Tokina AT-X 11-16mm f/2.8 PRO DX II £599, $535

An old favourite that’s been upgraded to make it fully compatible with all Nikon D-SLRs

Compared with many ultra-wide zoom lenses, the actual zoom range of this Tokina looks unimpressive. It’s certainly lacking at the long end, while not quite matching the short 10mm focal length of other lenses. Even so, its maximum viewing angle is a very useful 104 degrees and, given that many photographers only use this type of lens at or near the shortest focal length, the limited zoom range isn’t a great concern.

A major plus point is the relatively fast f/2.8 widest aperture, which remains constant throughout the zoom range. This newer mark II edition of the Nikon-fit lens, which was launched a couple of years ago, includes an autofocus motor, which was lacking in the original version. This means that autofocus is possible on any Nikon D-SLR, rather than just upmarket bodies like the D7100, D300s and those in Nikon’s fullframe range, each of which has a built-in autofocus motor and drive mechanism.

Performance

Despite only having an electric AF motor, autofocus is rapid and reasonably quiet. Image quality is good overall, with consistent levels of sharpness throughout the (albeit limited) zoom range. However, colour fringing is a bit on the high side.