Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR £900/$1100

Plus points compensate for a slight lack of width

This Nikon lens has the least generous viewing angle of any FX-format lens on test, and also lags marginally behind DX lenses that shrink to a 10mm focal length. It also has the joint narrowest aperture rating of f/4, along with the Sigma 12-24mm lens. A major upside is that it’s smaller and considerably lighter than the other FX lenses on test. At 680g, it’s the only one to weigh in at under a kilogram.

It’s also the only FX-format lens in the group to have a filter attachment thread, enabling the easy attachment of 77mm filters or filter holders. Unlike the wider Nikon and Sigma FX lenses on test, this one features stabilization. Other optical goodies include two ED elements and so-called Nano Crystal Coat.

Performance

Sharpness and contrast are mostly excellent, although there’s a drop in sharpness at the long end of the zoom range when shooting wide open. VR is good for about 2.5 stops and the ring-type ultrasonic autofocus system is typically fast and whisper-quiet.