Minolta AF 35-105 F3.5-4.5 reviews

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Fivepin review date: April-08-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Zeis 16-80 Tamron 35-105 f2.8
price paid:	150 cad
positive:	Sharp Price Weight Macro mode
negative:	Mfd -1500mm
comment:	Let me start by saying I recently sold my beloved zeiss 16-80. That lens was my sharpest zoom by a mile. It was razor. I sold it to buy a 16-50 for the ssm and f2.8. My new 16-50 is excellent but is not as sharp as my zeiss was. I also love the range of my 35-105 tamron. For me this is the perfect portrait range. Knowing these two needs I stumbled upon a listing for the minolta 35-105 macro. I read all of the reviews here before buying. Let me just say at this price this lens has just filled a new spot in my lens line up. This lens is every bit as good and as sharp as my $800 zeiss. I mean it. As good. If you already own a good wide angle zoom or prime and want a little more reach. This is the lens to get. Macro switch allows close focus (and can be hacked to allow auto focus in macro). Colour is pure minolta, and sharp sharp sharp. Some light purple fringing with high contrast backgrounds and is prone to some flare,but not as bad as the tamron. Enough said...get out there and get it.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 2	user: halloj151 review date: January-17-13
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135/4-4,5 24-85/3,5-4,5 35-70/4
price paid:	40 Euro (Used)
positive:	Sharpness Minolta Colors! Contrast Size Build
negative:	Flare can be an issue Loss of contrast if directed into light Original lens shade rather useless
comment:	I found this on eBay, throw in a bid an got it! At 40 Euros incl freight I couldn´t go wrong I thought and as I wanted something smaller and lighter than my 28-135 (favorite-) lens I thought this would be worth trying. After having used now for a while Im more than pleased with it. Sharpness and colors very similar to 28-135 and seems sharp even wide open. Issues about the same also, MFD is long and sensitive to flare just as its bigger brother. Doesnt like to be directed straight into light either as it will lose in contrast. Other than this though, its hard to beat and for the price its a bargain! Range good for a FF camera, not as useful on a APS-C though, at least not for my liking ( have not tested it there though). Compared to the 24-85/3.5-4.5 which also is a sharp lens, I prefer the 35-105 due to its creamier bokeh. WIsh Sony could produce a modern version of this lens!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: livinginparadise review date: December-24-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75/2.8 Minolta 50/1.7
price paid:	112 Australian
positive:	Sharp OK Bokeh Nice colours - particularly skin tones
negative:	Lowish contrast Poor AF (useless for moving objects)
comment:	Nice lens Pretty sharp Not as sharp as the STF a hair less sharp than sigma 50/1.4, tamron 28-75, but sharper than beercan, 19-55 and minolta 50/1.7 Less contrast than newer lenses, but almost as sharp as I can test. The "unsharpness" in my photos with this lenses appears to be mainly slow focus and camera noise.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Jeroon review date: December-22-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 16-50 SSM
price paid:	140 Euro (mint)
positive:	Sharpness Colour Weight (heavy) Built Macro function, which actually is a close up
negative:	No 'G' on the lens. ;)
comment:	What a fantastic gem this lens is. Despite I do not need autofocus, it is dead on. Not as crazy speedy as the 16-50 SSM, but as fast as a 40 year old retired tennis player, like Agassi. Micro adjustment on my A77: zero, nul, nada. The design is beautiful, and this 'hidden G' is perfectly in balance with the A77; also with a vertical grip aboard. Did I mention his sharpness? At least on par with my 16-50 SSM. A Golden Award.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: evtansk review date: December-20-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- Minolta 28-85 3.5-4.5 Macro - Tamron 28-200 XR IF - ProMaster 28-105 F4-5.6 - Sony DT 18-55 SAM - Sony 50mm 1.8 SAM
price paid:	120USD
positive:	- Sharp, very SHARP! - Solid built - Great Colour - Very good Macro
negative:	- Weight - 35mm is a bit narrow on APS-C but it's alright :)
