A wide-angle lens is a type of camera lens that captures a wider field of view than a standard lens. This is achieved by having a shorter focal length. Focal length is the distance between the center of the lens and the point where the light rays converge to form a sharp image on the camera sensor.
Wide-angle lenses are commonly used in situations where you want to capture a large area in a single shot, such as landscape, architectural, and interior photography, where you want to include as much of the environment as possible.
There are two main types of wide-angle lenses: prime lenses and wide-angle lenses. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, while Long-focus lens lenses have a variable focal length. Wide-angle fixed focal length lenses are typically lighter and more affordable than wide-angle zoom lenses, but they don’t offer the same flexibility.
When choosing the best wide-angle lens for Nikon, it is important to consider the type of photography you will be doing and the size of your camera sensor. Full-frame cameras have larger sensors than APS-C cameras, so they require wider lenses to achieve the same wide-angle effect. We’ve shortlisted best Nikon wide-angle lenses that you can buy.
10 Best Wide Angle Lens For Nikon
1. Nikon 24mm f/1.4G
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G ED is a wide-angle fixed focal length lens, best for Nikon FX format DSLR cameras. It offers a classic wide-angle field of view with an impressive f/1.4 maximum aperture, making it a versatile lens for various photography applications, including landscapes, nature, and street photography. This could be the best lens for your Nikon camera. Amazon Customer Rating 4.2/5.
Pros:
- Great low-light photos and beautiful background blur thanks to the f/1.4 aperture.
- Sharp, high-quality images with minimal distortion.
- Silent autofocus for smooth video and discreet shooting.
- Weather-sealed design for tough environments.
- Classic wide-angle look for capturing vast landscapes and stories.
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky, not ideal for situations requiring high portability.
- Expensive due to its professional-grade quality.
- Not perfectly sharp at f/1.4, may need to stop down slightly.
No Long-focus functionality, fixed 24mm focal
2. Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM
The Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM is a wide-angle zoom lens designed for APS-C Nikon DSLR cameras. It has a focal length range of 10-20mm, which is equivalent to 15-30mm on a full-frame camera.
The maximum aperture of f/3.5 is relatively fast for a wide-angle zoom lens, which means that it can be used in low-light conditions and can create shallow depth of field effects. The lens also features HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) for fast and quiet autofocus.
Key features of the Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM:
- Wide-angle lens for APS-C Nikon DSLR cameras
- 10-20mm focal length (15-30mm equivalent on full-frame)
- f/3.5 maximum diaphragm
- HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) for fast and quiet autofocus
- Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting
- Minimum focus distance of 9.45 inches (24 cm)
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.6/5.
Pros:
- Wide Long-focus range for capturing expansive scenes (great for landscapes and architecture).
- Relatively fast aperture for low light and background blur.
- Fast autofocus motor for quick focus acquisition.
- Affordable option for wide-angle photography on Nikon dslrs.
Cons:
- Not weather-sealed, so avoid using it in harsh environments.
- Plastic lens mount, which some find less durable than metal.
- Larger and heavier than some other APS-C wide lenses.
- No stabilization, making low-light handheld shooting trickier.
- Discontinued, so finding a new one might be challenging.
3. Nikon AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is a wide-angle lens especially designed for Nikon FX format DSLR cameras. It offers a versatile focal length range that’s well-suited for landscape, cityscape, and interior photography. AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR is the best lens for Nikon dslrs.
Key Features:
- Wide range of zoom (16-35mm).
- Constant f/4 diaphragm.
- VR (Vibration Reduction) IS.
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM).
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass.
- Weather-sealed design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.6/5.
Pros:
- Versatile wide-angle Long-focus for various photography situations.
- Stabilization for sharper handheld shots.
- Fast and quiet autofocus performance.
- Durable weather-sealed construction.
- Excellent image quality with minimized distortions.
Cons:
- Not the fastest aperture (f/4) may require higher ISO in low light.
- Relatively large and heavy lens.
- Expensive professional-grade lens.
4. Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM
Sigma has variety of lens for Nikon cameras. The Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM is a wide-angle lens best for APS-C DSLR cameras. It offers an ultra-wide focal range, making it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, architecture, and even astrophotography.
