Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
Sirui 23AS12E-B
What Buyers Say
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
The Nikon 16-85mm VR is widely praised as an excellent all-around zoom for DX cameras, delivering sharp images across the focal range with effective VR. Users note it outperforms kit lenses like the 18-105mm and even rivals the pricier 17-55mm in sharpness, though it is heavy and somewhat slow (f/3.5-5.6). Build quality is solid with a metal barrel, and the 16mm wide end is a key advantage for landscapes. Some caution about vignetting with thick filters and barrel distortion at 16mm, but overall it is considered a worthy investment for enthusiasts.
Pros
- Excellent sharpness across focal range
- Effective VR II image stabilization
- Solid build with metal barrel
- Useful 16-85mm zoom range
- Great for landscapes and travel
Cons
- Heavy weight (3.1 lb with D90)
- Slow aperture (f/3.5-5.6)
- Expensive for an f/3.5-5.6 lens
- Barrel distortion at 16mm
- Vignetting with thick filters at 16mm
Sirui 23AS12E-B
The Sirui Sniper series lenses are widely praised for their outstanding value for money, delivering solid build quality and impressive image results at a budget-friendly price. Users highlight the fast f/1.2 aperture for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh, as well as reliable autofocus for both photo and video work. However, some reviewers note that sharpness is not optimal wide open and that chromatic aberration can be noticeable. A few users reported autofocus inconsistencies in demanding situations, and one review mentioned a non-functional lens mount. Overall, this lens series is highly recommended for APS-C shooters seeking a cinematic look without the high cost, though minor optical and operational compromises exist.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Bright f/1.2 aperture
- Good build quality
- Reliable autofocus
- Beautiful bokeh
Cons
- Soft wide open at f/1.2
- Noticeable chromatic aberration
- Autofocus inconsistencies in demanding situations
- Heavy weight for some models
- Non-functional lens mount reported
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm | Sirui 23AS12E-B | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | prime |
| Focal Length Min | 16 mm | 23 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 85 mm | 23 mm |
| Elements | — | 12 |
| Groups | — | 11 |
| Aspherical Elements | 3★ | — |
| ED Elements | 2★ | — |
| Coating | Super Integrated Coating | high refractive elements |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 | f/16 |
| Min Aperture | 3.5-5.6 | f/1.2 |
| Constant | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 11★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Nikon F | Fujifilm X |
| Format | APS-C | APS-C |
| Weight | 0.48 kg | 0.38 kg★ |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm | 58 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | AF-S | STM★ |
| Stabilization | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Stabilization Stops | 4 stops★ | — |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 380 mm | 300 mm★ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
- Strong versatility (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong stabilization (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong social proof (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (81st percentile)81st %ile
Sirui 23AS12E-B
- Strong social proof (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
- Strong af (86th percentile)86th %ile
- Strong macro (71st percentile)
- Strong build (65th percentile)
- Below average versatility (34th percentile)
Pricing
Verdict
Scores 88 overall, wins 9 of 9 usage categories and 4 of 20 specs.
