Do Not Pay a Premium for AIS versus AI Nikkor Lenses

CORRECTION: The 180/2.8 also changed optical formula with the update to AIS, from 5 elements in 4 groups to 5 in 5.
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#nikkor #AIS #AI-S

[@artistjoh]

As an FA and FG user I definitely prefer AI-S lenses because shutter priority is important to me. I never use program mode, but regularly swap between Aperture, shutter, and manual priority. AI-S was never about optical quality, but about getting the most out of those electronic mid 80's manual focus cameras, and there are plenty of us still using them, hence the higher prices.

[@user-cd8ri1mc6s]

Those cameras are the prime two reasons why AI-S lenses exist. And the Nikon FG-20.

[@GonzoTheRosarian]

I have an FA, agree with your observations.

[@youtube1sm]

This is an educational rant. Thanks for sharing.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

My pleasure! Heck, if you like educational rants, my hipster video is my best to date . . .

[@JB-dm5cp]

Thank you for clearing things up.

[@TheDecguy]

My Nikon F4 was very happy watching this video. The rest of Nikon collection said to my F4, “Who cares you’re always going on and on about that.” Thanks Brian

[@thomasmoje5926]

Thanks for the great info..now I understand the differences between Nikon AI vs AIS lenses. Always wondered what that little 'divot' as you call it..is for on the mounting plate of some Nikon lenses, as well as why the smallest lens aperture numeral (e.g. f/16 or f/22) on the 'ADR' portion of the aperture ring is orange on AIS lenses vs white on the AI lenses. Prompted me to inspect my lenses and now I know which are AI and AIS. Doesn't make a particle of difference for my FM and Ftn cameras but might for the FG body I just ordered and waiting for. By the way I have a Nikon Series 'E' 28 mm f/2.8 lens which I purchased back in 1984; for my purposes at the time and based on published test reviews; I just couldn't see paying the additional cost for the equivalent regular Nikkor version and it's a decent lens excellent image quality.

[@bghows13]

Thanks this was useful as it made me go check my Nikkors - 2 AIS and 3 AI lenses. Now I know the difference and the fact it makes no difference on my FE and FM2.

[@philhodgkinson1460]

Your brilliant Brian.....when discussing difference between nikon lenses.... nobody else mentions the focus throw..... thank you so much for an intriguing video once again Brian....

[@mhc2b]

I appreciate your video, and the information you provided. I agree with your opinions. That said, I do believe that there are "people" (myself sometimes included) who would prefer AiS simply because they are chronologically newer lenses than the Ai or pre-Ai. Many AiS lenses were in production until 2005. Sometimes that can be an important factor in choosing a particular used lens. Also, probably easier to find an AiS in better overall condition, and with no internal dust on the elements. Not a hard fast rule, of course, but a general guide perhaps. But good to know that most optical designs were not changed when the Ai lenses converted to AiS. PS - FWIW, I just recently purchased a "like new" 105/2.5 AiS lens from Japan. Admittedly, I paid twice the price of a decent Ai. But...it was manufactured in 2005, and, by its serial number (1050xxx), was one of the last to come off the assembly line. These last few 105's made also had a special coating called "SIC." Verified via the photosynthesis web site. So, considering all this, I didn't mind paying more.

[@alexblaze8878]

Well done video! Thanks for clearing that up.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Glad to be helpful.

[@stealthworx4371]

Just saw your vid on the 105 lenses. After seeing it (& remembering the rear element tip) went on ebay and noticed the "Pre AI" 105s with the newer optical formulas are a complete bargain! The old sonnars go for ~$200Aud and the "Pre AI" updated design ones go for only $20 more. Great vids!

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Glad I could be helpful

[@jkapp374]

Thanks for this video. I plan to adapt Nikkor lenses to a Cannon cinema camera and then add an anamorphic adaptor... 🥶So I'm actually very grateful to hear that the difference between AI and AIS when using non-Nikon cameras is meaningless... that's actually good news!

[@makaa76]

thx! very clear introduction!

[@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266]

Very informative. You deserve much more subscribers with this amount of knowledge

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Thank you! Share the video! Tell your friends

[@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266]

@@BriansPhotoShow That doesn't work in today's world though man! You gotta do some nice photography challenges and then expose this knowledge! :D

[@klarion]

@@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266 I think these days people mostly do pretty infomercials and hire a couple of models to push some product... I think I'd rather stick with knowledgeable authors.