comment:	I'd read and get to known from a few forums that this lens is nicknamed as "Hidden G". Out of curiosity, I went and get my self one of this, took a few shots and I'm speechless. Now I know why it is nicknamed as The "Hidden G". The sharpness and colour produce by this lens is truly amazing! In fact, sharpness can be as good as my Sony 50mm 1.8 or shall I say this one is better! Needn't me to say much, if you haven't own 1 your self, then please reward your self one at least as collector item :) It's worth to have/keep this lens.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: cev review date: November-28-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-105 Tokina 20-35 2.8
price paid:	99.00
positive:	Sharpest I've used Built solid Excellent color
negative:	short range for APS-C
comment:	Picked this up and really impressed by the color and sharpness. 3d look is true. Its' sets it apart from all other lenses I've used. Really wish it was 24 mm on the wide end but for all the range it has it does well. The 28-105 I purchased is not far behind this except no 3D look. I use a 20-35 Tokina for the wide end when I need it. Makes a good duo with this lens. Mine has small scratches on barrel but for a lens this old its a minor blemish. Auto focus is fine and its' operation is rather remarkable.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: topdogmex review date: November-22-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 50mm f/1.7
price paid:	150 usd (like new)
positive:	Amazing sharpness IQ Minolta colors Precision build "Like tank" construction
negative:	Maybe AF speed Too big MFD
comment:	This lens is trully amazing, the colors and sharpness of this lens are out of this world. It has big MFD, but it's macro capabilities compensate for that fault. Once in macro mode you can only focus manually. Everything in this lens is metal, amazing construction quality. If you see one, grab it!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: onsplekkie review date: November-18-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	10-20 Sigma 17-50 Tamron 50 Minolta 70-210 Minolta
price paid:	50 euro
positive:	Sharp Colours Macro mode!
negative:	range (but I knew this when I bought it)
comment:	Was looking for a fine portrait zoom. Guess I found it! I took it out this weekend and I am very pleased with the sharpness and colours of my copy. If I comepare it to the Minolta 50mm 1.7 I see no difference (maybe when pixelpeeping). Love the macro mode (manual only!)!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: fennetje review date: October-15-12
	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 AF minolta 28-105 RS minolta 28-85 AF old minolta 28-135 tamron 28-75 2.8
price paid:	50 €
positive:	sharp wide open great build quality macro is a fun & useful fast AF reliable AF not too big or heavy Bokeh
negative:	MFD Flare some CA wide open
comment:	My favourite zoom lens for taking pictures of my kids outdoors. I decided to get this lens by reading all of the reviews here, and having spotted it on an ebay i couldn't resist it anymore. You have to keep a distance, so it's not ideal in all situations ( MFD of 1,5 meter ). Excellent sharpness, great colors, good subject isolation (pop). The non-wide angle range generally doesn't bother me with my shooting style, as it is perfect for portraits. Sharpness is maybe a little lower than the 50mm 1.7 prime, but it shines in comparison with the 28-85 and especially against the 28-105 RS. colour difference with the 28-105 is also quite substantial & also the bokeh ( portrait distances ) is way better compared to that lens. If it brakes, i'm replacing it with another copy of this lens, I can't see any competition for it in the price range it can be found at. Even in a slightly higher price category, my copy of the tamron 28-75 doesn't come close to its sharpness or AF reliability & the Minolta 28-135, although really in a good state, doesn't show the same level of sharpness in my hands ( but that lens may be too large & heavy for my A55 ). Update 14-01-2013: I now have a 2nd copy, just as brilliant as the first. thumbs up minolta !!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: wythehsu review date: August-16-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135 4/4.5, 70-210 f/4, 50 f/1.7
price paid:	90 usd
positive:	Very sharp wide open. AF is very fast. Superb build quality, feels solid in hand. The build quality is better than handshake and beer can in my opinion.
negative:	Only thing I can complain is the MFD.