While the aperture narrows as you zoom in, it starts at a decent f/4.5 for wider shots. This lens is known for its affordability and wide field of view, but keep in mind it has some limitations. This lens is available for Nikon dslrs and best on the market.
Key Features:
- Ultra-wide zoom range (8-16mm).
- Variable diaphragm (f/4.5-5.6.
- HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor).
- Aspherical lens elements.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.4/5
Pros:
- Ultra-wide field of view for capturing breathtaking landscapes and architecture.
- Affordable option for wide-angle photography on APS-C cameras.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easier to carry.
- HSM motor for quick and quiet autofocus.
Cons:
● Variable aperture limits low-light performance at longer focal lengths.
● No stabilization, which can be challenging for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.
● May exhibit some distortion at wider focal lengths.
● Plastic lens mount, which some users perceive as less durable than metal.
5. Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR
The Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR is a compact and affordable wide-angle lens. Its focal range offers a wide field of view, well-suited for capturing landscapes, cityscapes, architecture, and even close-up interior shots.
The lens features built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) to minimize camera shake and a stepping autofocus motor for quiet and smooth operation.
Key Features:
- Wide-angle range of zoom (10-20mm).
- Variable diaphragm (f/4.5-5.6).
- VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization.
- Stepping autofocus motor.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.6/5
Pros:
- Affordable wide-angle Long-focus option for Nikon APS-C cameras.
- Built-in VR IS for sharper handheld photos and videos.
- Quiet and smooth autofocus motor suitable for video recording.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
Cons:
- Variable diaphragm limits low-light performance at longer focal lengths.
- Not the fastest aperture overall (f/4.5-5.6) may require higher ISO in low light.
- Plastic lens mount, which some users perceive as less durable than metal.
- Lacks weather sealing, so avoid using it in harsh environments.
6. Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
The Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is a wide-angle powerhouse, offering a professional-grade ultra-wide zoom experience for Nikon FX format DSLR cameras. With its expansive 14-24mm focal length, it pushes the boundaries of what you can capture in a single shot, making it ideal for landscape photographers, architectural enthusiasts, and astrophotography adventurers.
Not only does it boast an incredibly wide field of view, but it also maintains a constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the Long-focus range. This impressive feature allows consistent light transmission for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur effects.
Key Features:
- Ultra-wide range zoom (14-24mm).
- Constant f/2.8 diaphragm.
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM).
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass.
- Weather-sealed design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.7/5
Pros:
- Exceptionally wide field of view for capturing vast landscapes and architectural details in their entirety.
- Consistent f/2.8 diaphragm excels in low-light situations and allows for creative control over depth of field.
- Silent Wave Motor ensures quiet and swift autofocus performance.
- Durable weather-sealed construction tackles challenging environments.
- Delivers good image quality with minimized aberrations.
Cons:
- Professional-grade lens with a premium price tag.
- Large and heavy design, not the most portable option.
- Not ideal for everyday carry due to its size and weight.
7. Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S
The Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a compact and versatile ultra-wide-angle lens dedicated for Nikon mirrorless Z mount cameras. It boasts a staggering 14-30mm focal range, perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes, expansive architecture, and even astrophotography.
Unlike some ultra-wide lenses, the Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S maintains a constant f/4 diaphragm throughout the Long-focus range. This allows for consistent performance in various lighting conditions and the ability to create pleasing background blur.
Key Features:
- Ultra-wide zoom range (14-30mm).
- Constant f/4 diaphragm.
- Stepping Motor (STM).
- Programmable control ring.
- Weather-sealed design.
- Aspherical and ED elements.
- First 14mm Nikon lens to accept filters (82mm).
- Retractable design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.7/5
Pros:
- Exceptionally wide field of view for capturing expansive landscapes and architectural details.
- Consistent f/4 diaphragm for low-light performance and creative depth of field control.
- Smooth and quiet autofocus thanks to the STM motor, beneficial for video.
- Customizable control ring for personalized shooting experience.
- Weather-sealed build tackles challenging environments.
- Delivers sharp images with minimized aberrations.
