Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR vs OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED

Price Comparison

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens is priced at $213.31, while the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro is considerably higher at $549.99. This makes the Nikon lens about 61% cheaper than the Olympus lens. For photographers on a budget or those who are just starting out, the lower price of the Nikon lens can be a significant advantage. In contrast, the Olympus lens, with its higher price, may appeal more to professionals seeking advanced macro capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm features a compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for travel and general photography. Its dimensions and rear focusing system allow for easy handling, especially while capturing spontaneous moments. On the other hand, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm boasts a weather-sealed design, which adds durability against dust and moisture. This makes it suitable for outdoor macro photography, where conditions can be unpredictable. While both lenses are well-built, the Olympus lens offers enhanced protection for those who frequently shoot in challenging environments.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Nikon lens has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, making it an excellent choice for low-light photography. This allows for brighter images and a shallow depth of field, which is ideal for portraits and environmental shots. Conversely, the Olympus lens offers a maximum aperture of f/2.8. Although slightly slower than the Nikon, it still provides good low-light performance, particularly in macro situations. The difference in aperture size can impact the overall look of images, with the Nikon lens allowing for softer backgrounds and more pronounced bokeh effects.

Focusing Capabilities

Focusing is an essential aspect of any lens, and both the Nikon and Olympus lenses excel in this area but serve different purposes. The Nikon lens features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that enables fast and quiet autofocus, complemented by a manual focus override for precision. In contrast, the Olympus lens boasts a focus limit switch, which speeds up autofocus in macro settings. It also includes an internal focusing system that maintains the lens length during focusing, crucial for avoiding shadows when shooting close-up. Each lens delivers unique focusing advantages tailored to different shooting scenarios.

Image Quality

Image quality is paramount for photographers, and both lenses have their strengths. The Nikon lens is designed to minimize lens aberrations and enhance light transmission, which helps produce sharp and vibrant images. Its aspherical lens element contributes to its overall image integrity. Meanwhile, the Olympus lens features a sophisticated lens design with 13 elements in 10 groups, including special coatings to reduce reflections and enhance clarity. For macro photography, the Olympus lens offers life-size 1:1 magnification, allowing users to capture intricate details that the Nikon lens may not resolve as effectively.

Compatibility and Versatility

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm is specifically engineered for Nikon DX-format DSLR cameras, but it is also compatible with FX-format cameras in DX crop mode. This versatility allows users to expand their photographic capabilities. The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm is tailored for Micro Four Thirds system cameras, providing a 120mm equivalent focal length, ideal for portrait and macro photography. Both lenses offer compatibility within their respective systems, but the choice will depend on the camera body that the user possesses.

User Experience

User experience can vary significantly between the two lenses. The Nikon lens is praised for its lightweight design, making it easy to carry for extended periods. Its manual override feature allows for quick adjustments, which is beneficial in dynamic shooting situations. On the other hand, the Olympus lens’s focus limit switch enhances usability in macro photography, allowing photographers to quickly adapt to different subjects without extensive adjustments. Users may prefer the Nikon for general photography and the Olympus for specialized macro work, reflecting the intended use of each lens.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens and the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro will depend on your specific photography needs. If you're looking for a versatile, budget-friendly lens for general photography and low-light situations, the Nikon lens is an excellent choice at $213.31. However, if macro photography is your focus and you're willing to invest in a lens that excels in detail and durability, the Olympus lens at $549.99 may be worth the extra cost. Consider your primary shooting style and the environments in which you'll be working before making a decision.