Lens Lab
    Nikon Micro Nikkor 105 mm f/ 4 Ai
    Nikon Micro Nikkor 105 mm f/ 4 Ai

    Nikon Micro Nikkor 105 mm f/ 4 Ai

    105mm · f/4

    Overview

    The Nikon Micro Nikkor 105mm f/4 Ai is a manual-focus macro lens with excellent optics, being at least 90% as good as modern 105mm lenses wide-open and equally sharp stopped down. It offers superior build quality with all-metal construction and a built-in hood, though it only achieves 1:2 magnification natively; 1:1 requires a PN-11 tube or TC-200/201 teleconverter. Weaknesses include a dim f/4 aperture that makes focusing difficult on manual-focus film cameras, but it works well on modern DSLRs with electronic focus assist. It suits macro photographers who prefer manual focus and value mechanical precision over autofocus or VR.