Minolta AF 24 F2.8  reviews

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: streets   review date: April-04-13  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Any other mid range W.A. lens I have used.

price paid:

170 Usd

positive:

Light
Sharp
Inexpensive

negative:

Not a thing

comment:

Purchased mine used in mint condition with original caps and petal sun shade. I have not detected the performance fall off that others have reported at f2.8. This is a great companion to my M.A.F. 50mm f4 macro.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Smegenai3000   review date: February-26-13  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

250 usd used

positive:

Sharp
f2.8
Build quality
colors

negative:

comment:

Awsome lense,sharp, have nice colors, maby too much blue but its not a problem for me,also not that wide at crop sensor but also im fine with that.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: Freddan_6   review date: November-20-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 18-55 3.5-5.6
Minolta 28-80 4-5.6

price paid:

800 SEK

positive:

Lightweight. Nice colors. Shapness. Excellent build. Small.

negative:

Some minor flares if sun is in the corner. Busy bokeh at f:2.8

comment:

I like this lens for sharpness, colors, weight and size. Bought at swedish ebay (tradera) for 800 SEK=118 USD = 92 EURO.
Way better than the Minolta above.
Only little better than the Sony, the left hand side is sharper. Same sharpness in center and right hand side

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: godsakes   review date: November-07-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 24mm f2.8
Carl Zeiss 16-35mm
KM 17-35mm
Sigma 12-24mm

positive:

Tiny & light
Classic Minolta colour
Good edge sharpness & very good once stopped down

negative:

unimpressive sharpness wide open (especially given it's a prime)

comment:

Optically it's in a similar class to the cheaper Sigma 24mm f2.8, though slightly sharper edges, better colour/contrast and smoother focus.

Both aren't overly sharp wide open and their sharpness rating reflects that weakness but they but improve quite a bit as you stop down. At f8 there isn't much difference between this and the cz16-35mm, given it's the kind of lens that will typically be used at f5.6-11 I don't think it's a huge practical downside.

I think the Minolta is much more pleasing than the Sigma 24mm but I stop short of considering it a class above, while it's certainly worth paying more for the Minolta I don't think it's worth 3x the amount it sometimes commands.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Doublejayz   review date: August-08-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF28 f2.8
Minolta AF50 f1.7
Minolta AF50 f1.4

price paid:

198 USD (USED)

positive:

Sharp
Cheap
Lightweight
Build
2.8

negative:

Only 2.8
36mm on crop sensor
slight edge distortion

comment:

Nice lens all around

Can be less sharp at 2.8

Little narrow in crop sensor but 36mm is very well for everyday use.

I took this to replace 28 f2.8 and it's worth for a higher price.

NOTE: When use its hood backwards the manual focus is impossible.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: JimmyMelbourne   review date: July-23-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

17 50 2.8
18 280 sony

price paid:

135 CHF

positive:

Sharpness
Works nicely on a77
minolta colours

negative:

had to fine tune focus adjustment, does not work on my other camers well

comment:

This lens is a great little performer. is light so great for walk around landscapes. kind of more limited than a zoom for walk around found mysels swapping lenses but for specific purposes very useful. I had to micro adjust this lens so without micro adjust found it was not sharp.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: nilotek   review date: June-26-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28/2.8
Minolta 50/3.5
Minolta 35-105 1st Gen.
Minolta 70-210 1st Gen.

positive:

Size
Hood
Color
Sharpness
Fast AF
Good 35mm equivalent on aps-c

negative:

comment:

This is the lens i chose, when i take no others with me. The perfect walkaround-prime for Aps-c.
i think the tiny focus ring is pretty handy with the hood on!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: chriseen   review date: June-09-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm f2,8
50mm f1.4
135mm f2.8
35-70mm f4
70-210mm f4
50mm Macro f2,8
100mm F2,8 macro
80-200mm f2.8
Sigma APO 300mm f4
Sony Zeiss 16-80mm f3,5-4,5

price paid:

240 euro mint

positive:

Well Built,Solid construction
Light and compact
Good colours
Outstanding sharpness and good DoF
Flare resistant
No distortion, very nice bokeh
Super fast focusing speed
Comes with bayonet hood
55mm filter thread
Internal focusing
Very compact
Wide aperture 2.8

36mm equivalent on digital

The one prime solution for travelling light

negative:

For what it is, I can't think of a negative.

comment:

Great light carry lens.
Partnered with a 50mm and 135mm, this functioned well for me as part of a walkabout prime set.
I wanted the 24mm for a bit of extra coverage. It covers most shooting situations, groups of friends indoors and outdoor shots of landmarks.
This is a forgotten lens because it is really an excellent performer!
I am very pleased about the results that it gave on last holidays.
Its focal length is ideal for group photos (group size 5~15).
It generates pleasing skin tone
Picture is razor sharp and the colours are rich.
Can get some nice 'close subject in the foreground, wide bokeh landscape in the background' shots.

The prime for city photo with 36mm on Digital.
If you're also shooting architecture and landscapes this is the lens you are looking for.
One of the best things about this lens is the flare control.
No flare or halos, totally flare resistant.
Very compact and solidly built and comes with 55mm filter thread just like the most Minolta lenses.
Use the top quality Skylight 1A filter for protection.
There is no vigneting at all unless you stack more filters.

Minolta 24mm f/2.8 is simply one of the sharpest in the Minolta line-up.
I highly recommend to get this lens either used or new.
I'm simply blown away by its performance and I'm sure you'll also.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: Tomodo   review date: June-08-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ 24-70mm
M 28mm f2.8
S 35mm f1.8

price paid:

£160

positive:

Compact
Solid build
Sharp

negative:

Tiny focus ring
Flare

comment:

I was looking for a small light wide lens to use instead of my big heavy 24-70 and on a small budget. (24mm f2 SSM was way out of budget)

Sharp from f2.8 and much better build than the modern budget Sony primes. The tiny focus ring can make it sometimes difficult when using manual focus for stills or video.

