The Tokina AF 16-50mm f/2.8 is a third-party option for Nikon and Canon users. Despite an SLD element, to reduce the amount of glass and make the lens compact, the Tokina AT-X DX AF 16-50mm f/2.8 is a big, heavy lens. It boasts a robust build with a classy looking mottled grey finish and a rubberised feel to the focus and zoom rings. The latter is located at the rear and although on the narrow side, it provides a solid and sturdy action through the range.
The focus ring is much larger, nicely weighted and features Tokina’s One-touch Focus Clutch Mechanism. Autofocus is good, locking on to subjects accurately and quickly, but with no AF motor, whirring is audible and again Nikon users need a body-mounted AF motor for it to work. Other features include a Water Resistant coating on the glass, designed to make it easier to wipe clean and, if you’re after image stabilisation take note, as it’s not featured here.
This lens features a water-repellent lens coating making the front element easier to wipe clean. An alternative method to the AF/ MF switch, this lens’s clutch allows you to quickly and easily change between either manual or autofocus mode.
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