Nikon G vs D prime lenses on a D7000: what changes besides the aperture ring?
Asked 12/30/2010
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I’m choosing a second lens for my Nikon D7000 and am deciding between Nikon prime lenses in G and D versions (for example 35mm or 50mm, likely f/1.4). Since the D7000 can control aperture from the camera body, I want to understand the practical differences.
How easy is it to make frequent aperture changes with a G lens compared with using an aperture ring on a D lens? Are there any image-quality or build differences between G and non-G versions, or is the main difference just compatibility with older manual-focus/film bodies?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
9
The G is apparently quite a bit sharper wide-open than the D is. Is it $100-150 better? Over the long haul, you may think so. That's one of the problems getting into photography -- there's the "getting your toes wet" price level and the "getting your money's worth" price level, and there's often a big gap between the two. You can always opt for the D and trade in at a later date, though -- Nikon glass tends to retain a lot of its value. You may even find a used D at a reasonable price.
Originally by user2719. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2719
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
On a D7000, a G lens is generally not a problem at all. You can control aperture from the camera body, and most users adapt to that quickly for frequent changes.
The main drawback of G lenses is compatibility with older cameras that require an aperture ring. On those bodies, a G lens can be limiting because there’s no ring to set aperture directly. That does not really affect your D7000.
As for image quality, the answers suggest this depends on the specific lens, not just the G/D label. In at least one case mentioned, the G version was considered noticeably sharper wide open than the D version. So don’t assume they are optically identical.
Bottom line: for your D7000, choose based on the specific lens’s optical performance and handling, not fear of the missing aperture ring. If you also plan to use older manual-focus or film Nikon bodies, then a D lens may be more flexible.
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