Tokina 90/2.5, Nikkor 105/2.5 and Sony DE 85/1.8 compared

[caspert79]

I decided it was time to do a pixel peeping test between Tokina AT-X 90/2.5, the Nikkor 105/2.5 and the brand new Sony FE 85/1.8. A Sony A7 on a tripod was used to make the pictures (timer 10 sec). Pictures are converted from RAW to JPEG.

I moved the tripod backwards in case of the 105mm/2.5 to compose more or less the same frame.
First, an overall comparison of the pictures:




Hard to say anything yet, all three lenses produce nice pictures with soft bokeh and vivid colors.

Then, the 100% crops:



I love both the Nikkor and the Tokina. The Nikkor is much smaller though, a pretty compact lens really, and leaves some more space in your camera bag for other lenses.

The red square shows on what part I (tried to) focus on.
The Sony has a reputation for being extremely sharp and it shows. It seems the focus of the Nikkor and the Tokina is not exactly similar, therefore I decided to do a second test between these two. Here are the 100% crops @ f/2.5 and @ f/8. Focus is at the middle of the crop. Keep in mind that the Nikkor has less DOF, being a 105mm. More details will be in focus with the Tokina.


In terms of resolution, I don't think there's too much of a difference. The Tokina has slightly better micro contrast it seems. Left Tokina, right Nikkor.



Conclusion:
- Sony lens is the sharpest and has the best micro contrast.
- Tokina images show better micro contrast than the Nikkor
- The Nikkor is very compact and very close in performance to the Tokina. It's much more compact though, and leaves more space in my bag for other lenses.
- Bokeh and colors good from all three lenses.

Please feel free to comment.

[blotafton]

Nice sharpness test. I also like to see a challenging bokeh scene.

Of these I have the Nikkor and think it has good, smooth bokeh.

I may do that kind of test this summer.

[caspert79]

[vivaldibow]

Nice comparison! Good to know the modern Sony is also very sharp.

[kiddo]

Thanks for the test, you put3 in3 the best lenses Indeed , Sony proves to be the right choice for the money if AF is needed,on low budget ,Nikkor is doing a good job and bokina,one of the best,but not always the most practically lens to take around ,even though it's images proves to be between the top . Wonder how tamron 2.8 do in such a test