Nikon Nikkor Z 20Mm F18 S Review

Here’s a comparison of top products relevant to a professional photographer’s kit:

• Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S Lens

  

  • Key Features: Ultra-wide prime, f/1.8 aperture, S-line optics, superb sharpness edge-to-edge, minimal distortion, weather-sealed.
  • Average Price: Around $1,050 – $1,100
  • Cons: Relatively large and heavy for a prime, premium price point.

• Nikon Z 7 II Mirrorless Camera

  • Key Features: 45.7MP FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor, Dual EXPEED 6 Processors, 493-Point Phase-Detection AF, 5-Axis VR Image Stabilization, 4K UHD Video at 60p.
  • Average Price: Around $2,800 – $3,000 body only
  • Pros: High resolution for detailed images, excellent dynamic range, improved autofocus over its predecessor, dual card slots.
  • Cons: Battery life could be better, autofocus still trails some competitors in certain scenarios.

• Nikon Z 6 II Mirrorless Camera

  • Key Features: 24.5MP FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor, Dual EXPEED 6 Processors, 273-Point Phase-Detection AF, 5-Axis VR Image Stabilization, 4K UHD Video at 30p.
  • Average Price: Around $1,700 – $1,900 body only
  • Pros: Great low-light performance, versatile for both stills and video, comfortable ergonomics, excellent value.
  • Cons: Lower resolution compared to the Z 7 II, video features are not as advanced as some competitors.

• Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S Lens

  • Key Features: Ultra-wide zoom, constant f/4 aperture, S-line optics, retractable design, accepts front filters, weather-sealed.
  • Average Price: Around $1,200 – $1,300
  • Pros: Incredibly compact for an ultra-wide zoom, excellent image quality, takes screw-on filters, versatile focal range.
  • Cons: Slower f/4 aperture limits low-light use compared to primes, some barrel distortion at 14mm.

• Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L

  • Key Features: Versatile camera and everyday carry backpack, FlexFold dividers, MagLatch closure, external carry straps, durable weatherproof fabrics.
  • Average Price: Around $260 – $280
  • Pros: Highly customizable interior, quick access, stylish design, excellent build quality, comfortable to carry.
  • Cons: Can be pricey, limited external pockets, capacity might be tight for very large pro setups.

• SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-II Card 128GB

  • Key Features: 128GB capacity, UHS-II interface, up to 300MB/s read and 260MB/s write speeds, V90 video speed class.
  • Average Price: Around $100 – $120
  • Pros: Extremely fast for high-resolution stills and 4K/8K video, reliable brand, durable.
  • Cons: More expensive than UHS-I cards, some older cameras don’t support UHS-II speeds.

• Manfrotto Befree Advanced Travel Tripod

  • Key Features: Compact and portable, aluminum or carbon fiber options, ball head, M-lock system for quick setup, supports up to 17.6 lbs.
  • Average Price: Around $180 – $250 aluminum
  • Pros: Lightweight and travel-friendly, sturdy for its size, quick to deploy, versatile for various shooting scenarios.

The Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S: An In-Depth Look at Optical Brilliance

When Nikon launched its Z mirrorless system, there was a palpable sense of excitement, especially around the promise of new lenses built to take full advantage of the wider Z mount and shorter flange distance.

The Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S is a prime example of this promise delivered. This isn’t just another wide-angle lens.

It’s a meticulously engineered piece of glass designed for discerning photographers who demand nothing less than exceptional optical performance.

Unpacking the “S-Line” Distinction

Nikon’s “S-Line” designation isn’t just marketing jargon.

It signifies a commitment to the highest optical and build quality within the Nikkor Z lens lineup.

These lenses are designed to push the boundaries of what’s possible with mirrorless technology, incorporating advanced optical designs, superior coatings, and robust construction.

• Advanced Optical Design: The 20mm f/1.8 S features 14 elements in 11 groups, including three Extra-Low Dispersion ED elements and three Aspherical elements. This complex arrangement is crucial for minimizing chromatic aberration, spherical aberration, and coma, ensuring sharp, clean images from edge to edge, even at wide apertures.

• Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coat: Nikon employs both its renowned Nano Crystal Coat and the newer ARNEO Coat.