Seems better than the 28mm f2.8 I had some years ago. For the price you can get these you can't go wrong.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: dandelbaum   review date: April-22-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

0 EUR (mint)

positive:

Compact, fast, sturdy.

negative:

comment:

Great lens, a neighbour gave me a 7000 with this lens on it as a random present since he knows I love cameras. I tested it on a friends Alpha200 and it worked beautifully.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: jfabrizio   review date: April-17-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 28/2.8
Tamron 17-50/2.8

price paid:

100 USD (used)

positive:

Sharpness
Color rendition
Compact size

negative:

I wish I had a full frame :)

comment:

I was lucky to find a great copy with some small cosmetic defects. I love this lens, though I've not had too much experience shooting with it yet. It's pretty sharp wide open and gets even better stopped down a bit. The color rendition is gorgeous and I prefer it in every way to my Minolta 28/2.8.

Time will tell if this can compete with my Tamron 17-50, which is sharp and I love the extra range on the wide end... but shooting an old, quality prime just feels so right.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: KCG   review date: November-27-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28mm F2.8

price paid:

USD 310

positive:

Sharp, Minolta Colour, light and convenient.

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: derekw   review date: July-17-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 28 f1.8 EX DG
Minolta 24-85

price paid:

156 GBP (mint)

positive:

Sharpness whe stopped down a touch,
Colours
Size and weight

negative:

Sharpness below f4
Flare - fitted rubber hood to my copy

comment:

Nice lens, but disapponting below f4.

Sharper than the Sigma at all comparable apertures.

Needs effective hood.

Surprisingly (but not if you look at MTF ratings) the 24 mm end of the 24-85 equals it from f5.6 upwards.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: ekan_singapore   review date: July-10-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony SAL 18-250

price paid:

250 USD (ebay)

positive:

Everything

negative:

Focus can hunt or fail occasionally for low contrast shots - not to the point of being a problem

The focus ring could have been a little larger.

comment:

I picked a copy on Ebay and I am very happy I did. It gives sharp images right from wide open, even though the depth of field is small enough at f/2.8 to make it look not so, for some subjects. Colours are pleasing and accurate. Free of distortion, which is noticeable for my all-in-one zoom (18-250) at 24 mm, as expected. It also makes the skies slighly more blue (my personal feeling, not a precise measurement) than 18-250, which is a big plus for tropical (harsh sunlight) and often hazy/overcast Singapore. I believe this lens deserves more than 4.6 (current review score), so I give it 4.8. Built-wise, the lens is light, made out of good hard plastic except for the mount, which is metal - this is a positive. It is convenient to tote for long walks and can serve as walk-about glass nicely on APS-C bodies, @ 36 mm 35-mm equivalent. This lens has very slighly rounded shape and it looks cute even if a bit small on my A300. I shot with it under the scorching tropical noon sun without a hood and there was no flare to speak of. Autofocus is usually fast but it occasiobally hunts or fails to focus for some low-contrast subjects, which is a common issue for many lenses - not to the point of being a problem. Shooting at infinity focus with this glass is just great. Overall, an excellent performer for its price.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: slantyyz   review date: April-16-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50/1.7
Minolta 28/2.8

price paid:

300 CAD

positive:

colour
sharpness

negative:

nothing major for my uses (ymmv)

comment:

This is one of my 3 favorite lenses to use (the others are the 50/1.7 and Tamron 90/2.8). In my mind, it's noticeably better than the 28/2.8 in terms of colour and sharpness, but it is a more expensive lens.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: PeteMag   review date: April-07-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28-135mm Min
12-24mm Sigma
Tokina 20-35mm

price paid:

120

positive:

Colour and sharpness
Portability

negative:

slightly underwhelmed by it

comment:

This lens is very good, there's nothing wrong with the way it works and can suit FF very well as a standard wide angle.

However I felt it lacked the overall brilliance to justify having this lens + a UWA sigma 12-24mm + a Tamron 28-75 f2.8. I only felt that I needed it a couple of times because it offered little that I didn't have with these two lenses. Pleased with the results but not enough.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: nitrosyl   review date: March-27-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- Sony Carl Zeiss 16-80mm f/3.5-4.5 Vario-Sonnar T*
- Sony Carl Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 Vario-Sonnar T*

positive:

- very good resolution once stopped down a little
- compact

negative:

- not very flare resistant

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: ciupo35   review date: March-26-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

MAF 17-35/2.8-4 (FF), MAF 28/2.8, sigma 10-20 (aps-c)

price paid:

250 USD (used)

positive:

Small distorsion,
very good colors,
very good sharpness

negative:

vignetting wide open,
rare and difficult to find

comment:

Far better lens than 17-35D on FF. No distortions, CA not visible. It is also optically better than MAF 28/2.8. At F2.8 strong vignette and lack of sharpness in the corners (but still sharp on the edges and in the center). At F8 everything is OK.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: kaczmarzyk.jan   review date: March-22-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

M 20 2.8 RS, M 17-34 2.8-4.0

price paid:

250 USD (second hand)

positive:

Nice colours,
Outstanding sharpness,
Very fast AF

negative:

Flare control problems

comment:

A very powerful lens. Even on APS-C one gets a nice, sharp, wide enough shooting tool. I love night shooting with the lens, even with F 2.8. Noticably sharper then M 20 2.8 RS. Especially knocking down on the friend's A900. Sometimes gets flare problems, which are, by the way, acceptable.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: illuminarias   review date: January-28-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ 24 f2.0
DT50mm f1.8

price paid:

650 MYR

positive:

Small
Sharp
Relatively cheap
Fast Focus

negative:

Noisy focus
Lens hood doesn't help much

comment:

Very nice lens, small, compact and fast focusing. Wide enough for most situations. F2.8 gives it a really nice DOF. Bokeh is nice, not brightlined. Compared to CZ24 there's not much difference. A tad sharper. Compared to 50mm the bokeh is less, but not brightlined.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: soken   review date: January-15-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 20 F2.8
KM 17-35 F2.8-4D

price paid:

