Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR vs TTArtisan

Overview of the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens and TTArtisan 40mm F2 L

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens is priced at $213.31, while the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L is more budget-friendly at $168.00, making it about 21% cheaper than its competitor. Both lenses cater to different photography needs and camera systems, with the Nikon lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras and the TTArtisan lens tailored for L-mount system cameras. Understanding their features and capabilities will help you make an informed decision based on your photography style and requirements.

Design and Build Quality

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G features a compact and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for photographers who favor portability. Its dimensions allow for discrete snapshots and landscape shooting, while the lens construction consists of 8 elements in 6 groups, ensuring high reproduction capability. In contrast, the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L is also compact, weighing between 167-176g, which supports flexible shooting angles. Both lenses are designed to minimize distortion, but the Nikon's construction includes a rubber seal to protect against moisture, enhancing its durability in various shooting conditions.

Optical Performance

The Nikon lens boasts a fast f/1.8 aperture, making it ideal for low-light photography and creating images with a shallow depth of field. Its optical design includes aspherical elements that minimize aberrations, ensuring clarity in captured images. On the other hand, the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L features a slightly larger f/2 aperture, which also allows for decent low-light performance. It combines ED and aspherical elements to control chromatic aberration while maintaining image clarity. Both lenses excel in their optical performance, though the Nikon lens is generally preferred for its faster aperture.

Autofocus Capabilities

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G incorporates a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) which provides quiet and effective autofocus, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern. It features two focus modes: manual override autofocus and manual focus, allowing for flexible shooting options. Meanwhile, the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L utilizes an STM stepping motor for quick and smooth autofocus, enhancing the user experience, especially in fast-paced shooting situations. Both lenses offer efficient autofocus capabilities, but the Nikon lens gives you the added benefit of manual override.

Versatility in Photography

The Nikon lens is particularly versatile, functioning well for various types of photography, including travel, environmental portraits, and general snapshots. With a picture angle that approximates the human eye, it can produce natural-looking images. The TTArtisan lens is equally versatile, with a focal length that works well for street, travel, and documentary photography. Its 40mm focal length offers a balance between subject isolation and environmental context, catering to a diverse range of shooting scenarios.

Minimum Focusing Distance

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G has a minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters (approximately 0.98 feet), allowing you to capture close-up shots with detail. This feature is beneficial for photographers looking to explore creative perspectives. In comparison, the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L has a minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters, which is still quite effective for capturing facial expressions and fine details. While both lenses offer good close-focusing capabilities, the Nikon lens provides a slight edge in this aspect.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is available at $213.31, whereas the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L is priced at $168.00. This represents a difference of approximately $45.31, with the TTArtisan lens being about 21% cheaper. For budget-conscious photographers or those who are just starting, the TTArtisan might be a more appealing option without sacrificing too much in terms of quality and performance. However, seasoned photographers may find the additional features of the Nikon lens worth the extra cost.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G and the TTArtisan 40mm F2 L ultimately depends on your specific needs and camera system. If you are a Nikon DSLR user looking for a reliable lens with a fast aperture and good close-focusing capabilities, the Nikon lens could be a worthy investment. However, if you are using an L-mount camera and seek a versatile, budget-friendly option that still delivers impressive optical performance, the TTArtisan lens is an excellent choice. Each lens has its strengths, so choose based on your preferences and shooting style.