  • Nano Crystal Coat is effective at reducing reflections from diagonal incident light.
  • ARNEO Coat excels at tackling reflections from vertical incident light.

  The combination dramatically suppresses ghosting and flare, especially critical for a wide-angle lens often used in challenging lighting conditions like shooting into the sun or at night.

• Robust Build Quality: As an S-Line lens, it feels premium in the hand. The metal barrel construction, precise focus ring, and weather-sealing inspire confidence, making it suitable for use in various environmental conditions. This durability is a significant advantage for photographers who venture into the elements. Onanoff Buddyphones School Plus Review

Image Quality: Sharpness, Distortion, and Bokeh

This is where the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S truly shines.

Nikon has engineered this lens to deliver across the board, providing a performance that often exceeds expectations for an ultra-wide prime.

*   Center Sharpness: Tack-sharp from f/1.8.
*   Mid-Frame Sharpness: Excellent, quickly catching up to center sharpness by f/2.8.
*   Corner Sharpness: Very good even wide open, becoming superb by f/4.

• Minimal Distortion: Ultra-wide lenses are notoriously prone to barrel distortion, which can cause straight lines to bow outwards. The Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S exhibits surprisingly low levels of distortion, especially for its focal length. What little distortion is present is easily corrected in post-processing, often automatically by modern raw converters.
• Beautiful Bokeh: While a 20mm lens isn’t typically chosen for its bokeh, the f/1.8 aperture, combined with a 9-blade rounded diaphragm, can produce surprisingly pleasing background blur when shooting close to your subject. This allows for subject isolation, even with a wide field of view, adding a new dimension to environmental portraits or close-up nature shots. The out-of-focus areas are smooth and free of harsh edges.
• Vignetting: Like most fast, wide-angle lenses, there’s some vignetting darkening of the corners at f/1.8. However, it’s generally well-controlled and largely disappears by f/2.8 or f/4. Again, this is easily correctable in post-production if desired, but it can also add a pleasing aesthetic to some images.

Autofocus Performance and Handling

A lens is only as good as its ability to focus quickly and accurately, and the 20mm f/1.8 S does not disappoint in this regard.

• Silent and Swift Autofocus: The lens utilizes a stepping motor STM for autofocus, which is remarkably fast, precise, and virtually silent. This silence is a significant advantage for video shooters or when photographing sensitive subjects where noise could be disruptive.
• Internal Focusing: The lens features an internal focusing design, meaning the front element does not extend or rotate during focusing. This is beneficial when using polarizing filters or graduated neutral density filters, as their orientation remains constant.
• Responsive Manual Focus Ring: The large, textured focus ring operates smoothly and precisely. Nikon Z cameras offer excellent manual focus aids like focus peaking, making precise manual focus effortless when needed, particularly for astrophotography where infinity focus is critical.
• Customizable Control Ring: A standout feature of Z lenses is the customizable control ring. On the 20mm f/1.8 S, this ring can be assigned to control aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO. This adds a level of tactile control that enhances the shooting experience, allowing for quick adjustments without into menus.

Low-Light Prowess: Astrophotography and Nightscapes

The combination of its 20mm focal length and fast f/1.8 aperture makes this lens an absolute workhorse for low-light photography, especially astrophotography.

• Fast Aperture Benefits: The f/1.8 aperture allows a significant amount of light to reach the sensor, enabling lower ISO settings or faster shutter speeds in dim conditions. This is crucial for capturing star trails, the Milky Way, or cityscapes at night without excessive noise.
• Coma Control: Coma, which causes points of light like stars to appear as distorted, comet-like shapes at the edges of the frame, is a common issue with fast wide-angle lenses. The 20mm f/1.8 S does an excellent job of minimizing coma, ensuring that stars remain largely round and sharp across the entire image. This is a critical factor for astrophotographers.
• Versatility in Darkness: Beyond stars, the f/1.8 aperture is incredibly useful for indoor photography, documentary work, or any scenario where natural light is scarce. It allows for creative use of depth of field even at a wide angle.

Comparison to Alternatives: Prime vs. Zoom and DSLR Lenses

For photographers considering the 20mm f/1.8 S, it’s worth examining how it stacks up against other options within the Nikon ecosystem and beyond.