[@odyseuszkoskiniotis6266]

@@klarion There is a way to conduct knowledge to masses and trick them into learning it. I would much rather see more people understanding why old lens may have an advantage

[@lonnieclemens8028]

Thank you for sharing this video Brian. The information is good to know.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I'm glad you found it helpful.

[@garnieross9958]

Excellent video/opinion again. I fall into the collector/user category as I have over 100 bodies, 100 lenses and various accessories. Nikon, Nikomat/Nikkormat being my favorites. Agree that buying AIS without owning any of those four cameras is senseless. Sad part is most aren't aware of the difference between AI and AIS. They only know that everyone is buying AIS. I only purchase AIS lenses if I want to match a lens to my FA, FG, N2000 or F4. All beautiful camera and lens combos. Enjoy your videos.

[@39exposures]

that was useful. Thanks!

[@awichiwou]

Thanks for the video. I only had the 28mm in both version AI and AIS, and the AIS its a great improve over the AI, in fact the AIS is one of the best 28mm I have used, and still using it :D

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Thanks for the great info!

[@wayneyung1262]

AI 180/2.8 was changed to 180/2.8 ED, lens group changed from 5/4 to 5/5. Ai 35-70 3.5 pro zoom had changed the optical formula too on AiS.

[@patataeve]

Bless you and thank you so much!!!

[@richardsimms251]

What an interesting, enjoyable and great video--as usual !! RS. Canada

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@TheMarkedWolf]

I have a big assortment of Nikon manual lenses from AI to AIs and it seems the Series E I have are the same optically with the AI or AIs versions. I jave the 28mm Series E and a lot of reviews are saying its not good but I digress. You deserve more views

[@thatfrenchbloke8892]

Serie E can have the same optical formula as their AI or AI-s counterpart, but they have cheaper coating on the lenses. Not that anyone should care either.

[@Seele2015au]

Brian's Photo Show Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. I have a few film camera systems (I still prefer to use film but clients these days prefer digital for speed), including a bit of a mish-mash of a Nikon Ai-bodied kit, with lenses from early scalloped focussng ring to Ai-S, all appropriately updated. What I found is that the technical merits of any lens, even shown in tests in A-B comparisons, would not matter a lot as the majority of Nikon lenses are of satisfactory performance anyway, so I sort of picked the ones that suited by budget that I chanced upon, and if I liked the results then they stay. So I have the scalloped - and Ai'ed - 50/2 HC and 105/2.5 PC, both black-fronts, and later K-series and Ai wides up to 24/2.8 Ai. Back then when film was mainstream and I used colour reversals for publication photography I had to get all the lenses matched to give a consistent signature so that there's a consistency on the pages; in that case Minolta lenses had an edge there even though I used Zeiss almost invariably, but now I quite like using my Nikon kit for b/w. One can keep chasing after a lens that gives an extra line pair per millimetre, but I think the effort would be better spent on taking pictures and having fun.

[@robin9339]

AI(S)speed actually only useful on longer focal length above 135mm in program mode, the camera (in fact might be only FA and FG) will select higher shutter speed to prevent motion blur. Even on shutter priority the camera works exactly the same like AI lenses.

[@markgwinnell7259]

Don't get your Nikkor's in a twist ! lol

[@berndmevers]

Ai-s lenses are made especially with the introduction of the Nikon FA. Its the small notch in the bajonett. Optically they are mostly identical - you named it. But the mechanics are often changed. For example the 2,5 105. The Ai-s has an integrated hood. I think it's the same for the 135mm lenses. And the rotation amount for focussing form infinity to close focus is often changed from ai to ais. The design of the ais-lenses is more consistent through the whole range.

[@nitr4mmedia]

I have an old 135mm f/2.8 AI lens and it has a built in lens hood, so not to correct you on that point, just wanted to let you know.

[@Druff71]

CRC

[@TexasCovertCarry]

Thanks for the great information

[@mohammadvarzideh780]

Hello. Perfect and useful educational video . Thanks 👍.

[@grandpascuba]

I have an FG, F3 and F4. I have a collection of about a dozen manual focus Nikkor lenses. Most are AIS. A few are AI. Most of my AI lenses were conversations from the non-auto-indexing lenses. My favorite is the 105mm f/2.5. That is a beautiful lens.

