The Nikon F mount has been a cornerstone of photography for decades, offering a wide range of lenses compatible with various camera bodies. Understanding which Nikon F mount lenses are equipped with autofocus motors, and therefore compatible with autofocus features on different Nikon DSLR cameras, is crucial for photographers seeking optimal performance. This article will delve into the intricacies of Nikon’s autofocus system and lens compatibility, clarifying which lenses will autofocus on which camera bodies.
🔍 Understanding Nikon’s Autofocus System
Nikon’s autofocus system has evolved significantly over the years. Early autofocus systems relied on a motor within the camera body to drive the lens’s focusing mechanism. Later, Nikon introduced lenses with built-in autofocus motors, offering faster and quieter performance.
Knowing the difference between these systems is key to ensuring your lenses and camera bodies work together seamlessly.
⚙️ Types of Nikon Autofocus Lenses
Several types of Nikon F mount lenses offer autofocus capabilities. Each type has its own characteristics and compatibility considerations.
- AF Lenses: These were the first generation of autofocus lenses. They require a camera body with a built-in autofocus motor.
- AF-I Lenses: These lenses feature an integrated autofocus motor within the lens itself. They were primarily used in high-end telephoto lenses.
- AF-S Lenses: These lenses also have a built-in autofocus motor, known as a Silent Wave Motor (SWM). They offer fast and quiet autofocus performance.
- AF-P Lenses: These are the newest generation of autofocus lenses, using a pulse motor (stepping motor) for even smoother and quieter autofocus.
Understanding these designations will help you determine lens compatibility.
✅ Camera Bodies with Built-In Autofocus Motors
Certain Nikon DSLR camera bodies have a built-in autofocus motor. These cameras can autofocus with AF lenses that do not have their own internal motor.
These camera bodies typically include:
- Nikon D7500
- Nikon D7200
- Nikon D7100
- Nikon D7000
- Nikon D300S
- Nikon D300
- Nikon D200
- Nikon D90
- Nikon D80
- Nikon D70s
- Nikon D70
- Nikon D50
- Nikon D40x
- Nikon D40
Cameras like the D5600, D3500, and D3400 series do not have a built-in autofocus motor. They require lenses with an internal motor (AF-S, AF-I, or AF-P) to autofocus.
❌ Camera Bodies Without Built-In Autofocus Motors
Some Nikon DSLR camera bodies do not have a built-in autofocus motor. These cameras require lenses with an internal autofocus motor (AF-S, AF-I, or AF-P) to autofocus. Using an older AF lens on these bodies will result in manual focus only.
Examples of camera bodies without a built-in autofocus motor include:
- Nikon D5600
- Nikon D5500
- Nikon D5300
- Nikon D5200
- Nikon D5100
- Nikon D5000
- Nikon D3500
- Nikon D3400
- Nikon D3300
- Nikon D3200
- Nikon D3100
- Nikon D3000
It’s crucial to know if your camera body has a built-in motor to ensure compatibility with older AF lenses.
🤝 Lens and Camera Body Compatibility
To ensure proper autofocus functionality, it’s essential to match the correct lens type with your camera body. Here’s a breakdown:
- AF Lenses on Camera Bodies with a Motor: Autofocus will function correctly.
- AF Lenses on Camera Bodies without a Motor: Manual focus only.
- AF-S, AF-I, or AF-P Lenses on Any Nikon DSLR: Autofocus will function correctly, as these lenses have their own internal motor.
Always check your camera’s manual for a definitive list of compatible lenses.
⚠️ Important Considerations
While AF-S and AF-I lenses are generally compatible with all Nikon DSLRs, there are some exceptions and nuances to be aware of.
- AF-P Lens Compatibility: Some older Nikon DSLRs may require a firmware update to fully support AF-P lenses. Check Nikon’s website for compatibility information.
- Third-Party Lenses: Third-party lens manufacturers, like Sigma and Tamron, also produce lenses with Nikon F mounts. Compatibility can vary, so it’s essential to research specific models.
- Manual Focus Override: Many AF-S lenses offer a manual focus override feature, allowing you to fine-tune focus manually even when autofocus is engaged.
Staying informed about these considerations can prevent compatibility issues.
💡 Tips for Ensuring Compatibility
Here are some practical tips to ensure your Nikon F mount lenses and camera bodies work together seamlessly:
- Consult Your Camera’s Manual: The camera manual is the best source of information on compatible lenses.
- Check Nikon’s Website: Nikon’s website often provides updated compatibility charts and firmware information.
- Test Before You Buy: If possible, test the lens on your camera body before purchasing to confirm compatibility.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other photographers who have used the lens with your specific camera model.
Taking these steps can save you time and frustration.