• vs. Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S:
  • 20mm f/1.8 S: Faster aperture f/1.8 vs. f/4 for superior low-light performance and shallower depth of field. Generally sharper at its optimal apertures, especially in the corners.
  • 14-30mm f/4 S: More versatile focal range. Incredibly compact and lightweight for a zoom. Accepts front filters. A fantastic travel lens, but sacrifices aperture speed.
• vs. Nikkor Z 24mm f/1.8 S:
  • 24mm f/1.8 S: Slightly narrower, often considered a more “classic” wide-angle for street and environmental portraits. Both share similar S-Line optical quality.
  • Verdict: Choice depends purely on preferred focal length. Both are optically superb.
• vs. F-Mount Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G ED with FTZ adapter:
  • The Z 20mm f/1.8 S is generally sharper, especially in the corners, and exhibits better control over aberrations than its F-mount predecessor. The Z lens also benefits from the native Z mount’s superior optical path.
  • While the F-mount version is still a good lens, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S represents a significant optical upgrade, justifying its native mirrorless design. The FTZ adapter adds length and weight, negating some of the mirrorless system’s compactness.

Ergonomics and User Experience

The ergonomics of the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S align well with the Nikon Z camera bodies, creating a balanced and comfortable shooting experience.

• Size and Weight: While not tiny, the 20mm f/1.8 S is reasonably compact and lightweight for an f/1.8 ultra-wide prime. It feels well-balanced on Z 6/7 series bodies.
  • Dimensions: Approximately 84.5 mm 3.3 in. maximum diameter x 108.5 mm 4.3 in. from camera lens mount.
  • Weight: Approximately 505 g 1 lb 1.8 oz.
• Handling: The lens barrel is smooth and features a comfortable grip. The large focus ring is easy to locate and operate without looking. The customizable control ring is a genuine usability enhancement, allowing photographers to adapt the lens to their shooting style.
• Filter Thread: It features a standard 77mm filter thread, making it compatible with a wide range of common filters polarizers, neutral density, etc. that many photographers already own. This is a practical advantage over lenses with bulbous front elements that require specialized filter systems.

Ideal Use Cases for the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S

Given its specific characteristics, the Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S excels in several photographic genres.

• Astrophotography: This is arguably its strongest suit. The f/1.8 aperture, excellent coma control, and wide field of view make it a top-tier choice for capturing the Milky Way, star trails, and meteor showers with stunning clarity and detail.
• Architectural Photography: The minimal distortion and excellent sharpness make it suitable for interiors and exteriors, where straight lines are paramount. While a true tilt-shift lens might be preferred for critical architectural work, the 20mm f/1.8 S offers an excellent wide-angle perspective for most architectural applications.
• Environmental Portraits: The wide-angle combined with the f/1.8 aperture can create compelling environmental portraits, showing the subject within their surroundings while still achieving a degree of background separation.
• Street Photography Specific Style: For street photographers who enjoy a wide, immersive perspective and want to capture a sense of place, the 20mm can be a powerful tool. Its fast aperture is also advantageous in low-light street scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S best suited for?

Is the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S sharp wide open?

Yes, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S is exceptionally sharp even wide open at f/1.8, delivering excellent center-to-edge sharpness, which is a hallmark of Nikon’s S-Line lenses.

Does the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S have good coma control for astrophotography?

Yes, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S has excellent coma control, ensuring that stars at the edges of the frame appear as sharp, round points rather than distorted shapes, making it a superb choice for astrophotography.

Is the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S weather-sealed?

Yes, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S features extensive weather-sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it suitable for use in various environmental conditions. Benq Mobiuz Ex3415R Review

What is the filter thread size of the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S?

The Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S has a standard 77mm filter thread, allowing for the use of common screw-on filters.

How does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S compare to the Z 14-30mm f/4 S?

The Z 20mm f/1.8 S offers a much faster f/1.8 aperture for superior low-light performance and shallower depth of field, while the Z 14-30mm f/4 S provides a more versatile zoom range and is more compact, though slower.

Is the autofocus of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S silent?