[@adam_mawz_maas]

It's worth noting that the 28/2.8 optical formula changed after the switch to AI-S. You need to verify the 0.2m minimum focus distance as there was a batch of AI-S 28/2.8's made with the older and inferior formula and 0.3m MFD

[@grandpascuba]

It may have been “older and inferior”, but I had one of those Series E 28’s. It was a nice lens.

[@dickieboy007]

thanks for this one Brian... that answered one of my questions.... 👍

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I'm glad I could be helpful.

[@silvestersze9968]

Very informative video. Thx Brian! That’s why I only keep and collect AI Nikkor lenses for my film cameras. 🎉

[@ghw7192]

I bought an AI-S lens when it was a better lens than its predecessor (the 28/2.8 AI/S Nikkor) and not because I used the "S" feature. I have a couple of very good vintage preset lenses I use on an F5 and D90 with no problems.

[@Ni5ei]

Exactly the same reason why I bought the 28 2.8 AI-S It's a better lens than the AI

[@guilealmeida7926]

tks for the information!

[@terrygoyan3022]

The longer focus throw of the ai vs. the ais lenses makes them better suited to hyperlocal focusing. The depth of field aperture marks on the barrel of the lens are further apart and easier to use. Does anyone here have experience with the ai vs. the ais 28 f/2.8 lenses? Is there a clear optical improvement in the newer lens?

[@WilliamWei007]

Brilliant video! ❤

[@ryandewerff]

As far as I know, the F4 can’t be shot in program or shutter priority with any of the AI lenses, including AI-S lenses. I believe the only lenses that can use those modes are lenses with CPU contacts, so AF and up. I could be wrong though, and I can’t speak for the other cameras you listed. Great video!

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I've never used an F4 (a/k/a "Canon's favorite Nikon"), so I'll take your word for it.

[@sonomoha3832]

I understood even the 35mm have an optical formula change. Also a better coating.

[@masterstacker2833]

A fine video. I just got my first AI lens, a 200 f/4 Micro.

[@markdisher2614]

A lens you overlooked that was optically changed in the move to AI-s is the Zoom Nikkor 35-70mm f3.5. I don't know if there are others, and I'm not overly concerned. The move to AI-s saw the development of a linear aperture actuating mechanism for easier implementation of shutter priority automation. And that notch, or scoop out of the back of the lens, as you correctly stated, was significant for only a few bodies. What you miss is the fact that the linearization of the mechanism made it well past the wagon wheel era into the AF, AFD and G lenses. Only with the later E lenses has aperture been communicated in a purely electronic way - hence the E designation. As for the E lenses of yesterdecade, the 75-150 f3.5 zoom was praised and used extensively by professionals.

[@mohamedsoufianekouiderarai2728]

Thanks a lot !!!

[@JefferyAHoward]

Great video!

[@johnrflinn]

Very happy with my 28mm F2 ai lens. Sharp as a tack and really good for astrophotography.

[@janmaaso]

Thanks for sharing. Jan.

[@RedHell2884]

Can I use both with nikon F mount, apsc or fx

[@bencushwa8902]

The "minor way" you mentioned was having the relationship between the aperture pin and the actual aperture position be more linear. This (supposedly?) made it easier for the early auto-exposure cameras to get the right aperture setting. The fact that AI lenses worked just fine on these cameras too really cast doubt on the necessity of the change though. Having shot AI and AI-s lenses on modern digital bodies, I can tell you that there is a *very* slight difference in exposure consistency between aperture settings, especially at fast apertures. For example, with my AI-s lenses if I stop down my aperture by one stop and increase my ISO or shutter speed one stop to match, I will get the exact same exposure. But with my older AI (and pre-AI) lenses, sometimes my exposure will shift very slightly, a third or a sixth of a stop one way or the other, when doing the exact same thing. It didn't notice it until I was doing a rigorous exposure test in a controlled environment, so it definitely does not impact normal shooting. Is AI-s worth the extra money? Meh. I actually like the longer focus throw of the older lenses, but AI-s lenses are newer and less likely to have age/use related issues. I prefer AI-s lenses mainly for this latter reason, but I won't pay insane amounts for them.

[@catmonkey6826]

Very good information. Thank you Ben.

