AF-S Micro Nikkor 60mm f2.8G ED Review

Let’s say you’ve got a DX-format Nikon – for now. Should you invest in any more DX lenses, or should you hedge your bets and go for a full-frame lens which can be used on FX models too, should you upgrade in the future?

That’s what’s so great about this 60mm Micro Nikkor – it does both. On an FX-format body like the new D3x it’s a ‘short’ macro lens, while on a DX-format camera it’s equivalent to a 90mm. In practical terms, this means you can shoot from a slightly greater and probably more comfortable distance.

The price is nice surprise too. Specialised own-brand lenses usually cost plenty, but this one isn’t that dear, though admittedly some third-party alternatives are cheaper still.

It’s not much to look at, however. It’s larger than you might expect from a fixed focal length lens, and the front element is pretty titchy, thanks to the modest f2.8 maximum aperture. It’s right at the front of the lens barrel, too, and while there is a lens hood it’s a bit of a nuisance having to fit it (some other macro lenses have deeply-recessed front elements and don’t need a hood).

The overall feel is slightly plasticky, and the focus movement could do with being smoother and more highly-geared. It’s not that easy to make small, precise manual adustments. The autofocus works well, though. Some macro lenses get in a bit of a tizz if you swap suddenly from a nearby subject to a distant one, but the Micro Nikkor has no such problems.

The image quality is good without being exceptional. It’s not until about f8 that it hits its peak sharpness, but that’s OK because macro lenses need to be optimised for small lens apertures, which are needed to make the most of what little depth of field there is at these distances. There’s no distortion but there is just a touch of chromatic aberration near the edges.

This is a pretty good lens that covers both the DX and FX formats and doesn’t cost a fortune. The price does show through in the build, finish and handling, but this is still a very good buy for anyone who wants get into macro photography and stick to Nikon lenses at the same time.