Macro, Portrait & Nature Photography — NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S (2021): The macro lens most Nikon Z shooters will end up with — S-line quality, built-in VR, and a flattering focal length that doubles as an outstanding portrait prime.
Macro, Everyday Photography & Street — HD DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (2006): The quintessential Pentax prime — compact, beautifully made, and capable of true 1:1 macro. A Limited series lens you keep forever.
Who should buy what
Quick take: The hd da 35mm f/2.8 macro limited is the most affordable; only the nikkor z mc 105mm f/2.8 vr s is weather sealed. Scroll down for the full spec breakdown.
Full specifications
| Specification | NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S (2021) | HD DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited (2006) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £899 | £499 |
| Sensor | f/2.8 (max aperture) | f/2.8 (max aperture) |
| Video | 29cm minimum focus distance (1:1 macro) | 13.8cm minimum focus distance (1:1 macro) |
| Autofocus | STM stepping motor — smooth and quiet; less reliable at extreme macro distances | SDM (Supersonic Drive Motor) — quiet focusing |
| Stabilisation | 4.5-stop VR (effective at all distances including macro) | None (relies on body SR/IBIS) |
| Burst Rate | N/A | N/A |
| Battery Life | N/A | N/A |
| Weight | 630g | 215g |
| Dimensions | 85mm diameter × 140mm length | 63mm diameter × 45mm length |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | No |
| Viewfinder | N/A | N/A |
| Screen | N/A | N/A |
| Mount | Nikon Z-mount | Pentax KF-mount |
| Memory Cards | N/A | N/A |
| Connectivity | N/A | N/A |
Suitability by genre
| Genre | NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S | HD DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Macro | ||
| Portrait | ||
| Landscape | — | |
| Street | — |
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