[@michaelmalodrums9674]

I own a nikkor 105 ais and I have a Nikon full frame Dslr , that lens I can change the aperture using the camera , I just purchased the 135 mm ai and I have to change the aperture on the lens itself . It’s not a deal breaker but if your used to adjusting your aperture via the camera then maybe people might prefer the ais.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I also own a Nikkor AIS 105/2.5 and a full-frame DSLR. It is not possible to change the aperture using the camera's command dials. When the Nikkor lenses were updated to the AIS standard in the early 1980s, there were no command dials nor any form of electronic interface enabling the camera to control the lens in any manner. There is no motor or mechanism in manual-focus AIS lenses which allows the aperture to be changed by any method other than physically turning the aperture control ring.

[@robertwroblewski1072]

As time went on,the sharpness wide open did improve,also the lens coatings continued to improve ,even within the ais type.ais is slightly better.

[@101francis101]

If the optics between ai and ais is the same then that can’t be true. They would be they same wide open.

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

You would have to post something proving that to be true. Without the reliable source, it's opinion. False info, according to this video.

[@comoloveoproduccionesaudiv3847]

Thanks for the thoughts!!! But check the number of the aperture blades for instance... It change the Bokeh stoping down. For example the 50mm 1.2 AI and the AI-S. Greetings!!!

[@lucasbarros5937]

I can imagine the shorter focus throw on the ais being nice for photography but I prefer a longer throw since I mostly do video

[@bradl2636]

Recently discovered your channel Brian and must say your content like this is very informative. So to be clear AI vs AIS is irrelevant for later bodies like FE, FM, FE2, FM2, FM3A, and advanced digital bodies from D200 onwards. Correct?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Yes, that is correct.

[@bradl2636]

@@BriansPhotoShow Thank you sir..!

[@christophsauer2857]

@@BriansPhotoShow That is interesting. So just to be sure since I just purchased a FE 2 Nikon and want to buy a 28 mm lense. So following your advice I should consider buying the AI version? I always hear that the character of the AIS lense is so special

[@bradl2636]

@@christophsauer2857 It depends. The AIS version of the 28mm f2.8 has a different optical formula than the AI version and the AIS version is (generally) considered superior (particularly with SIC coatings).

[@rubenzamora3326]

Thanks for the information. I purchased a Nikkor 50mm f1.8 AI for $25. I’m amazed how shard it shoot at 1.8 with my Sony a 7iii

[@Druff71]

hi any info on the 35 F2

[@HarrisonHaleyJavie]

What do you think Nikkor 28mm 2.8 (non D) on Nikon z6? I really need “D” series?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

My understanding is the screw-drive Nikkors won't autofocus on the FTZ adaptor.

[@JonathanDavisKookaburra]

for fimmaking, a longer focus throw is actually better.

[@AntPDC]

I'd just add that some AI-S lenses have ED glass elements to help minimise chromatic aberrations, eg Nikkor 180mm f/2.8 AI-S. The AI version does not.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Yes, the 180/2.8 changed optical formula with the AIS update, as did the 28/2.8. As far as I can tell, those are the only primes between 20 and 200mm to change formula with the update to AIS.

[@AntPDC]

@@BriansPhotoShow At any rate, and as you rightly say, the vast majority of Nikkor AI/AIS lenses are spectacular in every way.

[@desotopete]

It almost seems like a longer focus throw (ai) would be better for fine control of focus?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Many people think so, yes.

[@sergeantcrow]

Thank you....

[@BriansPhotoShow]

my pleasure; thanks for watching!

[@markprice8543]

You said, “In my opinion, the best Nikkors tend to be the Ai lenses or the multicoated versions of the pre-Ai lenses.” Are you referring to the "K" lenses, or the preceding generation of lenses? Also, was there an optical difference/upgrade between the "K" lenses and Ai lenses? Thanks for a very informative video.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

First of all, take what I say with a grain of salt. I'm not an optical engineer or even a professional photographer. I'm just a dude with some cameras. Having said that, I personally prefer the earlier multi-coated Nikkors, including the Auto Nikkors with the "C" designation and the K series and AI series. I believe that as the AIS series progressed, there were more environmental and workplace safety regulatory restrictions on the component materials of optical glass. Is the difference generally noticeable? As to the single-coated optics, often yes in terms of color fidelity. As to the "unleaded" AIS glass, probably not much if at all.