comment:	This lens is very sharp. The focal length is not very popular especially for aps cameras but it is perfect for portrait. I paid 90usd for this lens and the copy I got is far exceed my expectation. Get one when you still can.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: chriseen review date: May-24-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	24mm f2,8 50mm f1.4 35-70mm f4 70-210mm f4 50mm Macro f2,8 100mm F2,8 macro 80-200mm f2.8
price paid:	145 euro
positive:	become an super 'short zoom' when stopped down bit . Razor sharp, even in the corners, starting f:5.6 good strong build quality beautiful model Great color rendering Image quality is crystal-clear Decent Macro Very useful as an outdoor portrait lens Very versatile No distortions at the wide end fast AF good value great felling in hand Wonderful Minolta colours
negative:	Auto focus does not work in macro ( unless you can find an hacked copy with works efficient ) Minimum distance too far,but I go into macro to shorten the distance .
comment:	I have tested this lens,many other lenses getting blown away by this lens. This may be one of the best lenses available in that range. Not always cheap, however, considering the excellent performance of this lens, the price is a steal. Comparable with the "legendary" 28-135 and beercan 70-210 , but less heavy . Bokeh is nice, also in macro mode. Highly recommended : As they are getting rarer, the price seems to going up especially for one in really good condition, If you can get one, do it, and do it fast you will not regret it!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: witee.w review date: April-16-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 16-105
price paid:	129 usd (used)
positive:	sharp become super when stopped down good build quality beautiful model
negative:	little heavy not very wide compare to other lens i have (sony 16-105)
comment:	I'm very satisfied with this lens and the IQ that this lens produce. work perfectly with my A65. the only downside of this lens is that it would be much better if it could go wider. I modified my lens so that it can focus on macro and it work like sharm ! the hood that came with the lens seams useless so i use the beercan hood which fit perfectly, it gives better protection from flare and ghost. highly recommended

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: blovedCS review date: February-09-12
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	50mm 2.8 Macro 35-70mm beercan 70-210 beercan 50mm 1.7
price paid:	76.00
positive:	Strong build Great color Sharp Decent Macro
negative:	Flare MFD
comment:	This is a good lens. The copy I have right now isn't 100% perfect and is still pretty good. I have a second one on the way so if it is any better I will update this. It has some flare issues that can be pretty annoying and MFD is also annoying. Compared to the 50mm 2.8 its no match. The 50 is still my favorite and the sharpness kills at least this first copy. The metal hood from the beercan will work on this but unfortunately to little avail. Overall a good lens strong and sharp especially for the price but you better grab one because they are getting more popular and scarce. ****UPDATE*********************** Ok so did some other more accurate tests in comparison to the 50mm Macro and I have a new favorite. My copy of the lens is absolutely breathtaking stopped down to f5.6 on my a65. At the same focal distance of 50mm this lens was far sharper than the macro. Then when processed with ps raw its even better. If you can get one do it and do it fast you will not regret it! I only wish I had the handshake lens to compare it to. I wold guess its close though.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Hipporippo review date: November-15-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28mm 2.8 Minolta 50mm 1.4 Minolta 135mm 2.8 Beercan Minolta 18-55 kit lens
price paid:	70 USD used
positive:	Solid build as with all original maxxum lenses. Sharp compared to 18-55mm kit lens but far less useful focal length range. Very useful as an outdoor portrait lens
negative:	Not particularly fast for the range. Not too useful for much besides outdoor portraits. Not wide enough for landscapes; obviously not long enough for sports or wildlife; not fast enough for low-light portraiture.
comment:	I will keep this lens in my bag until I can find the handshake. Even then, I might hold onto this for the occasional outdoor portrait where I want the colors and 3D effect in-camera...assuming the handshake doesn't match up.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: whiteheat review date: October-29-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony DT 16-105mm Sony 18-70mm Sony 50mm F1.4 Minolta 100mm Macro
price paid:	$130 AU
positive:	Solid metal construction. Clarity (sharpness).