- World’s first 14mm filter-attachable Nikon lens for broader creative control.
- Compact and lightweight design for better portability.
Cons:
- Not the fastest diaphragm (f/4) compared to some fixed focal length lens.
- Might be on the pricier side for some users.
- Relatively new lens, so long-term user reviews might be limited.
8. Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD
A compelling option for APS-C camera users seeking a wide-angle, the Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD packs a versatile ultra-wide range into a compact and affordable package. This lens is well-suited for capturing expansive landscapes, grand architecture, and even creative close-up shots.
It boasts Tamron’s VC (Vibration Compensation) technology, helping you achieve sharper handheld images, especially in low-light situations. The HLD (High/Low torque-modulated Drive) autofocus system promises swift and precise focusing for capturing fleeting moments.
Key Features:
- Ultra-wide zoom range (10-24mm).
- Variable diaphragm (f/3.5-4.5).
- VC (Vibration Compensation).
- HLD (High/Low torque-modulated Drive) AF.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.7/5
Pros:
- Affordable ultra-wide zoom option for APS-C cameras.
- Built-in VC IS for sharper handheld shooting.
- HLD autofocus system strives for quick and accurate focusing.
- Compact and lightweight design enhances portability.
Cons:
- Variable aperture limits low-light performance at longer focal lengths.
- Not the fastest diaphragm overall (f/3.5-4.5) may require higher ISO in low light.
- Plastic lens mount, which some users perceive as less durable than metal.
- May exhibit some distortion at wider focal lengths.
9. Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S
Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S is a top-of-the-line ultra-wide-angle lens. It boasts an impressive 14-24mm focal range, ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes, expansive architecture, astrophotography, and even capturing tight interior spaces.
This lens stands out for its constant f/2.8 aperture, allowing for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur throughout the range of zoom. quality with excellent portability.
Key Features:
- Range of zoom (14-24mm)
- Constant f/2.8 aperture
- Stepping Motor (STM)
- Programmable control ring
- Weather-sealed design
- Aspherical and ED elements
- Shortest and lightest f/2.8 best ultra-wide zoom available
- Includes two filter options
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.7/5
Pros:
- Exceptionally wide field of view for capturing vast landscapes and architectural details in their entirety.
- Unparalleled low-light performance and creative control over depth of field due to the constant f/2.8 diaphragm.
- Smooth and quiet autofocus thanks to the STM motor, beneficial for video and discreet shooting.
- Customizable control ring for a personalized shooting experience.
- Weather-sealed build tackles challenging environments.
- Delivers sharp images with minimized aberrations.
- Highly portable due to its compact and lightweight design compared to other f/2.8 ultra-wide lenses.
- Offers filter flexibility with two hood options.
Cons:
- Professional-grade lens with a premium price tag.
- Not the most versatile option for everyday photography due to the ultra-wide focal range.
- May require a larger camera bag due to its wider Long-focus range compared to some APS-C ultra-wide lenses.
10. Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
The Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is a compact and versatile Long-focus lens. It offers a practical range of zoom (35mm equivalent: 24-75mm) well-suited for everyday shooting, from landscapes and portraits to close-up details.
The lens boasts built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) to minimize camera shake and a stepping motor for quiet and smooth autofocus. Z DX 16-50mm would be the best wide-angle lens for your Nikon camera.
Key features:
- Versatile Long-focus range (16-50mm, 24-75mm equivalent).
- VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization.
- Stepping motor autofocus.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Control ring.
- Amazon Customer Rating 4.5/5
Pros:
- Affordable Ultra long focus lens for Nikon Z DX cameras.
- Built-in VR for sharper handheld shooting.
- Quiet autofocus ideal for photos and videos.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carrying.
- Versatile Long-focus range for everyday photography.
Cons:
- Variable diaphragm(f/3.5-6.3) limits low-light performance at longer focal lengths.
- Not the fastest aperture overall, may require higher ISO in low light.
- Plastic lens mount, which some users perceive as less durable than metal.
What are the Benefits of a Wide Angle Lens?
