness

  • +

    Strong build quality

Cons

  • -

    Noticeable fringing and distortion

  • -

    Push-pull focus ring

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Designed for Canon and Nikon APS-C format DSLRs, the original ‘ATX’ edition of the Tokina ATX-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF was launched back in 2008, quickly finding favor as an ultra-wide-angle zoom with a fast and constant f/2.8 aperture. A Mark II edition followed with revamped coatings and, more importantly, an internal autofocus motor in the Nikon as well as the Canon mount version, enabling autofocus with cameras like the Nikon D3xxx and D5xxx series, which lack an in-body AF motor. The latest ATX-i model takes its place in Tokina’s relatively new ‘Interactive’ line-up but real differences are hard to spot.

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.