Best Pick

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED Lens

75.3 Macro Score
20mm f/1.8 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.8 maximum aperture and inclusion of two ED and two aspherical elements deliver sharp, low-light performance with minimal aberrations. The relatively lightweight 355g build and Nano Crystal Coatings enhance handling and reduce flare for a versatile prime. This lens is best for landscape and architectural photographers needing a wide, fast prime for Nikon F-mount full-frame cameras.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Sigma 105 mm f/2.8 Macro Lens for Nikon F

73.2 Macro Score
105mm f/2 Nikon F IS
Why we recommend this

Its 105mm f/2.8 design and 1:1 magnification ratio make it a dedicated tool for capturing extreme close-up detail. The lens is a specialized, full-frame optic that can also adapt to APS-C cameras for a longer effective focal length. This lens is best for photographers dedicated to macro work who need true 1:1 reproduction and can manage its fixed focal length and lack of stabilization.

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Sigma Sigma 105 mm f/2.8 Macro Lens for Nikon F lens
Price $567

Voigtlander Nokton 58mm f/1.4 SL II S AI-S Lens,

68.1 Macro Score
58mm f/1.4 Nikon FX IS
Why we recommend this

Its manual-focus f/1.4 aperture and CPU-integrated Ai-S mount deliver outstanding performance and beautiful bokeh for both modern DSLRs and classic film SLRs. The lens offers a nostalgic barrel design reminiscent of vintage Nikkor optics while providing chipped metering compatibility. This lens is best for portrait photographers and Nikon enthusiasts seeking a high-quality, character-rich normal prime for both digital and film systems.

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Laowa Venus Optics Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Zero-D Lens for

65.7 Macro Score
12mm f/2.8 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

This 12mm f/2.8 prime lens stands out with its ultra-wide field of view and "Zero-D" optical design that minimizes distortion for architectural and landscape work. Its robust build and inclusion of three extra-low dispersion and two aspherical elements ensure high sharpness and color fidelity. This lens is best for photographers specializing in real estate, interiors, or astrophotography who require rectilinear wide-angle shots with minimal aberration.

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