Tamron 90mm f2.8 VC II review

The new Tamron 90/2.8 Macro VC ii is a very likable lens: It combines very good optical performance with very good image stabilization and beats the venerable Nikon 105/2.8G in almost any respect. Its autofocus is reliable (after some tweaking) and the lens performs equally well from close-up to landscapes. As such it easily earns a Highly Recommended.

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Nikon Micro 105mm f2.8G VR review

The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED is a very good lens with professional build. The VR image-stabilization works well even at larger magnifications and it comes at an appropriate price for this degree of performance. This earns it a Highly recommended, although if you’re a confirmed DX-owner who doesn’t need full-frame compatibility, you can save quite a bit by going for the 85mm Micro Nikkor without sacrificing any significant performance.

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Nikon DX Micro 85mm f3.5G VR review

The AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED is a very good macro lens although it suffers from weak contrast at normal working distances wide open, so is best used stopped down to f/5.6. The VR image-stabilization works well even at larger magnifications and the price is reasonable. Overall the minor downsides mark it down from our Highly Recommended rating, but it still easily earns a Recommended. It’s a great choice for owners of DX-format DSLRs who are into macro-photography and want a step-up from the budget 40mm without the expense – not to mention size and weight – of the 105mm.

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Nikon DX Micro 40mm f2.8G review

The price-performance ratio of the AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G is excellent and had it not been for the incredibly short working distance at 1:1, this lens would have easily earned a Highly Recommended award. But this weakness puts a serious dent in the otherwise shining performance – and thus it’s awarded with a Recommended. So long as you understand the limitations of this lens (again the short 1:1 distance and lack of VR), it represents great value for owners of DX format DSLRs who want to start exploring the joys of macro photography.

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