Nikon NIKKOR Z 28- vs Sony SEL90M28G FE

Overview of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm and Sony SEL90M28G

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens is priced at $1,296.95, while the Sony SEL90M28G FE 90mm f/2.8-22 Macro G OSS Standard-Prime Lens is available for $1,048.00. This makes the Sony lens about 17% cheaper than the Nikon lens, which may appeal to budget-conscious photographers. Both lenses cater to different photographic needs, with the Nikon lens offering versatility through its broad zoom range and the Sony lens focusing on macro photography with a sharper aperture.

Focal Length Versatility

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm has an impressive focal length range from 28mm to 400mm, providing users with a 14.2x zoom capability. This makes it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife shots. In contrast, the Sony SEL90M28G features a fixed focal length of 90mm, which is ideal for macro photography and portraiture, allowing for stunning close-up details. The flexibility of the Nikon lens may be more appealing for those who want a single lens to cover multiple situations.

Image Stabilization Features

The Nikon lens boasts stable VR performance, which is equivalent to a 5.0-stop increase in shutter speed. This feature is particularly beneficial for shooting in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld, as it helps to reduce blurring. Additionally, when paired with a compatible camera, the Synchro VR feature can achieve up to 5.5-stop stabilization. Conversely, the Sony SEL90M28G incorporates Optical Steady Shot image stabilization, allowing for sharp images during handheld shooting, particularly at 1:1 magnification. Both lenses excel in stabilization, though the Nikon offers a slight edge in versatility.

Build Quality and Portability

Weighing approximately 1.6 lbs (725 g), the Nikon lens is touted as the lightest in its class, making it an excellent option for on-the-go photography. Its compact design at a length of about 5.57 inches (141.5 mm) enhances its portability, ideal for travel and outdoor adventures. On the other hand, the Sony lens weighs 1.4 lbs (602 g) and is designed with a dust and moisture-resistant construction, making it durable for challenging environments. While both lenses are relatively portable, the Nikon lens has a slight advantage in weight, while the Sony lens is built for resilience.

Autofocus and Manual Focus Capability

The Nikon NIKKOR Z lens features a linear MF drive that enables smooth focusing, which is particularly useful for video shooting. It combines fast and accurate autofocus with manual focus options, catering to the demands of both photographers and videographers. The Sony lens, however, offers an instant manual/auto focus selection via a sliding focus ring, providing photographers with quick access to focus adjustments. Both lenses prioritize user-friendly focus capabilities, but the Nikon may appeal more to videographers looking for smooth focus transitions.

Optical Performance

The optical design of the Sony SEL90M28G leverages advanced spherical elements and Super ED glass with multi-coating, achieving corner-to-corner sharpness and effectively reducing flare and ghosting. Its 9-blade circular aperture contributes to beautiful bokeh, making it a fantastic choice for portrait and macro photography. Conversely, while the Nikon lens offers solid optical performance with fast autofocus, its versatility may come at the expense of specialized optical features found in the Sony lens. In terms of optical quality, the Sony lens is likely to deliver superior results for close-up shots.

Price Comparison

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm is priced at $1,296.95, while the Sony SEL90M28G comes in at $1,048.00. This $248 difference means the Sony lens is a more budget-friendly option, especially for photographers focused on macro work. Given that the Sony lens delivers high-quality macro capabilities at a lower price point, it is an appealing choice for those who prioritize value without compromising on performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm and the Sony SEL90M28G ultimately depends on your specific photography needs. If you require a versatile lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths and performs well in diverse shooting conditions, the Nikon lens is an excellent choice. However, if macro photography and stunning bokeh are your primary interests, the Sony lens provides exceptional optical performance at a more affordable price. Consider your shooting style and preferences when making a decision, as both lenses have unique strengths that cater to different types of photographers.