What is Nikon’s equivalent to Canon’s 24-70mm f/2.8L for full-frame, and how do they compare?
Asked 9/1/2010
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I’m considering moving to a full-frame system and want a high-quality standard zoom in the 24-70mm f/2.8 range. Canon’s EF 24-70mm f/2.8L is the lens I know best, but if I switch systems I’d like to understand Nikon’s equivalent.
What is Nikon’s comparable 24-70mm f/2.8 lens for full-frame bodies, and what are the main pros and cons versus Canon’s version, especially in terms of sharpness, autofocus, size, and overall image quality?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
16y ago
2 Answers
5
As others have already pointed out, Nikon also has a 24-70/2.8. Since your question stems from switching to full frame, that's what you probably care about.
As a preface, the two lenses are very similar on APS-sensor cameras. The Canon seems a bit sharper toward the short end, while the Nikkor is a bit sharper toward the long end. For that situation, it's mostly a question of which end you tend to use more.
On a full frame camera, the same isn't really the case. Like most lenses, they both get softer toward the edges on a full-frame camera -- but the Nikon doesn't lose as much quality as the Canon. As on APS, the Nikkor is at its worst toward the short end, and anywhere from about 35-70 it's quite good across the frame, even wide open. The Canon does really well around 35-50mm, but gets pretty soft at the edges when you go toward either the short or the long end.
On APS sensors, it's pretty much a toss-up. On full-frame, at least to me, the Nikon seems to be a better lens -- not by a huge margin, but better nonetheless.
Originally by user603. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user603
16y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Nikon’s direct equivalent is the AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 for full-frame (FX) bodies.
From the community answers, both Canon’s and Nikon’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are considered excellent pro standard zooms. The Nikon is praised for very sharp results, fast and accurate autofocus, and strong overall performance. One noted downside is that it’s large and heavy, though that’s typical for a constant-f/2.8 zoom.
In comparisons, the two are very close on crop-sensor bodies. On full frame, one answer notes the Nikon tends to hold up better toward the edges, while the Canon is strongest around the middle of the zoom range. Another answer points out Canon’s newer 24-70mm f/2.8L II is exceptionally sharp.
So the practical takeaway is: Nikon absolutely has a true equivalent, and it’s a top-tier lens. If you’re choosing systems, this lens alone probably shouldn’t decide it—both brands offer excellent 24-70mm f/2.8 options, and differences are more about specific rendering, edge performance, weight, and which camera system you prefer overall.
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