Wide-angle lenses are a valuable tool for any photographer’s kitbag, offering a distinct perspective and numerous advantages over standard lenses. Here are some of the key benefits of using a wide-angle lens:
- Wider field of view: The most apparent benefit of a wide-angle lens is its ability to capture a broader scene. This is ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, grand architecture, or cramming in lots of elements in tight spaces.
- Enhanced depth of field: Wide-angle lenses typically produce a larger depth of field compared to telephoto lenses. This means that more of your image will be in focus from the foreground to the background, which is useful for situations where you want everything sharp, like photographing a group or a product shot.
- Creative perspective: Wide-angle lenses can be used to create dramatic and dynamic images by exaggerating perspective. By getting close to your foreground subject, you can make it appear larger and more prominent in the frame, while backgrounds may also recede and appear further away. This can be a great way to add depth and interest to your photos.
- Low-light photography: Wide-angle lenses often have a wider maximum aperture, which allows more light to enter the camera. This can be helpful for shooting in low-light conditions without having to use a flash.
Increased versatility: A wide-angle lens can be a great all-purpose lens, especially when you’re traveling or shooting in tight spaces. It allows you to capture a variety of subjects without having to switch lenses constantly.
Thinks to consider before Buy a Wide Angle Lens
Here are some things to consider before buying a wide-angle lens:
- Focal Length:
- Wide-angle lenses typically range in focal length from around 10mm to 35mm on a full-frame camera. (The focal length will be different on APS-C and other sensor sizes.)
- A wider focal length (e.g., 10-14mm) will capture a very expansive scene, but can also exaggerate distortion at the edges of the frame.
- A more moderate wide-angle lens (e.g., 24-35mm) will provide a good balance between field of view and manageable distortion.
- Prime vs Zoom Lens:
- Wide-angle fixed focal length lens tend to be sharper, lighter, and more affordable than Long-focus lenses.
- Wide angle lenses offer more flexibility in framing your shots, but may be heavier, bulkier, and more expensive.
- Aperture:
- A wider maximum diaphragm(e.g., f/2.8 or lower) will let in more light, allowing you to shoot in low-light conditions and achieve a shallower depth of field for background blur.
- Lenses with a narrower maximum diaphragm will be more affordable, but may limit you in low-light situations.
- Image Stabilization:
- Image stabilization (IS) can be helpful for reducing camera shake, especially at slower shutter speeds, which are common when shooting in low light with a wide-angle lens.
- Not all wide-angle lenses offer IS, so be sure to factor this in if you anticipate shooting handheld in low light.
- Filter Compatibility:
- Some wide-angle lenses, particularly ultra-wide lenses, bulge out at the front, making it difficult or impossible to use screw-in filters.
- If you plan on using filters like polarizers or neutral density filters, be sure to choose a wide-angle lens that is compatible with them or look into filter systems that are specifically designed for wide-angle lenses.
- Build Quality and Weather Sealing:
- Wide-angle lenses intended for travel or outdoor photography should be well-built and weather-sealed to protect them from dust, moisture, and other elements.
- Consider how you will be using the lens and choose one that can withstand the conditions you’ll be shooting in.
- Price:
- Wide-angle lenses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- The price will depend on the factors mentioned above, such as focal length, aperture, brand, and build quality.
FAQs
What focal length is best for wide-angle?
35mm (24mm) is generally the longest central length that should be visible as a ‘wide point’ focal point. Normally covering a slanting point of perspective at around 63 degrees, it includes a greater amount of the scene than a 50mm focal point without presenting perceptible twisting.
Do I need a wide-angle lens for landscapes?
Wide-point focal points are great for landscape photography: They have more profundity of the field at some random gap setting and camera-to-subject distance than faxes. It is easy to stop down and acquire front-to-back excellent sharpness.
Does a wide-angle lens distort the picture?
Wide point focal points distort things and upgrade viewpoint. This means protests the camera seem bigger than ones farther away, regardless of whether they are a similar size truly.
Final Words
Ideally, this list made things a piece simpler for you. All of the lenses above are brilliant choices, and you can’t turn out badly with any of them. Simply pick one that crosses with your prerequisites, and don’t think back. Also, these focal points can be utilized to catch similarly astounding photographs.