300 SGD

positive:

size, sharpness is good when stop down to F4 onwards (very sharp)

negative:

color is not as nice on digital

comment:

I used the lens for about 1 year finally gave up for a 20 F2.8. It is almost half the price of 20 F2.8 but the color is not as nice

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: DrCaffeine   review date: December-24-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Why bother comparing? Just enjoy it :-)

price paid:

385 CHF

positive:

Love at first sight and a genuinely excellent all purpose prime!
Fast, accurate and razor sharp AF focusing.
Excellent manual focusing ability as well, since the focus ring merely turns approximately 35 degrees from close-up to infinity.
Very solid build quality.
Colours really come alive with this lens.
Half the size and weight compared to the latest and expensive Zeiss and Sigma alternatives.

negative:

The aperture ring doesn't feature an infra red marker.
The lens hood feels a bit flimsy, although it actually does fit perfectly well.

comment:

It is very difficult finding a mint condition Minolta AF 24 F2.8 in Switzerland. Despite having seen far cheaper offers on e-Bay and alike, I decided to fork out 385 Swiss Franks for this beauty, since the lens is as good as new and also came with an original Minolta Skylight 1B filter attached to the front of the lens. I'd highly recommend the Minolta AF 24 F2.8 to anybody who is looking for a lovely general purpose prime lens.


Minolta AF 24 F2.8 Sample Images:

http://schoenewiese.com/index.php?showimage=396

http://schoenewiese.com/index.php?showimage=129

http://schoenewiese.com/index.php?showimage=495

http://schoenewiese.com/index.php?showimage=376


"The single most important component of a camera are the twelve inches behind it." (Ansel Adams)

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Photovisionz   review date: November-11-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 24-50
Sigma 24mm f2.8 Sigma 12-24mm
Sigma 24mm F1.8
Sigma 10-20mm
Minolta 24-85 f4
Sony 28mm
Minolta af 28mm

price paid:

330 NZD

positive:

Very sharp
Minolta colours
Compact

negative:

nil

comment:

This is a great lens Sharpness was just amazing as was image contrast. I produced some of my best monochrome landscapes with this lens that gave that near large format feeling associated with big film cameras.
There is a hint of CA in the corners but this is well controlled. This is the best wide angle prime lens I have ever used. It is COMPACT.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: JamesAlpha850   review date: October-15-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF24mm f2.8
Minolta AF28-135 f4-4.5
Minolta AF35-105 f3.5-4.5
Minolta AF35-105N f3.5-4.5
Minolta AF70-210 f4-4.5
Tamron AF28-300mm XR f3.5-6.3

price paid:

225.00USD

positive:

Well-matched for FF
Reasonably sharp
Well built
Quick AF
Minolta colors
Pocket lens

negative:

Not tack sharp wide open. Only center sharp unless stopped down.

comment:

Great IQ with Minolta colors. Stopped down, a reasonably sharp wide angle lens. A solid build. A handy walk-around, I'd call it a "pocket lens." For landscape, architectural and artistic purposes, the AF 24 f2.8 is ideal. I don't recommend shooting any vintage Minolta lenses directly into the sun, but the hood does serve well to reduce flare. I recommend this classic lens to anyone looking for a Wide angle match for the A850.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: ibarradigital   review date: October-15-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

120

positive:

great colors, no heavy speed focus

negative:

not

comment:

nice lens
very speed focus
minolta colors....nice...very nic

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: ggeorgecv   review date: October-07-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

16-80zeiss
beercan 70-210 f4

price paid:

170 euro

positive:

small
sharp
f 2.8
built quality

negative:

comment:

maybe it will replace my zeiss 16-80 in everyday use because its to small, light and sharp.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: leung0323   review date: July-24-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

205 USD

positive:

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: paso144   review date: May-25-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28 F/2.8
50 F/1.4 & 1.7

price paid:

125 euro

positive:

Very solid build.
Already sharp full open.
Nice angle of view on APS-C.

negative:

Big hood in the bag.

comment:

Upgraded from a 28 F2.8. This one is just as compact but sharper full open and has a better field of view. Spends lot's of time on my 7D indoors.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: fijnefotografie   review date: April-16-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

175 EUR

positive:

small
acceptable bokeh

negative:

comment:

Even without hood, flare control is amazing.
I wanted this lens because Sony doesn't have a 24mm in the collection.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Ovas   review date: March-28-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

MINOLTA 28mm
MINOLTA 35mm
TAMRON 17-35mm

price paid:

US$ 265

positive:

Nice focal length
Strong build
Light

negative:

comment:

Bought this from a dealer and it was in mint condition. Performs very well, has the same quality as the 28 f2.8. Cant see no distorsion from this lens. I like it as my wide fixed lens. Same sharpness as the Tamron at 24mm.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: hg102   review date: March-15-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 16-104, Minolta 28mm f:2.8

price paid:

$225 used

positive:

compact fist generation Minolta, sharp, great color and low distortion on APC

negative:

comment:

I recommend this lens over the Minolta 28mm f:2.8. I find it sharper.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Terpret   review date: March-05-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

sharp
fast focus
nice minimum focus range

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: AlphaMan   review date: February-26-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28/2
35/2
35/1.4

price paid:

L 130 (used)

positive:

Sharp
Compact
Build quality

negative:

comment:

This is a good sharp lens. Perhaps more of a 4.75 than 5, so I gave it a 4.5 to be cautious.

I have had no problem with this lens, it performs well and is an excellent optic. The only lens that might replace it would be the Zeiss 24/2 because of that little bit extra brightness.

It works very well as a 35mm equivalent on the A700.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: MRI   review date: February-11-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

M 28/2.8 M 24-85/3.5

positive:

really sharp small light

negative:

none

comment:

Really nice lens it give great sharpness, wonderful colors, I am very pleased with my copy.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Richalf   review date: January-27-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

$230 CDN

positive:

Sharp wide open
Pretty Solid construction.
Quick AF
Minolta colours
Small & light

negative:

No complaints here

comment:

I got this lens used for a good price and am very happy with it!

