Laowa vs Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-

Overview of the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II serve different needs in the world of photography, making them appealing for diverse types of photographers. The Laowa lens is priced at $699.00, while the Nikon lens is significantly more expensive at $2,796.95, making the Laowa about 75% cheaper than the Nikon counterpart. This pricing difference reflects their distinct functionalities and target audiences.

Intended Use and Versatility

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite is designed specifically for ultra-wide-angle photography, boasting an impressive 122° field of view. This makes it ideal for landscape and architectural photography, where expansive scenes need to be captured without distortion. In contrast, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a versatile zoom lens, ranging from 24mm to 70mm. This range allows it to perform well in various situations, from wide-angle shots to portraits, making it a go-to lens for many professional photographers.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus performance is a crucial aspect for many photographers, and both lenses have unique advantages. The Laowa 12mm features autofocus, making it suitable for quick shooting in dynamic environments. However, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II offers a sophisticated autofocus system that is five times faster and 50% quieter than earlier models. This is particularly beneficial for videographers who want to avoid operational noise during recordings, giving the Nikon a clear edge in this category.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create beautiful background blur. Its bright aperture is a significant advantage for night-time landscape photography. The Nikon lens also maintains a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range, ensuring consistent low-light performance. This feature, combined with its advanced optical formula, enhances sharpness and bokeh, making it a fantastic choice for shooting in dimly lit environments.

Build Quality and Design

When it comes to build quality, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II excels with its internal zoom mechanism, which enhances stability and provides dust- and drip-resistant performance. This design is particularly useful for outdoor photographers or those working in challenging conditions. The Laowa 12mm, while lightweight at just 377g, focuses on portability, making it easy to carry for extended periods. However, it does not feature the same level of environmental sealing as the Nikon, which may be a consideration for some users.

Creative Features

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite includes an interesting dual aperture option, allowing photographers to choose between a 5-blade design for 10-point sunstars or a 14-blade version for smooth bokeh. This flexibility can be a creative boon for landscape photographers. On the other hand, the Nikon lens incorporates a custom control ring that can switch between click and smooth adjustments, offering a tailored shooting experience. This control enhances the usability of the Nikon, especially in varied shooting scenarios.

Close Focusing Capability

In terms of close focusing, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II offers an impressive close focus distance of just 9.5 inches at 24mm and a maximum magnification of 0.32x at 70mm. This feature allows for more detailed close-up shots, which can be essential for product photography or intimate portraits. The Laowa lens, while also capable of close-up work with a maximum magnification of 0.21x, does not match the Nikon's versatility in this regard.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite and the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II ultimately depends on individual needs and budget. If you’re a landscape or architectural photographer looking for an affordable, ultra-wide-angle lens, the Laowa at $699.00 is an excellent choice. However, if you require a versatile, high-performance zoom lens with advanced autofocus and build quality, the Nikon, despite its higher price of $2,796.95, may be worth the investment. Each lens has its strengths, catering to different styles and requirements in photography.