No photo available for this lens
Production
1999 – 2003
Country
-
Optical
11 elements in 9 groups, with 1 aspherical element and floating elements
Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Tokina AT-X 17mm f/3.5
Nikon F, Canon EF, Sony/Minolta A
Overview
The Tokina AT-X 17mm f/3.5 is one of the most affordable vintage ultra-wides. Related to the Tamron SP 17mm (they share DNA), it delivers serious ultra-wide performance at budget prices. The RMC version is manual focus; the later AT-X Pro added autofocus. Both are solid performers.
Verdict: The budget ultra-wide champion. The Tokina 17mm f/3.5 delivers serious wide-angle performance without serious cost. Not the sharpest 17mm ever made, but capable and affordable. Perfect for exploring ultra-wide photography.
Optical Character
Sharpness wide open
The lens is reported to be sharp, especially at infinity focus. Sharpness was tested on a 42MP Sony A7RII.
Flare resistance
The lens exhibits good flare resistance.
Vignetting
The lens shows some vignetting, especially at wider apertures.
Community Insights
What people love
- Very affordable for ultra-wide
- Solid all-metal build
- Close focus (0.25m)
- Good sharpness for price
- Available in many mounts
What people dislike
- Not as sharp as Tamron SP 17mm
- Flare prone without hood
- Barrel distortion needs correction
- RMC versions manual focus only
Pro Tips
- Great budget entry to ultra-wide
- f/5.6-f/8 for best results
- Hood essential
- Compare to Tamron SP 17mm if budget allows
Sources (3)
phillip_reeve-
https://phillipreeve.net/blog/review-tokina-17mm-3-5-af-at-x-pro/
phillip_reeve-
https://phillipreeve.net/blog/review-tokina-17mm-3-5-sl-rmc/
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Tokina AT-X 17mm f/3.5 is one of the most affordable vintage ultra-wides. Related to the Tamron SP 17mm (they share DNA), it delivers serious ultra-wide performance at budget prices. The RMC version is manual focus; the later AT-X Pro added autofocus. Both are solid performers.