[@PPISAFETY]

Great job Brian, on simplifying a topic that confuses many. I, at one time, owned both the Nikon FA and the FG. With these cameras, used with AI-S lenses, you could turn on a program mode called "Program High" (if I recall the name correctly) that favored the highest shutter speeds in its program algorithm. I never found it particularly useful, and so cheerfully purchased the AI lenses to save a bit of money. The "improvement" to the 28mm f2.8 AI-s was the addition of "Close Range Correction" which used a floating element to improve lens quality in close-ups and to reduce the minimum focus distance over the AI. To that extent, I suppose it was useful. But because it was hyped by certain websites, used prices on this lens were driven up to insane prices relative to other Nikkors for a while. I still see them on offer for more than $250. By doing some reading, I was able to find that Nikon put this into yet another 28mm lens which they "upgraded" to AI-S, and that was the lowly 28mm F3.5 wide angle. I purchased a clean copy with caps and a Nikon metal hood for under $50 with shipping. It focuses to a ridiculously short distance, and is insanely sharp in the center where it counts most, Once stopped down to 5.6, even the corners look good on a 36 mp D800E. It has a very short focus throw of only a quarter turn, but in a wide angle lens I don't care, and I have never missed the one-third stop of maximum aperture. You can still get a great deal on these today if you look. Put on a small light camera like the EM, it makes for a very convenient and fast street photography setup that barely needs to be focused at all if set at f8. As for the 28mm Series E lens, I've owned two copies, and while they were sharp, they were both ill-behaved when pointed into the sun. Other than that, they were fine. Most of my other Nikkors are AI lenses, with a smattering of pre-AI lenses converted for me by John White, who does the job incredibly reasonably and well. In the 70's I worked as a newspaper photographer, and my issued camera was a Nikon F with the pre-AI 35mm f2,8 lens as my go-to lens for everyday use. I love how it gives black and white shots a somewhat "vintage" look, and use it a lot for that. Since my film photography these days is a hobby with shots taken slowly, I actually prefer the longer focus throw of AI lenses for better manual focus accuracy. Cheers!

[@paganphil100]

I have a NIKKOR-H Auto 50mm f/2 lens which came with my F2 camera. I don't know if this lens is AI, AIs or pre-AI. The smallest aperture on the scale (f16) is coloured green, the "prongs" are solid (no cut-outs) and the "focus throw" is about half of the lens's circumference. ......any ideas anybody?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

If it's marked "Nikkor-H" then it was originally produced as a pre-AI lens. If the prongs are solid then it has not been factory converted to AI. It is still possible that the lens has a bench or workshop conversion whereby someone put it on a lathe and ground off metal from the base to form a ridge capable of clearing the AI tab. See my video on AI conversions: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWjIgYqgd9WfoZo

[@101francis101]

Did you mention that most Ais lenses have 9 aperture blades whereas Ai has only 7 blades. Also, some of the ais lenses are still made new in Japan even today, so some of the ones floating around in the used market are relatively new and in amazing condition compared to a lens that’s 40 years old at the beginning of production.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I'm sorry to differ, but most AIS lenses did not have nine blades. That upgrade was limited to only a few high-end fast lenses, such as the 35/1.4 and 50/1.2.

[@101francis101]

@@BriansPhotoShow I stand corrected. It just so happened that the two ais lenses I own are the 50mm f1.2 and the 35mm f1.4 so I just assumed it applied across the board.

[@terrygoyan3022]

@@101francis101 The 180 f/2.8 ais also changed to nine aperture blade vs. the seven in the ai lens. Curiously it has a longer focus throw of 190 degrees vs. 170 degrees on the ai series. The exception that proves the rule!

[@nickgoodwood4812]

and the 2.8 180mm ais.@@BriansPhotoShow

[@kevin-parratt-artist]

I would like a 28mm for use on the F3, which has minimal or zero distortion. It will be used for photographing artwork and architecture. Is there such a thing? Thanks.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

The AIS Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 is probably the most distortion-free manual focus lens in that focal length which Nikon ever made.

[@rubenzamora3326]

I love my 50mm AI lens. It's amazing

[@xxl0o]

Thanks a lot for your "rant"! Just in time to save me of buying ai-s! I film videos, and the longer focus throw is fantastic news! Kudos! Liked and subscribed!