negative:	Minimum Focus Distance. Macro function has to be manually enabled. Slow focus speed (compared to HSM/SSM, etc)
comment:	Can't really add to what's already been said. As mentioned by previous posts, colour and sharpness are outstanding. Distortion, if any, not noticeable under all but the shooting of linear forms. Flare can be an issue under some circumstances but again, reasonably uncommon unless deliberately shooting near a light source. All round a great lens that delivers colourful and sharp images. Good for walkaround, landscape and portrait work. If you're thinking of getting one, I would recommend getting one whilst they're still cheap. As they are getting rarer, the price seems to going up especially for one in really good condition, in which case expect to pay around $200+ US for one.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: boyzone review date: October-28-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	16-80Z
price paid:	175 USD (Used)
positive:	-Sharp -Color
negative:	-MFD
comment:	Besides G lens, this is another sharpest lens I have. My 16-80Z totally cannot beat it. If u have a copy on hand, just keep it. If u have budget for next lens, just go for it. Focusing is a bit noisy, this could be due to full of metal build related. The only negative point I observed is the MFD. Need to keep a distance on the portrait.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: helgy review date: September-30-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	M35-70/4, M24-105/3.5-5.6, M28-85/3.5-5.6
price paid:	120 USD (used)
positive:	Very^ extrodinary sharp lens! Very good colors.
negative:	Bad flare control.
comment:	Must have!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: Ovas review date: September-16-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	MINOLTA 35-105mm N
price paid:	USD 220
positive:	Sharp,
negative:	weight
comment:	On APS-C A450 there is a significant difference in sharpness, specially wide open, where the pickture floats out on the N version. Stepped down to f8 in direct comparison this vintage lens is sharper, has better contrast and gives a more even exposure. On A900 FF the difference is not so great. Still this lens is sharper wide open, but things gets more even stepped down. This lens makes a nice walkaround-lens as a short telezoom on my A450. And the hood from my 70-210 Beercan fits perfectly.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: nilotek review date: August-24-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	130€ used
positive:	- very, very sharp on aps-c and film, even wide open - very nice built quality - very smooth zoom ring - superb colors and IQ
negative:	- small MF-ring
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: derekw review date: August-12-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-105 N Minolta 28-85 Minolta 28-135 Minolta 28-105 (All three)
price paid:	60 GBP
positive:	Razor sharp Superb colour Bokeh Size Price (Value for money)
negative:	Needs hood (a big one0 Noisy AF
comment:	Superb IQ, better than all the above lenses (and they are all very good) Get one whilst they are still cheap.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: waltony34 review date: June-12-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony lenses
price paid:	135
positive:	sharpness color bokeh build
negative:	Minimum focus distance
comment:	great lens built like a tank you can get it at a very affordable price it takes very sharp pictures with beautiful colors beter than any other lens i've used. exellent quality lens perfect for outdoors.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: StefB. review date: May-23-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	beercan 70-210mm Baby beercan 35-70mm
price paid:	70 Euro
positive:	- incredible sharpness - nice color - well built - Macro mode - Accurate AF
negative:	- AF is hunting in low light conditions - MFD - No AF in macro mode (hackable)
comment:	Used on my SONY Alpha55, it is one of my favorite lenses with my Tamron 17-50@f2.8. Due to the MFD, it could be difficult to use it inside. You can also forget to record video with that lense, the AF is too noisy.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Da7rouj review date: May-13-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Beercan Miniolta 50mm f1.7 Sony kit 18-70 Sigma 50mm Macro
price paid:	with several lenses
positive:	-Great sharpness from wide open _nice colors -Really good build quality -Macro function
negative:	-MFD = cant use it inside
comment:	This is an amazing lens, sharpness is unbelievable even at wide open! When I am out I usually have this lens on but when inside MFD makes it unusable for me. Nonetheless I love it!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: hrstrat57 review date: May-12-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Maxxum 28-85 Maxxum 35-105N Maxxum 24-105D Maxxum 100-200 Maxxum 70-210 F4
price paid:	85 USD
positive:	I have 35-105N bought new and have always considered it a favorite. Picked up this near mint 35-105 orig from LCS and she is fantastic. Images very similar to the N but sharper at tele end. The lens feels more solid due to the build I guess, it is an all metal beast. It snaps and whirs into action like a fine pc of machinery. Just fun to shoot with.