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Shootist   review date: January-15-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm/20mmRS Minolta
28/25 PENTAX SMC MF

price paid:

$190

positive:

Small and quick
Nice Minolta color
Rare - nice to have

negative:

None at the price

comment:

This is a nice lens that I'm going to hold onto.

I can see why they eliminated it since it's a middle child in this series of 20/24/28....but I still have them all. They are such bargains I can't get rid of any of them. And the 20 RS is....Godly.

-Shootist

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: derekw   review date: December-15-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28 f2.8
Minolta 20 f2.8

price paid:

L82

positive:

Sharp when stopped down
Colour

negative:

Disappointing at f2.8, it is a prime

comment:

Lovely lens, but poor at wider apertures.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: tommyrider   review date: October-08-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ AF16-80
Sal AF18-250
Min AF 50/1.7
135/1.8 ZA

price paid:

305USD +shipping (like new)

positive:

-Sharp wide open
-Solid construction.
-Fast AF,even in low light conditions.
-Clssic Minolta color rendition.
-Small ,compact and inconspicuous
-Match nicely with a700.(with hood attached)
-Minimun focus distance.
-DOF

negative:

-Moderate geometric distortion

comment:

I bought this lens in almost new condition as a companion for my CZ 16-80 for night photography outdoors and for indoor shots with available light,but also ,AF24/2.8 is a serious landscape lens too.I found it sharper than i expected wide open.It has a nice 36mm focal lenght for everyday use for apc-s and its wide enough for FF too.Nowdays this lens is not as easy to find.An empty space in the current Sony´s lineup.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: madecov   review date: September-27-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm f 1.7
Tamron 17-50
Minolta 24-85

price paid:

$219.00 USD (used)

positive:

Small,light weight. Fast focus, Good color, good filter size, decent hood (compared to 50mm)

negative:

None so far (will update)

comment:

Nice light weight prime lens. Great when used at hyperfocal focusing (just set and forget. turns your camera into a point and shoot). Focal length is usable on cropped sensor. This lens is sharp when stopped down. when used for critical auto focus it's very fast. Colors match other Minolta lenses. In my initial testing I didn't have too much purple fringe. depth of field is very nice when stopped down. I have not tried any wide open shooting yet so for now I'm calling this lens very sharp. Filter size is reasonable and I did not notice any vignetting but wide open may be different.

Mine had the factory original pettle hood so I suppose the price was actually reasonable. If you find one get it.

Having read other reviews it seems many consider the factory hood a negative. I don't, having a proper hood that bayonets to the lens is a big plus in my book. The ability to reverse it for storage is a great feature. I think it soundly beats having to get a rubber screw on hood.

sharpness: 3 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: meztelenrabbi   review date: August-26-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

MAF 50 1,7
Sal 1870

price paid:

45000 HUF

positive:

fastest
inner focus

negative:

my copy wasn't so sharp

comment:

Lens cap is not the best if the hood is on, but the kit lens cap is perfect for it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: AllAboutAlpha   review date: July-29-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min. 20 /2.8
Min. 28 / 2.8

price paid:

175 € (nearly new)

positive:

sharpness, very nice colours

negative:

nothing till now

comment:

Fine medium price lence, excellent on an A900

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: gnhock   review date: July-25-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ 24-70
Sony 18-250

positive:

Great lens. Optics excellent
Colour, flare control

negative:

comment:

Takes really good photos in a compact & light weight package. Very well made even though with plastic.

36mm on A700 makes it a good walk around, holiday lens.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: The mighty terrier   review date: July-02-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50/1.4
Minolta 35-105/3.5-4.5
Minolta 135/2.8

price paid:

L129

positive:

Size
Weight
Colours
Sharpness
Build

negative:

None really

comment:

Very nice 'street lens' on APS-C, nice and compact, excellent minolta colours, takes sensible diameter filters. Not really had an issue with flare when used correctly with the hood, good sharpness even wide open. Good value for money.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: nygus   review date: June-17-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

35/2

price paid:

250 CAD mint

positive:

- good colors
- close focusing
- sharp in center from 2.8
- small and compact

negative:

- soft corners wide open

comment:

Another Minolta good lens.
Only problem is extreme corners which are little soft and to get them sharp you need to step down to f4.5 on A700 and on film to f8. In center lens is sharp from f2.8, color is excellent.
It is not as good as 35/2, or 28/2, but worth to try, if for <220 USD.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Chris-K   review date: June-17-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta:
28mm f2.8
35-70mm f4
50mm f1.7
70-210mm f4

Sigma:
50mm f2.8 EX DG Macro
18-125mm f3.5-5.6 DC

price paid:

$175

positive:

I'm very happy with this lens. Probably one of the sharpest lenses I have. It is also still very sharp at f2.8.

negative:

The hood feels slightly fragile.

comment:

Great lens, and affordable.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: vangio   review date: March-12-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

AF 17-35mm 2,8-4 (D)
AF 24mm 2,8
AF 28-75mm 2,8 (D)
AF 28-85mm 3,5-4,5
AF 28-135mm 4-4,5
AF 35-105mm 3,5-4,5
AF 50mm 1,7
AF 70-210mm 4
AF 75-300mm 4,5-5,6 1st
Tamron AF 11-18 4,5-5,6
Beroflex 400mm 6,3 1st

price paid:

175 € (used)

positive:

f2,8
very sharp
fast AF
compact

negative:

Hood

comment:

A very fine „Street“ Lens. 36mm on APS-C with this high IQ makes a lot of fun.
Compact and lightweight, but the Hood is a little bit delicate, very easy to loose...

