Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
Panasonic Lumix S S-R24105 105mm
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
Panasonic Lumix S S-R24105 105mm
The Panasonic LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 lens is highly praised for its versatility, image quality, and value, especially as an all-around zoom for L-mount cameras like the Leica SL and Panasonic S series. Users consistently highlight its excellent stabilization, macro capabilities, and weather sealing, though some note it is not the sharpest at pixel level and the OIS switch can be soft. Overall, it is seen as a practical, lighter alternative to the Leica 24-90, with many calling it a go-to lens for both photo and video.
Pros
- Excellent image stabilization
- Great macro capabilities
- Weather-sealed build
- Versatile 24-105mm focal range
- Constant f/4 aperture
Cons
- Not the sharpest at pixel level
- Soft OIS switch
- Slightly slower autofocus than kit lens
- Heavy for some users
- Large lens bag included
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm | Panasonic Lumix S S-R24105 105mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Optics | ||
| Type | zoom | zoom |
| Focal Length Min | 16 mm | 24 mm |
| Focal Length Max | 85 mm | 105 mm |
| Elements | — | 16 |
| Groups | — | 13 |
| Aspherical Elements | 3 | 4★ |
| ED Elements | 2 | 4★ |
| Coating | Super Integrated Coating | — |
| Aperture | ||
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 | f/4 |
| Min Aperture | 3.5-5.6 | f/4 |
| Constant | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 | 9★ |
| Build | ||
| Mount | Nikon F | L-Mount |
| Format | APS-C | full-frame★ |
| Weather Sealed | — | ✓★ |
| Weight | 0.48 kg★ | 1.18 kg |
| Filter Thread | 67 mm | 77 mm |
| AF & Stabilization | ||
| AF Type | AF-S | Auto Focus |
| Stabilization | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stabilization Stops | 4 stops | 6 stops★ |
| Focus | ||
| Min Focus Distance | 380 mm | 300 mm★ |
| Max Magnification | — | 1:2★ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
- Strong versatility (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong stabilization (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong social proof (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong aperture (83rd percentile)83rd %ile
Panasonic Lumix S S-R24105 105mm
- Strong stabilization (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong optical (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong versatility (92nd percentile)92nd %ile
- Strong bokeh (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Below average build (22nd percentile)
Pricing
Nikon NIKKOR 2178 16-85mm
No current pricing available
Panasonic Lumix S S-R24105 105mm
Verdict
Scores 89 overall, wins 2 of 9 usage categories and 1 of 22 specs.
