Production
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Country
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Optical
6 elements in 5 groups
Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Nikon 55mm f/2.8 Micro-Nikkor AI-S
Nikon F (AI-S)
Overview
The Nikon 55mm f/2.8 Micro-Nikkor AI-S is Nikon's legendary macro lens — capable of 1:1 reproduction with surgical sharpness. But it's also one of the sharpest normal lenses Nikon ever made. Many photographers use it as their standard 55mm, never touching the macro capability. It's that good as a regular lens.
Verdict: One of the sharpest lenses ever made. Whether you need macro or just want a ridiculously sharp normal lens, the 55mm f/2.8 Micro-Nikkor delivers. A desert island lens for technical photographers.
Optical Character
Color
Neutral Nikon
Sharpness wide open
Sharp even at f/2.8
Flare resistance
Excellent control, designed for shooting into lights
Contrast
Good contrast for f/1.2, better than standard 50mm f/1.2
Vignetting
Present at f/1.2 but reasonable for the speed
Community Insights
What people love
- Incredible sharpness at any aperture
- True 1:2 macro (1:1 with extension tube)
- Doubles as an excellent portrait lens
- Compact for a macro lens
- Excellent for product photography
- Nikon build quality
What people dislike
- Slow f/2.8 aperture
- 55mm is slightly long for 'normal' lens
- Only 1:2 native (not 1:1)
- Focus throw is long
Pro Tips
- Try it as your standard 55mm — you'll be amazed
- Add PK-13 extension tube for 1:1 macro
- f/8-11 for maximum macro sharpness
- Great for portraits at f/4 — sharp with enough bokeh
Sample Photos
Sources (2)
unknown-
https://www.momentcorp.com/review/nikmicro55.html
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Nikon 55mm f/2.8 Micro-Nikkor AI-S is Nikon's legendary macro lens — capable of 1:1 reproduction with surgical sharpness. But it's also one of the sharpest normal lenses Nikon ever made. Many photographers use it as their standard 55mm, never touching the macro capability. It's that good as a regular lens.