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: lifeodyssey   review date: March-12-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 24-85 f3.5/4.5 old version. This fix 24mm is a bit sharper in both center and corner @f4 for both lens at 24mm. At f8, both lens performance comes very close with this len far less CA than the zoom.

price paid:

190USD used

positive:

Compact and well built. Fast focusing.

negative:

comment:

A very good wide angle len can be used as if 36mm in APS-C sensor or truly 24mm in full frame. I think any Minolta or Alpha users of either full frame or APS C must have. Unfortunately, Minolta didn't make one with F2.0. Really missed.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: samskpun   review date: January-29-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 20mm AF
Minolta 28mm AF

price paid:

220 usd

positive:

sharpness
cheap
light
beautiful color

negative:

not much

comment:

it is sharper than both 20mm and 28mm. I owned all three lens and sold the 20 and 28. It is a nice lens for street photographer

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Vancouver   review date: January-22-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

200 CAD Used

positive:

Excellent walkaround
light
cheap
good color
usually cover all area I want

negative:

cant think of any

comment:

My favorite lens. It makes very good walkaround. 24mm is as wide as you are going to get if distortion is your concern. This baby delivers excellent quality. AT this price, get an extra one for back up!

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: DonSergio   review date: January-17-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- Min 35G (RS)
- 16-80za
- 24-70za
- Minolta 24-105/3.5-4.5

price paid:

200 (used)

positive:

+ Light,
+ Reasonable sharp
+ nice focal length on APS-C and FF,
+ not very expensive

negative:

- after 5.6 and more closer F i see decrease of sharpness on my lens
- non SSM
- extends on focusing

comment:

nice walkaround lesn on APS-C especially. Good for indoor shots. Light. It was one of my favorite primes, sold it to such 24-70za lets a lot of time on camera. Only one negative moment leaks of sharpness on closest F.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: cjlethal   review date: January-08-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

24-70 Zeiss

price paid:

150 CAD

positive:

small
lightweight
perfect 36mm equivalent on A700

negative:

not as sharp as 27-70 Zeiss

comment:

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Jamesb-59   review date: December-11-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Good lens if you can get a good price. IMHO, the 20mm is a better lens

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: derettahs   review date: November-22-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50mm 1.7
28 - 70 2.8 G
17 - 35 D

price paid:

90 USD used

positive:

sharp at all apatures, good build, light weight, fast focussing

negative:

the little tiny focus ring.

comment:

this little guy is my event coverage and food photography workhorse.
it spends the most ammount of time on my A700.
the bokeh and sharpness are excellent.
a perfect width for group shots at parties and good enough for portraits in a pinch. (you jsut have to get reeeeeeal close )

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: fmajor   review date: November-13-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 50mm f1.7
Minolta AF 28-85mm f3.5-f4.5
Minolta AF 35-70mm f4
Minolta AF 70-210mm f4 Beercan
Minolta Rokkor Lenses (many)

price paid:

$15 USD MINT

positive:

Sharp for a wide angle
Superb Minolta colors
CONSTANT f2.8 aperture
Fast focusing
Diminuitive/Small/Light

negative:

Smallish manual focus ring
A bit susceptive to flare
Not wide on APS-C

comment:

Images are reasonably sharp and possess the 1st AF Generation "color-matched" Minolta colors - in my opinion, it's greatest strength.

While the lens would be sufficiently wide for FF, on the APS-C sensor in my KM Dynax 7D i loose alot of that width. Enough loss to render it a "normal" width (comparable to a 36mm FF FOV), but the lens works OK for what i need it for - people and landscapes.

I have noticed a bit of flare if i am not careful, but that is an exceptional situation.

It does have a little distortion - most noticable when i photograph architecture. However, it performs well for most other applications.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: fute77   review date: October-25-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28/2.8
35/2

positive:

goud at 2.8 and excellent above 3.2
36 mm on APS-C

negative:

euh ... nothing

comment:

a lot better than the 28/2.8 that I sold after obtaining this one

I sold this one cause I prefer the 35/2 for my use on A700

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: karchon   review date: October-13-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 24-105mm D f3.5-4.5
Min 50mm f1.7
Min 35-105mm f3.5-4.5 Macro

price paid:

200 USD

positive:

- excellent wide open
- sharp when stopped down even a little
- lightweight
- great colors
- short min focus

negative:

- sometimes not wide enough on APS-C

comment:

I compared this prime to the 24-105 at the 24mm mark. No comparison. The 24mm prime is hands down super sharp when its stopped down the f4 and beyond.

I compared this to the 50mm f1.7 (my only other prime) and the sharpness is on par in my comparisons.

Comparing this to the 35-105 for its color reproduction and its on par in color.

I was planning to get the Sigma 24mm f1.8 but considering that it needs to be stopped down to f4 to get decent shots, i decided that the 24mm was cheaper, lighter, and sharper throughout all the range. I would have LOVED f1.8 but from the reviews, the sigma is very soft wide open.

I use this lens ALOT and some times i wish it had a wider angle, but other than that, this lens is near perfect IMO.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: tobyjay   review date: September-29-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

18-70 DT
Sigma 10-20
Sony 35 f/1.4
Sony 18-250

price paid:

L100 ebay

positive:

Sharp
Pocket sized
Great colour & contrast
Nicely made

negative:

Very little...
...not absolutely pin at f/2.8..
...no ADI might put some flash users off

comment:

I would say this is underpriced, especially next to the current Sony branded wide primes and the big fast Sigmas, but I plan to buy another one soon and do not want to push the prices up with another rave review!

But, the truth is, this is a top quality lens. Not as sharp at f/2.8 as the 50 or 35G, but sharper wide open than either of those longer primes are wide open. A little stop down and everything on my copy was pin. MFD plenty good enough for close ups.

At one time I had the Sigma 10-20, the Min 24 and the Sony 35g simultaneously, and I had to make room, so I sold the 24. Big mistake - I should have let the Sigma go. The 24 is so compact it can be carried anywhere, in a glovebox, bag or pocket. And the pictures it takes are of such understated quality. ~Colours are old-school Minolta. Exposure and focus always accurate on A100 and A700. Contrast sublime - as good as Minolta 85 G and the sky never looks blown out like it can on a 1.4. I'm not sure if the resolution will stretch to a full frame A900, or whether the corners remain sharp on FF, but on A700 the results are reliably sharp corner to corner.

