Production
1993 – 2005
Country
Japan
Optical
11 elements in 8 groups, with 1 aspherical element
Updated
Jul 20, 2026
Nikon 28mm f/2.8 AI-S
Nikon F · 28mm · f/2.8
Compiled from 3 real reviews · AI-assisted · accuracy-checked · Updated 20 Jul 2026
Overview
The Nikon 28mm f/2.8 AI-S is the slightly-wider alternative for those who found 24mm too extreme but 35mm too narrow. At 28mm, you get a versatile wide angle that's great for street, travel, and environmental work. It was often the 'one wide' in many Nikon shooters' kits.
Verdict: The versatile wide-angle. 28mm works for almost everything — street, travel, interiors, landscapes. Not specialized, but capable of handling most wide-angle needs.
Optical Character
Bokeh
Creamy and smooth, with beautiful separation between subject and background.
Flare resistance
Single-coated versions flare significantly, but the MC coating improved this.
Contrast
Low contrast wide open, increasing as stopped down. Very filmic rendering.
Community Insights
What people love
- Perfect 'first wide' focal length
- Compact and lightweight
- Sharp and reliable
- Natural wide perspective
- Affordable
What people dislike
- 28mm is 'in-between' for some
- f/2.8 isn't fast
- Not as distinctive as 24mm or 35mm
Pro Tips
- Great paired with a 50mm for a two-lens kit
- Good for interior shots
- Less distortion than 24mm
Sample Photos
Sources (3)
Phillip Reeve
Phillip Reeve
Curated heritage archive
The versatile wide-angle. 28mm works for almost everything — street, travel, interiors, landscapes. Not specialized, but capable of handling most wide-angle needs.