Tokina AT-X 90/2.5 vs Nikkor Ai 85/2

[caspert79]

I promised before that I would do a test between the Tokina AT-X 90mm f/2.5 macro and the Nikkor Ai 85mm f/2.
First, the Nikkor with aperture fully opened:


Pleasing bokeh and good colours IMO, some softness is there, as probably intended at this aperture.

Overall comparison at f/2.8 & f/2.5:


Aperture of the Tokina is wide open here, and therefore smoother. I don't see dramatic differences other than that.

Overall comparison at f/4:



Tokina bokeh a bit softer, but no dramatic differences. No dull image from the Nikkor IMO as often claimed.

Then, at f/5.6:



Same story, I like the Tokina bokeh a bit more. Bot other than that......

Let's take a look at the 100% crops:



Nikkor shows some softness wide open, but at similar apertures the Nikkor and Tokina are about equaly sharp and contrasty.

[Ultrapix]

I have to admit that I would have bet on the Tokina being more pleasant, but this comparison proves the exact opposite, the Nikkor has more pop and brilliance to my eyes.

[Sciolist]

Thanks for doing this set, caspert .

[caspert79]

[visualopsins]

The flat field lens is specialized for some uses however. ) Quality in comparison speaks for how good is the Nikkor.

I like http://forum.mflenses.com/super-multi-coated-takumar-11-9-85mm-m42-rare-lens-t46061.html

[KEO]

Great comparison. Both have excellent subject separation and pop.

[caspert79]

Though I'd share some close focus shots made with the Tokina today:

@f/2.5


@f/11


aperture unknown:

[kds315*]

Tokina has much nicer bokeh IMHO, Nikor those sharp octagons - not my thing
Otherwise both nice sharp andd high contrast, I agree

[caspert79]

[lumens pixel]

Both lenses look nice to my eyes. Interesting comparison.