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| sent on 13 Marzo 2026
Pros: Sharp even at T.A., compact, lightweight, robust, screw filters, constant diaphragm aperture
Cons: Collapsible, 7-blade diaphragm
Opinion: Purchased used, in mint condition, saving about 1/3 of its list price. I was immediately struck by the lightness, versatility and small footprint of this lens, which always finds a place in my bag when traveling. Picture quality is also great at T.A., and the constant aperture at f/4.0 is very good for a wide-angle zoom. It is the natural complement of the excellent 24-70 f/4.0 towards wider focal lengths. Both, in fact, belong to the S series, of superior optical quality, although not reaching the heights of the older brothers 14-24 and 24-70 f/2.8, professional zooms that are heavier and above all much more expensive. The linear optical construction allows the front lens to be had that does not protrude from the barrel, allowing the use of normal screw filters: more practical, versatile and economical than the uncomfortable plate filters. If we want to find faults, the 14-30 shares with the 24-70 the collapsible structure, which reduces the bulk in the bag, but delays the start of the photo session by 3-5 seconds to "activate" the lens, which could result in the loss of the crucial moment of some "on the fly" shots, as has already happened to me. Another small flaw, the lack of the increasingly widespread 9-blade diaphragm for "creative" bokeh effects with wide-angle lenses, but not essential in this focal range, at least in my opinion. I don't comment on edge sharpness simply because I haven't encountered this problem for the kind of photos I take. Maybe for the professional, who has to bring home "sharp" photos from edge to edge, this may not be the ideal lens (otherwise Nikon would not produce the excellent 14-24 f/2.8)! Overall I am satisfied with this lens, which I find an excellent compromise between optical quality, compactness and portability, with a pleasant design and great versatility. I agree on the high price of the new one, but you can always find good bargains thanks to Nikon's periodic seasonal offers, or used specimens in excellent condition at an acceptable price. Rating 9-9.5 |