Yes, the autofocus of the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S is virtually silent thanks to its stepping motor STM, which is ideal for video recording and discreet shooting.

Can I use the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S for video?

Yes, the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S is excellent for video, offering silent autofocus, minimal focus breathing, and a wide perspective, which is great for establishing shots or vlogging.

What is the minimum focusing distance of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S?

The minimum focusing distance of the Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S is approximately 0.20 meters 0.66 feet, allowing for some interesting close-up wide-angle shots.

Does the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S exhibit much distortion?

The Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S exhibits very low levels of distortion for an ultra-wide lens, and any minor barrel distortion present is easily correctable in post-processing.

What is the “S-Line” designation on Nikon Z lenses?

The “S-Line” designation signifies Nikon’s premium line of Z mount lenses, characterized by superior optical performance, robust build quality, and advanced features.

Is the Z 20mm f/1.8 S a good lens for handheld shooting in low light?

Yes, with its f/1.8 aperture and the in-body image stabilization IBIS of Nikon Z cameras, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S is excellent for handheld shooting in low light, allowing for lower ISOs or faster shutter speeds.

Does the lens come with a lens hood?

Yes, the Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S typically comes with a petal-shaped HB-95 lens hood in the box.

Is the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S heavy?

Weighing approximately 505 g 1 lb 1.8 oz, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S is moderately heavy for a prime lens but well-balanced on Nikon Z camera bodies. Zebra Zsb Dp14 Review

Can the control ring on the Z 20mm f/1.8 S be customized?

Yes, the control ring on the Z 20mm f/1.8 S is customizable and can be assigned to control aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation.

How does the bokeh look on the Z 20mm f/1.8 S?

The bokeh on the Z 20mm f/1.8 S, despite being an ultra-wide lens, is surprisingly smooth and pleasing when shooting at f/1.8 and close to the subject, thanks to its 9-blade rounded diaphragm.

Is the Z 20mm f/1.8 S suitable for street photography?

Yes, for street photographers who prefer a wide, immersive perspective, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S can be very suitable, especially in low-light conditions due to its fast aperture.

What optical coatings does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S use?

The Z 20mm f/1.8 S uses both Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coat to effectively suppress ghosting and flare from various angles.

Does the front element of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S rotate or extend during focusing?

No, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S features an internal focusing design, meaning the front element does not rotate or extend during focusing, which is beneficial for filter use.

Is the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S full-frame compatible?

Yes, the Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S is designed for full-frame FX-format Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.

What aperture is generally the sharpest for landscapes on this lens?

Does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S suffer from chromatic aberration?

The Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S features excellent control over chromatic aberration thanks to its advanced optical design and ED elements, minimizing color fringing.

Is this lens a good investment for a Nikon Z system owner?

Does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S have a dedicated aperture ring?

No, like most modern Z lenses, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S does not have a dedicated physical aperture ring. Aperture is controlled via the camera body or the customizable control ring.

Can the Z 20mm f/1.8 S be used on DX-format Nikon Z cameras?

Yes, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S can be mounted on DX-format Nikon Z cameras, but it will have an effective focal length of approximately 30mm due to the crop factor.

Is the price of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S justified by its performance?

Many professional reviewers and users agree that the price of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S is justified by its exceptional optical quality, build, and specialized capabilities, especially for demanding applications like astrophotography. Plume Superpod With Wi Fi 6 Review

How does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S perform in flare resistance?

Thanks to its advanced Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coat, the Z 20mm f/1.8 S exhibits excellent flare resistance, even when shooting directly into bright light sources.

What is the maximum reproduction ratio of the Z 20mm f/1.8 S?

The maximum reproduction ratio of the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S is 0.19x, meaning it’s not a macro lens but can get reasonably close to subjects.

Does the Z 20mm f/1.8 S have vibration reduction VR?

No, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S does not have built-in optical Vibration Reduction VR, as Nikon Z cameras provide in-body image stabilization IBIS which works with all Z lenses.

Is the Z 20mm f/1.8 S compatible with the FTZ adapter for F-mount cameras?

No, the Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S is a native Z-mount lens and is not compatible with F-mount cameras via the FTZ adapter. The FTZ adapter is for mounting F-mount lenses onto Z-mount cameras.