Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR vs Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right lens for your Nikon camera, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens and the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR stand out as two excellent options with distinct features. The 35mm f/1.8G lens is priced at $213.31, making it about 42% cheaper than the 12-28mm PZ VR, which retails for $366.95. This price difference reflects the specific use cases and functionalities each lens offers, catering to different photography styles and needs.

Design and Build Quality

The design of both lenses caters to different photographic needs. The 35mm f/1.8G is compact and lightweight, ideal for discrete snapshots and landscape photography. Its dimensions are designed to offer a picture angle that approximates the human eye, making it a solid choice for portraits and general photography. In contrast, the 12-28mm PZ VR lens emphasizes versatility with its ultra-wide-angle zoom capabilities, ranging from dramatic 12mm views to more natural 28mm perspectives. This lens is also compact, designed to be gimbal-friendly, which is a plus for content creators and vloggers who need a lightweight option for on-the-go shooting.

Focal Length and Versatility

Focal length plays a crucial role in determining the type of images you can capture. The 35mm f/1.8G lens provides a fixed focal length that is equivalent to 52.5mm in 35mm terms, making it excellent for portraits and low-light situations due to its fast f/1.8 aperture. On the other hand, the 12-28mm PZ VR offers a zoom range that allows for a broader range of shots, from wide landscapes to more intimate close-ups. This versatility is particularly beneficial for those who favor dynamic shooting environments, such as travel or event photography.

Autofocus Performance

When it comes to autofocus systems, both lenses feature advanced technology suited to their designs. The 35mm f/1.8G is equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which ensures fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus operations, making it ideal for capturing spontaneous moments. Meanwhile, the 12-28mm PZ VR leverages a power zoom functionality that allows for 11 different zoom speeds, adding a layer of control that is beneficial for video recording and precise composition. This makes it particularly appealing for creators who need adaptability in their autofocus performance.

Image Stabilization

A significant advantage of the 12-28mm PZ VR is its built-in VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization, which offers 4.5 stops of compensation against camera shake. This feature is particularly useful for handheld shooting, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. The 35mm f/1.8G, while excellent for low-light scenarios due to its aperture, does not include image stabilization. Photographers using this lens may need to rely more on stable shooting techniques or tripod use to avoid motion blur.

Close Focusing Capability

In terms of close focusing, the 12-28mm PZ VR has an impressive capability, allowing photographers to get as close as 11 inches from their subjects. This feature enhances the lens's versatility, making it suitable for macro-like shots without needing a dedicated macro lens. The 35mm f/1.8G focuses down to 0.3 meters (about 1 foot), which is good but less impressive compared to the close-focus capabilities of the 12-28mm. This distinction is essential for photographers who often find themselves needing to capture detailed shots of subjects at close range.

Usability and Control

Usability can greatly affect your shooting experience, and both lenses offer unique controls. The 35mm f/1.8G features two focus modes, including manual focus override, providing photographers with reliable control over their focus during shooting. In contrast, the 12-28mm PZ VR includes versatile zoom control options, allowing the user to select zoom speeds through various methods, including a zoom ring and remote controls. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those who shoot video or need precise control over their framing.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens and the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR ultimately depends on your specific photography needs and style. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a fast aperture for low-light photography and portraiture, the 35mm f/1.8G at $213.31 is an excellent choice. However, if you seek versatility, particularly for video content creation and broader composition possibilities, the 12-28mm PZ VR, despite its higher price of $366.95, offers features like VR stabilization and power zoom that can significantly enhance your shooting experience.