Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G ED vs 24-70 f/2.8G ED VRll (Page 2): I considered the 24-70 VR version until I noticed it takes an 82mm filter, not the 77mm that is used on the 70-200 VR which I...

SuperFly48 Loc: NE ILLINOIS

I considered the 24-70 VR version until I noticed it takes an 82mm filter, not the 77mm that is used on the 70-200 VR which I have. I did not want to have to buy another CPL or ND just for that lens. That was not the only reason I did not get the VR but I might say it was the deal breaker for me. I have four Nikkor manual focus lenses, all made in Japan, from my film days; they work fine on my D850, better than on my D7100. All those lenses take 52mm filters; I like that.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

RonM12 wrote:

I’m looking to purchase a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G to use with my D850. I’ve heard the the image quality of the VR version of this lens is not as good as the non-VR. I have no idea whether or not this is true so, asking here. I’d appreciate any feedback back from the group. I have also considered the Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 G2. The slightly shorter length and image stabilization is attractive to me, but having a hard time making a decision.

I love VR (IS) and that is a determining factor for deciding on a purchase. I like having my 10-18 with IS on it. Makes a huge difference to me. I skipped the 24-70 for the 24-105 for the very reason IS was not on the 24-70.
In lower light it is a God send.

Tronjo Loc: Canada, BC

RonM12 wrote:

I’m looking to purchase a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G to use with my D850. I’ve heard the the image quality of the VR version of this lens is not as good as the non-VR. I have no idea whether or not this is true so, asking here. I’d appreciate any feedback back from the group. I have also considered the Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 G2. The slightly shorter length and image stabilization is attractive to me, but having a hard time making a decision.

I have the VR version on D850. The VR version has much better sharpness uniformity across the frame than the non-VR and this can be seen from the MTF charts. True, the VR version has a small sharpness compromise in the center (noticeable only in deep pixel peeping), but the edges are much sharper, and as a whole, the lens is better suited for group portraits, city- and landscapes. There a number of good comparative reviews out there, like this this one, which I consider right on spot: https://www.cameralabs.com/nikon-24-70mm-f2-8e-vr-review/

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

I count the 24-70 non-vr as one of my very best and most useful lenses. I have seen no reason, for me, to have VR at those focal lengths. As others have mentioned, VR seems more useful on longer lenses and I do have quite a few with VR in my bag. Best of luck.

pego101

Best of both worlds. Put the non VR 24-70 2.8 on my Z6 with the FTZ adapter. Now shooting handheld down to 1/20. BTW the Z6 is a wonderful camera.

RonM12 Loc: Washington State

Thanks to everyone for their input. Understanding there’s a lot of variables including the skills of the person behind the lens, it seems like one couldn’t go wrong with either version. I wasn’t aware of the different filter size between the two versions.

Bridges Loc: Memphis, Charleston SC, now Nazareth PA

RonM12 wrote:

I’m looking to purchase a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8G to use with my D850. I’ve heard the the image quality of the VR version of this lens is not as good as the non-VR. I have no idea whether or not this is true so, asking here. I’d appreciate any feedback back from the group. I have also considered the Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 G2. The slightly shorter length and image stabilization is attractive to me, but having a hard time making a decision.

Before you purchase either, check out the Sigma 24-105 Art lens. I was using the 24-70 Nikon but wanted a little more reach so I could shoot events without changing lenses. I looked at the Nikon 24-120 and found a lot of people loved that lens but not everyone -- mixed reviews. The Sigma had no negative reviews I could find so I went with that lens. Totally happy with it. Yes, it is a constant f4 vs. 2.8 which only makes a difference if you plan to shoot mostly at 2.8 to obtain a better bokeh. The Sigma is VR. I keep this lens on my camera D750 or D810 95% of the time.

Ephstarp Loc: Coventry, RI

I have the Tamron 24-70 G2 and love it. Very sharp. You can purchase this lens and use the money you save to take a photo trip to test out that baby. The Tamron would be a great choice.

Acountry330 Loc: Dothan,Ala USA

I have the Non VR version that is almost a permanent resident on my D-800. So far I see no need for a model that has VR. Happy Shooting.