55mm filter very handy next to beercan, Sony 50, 35g, Tamron 90 etc. Mine came without a hood (they are said to be delicate and often missing) but I substituted an old deep conical hood and never saw a hint of flare, indoors or out.

Distortion almost non existent for this focal length - should be rated 4.5 not 4, but no option for that rating.

I've been umming and aahing about buying a big, fast Sigma 20 or 24 prime but have decided I'll get another Minolta - for value and character and portability they are unbeatable little gems.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Glyn R   review date: August-12-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50 f 1.7
Minolta 35-70 f4
Sigma 10-20 EX DG
Sony 18-70

price paid:

L69 used

positive:

This is a beautiful lens. It looks good and is good. It oozes quality. Sharp, fast focus, great colour

negative:

None that I can think of except the well designed lens hood will not come off with the stanard lens cover in place. Its not really an issue but it is all I can think of

comment:

I have used it for church interiors and as a light carry around lens. It is how a quality lens should look.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: MartinM   review date: June-24-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

20/2.8
28/2.8
35/2.0

price paid:

275 CHF

positive:

- Sharpness
- Disortion
- Focal lenght

negative:

- Lens cap

comment:

Nice lens. Excellent focal lenght. Specially for indoor shooting. I had to remove it because it was too close to my 20mm and the 28mm.

20 - 28 - 35 - 50 made more sense to me.

The build, well i don't like too much the old style. Prefer the RS style.

I made excellent experience with it.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: N_Raged   review date: May-08-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 24-70 f/2.8
Tamron 17-50 f/2.8

price paid:

$175 USD (used)

positive:

+great build
+sharp
+colour
+fast AF
+55mm diameter metal filter threads

negative:

-crazy vignetting on full-frame
-currently hard to find
-short-throw AF makes loud a clanging noise when the camera focuses to infinity and minimal

comment:

Center sharpness is good wide open but corners are not. Everything evens out by f/5.6. At f/8-11 this lens produces fantastic results for landscapes. Same ol' Minolta colours we know and love, and at this perspective the way they are rendered looks remarkable. Great wide angle on film and is a nice walk-around lens on a 1.5x crop body, no distortion on either. Bokeh is mediocre and not so smooth. CA is moderate and is the type that is easily correctable in any raw converter.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: rocknutter   review date: April-26-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 35mm F2
Min 17-35mm F3.5G
Min 50mm F1.4

price paid:

L70

positive:

Sharp
Compact size
Fast focus

negative:

Hood not the greatest

comment:

The lens is great for indoor shots, not so great for landscapes as its not wide enough.

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: regp   review date: February-20-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

90 USD

positive:

A OK

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: hotwire   review date: February-08-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28/2.8

price paid:

$160 CAD (used)

positive:

It's a prime.

negative:

Really likes to flare on APS-C... hood is practically useless for this.

comment:

A lens I consider to be a step up from the 28/2.8.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: ja   review date: November-21-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Grubeater   review date: November-06-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

17-35/2.8-4, 50/1.4, 28/2,8.

price paid:

100 EURO (used)

positive:

Sharp wide open, fast af, even on the 7D.

negative:

Sony doesn't make one.

comment:

Really like the FOV on 1.5 crop dslr, 24mm crop ~/= 35mm on full frame.
Nice wide FOV on film body.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: pschoone   review date: October-31-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ16-80, 28-85/3.5-4.5, 35-70/4, 35-80/4-5.6, 35-105/3.5-4.5

price paid:

400€ new

positive:

Sharp; Very compact and light; 2.8

negative:

Not wide enough on APS-C

comment:

Bought it in 1989. This was my favourite lens when I used film. Gives very sharp and dramatic pictures. I do not use it often since I went digital and bought a CZ16-80 since the 24 was not wide enough anymore. For group photos, especially indoors or at night outdoors, still very useful. When a Sony full frame body exists and is affordable I will no doubt use it again quite often.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Callam9774   review date: October-30-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 10-20 EX. Sony 18-200. Tokina 19-35. Minolta 135 2.8

price paid:

L100

positive:

Excellent image quality.Sharp and light to carry. Beautiful build quality.Good balance on KM 5D and Sony A100.

negative:

Limited range. I need to carry other lenses for both ends of range.

comment:

I bought this lens for myself for my birthday and have been really impressed by the quality of build and the superb results. Although the range is limited, the quality of images produced allow for quite severe cropping to produce some 'zoom' flexibility.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: recnahne   review date: September-09-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 2.8/24, KoMi 2.8-4/17-35

price paid:

100 EUR

positive:

Sharp, compact size, reasonable price

negative:

Tendency towards CA's

comment:

One of my favourite lenses for landscapes. I like the compact size and the remarkable sharpness even wide open. Build quality and optical performance are better than with the Sigma 2.8/24, and the lens clearly outperforms my KoMi 2.8-4/17-35. A certain tendency towards CA's is visible, yet not really relevant in most situations.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: hilbren   review date: September-07-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm F/2.8
50mm F/1.7
50mm F/1.4
90mm F/2.8
300mm F/4.0
28-135mm F/4-4.5
28-75mm F/2.8
17-35mm F/2.8-4
100-200mm F/4-4.5
35-70mm F/3.5-4.5

price paid:

€150,- (used)

positive:

- sharp, no matter how you use it.

negative:

- none

comment:

I love this lens. The hood is much better then the ones from the 28 and the 50mm lenses

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Themisa   review date: August-30-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- 35/2
- 50/1.7
- 28-75/2.8

price paid:

€ 150,-

positive:

- small
- lightweight
- angle
- colors, bokeh

negative:

- hood and cap removal
- nothing else

comment:

