Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

If you're looking at this review, you probably have a good idea of what kind of lens the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 is. Before the DX format came out (Nikon digital sensors are smaller than "traditional" film format), the mid-range zoom of choice for professionals and advanced amateurs would have been the Nikon 28-70mm f/2.8, a.k.a. "The Beast." But with the advent of digital SLRs, the 28-70mm focal range was not wide enough so Nikon developed the 17-55mm f/2.8. On a digital SLR, the effective focal range of this lens is very close to 28-70mm, exactly what Nikon intended.

As with all of Nikon's pro grade lenses, the 17-55mm f/2.8 is big, heavy, and built like a tank. This lens means business, and it's built to take heavy everyday use.

Simply put, this is a very flexible lens that is sharp, gives great color rendition, and will allow you to play in low light when consumer grade lenses are packed and ready to go home. Constant f/2.8 across the entire focal range allows you to keep shooting and will give fabulous bokeh (how the lens renders out of focus background). The zoom and focus rings are well-damped and have a nice response. When you want to go auto-focus, the lens snaps to focus in an instant. No complaints there at all. All in all, a very satisfying performer.

So what are the downsides? If you're used to consumer grade lenses, be warned that this is lens is bigger and heavier than what you've grown accustomed to. It is about 1.5 pounds and about 4.5 inches long. Doesn't sound like much but you'll feel the difference if this is the first pro-grade lens you've ever used. (On a sidenote: buy an Op/Tech neoprene strap and your camera/lens will feel much lighter!)

Price is another downside. Is it worth the $1100 used / $1300 new price? Only you can decide that but if you're a Nikon shooter, there is no better mid-range zoom out there. There are alternatives, though. Tamron has a 17-50 f/2.8, Tokina is close to releasing a 16-50 f/2.8, and Sigma has an 18-50 f/2.8. All of these are under $500 new and are very close to the Nikon's performance. Is the Nikon optically better than all these lenses? Arguably yes. Is the Nikon over twice better? I would say no, but you do have to pay more for incremental quality.

In the end, it's up to you if this lens is worth it. This lens performs like a champ (as it should for this price). I would highly recommend it; just be sure to check out the third party lenses too.

The original package includes a soft lens case, front and rear caps, and a petal shaped hood. The filter size for this lens is 77mm. Enjoy and happy shooting!