Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

The Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens is a professional-grade, constant-aperture standard zoom designed specifically for Nikon’s DX-format (APS-C) DSLR cameras, holding the distinction of being the world’s first constant f/2.8, 3.2x zoom lens developed exclusively for the Nikon DX format at its 2004 release. It covers the most-used focal range on APS-C bodies, delivering a 25.5-82.5mm 35mm-equivalent field of view well suited to architecture, landscape, group shots, and portraits.

Optically, the lens covers a 17-55mm focal range with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the zoom, giving photographers consistent exposure and strong low-light capability whether shooting at the wide or telephoto end. The 14-element, 10-group optical design includes three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to control chromatic aberration and three aspherical elements to reduce coma and spherical aberrations, while Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating improves light transmission and minimizes flare and ghosting. A rounded 9-blade diaphragm contributes to smooth, pleasing bokeh.

Autofocus is handled by Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), delivering fast, near-silent focusing along with M/A (manual-priority autofocus) mode, letting photographers rapidly switch to manual focus even during AF operation with virtually no time lag. Internal Focusing (IF) keeps the front element stationary during autofocus, meaning the lens barrel doesn’t extend and filters such as circular polarizers or graduated ND filters stay in position throughout focusing. As a G-type lens, it has no aperture ring, with aperture control handled entirely through the camera body.

Build quality is largely metal construction with a rubber-sealed rear mount, providing partial dust- and water-resistance for use in less-than-ideal conditions. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 1.2 ft. (0.36m), yielding a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.20x, and accepts a 77mm filter thread. It measures approximately 85.5 x 110.5mm and weighs approximately 755g, reflecting its substantial, professional-grade build.

As a DX-format-specific lens, the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED is designed exclusively for Nikon’s APS-C DX-format DSLR cameras; it can also be mounted on Nikon FX-format bodies, where the camera automatically applies a DX crop mode.

Key Features
– 17-55mm constant f/2.8 standard zoom for Nikon DX-format (APS-C) DSLR cameras
– World’s first constant f/2.8, 3.2x zoom developed exclusively for Nikon DX format
– Approximately 25.5-82.5mm full-frame-equivalent field of view
– 14 elements in 10 groups, including 3 ED elements and 3 aspherical elements
– Super Integrated Coating
– Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus with M/A mode
– Internal Focusing (IF) — front element does not rotate or extend
– Rounded 9-blade diaphragm
– G-type design (no aperture ring)
– Dust- and water-resistant rubber-sealed rear mount
– Minimum focusing distance of 1.2 ft. (0.36m); 0.20x maximum reproduction ratio
– 77mm filter thread
– Approximate weight: 755g
– Compatible with Nikon DX-format DSLR cameras (FX bodies via automatic DX crop)