Nikon Introduces Nikkor 40mm F2.8 G 1:1 Macro Lens

Nikon 40mm F2.8G
(image credit: Nikon)

Nikon has launched a new 1:1 Macro lens, the DX Micro Nikkor 40mm F2.8 Macro Lens. The new lens is targeted towards the entry-level market and priced accordingly. What's special about this lens is its compact size (6.4 cm x 6.9 cm), fast aperture (F2.8) and its also lightweight (280g). The MRSP price stands on $279.95 and we can assume that its street price will be somewhere around $200-$220, which makes this lens a very affordable 1:1 Macro lens for DX Nikon DSLR photographers.

On a 1.5x crop sensor this lens will actually be 60mm (35mm equiv.). Some people raised some questions about this lens having a small focal length for macro shots. Others looks at the positive side, with this lens being both  a Macro 1:1 lens and can serve as a walkaround fast lens too. The AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8 G utilize an internal AF motor, which means that it will AF on Nikon's entry-level digital SLR cameras, including the Nikon D3100 and the D5100.

This new Nikkor macro lens also features SWM (Silent Wave Motor) technology for fast and quiet Auto Focus, which is important for capturing macro shots. Furthermore, you have a M/A switch where you can switch from Auto Focus to Manual focus quickly.

Specs:

• Minimum aperture: F/22
• Angle of View: 38°50’
• Lens construction: 9 elements in 7 groups
• Minimum focus distance: 16 cm
• Aperture diaphragm: 7 blades
• Filter: 52mm
• Weight: 280g (9.9 oz)
• Supplied accessories: 52 mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-52, Rear Lens Cap LF-4, Bayonet Hood HB-61, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-0915

Nikon already have six micro lenses in its Special-Purpose Micro lens lineup, including the following lenses:

• AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8D
• AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED
• AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR
• AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
• AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED

And of course the new lens, AF-S DX Micro Nikkor 40mm F2.8G.

Nikon Micro lenses are well known for their high optical performance and high resolution properties. They were designed for capturing the highest amount of details when shooting macro photos in 1:1 reproduction ratio.

The new lens also features CRC (Close-Range correction system). This system takes advantage of an advanced focusing innovation. The elements in the lens are floating inside the lens, making each lens group move independently in order to achieve precise focus. This ensures maximum focusing capability in any range. The 40mm F2.8 lens also features ED glass for reducing flare and ghosting, a super ED glass and an Asphetical lens elements.

I'm pretty sure that this lens will find itself in many entry-level photographer's camera bag. I am actually thinking of grabbing one for myself too.