[@reinhartreuschel5499]

Maybe you thought of the 2.8/28mm AIS CRC? That might be possible. Some addicted or experienced Nikonians (like me) say that the longer screw drive of Ai-lenses favors more precise focusing than the shorter one with AiS - logically. And I'm a little bit doubtful in case of the Nikkor 2/85: the AIS maybe just once more optimized, isn't it? I have had them all and can't honestly estimate whether there isn't more than only a 'felt' difference.

[@neilpiper9889]

I have a E series Nikon 75mm to 150mn zoom with fixed f3.5 aperture. A real bargain and an excellent performer.

[@nandagopalnair]

Hey, how’s the sharpness of that lens? Are you facing any issues? I’m planning to get one

[@gerryhardman9060]

@@nandagopalnairthe 75-150 3.5 is an excellent performer and rivals the 105 2.5, it also goes to 1/4 life size and also works well with the 3T, 4T close up lenses. And they are cheap😊 mine suffers from zoom cream which easily fixed with a piece of electrical tape.😆

[@AdamAllen]

Great information

[@lindawilson4634]

Great video/very timely. Just got Nikon FM & FE bods so looking for 1:8 lens. Both AI and AI-S got good reviews on-line; especially the S (gotta be better, costs more). As total newbie, knew the AI would fit/work OK on FM/FE but not sure about the S. Also S more expensive, big-time. Your review made decision easy and saved me a bunch of money. Nikkor 1.8 50 AI here I come! Thanks a mil.

[@wullieg7269]

i got that 28 E orange 22 would love the 100 E

[@jinkim1748]

80-200 Ai 4.5 vs Ai-S 4.0 ??

[@gerryhardman9060]

Ais have linear aperture adjustments so when using the dandelion chips to modify the old lenses they give even exposure whereas the pre Ai and Ai series give wrong exposures. Using these chips have allowed me to use these old lenses on my Z5 which using the FTZ adapter I can adjust the aperture from the control wheel on the camera as well as have 3 stop vibration reduction with these old lenses. Yeah Nikon

[@quanyintv]

So I've been looking for an ais to put on a digital mount and was told that I could break my camera body if I used the ai lens because of the notch. That's why you see the ais conversations.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I believe you're confusing the distinction between AIS and AI with pre-AI and AI-converted. All Nikon DSLRs will accept AI, AI-converted and AIS lenses, though functionality varies. An unmodified pre-AI lens will damage any SLR, digital or film, with a non-retractable AI tab. This includes all Nikon full-frame DSLRs save the Df plus some of the higher-end crop sensor cameras. Which camera model do you have?

[@mistuhgee]

@@BriansPhotoShow so I can safely put AI and AI-S lenses on my D800?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

@@mistuhgee Correct

[@mistuhgee]

@@BriansPhotoShow Thank you!

[@derkeksinator17]

@@mistuhgee that's the only thing I use mine for because newer lenses are expensive.

[@silvestersze9968]

Besides FG, FA, F-301 and F4 associate with AIS Nikkor lenses, I think F-501, F-401, F-601, F-801 and F90 also?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Perhaps. I wasn't thinking about autofocus cameras, which I believe were optimized for the first-generation AF lenses which communicate aperture and focal length electronically.

[@silvestersze9968]

@@BriansPhotoShow Agree that. I just recalled one more manual focus SLR, the F-601M. I believe the golden age of Nikon Lenses was the manual AI, from 1977 to 1981/82

[@rezaVfx]

Sir what's your impression on Nikkor 28mm f2.8? As a wide lens do you recommend it or it's better to go for something else like 24mm f2 !

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I would avoid the Series E and first generation autofocus versions of the 28/2.8. The AI and AIS versions are excellent.

[@rezaVfx]

@@BriansPhotoShow thx mate. What do you think about 24mm f2.8 and 24mm f2?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Both are excellent. You can't go wrong with either one.@@rezaVfx

[@GonzoTheRosarian]

@@rezaVfx I prefer the 24 mm over the 28mm and both 24mm are superb. But that is just my 2 cents…

[@coin777]

Are the coatings the same?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Coatings improve incrementally over time, but there was no significant upgrade associated with the update to AIS.

[@djalluredepth]

thank you. I have 3 Nikkor 135 2.8m AIS. is it good as ai

[@stampydragon2739]

Can you run a ai lens on a camera made for ais

[@BriansPhotoShow]

yes

[@rezaVfx]

Wow you saved me by alot sir.I wanted to go for 50mmf1.4 ai-s but almost twice expensive than ai version! Thank you. Btw what do you think about this non-ai lens? Nikkor 55mmf1.2. found it in a local shop but couldn't find anything online about it. Cheers

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I've never shot the NAI 55/1.2, though it is highly sought after and praised by collectors.