Great lens for landscape, buildings, city's when stopped down to f4 or a bit more. Very usable, not as sharp as the 35/2, but good enough. When I take the 24, 35 and 50 with me I can do a lot with not that much weight. Works better on 5D than on the A100. Highly recommended.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Pepigno   review date: August-13-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 18-75mm f3.5-4.5
KM 17-35mm f2.8-4

price paid:

US$ 250 used

positive:

Very sharp
No distortion
Well Built
Light and compact

negative:

none

comment:

I love this lens. I use it for nocturnal photo, architecture and landscape. The lens is spectacular.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: hamzah   review date: July-25-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 17-35mm f/2.8-4 EX.

price paid:

225 USD (new)

positive:

Outstanding sharpness
Flare resistant
55mm filter thread
Comes with bayonet hood
Solid construction
Super fast focusing speed
Very compact
Wide aperture 2.8
Fairly priced.

negative:

None.

comment:

Minolta 24mm f/2.8 is simply one of the sharpest in the Maxxum line-up. Not sure why other people gave it 3-4.5 rating for its killer sharpness, I guess they are using APS-C 6MP or 10MP DSLR not a fair way to test the FF lens. I've used it on my Maxxum 5 for the first time with Fuji Reala 100 loaded and set the aperture to f/8 in the A mode and it was done. It is so fast on my Maxxum 5 that as soon as I turn it on its in focus. The lens is very sturdy and mine is rare crossed-X version bought new on ebay for only $225 with free shipping.

If you're shooting architecture and landscapes this is the lens for you. Also one of the best things about this lens is the flare control not even one shot I've taken got any sign of flare or halos, totally flare resistant. Very compact and solidly built and comes with 55mm filter thread just like the most Minolta lenses. I use the top quality B+W 55mm MRC Skylight 1A filter for protection. There is no vigneting at all unless you stack more than 2 filters.

I highly recommend to get this lens either used or new. Also don't judge the 4x6 prints for its sharpness, you have to blow up atleast 5x7 and up to view its sharpness. I'm simply blown away by its performance and I'm sure you'll also.

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Mike Torello   review date: July-01-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 28/2.0
Minolta AF 35-70/4 Macro
Minolta AF 70-210/4

price paid:

200 USD used

positive:

- F2.8, effective F4/F5.6
- infinity from 3m, AF can be off

negative:

- nothing

comment:

Good lens, the prime in city photo with 36mm on Digital.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: gsaronni   review date: June-28-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm f2
24-105 f3.5-4.5
17-35 f2.8-4

price paid:

180€

positive:

Small
Affordable
The one prime solution for travelling light
Good colours
Internal focusing

negative:

Less sharp tha my prior WA prime(28mm f2)
Distorsions are pronounced

comment:

I thought I was going to keep this prime forever, but when I tested it against the CZ 16-80 I saw that the quality of this zoom is enough for my uses.

Sept 2008: I decided to pick up this lens again, it is the focal lenngth I use the most and the colours, sharpness and weight are amazing. CZ 16-80 is a very nice lens, but this little gem is a must.

I upgrade the distorsion from 3 to 4
It is very sharp, but I had some time ago the 28/2 and it was just perfect, so I will keep 4

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: monte920   review date: April-18-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

24-105mm (D)
24-50mm
28mm f2.0

price paid:

150USD (used, mint)

positive:

Compactness
Good sharpness/contrast/color
Relatively milder distortion compared with zoom lenses

negative:

Not much, maybe a little bit plain
No (D) version
Wish it could be f/2.0

comment:

This is a forgotten lens. With 24-50, 24-85, 24-105 starting at 24mm f3.5/f4.0, many will skip this 24mm f2.8 lens. Sony did not even bother to revive this lens, either. This is a shame, because it is really an excellent performer! Compared to the zoom counterparts, it has not only a half-stop aperture advantage, but better in light fall-off, distortion and color. Its color is vivid and saturated, but less so than the Nikon 24mm f2.8D, that means Minolta's color is more balanced.
I have to admit that I do not use this lens very often. But I am very pleased about the results that it gave on last year's Xmas family reunion. Its focal length is ideal for group photos (group size 5~15). It generates pleasing skin tone, vibrant X'mas color, and little distortion to worry about those people standing at the edge of a picture!

sharpness: 3.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: The Shoeman   review date: April-14-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 20/2.8
Minolta 28/2
Minolta 35/2

price paid:

144.00 USD (used)

positive:

Small and light.

negative:

Not as sharp as others but acceptable. Not very wide on Digital.

comment:

Nice little lens. I used it often until I got my Minolta 20/2.8. For the money, it's great.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: DavidB   review date: March-27-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

20mm 2.8
28-135mm 4/4.5

price paid:

Forget, bought new

positive:

Light, reasonable cost and performance, low distortion compared to 20mm 2.8. Sharp with classic M colour.

negative:

CA green/magenta in corners can be hard to remove in pp.

comment:

I acquired this lens because in certain situations (straight horizons near top or bottom of frame, vignetting apparent in shots with even tonal range into corners) I found the 20mm lacking, although I am generally happy with that lens in most circumstances.

I think the 24 is a very good performer at reasonable cost, and is sometimes a little easier to compose with than a wider lens. It's not really wide enough for me with the 7D.
A very nice wide angle on the a900.
Examples can be found at : web.mac.com/davidbannister

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: stickbreitling   review date: March-19-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 28-80/3.5-5.6
Sigma 17-70/2.8-4.5

price paid:

150GBP

positive:

Sharp and good DoF
Very compact and light

negative:

Mine didn't come with a lens hood! Edit: now has a hood
Might want to consider a 20mm for extra coverage?

comment:

Great light carry lens. Partnered with a 50mm, this functioned well for me as part of a walkabout prime set.

At times I felt myself wanting the 20mm for a little bit of extra coverage. However, it covers most shooting situations, such as a group of friends indoors and outdoor shots of landmarks.

Picture is sharp and the colours are rich. Can get some nice 'close subject in the foreground, wide bokeh landscape in the background' shots.

