What To Know
- The Z mount lens has a focus limiter switch that can be used to limit the focus range, which can be helpful when you are trying to focus on a specific subject.
- The autofocus performance of the Z mount and F mount versions of the 105mm macro lens is very good.
- However, if you are on a budget or if you already have an F mount camera, then the F mount lens is a good option.
The Nikon 105mm macro lens is a popular choice for close-up photography. It is available in both Z mount and F mount versions. In this blog post, we will compare the two versions of the lens and help you decide which one is right for you.
Optical Performance
The optical performance of the Z mount and F mount versions of the 105mm macro lens is very similar. Both lenses are capable of producing sharp and detailed images with excellent color reproduction. However, there are a few minor differences between the two lenses.
The Z mount version of the lens has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/2.8 compared to f/4 for the F mount version. This means that the Z mount lens can let in more light, which can be helpful in low-light conditions or when you need to use a faster shutter speed.
The Z mount lens also has a slightly shorter minimum focus distance of 0.29m (11.4 inches) compared to 0.31m (12.2 inches) for the F mount lens. This means that the Z mount lens can get closer to your subject, which can be useful for extreme close-ups.
Build Quality and Handling
The build quality of the Z mount and F mount versions of the 105mm macro lens is excellent. Both lenses are made of metal and feel very solid in the hand. The Z mount lens is slightly lighter than the F mount lens, which can be an advantage if you are carrying it around all day.
The handling of the two lenses is also very similar. Both lenses have a focus ring that is smooth and precise. The Z mount lens has a focus limiter switch that can be used to limit the focus range, which can be helpful when you are trying to focus on a specific subject.
Autofocus Performance
The autofocus performance of the Z mount and F mount versions of the 105mm macro lens is very good. Both lenses focus quickly and accurately, even in low-light conditions. However, the Z mount lens has a slight advantage in autofocus performance, as it uses Nikon’s latest generation of autofocus technology.
Price
The Z mount version of the 105mm macro lens is more expensive than the F mount version. The Z mount lens typically retails for around $900, while the F mount lens typically retails for around $700.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision of which version of the Nikon 105mm macro lens to choose depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for the best possible optical performance and autofocus performance, then the Z mount lens is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget or if you already have an F mount camera, then the F mount lens is a good option.
Recommendations: Making the Right Choice for Your Photography Needs
Ultimately, the best way to decide which version of the Nikon 105mm macro lens is right for you is to try them both out and see which one you prefer. You can also rent both lenses to see how they perform in the field before you make a purchase.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What are the main differences between the Z mount and F mount versions of the Nikon 105mm macro lens?
A: The main differences between the two lenses are the maximum aperture, the minimum focus distance, the autofocus performance, and the price.
Q: Which lens is better for low-light photography?
A: The Z mount lens is better for low-light photography because it has a wider maximum aperture of f/2.8 compared to f/4 for the F mount lens.
Q: Which lens is better for extreme close-ups?
A: The Z mount lens is better for extreme close-ups because it has a shorter minimum focus distance of 0.29m (11.4 inches) compared to 0.31m (12.2 inches) for the F mount lens.
Q: Which lens is better for autofocus performance?
A: The Z mount lens has a slight advantage in autofocus performance because it uses Nikon’s latest generation of autofocus technology.
Q: Which lens is more expensive?
A: The Z mount lens is more expensive than the F mount lens. The Z mount lens typically retails for around $900, while the F mount lens typically retails for around $700.