[@whfowle]

If I don't shoot manual, it is aperture priority. I don't think I have ever shot shutter priority.

[@kangzau1006]

Why? Because of the (more) modern coatings NIC that probably did not exist in the AI series.

[@campbells0ups]

only prefer the ai-s series for the short focus throw

[@Conversus]

Thank you very much. But I‘d say from an investment point of view, I‘d buy a AI-S variant.

[@TypewriterChicago]

I believe the Ai-s 105 2.5 was optically updated as well. It produces a slightly better image then the Ai. There were a few (few) lenses that were updated as far as coatings and maybe glass, so one must research both variants before purchasing. Most lenses are identical, hence why I spent 76$ on my 50 1.4 ai, rather then 200 on them ai-s. Save some cash, but make sure it’s worthwhile first.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

It is true that the quality of coatings improve incrementally over time, but that's true within a given series as well as between series. So, an AI lens from 1982 may have ever so slightly better coatings than an AI lens from 1977. Coatings improve independent of optical design or iris functionality. As to optical glass, don't assume that newer is better. Manufacturers started phasing out lead content of optical glass I believe around the 1990s, and they did so for environmental reasons despite the significant negative impact on the refractive quality of the glass. I'm really not sure if glass technology has fully compensated for the loss.

[@TypewriterChicago]

Absolutely, I am very fond of lead optics. I feel that the early to mid 80s was a prime time for optics. Good coatings, good glass composition, good build quality. I don’t buy modern lenses, they are way too expensive and optically inferior to the ones I do have. I very carefully select the lenses I use to make sure they’re the best value and the best quality for my work. Nowadays it seems tungsten has replaced the lead in glass, and there are some real nice modern pieces. To expensive for me.

[@dps6198]

I bought an AIS 35mm f/2 because after months of searching all I found were AI lenses that were very worn from heavy use or beat up due to lack of care. The AIS I bought from Ebay, from the posted photos, is in very good, slightly worn condition. The seller offers a refund if the lens is not exactly as described. I have yet to be disappointed from an Ebay purchase. The lens arrives in four days.

[@thatfrenchbloke8892]

I totale agree with you. I have a business that is buying and selling used camera equipment, mainly Nikon, and I see customer that are adamant that they need AI-s lenses, because they believe they are better. However, my understanding of the AI-S lens is that they have a linear apperture command. This means that every time the camera move the apperture lever by one increment, it moves the apperture by one constant increment. This is useful when the camera is setting the apperture. When it is set by the photographer, that lever has two position, off, which is the full apperture, and on, which is the apperture deleted on the ring. When the camera is setting the apperture automatically with an AI lens, it move the lever by one increment, mesure the light, then move it by an other increment, and so on until the apperture is right and then the shutter is triggered. With an AI-s lens, the camera move the lever by one increment, measure the light, and then can calculate the number of increments is needed to get the correct apperture and go straight there. Hence reducing shutter lag. But I don't find shutter lag to be an issue with AI lenses anyway. I never noticed that the focusing ring where more direct on AI-s lenses. I have learned something. And BTW, you will be surprised too by how many people "need" an AF-D lens over an AF lens too :-)

[@wildflower1542]

It would be better if you take a close up picture of the lens that way we can see it better instead of telling the difference !

[@countryboymotovlogs926]

Are the vintage lens intended for full frame sensor? Thanks

[@BriansPhotoShow]

They're intended for 35mm film which is what the full frame sensor is modeled after

[@413TomaccoRoad]

The longnose is usually in bad condition.