Edit: got hold of a second hand genuine Minolta hood. Now it's complete. Looks short and stumpy, but cool on the A100.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: mavan   review date: March-16-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

24-105/3.5-4.5 AF Minolta D
17-35/2.8-4 AF Minolta D

price paid:

350e new (1989)

positive:

sharp
good color

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 4 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: raphdedge   review date: March-16-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 20/1.8
MinO 50/1.7

price paid:

150 USD (used)

positive:

Size
Weight
Filter size

negative:

Not as sharp as others

comment:

Nice, small, unobtrusive lens. Doesn't draw much attention on my A100 which is a good thing in my book.

Sharpness is above average, but not as good as my Sigma 20/1.8.

Usual Minolta build quality - excellent.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: kimare   review date: December-11-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

18-70mm DT
50mm 1,7 (o)

positive:

36mm equivalent on digital
colours
sharpness

negative:

none yet

comment:

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: dtrph   review date: December-05-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 24-105, KM 28F2, KM 17-35

price paid:

150 USD (used)

positive:

small size, fast af, well built,

negative:

flare control,

comment:

This is a very nice little prime lens, renders nice warm colors, sharp enough for wide landscape photos. not nearly as sharp as the 28f2. with aps-c its a 35mm which i don't find particularly appealing. i preferred to use my km 17-35 or km 11-18. When prices when up ended selling at ebay for 240 and i don't really miss it.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: DcapVividOptic   review date: November-23-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 20/2.8 MinO & MinRS, Sig 24/1.8 EX DG, Min 24/2.8 MinO & Min RS, Min 28/2 MinO & MinRS, KM 17-35D, Canon AF 20/2.8 & 24/2.8, Voigtlander 21/4 (Bessa)

positive:

- price
- size
- build
- AF
- filter thread size

negative:

nothing

comment:

A joint/comparison review of the 24 MinO and MinRS.

Tiny, I think Minolta's smallest AF prime. Great for going light. Delivers the image with bags of punch. Highly recommeneded.

Af performance is good, distortion and colors great. sharpness could be better.

Pricewise the MinO is the better value of the two. The MinRS is harder to find and is certainly a better handling lens if you like manual focus.

Shouldn't be compared with the Sig 24/1.8 EX DG ... size and aperture means you are looking at different needs (Min for going small, Sig for going fast)

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: kathyk   review date: October-30-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 24-85 F3.5-4.5

price paid:

$225USD

positive:

Nice solid feeling, good quick focus.

negative:

For what it is, I can't think of a negative.

comment:

I used it in medium to low light, and the sharpness was just slightly lacking. The color seems extremely good though, and I did not notice any distortion. A very nice lens.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Oxigun   review date: October-24-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 17-35/2.8-4 D
KM 28-75/2.8 D
Minolta 50/1.7 [RS]

price paid:

200 EUR

positive:

Sharp
No barreldistortion (on fullframe!)
Bokeh

negative:

Corner sharpness on fullframe

comment:

I've bought this lens because I wanted a wide-angle prime for landscaping (for my 7D and 7) and also a decent performer at F/2.8 in low-light. I used my 28-75/2.8D for that which I don't think is sharp enough wide open (still a great lens thou) for this. I's not as sharp as the 50/1.7 at F/2.8 but very acceptable.
I've shot a wall with my 7 to check for barrel distortion but I couldn't find any.

Corner sharpness on fullframe isn't superb but not bad at all.

One thing I noticed is that while it looks very similar to the 50/1.7 it has one big difference. The filterring is a few millimeters further from the focusring which makes it easy to manual focus with a Cokin filtersysteem attached.

This lens will always be in my camerabag, and I will never sell it.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: pedrocr   review date: October-11-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

17-35 2.8-4
18-70 DT

positive:

Very sharp
No distortion
Well Built
Light and compact

negative:

Would be great if it was f2

comment:

I really like lens although lately I've considered it too wide for my taste. It's very compact and on a 1.5 crop factor is a 36. It would be much more useful if it was f2 so the 28/2 might be a better option if you can find one.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Panito   review date: October-06-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

17-35/3.5G
24-50/4
35/2

price paid:

100€

positive:

Very sharp from f4
Nice color
Very low distorsion
Good price

negative:

Not so sharp wide open

comment:

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: Duur   review date: August-24-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 17-35/2.8-4 D

positive:

Small, good hood

negative:

comment:

A nice wide angle lens on the film body´s
On the 7D, it is a beautiful wide standard lens, rather light strong and very acceptable distortion.

I got it as a gift, but that kind of gifts you can´t get enough :)

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: H20boy   review date: July-16-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 28-75 2.8 D, Tam 11-18, Min 85/1.4 & Tamron 90mac

price paid:

Can't remember

positive:

Very sharp after stopping down. Perfect colors.

negative:

None

comment:

This is my "go to"m lens for the typical construction site photos and interior of rooms The bokeh on this is very nice when you want it, but only if you can get close enough to your subject. This is also my widest prime, and I'd rather use this than my Tamron 11-18mm which has moderate distortion at the wide and even long end. I'd trust this over the 28-75 zoom if distance can be traversed easily.

*Update*

After comparing it to later owned 28/2's and other nice primes like the 85 and the Tamron 90 mac, this older lens of mine wasn't AS nice as I had thought. Sharp, sure, but after you stop down. It was still very nice, but I won't get another one down the road.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 5 

user: aleksandr   review date: November-03-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 24

positive:

Quite sharp in a very small package.

negative:

Would be nice at f2.0 or even f1.8

comment:

Very nice lens from the 'old days'. Small, pretty fast, fairly wide. Acts like a normal (35mm) on a dSLR, but a little more distortion - especially when it comes to portraits, etc. Very nice colour. Very little flare, though I seem to get a bit more flare with a filter attached . . . probably a little refraction between the front element and the filter (I've experienced this with several different filters, polarizers, ND, etc). Maybe a coating issue?

Very good lens.

Excellent walk-around prime.