Robert1 Loc: Davie, FL

I've been wanting to buy a 1:1 macro lens for my Nikon D750 system, and basically, I narrow it down to the Tokina 100mm f/2.8 AT-X M100 AF Pro D Macro Autofocus Lens for Nikon (new), or the Nikon Nikkor 105mm F/2.8 D Micro Autofocus Lens (used). I didn't care for the Nikon G one, due to the price versus performance in comparison with the D version of the Nikkor ones.

I can't make up my mind as to which one of these two would be the best option for Macro (first) and Portrait (second). most reviews are good for both lenses, so does it really matter one over the other? I don't think that the 5mm difference would make that much of an impact in terms of reach/distance separation; wouldn't it?

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

You might want to post this over in the true macro forum @ https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/s-102-1.html

art pear Loc: North Dakota

I have both. Depending on what I am doing I prefer the Tokina because it is smaller/lighter.

deer2ker Loc: Nashville, TN

Unfortunately I have only used my Tokina 100mm for Portraits (not what I purchased it for lol) but wowsa, the bokeh and color rendition is beautiful - so my vote would be the Tokina (and it's cheaper!)

Robert1 Loc: Davie, FL

Thank you all for your replies. i didn't realized that the Tokina is smaller/lighter a point to consider.

larryepage Loc: North Texas area

I have used the 105mm f2.8G for a number of years. Not sure what you feel its performance limitations are, because I've always found it to be an excellent performer. It is a Nikon Gold Ring lens...it is the only one of the micro lenses to be so designated, unless the 200mm micro is as well. In addition to providing excellent micro performance, the 105 is also very good as a short/medium telephoto. I visited the San Antonio Botanical Garden several years ago (just after buying it), and took it as my only lens for the day. The result was a memory card full of nice images.

In order to facilitate slide and negative transfer, I also recently bought the 60mm f2.8 micro. Experience with it is limited, but it seems to have an extremely flat field of focus and also to do a nice job. I've not had a chance yet to try it out at non-macro distances for possible service as an alternative "normal" lens.

Both of these lenses have 62mm filter rings, so any accessories you buy should work on either, except that the ES-2 slide & negative copy attachment will only work with the 60mm. My experience is that having a little more lens to subject distance can make a big difference when trying to light that subject, but the shorter lens is smaller, lighter, and a bit more maneuverable.

There is some price difference if bought new, of course. The 105 is something over $900, while the 60 is a little under $600. The 105 has VR, the 60 does not. Some will claim greater depth of field with the 60, but in actuality, both lenses will have exactly the same depth of field if the framed image and aperture are the same. Both are internal focus lenses...no external parts move when you adjust focus.

Think about how you are going to be using a macro lens and what you are going to be photographing. Rent or borrow if you can't decide.

Robert1 Loc: Davie, FL

thanks for the info. When I said that I was not considering the 105mm G VR, it was strictly from the price point of view when comparing it with the 'D" older version. I have read some reviews that indicates that besides VR (don't need it) their specs/optics are similar, so, I figure no need to spend the extra money, unless, I missed some info that makes the "G" version much superior optically than the "D" version.

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

I can only vouch for the Tokina. It's a fine lens. From what I see of the Nikon 105mm it, too, is excellent. Weight and price are up to what fits for you.

CO

If you are going to be handholding the camera a lot, check out Tanron's new SP series prime lenses. The reason is they all have vibration compensation. It helps when you can't use a tripod. They also have a metal lens barrel and are fully weather sealed. I have their 45mm f/1.8 SP VC lens. Their newest macro is the 90mm f/2.8 model F017.

Robert1 Loc: Davie, FL

Thanks for the info. It didn't cross my mind the weather sealing when checking specs.

aschweik Loc: NE Ohio

I have the Tamron 90mm macro and it is excellent. But I don't think you could go wrong with either of your other choices.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Try some lens comparison sites.

http://lensvslens.com/
http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/lenses
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx
http://www.diyphotography.net/this-website-helps-you-choose-your-next-lens-based-on-the-photos-you-like/
https://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM
http://lenshero.com/lens-comparison
http://www.lenstip.com/lenses.html
http://www.dxomark.com/Lenses/Compare
http://www.lenscore.org/

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Your Nikon camera was specifically designed to work with NIKON lenses. So, to get the best image possible use the Nikon 105. Now as to which one, I own both the D version and the G version. I used to take the D version out into less than ideal conditions. But I found that the D series lens hunted for focus at times. The G version does not hunt and focuses faster and more accurately than the D (in my experience). And, when you are focusing on something small and illusive, it's best to use the one that's quicker. I still use my D for photographing ebay items but use the G exclusively for the field. I also use the following for my close up work, works great, my system uses two round discs instead of the lights shown here.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1305159-REG/bolt_vm_260_flexible_macro_flash.html

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

I believe in using the lenses made specifically for my cameras. What I am saying is that I only use Nikon lenses with my Nikon bodies. All Micro Nikkors are of excellent quality. I have an old 105mm f4 from the 80's and it performs flawlessly with my Nikon bodies to give me excellent images when I do my part. It doubles as a portrait lens.
The Tokina is also very good quality but I prefer to use the lenses made by the manufacturer of the camera.

gvarner Loc: Central Oregon Coast

I have the Tokina 100 and it’s a great lens at a decent price. It’s a bit noisy when focusing and they say it might cause bugs to fly off but that’s a rather petty criticism.