[@markdisher2614]

The FG does not have shutter priority. It has program P mode, and it therefore controls the aperture. There is sufficient computer program fudging to get away with the differences between AI and AiS lenses to make it work fine. While electronically controlled in S an P modes on bodies including and after the FA, control of the aperture is mechanically coupled from the body to the lens. This is the situation all the way through to and including the G lenses. (The newer E lenses have electronic coupling of aperture). The S in AiS denotes lenses whose aperture control lever moves the aperture blades in a linear relationship. This facilitated more efficient computation and operation of the aperture than was possible with the earlier, non-linear relationship that was in pre-AiS lenses. This linear / non-linear conundrum for S and P modes is mostly alleviated with program differences in the camera's computer, and the scoop or divot on the back of the lens is the mechanical signaling method for this distinction as you say. So its a matter of having trimmed down lenses, in many cases, versus a classic AI look, albeit not a major diff. You're quite right about the optical performance differences. A problem that is often observed with DSLRs operating AIS and prior lenses is that there is no choice between AiS and AI within the menu for non-CPU lenses. This seems to be because Nikon doesn't believe most users know the difference, and therefore problems accruing due to the wrong choice adversely affecting exposure are averted. I am certain that this is why S and P mode is locked out for these earlier lenses. And you weren't really ranting. You're just a bit intense.

[@yosopryoo]

I own 6 Nikkor Lenses that are all pre-Ai models with factory Ai’d rings. Apart from 28mm f2.8 AIS. Did my research~~~😙 I also think the single coated early generation models.. something about them makes the photos looks Soo much more approachable with full of character without being over top. Whereas AI or AIS models produce slightly colder looking photos that are perhaps professional and clinical. Almost like modern lenses just without AF.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

If you're going to add only one AIS lens to your pre-AI collection, the 28/2.8 is an excellent choice. You certainly did your homework.

[@hertsman5]

I have the pre ai 28mm F2.8 and which was produced around the mid 70's - I would never swap it for an ai or ai-s version !

[@Hiimbald12]

I need to ask you a question. What about the nikkor 50mm 1.2 ai vs ais. They have different internal conatructions. What would you recommend me? Apart from the long focus throw of the ai, does it have a worst bokeh compared to the ais due to the 7-9 blade difference? Does the ai lose that oval bokeh caracteristic? What are your thoughs?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

I wish I could help, but I've never owned either of those lenses.

[@gerryhardman9060]

I have the 50 1.2 Ai and I prefer this lens to the Ais because of the longer focus throw. I seldom use this lens beyond F2 so the bokeh balls are still quite round at that aperture. The Ai version is also quite a bit cheaper. Utube has driven up the cost.😢😀

[@gerryhardman9060]

If you want round bokeh balls, use a black piece of plastic with a round hole in it in front of the lens with the aperture set to 1.2.

[@tomcraig7028]

I suggest that if you're going to talk about details on a lens, insert close ups of the detail !

[@fredriksvard2603]

This could have been a 30 second video though

[@atroche1978]

So what you're saying is that the 28mm ai-s is superior in optics to both the 28mm Series E and 28mm ai?

[@BriansPhotoShow]

That's what the 1001 Nights blog entry suggests, yes.

[@berndmevers]

The 28 ai-s has the crc-system - close range correction. Series E is another deal - bad coating, not so smooth focusing. I would avoid Series E-lenses.

[@thomasmoje5926]

@@berndmevers I have a Nikon 'E' Series 28 mm f/2.8 lens which I purchased in 1984. Been perfectly happy with it image quality is excellent and focusing is smooth. Granted the 'E' series lenses in general do not have quite the robust exterior construction as the regular Nikkor counterparts; but for my purposes my 28 mm E series lens works just fine.

[@andre1987eph]

How did this video get 30k views? Next time I'm suffering from insomnia I am going to drink a warm glass of milk and play this video softly in the background. Maybe this is how it is being used for? 🤔)

[@MatthewGorveatte]

i just like how the ais lenses look, i mean the body of the lens is a nicer looking lens, very nice video tho

[@arborist7486]

11:10 - Yet, they still failed miserably, as a side note. the E series are ALL stellar performer's lol.

[@JaapKroon]

I have a question. I saw a lens for sale: Nikon 2.8/28mm Ais E . I finally understand the difference between AI and AIS, but now I don't know what the E means. Is this lens different from the famous 28mm 2.8 AI-S ? Hope you can help me! Many thanks in advance.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Look at the writing around the front element. If it says "Series E" then it is the budget brand, and does not share its optical formula with the Nikkor AIS version. The Series E is worth, at most, half as much as a proper AIS Nikkor.

[@JaapKroon]

@@BriansPhotoShow Many thanks !!!

[@arttafil6792]

AIS lenses are ONLY needed for the FA Nikon!

[@BriansPhotoShow]

Well, they aren't "needed" for any Nikon. They provide a marginal advantage when used with the FA.

[@thomaspearson1387]

He sounds like John Carpenter!