negative:	-The tendency to flare with the standard hood is mostly solved with the screw in Minolta 100 macro md hood I picked up at the same LCS for $1!!! Looks cool too!! -MFD is an issue with the lens, same as with the 100-200. The macro feature gives it back a little versatility but using this as a walk around the room lens could be a problem. Thus I will keep the 35-105N for that application, MFD is not an issue with the N.
comment:	Get one while you can, I will be hunting down a spare too! Positively brilliant lens!!!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: petesidewalk review date: May-10-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 35-105 2.8 Minolta 28-135 4-4.5 Minolta 24-85 3.5-4.5 Minolta 28-105 3.5-4.5 Minolta 35-105N 3.5-4.5 Tokina 35-200 4-5.6 Minolta 28-75 2.8 Sigma 24-70 2.8 HSM Minolta 24-50 4 MInolta 24-105 3.5-4.5 Minolta 28-80 XI 4-5.6
price paid:	USD 79
positive:	sharp cheap, but prices are going up build quality balance on A900 contrast bokeh compact
negative:	usual flare, big hood eliminates this
comment:	I bought 2 of these and gave one to my brother. This lens used to be less expensive but it's performance and demand are escalating prices. This lens has great bokeh, sharpness, contrast and focusing. I really like it on the A900.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 3 flare control: 4	user: cessna2k 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:	Sal 55-200 Sam f/4-5.6 Sal 18-55 Sam f/3.5-5.6
price paid:	68 USD
positive:	rather sharp Minolta Colors
negative:
comment:	Outperformes the Sony 18-55 but somehow similar to the Sony 55-200 and Beercan. This lens gives it's own strong signature to the pictures due to its color and contrast. Of course, you can always erase this signature by post processing. The more pictures I take with this lens, the more I appreciate it. It's sharp wide open until diffraction kicks in, it's just a little bit soft at 105mm at f/4.5.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: A_T review date: March-13-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70 Minolta 28-80 xi
price paid:	£50
positive:	Lovely sharp lens with great colours. Using this after the 18-70 kit lens it's like having a different camera. Build quality that is unmatched these days.
negative:	A bit on the heavy side.
comment:	If I could only have one lens it might well be this one.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: dumbasadoorknob review date: March-09-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 28135 Min 24105 Min 35/2 Min 85GRS Sony 100Macro
price paid:	usd 105 used
positive:	Small zoom Minolta colors utterly reliable
negative:	none
comment:	This is currently my favorite zoom. It has extraordinary clarity in the image and accuracy in focussing, and is almost as good at 35mm as my Min 35/2, and almost as good as the Sony Macro at full length. In between (which I have recently found is a problem with some of my older, hard-used Min zooms) it is just as sharp and clear. It doesn't have the halo effect of the 85G RS, but it has a hard clarity that is equally enjoyable. Having the A900, I can crop a good deal, so that the 3x zoom factor here is not as serious a problem as I thought it would be. Likewise, with a setting of ISO 800 (according to DxO an effective ISO 640) the slowness of the lens is not apparent, since this setting boosts its effective speed to better than f/2 in the field. I have been pairing it with my 100200 to replace my weak 28135, and I really like the combination. My 24105 was just a poor copy, and has always disappointed, so that the 35105 has always been better. The 35105 has the vibrant and deep Minolta colors that I like so much and a surprisingly good out of focus blur (which I also like.) The long minimum focussing distance occasionally annoys me -- but it is easily compensated for by the macro switch when I want to get really close. I've not made the tape adjustment to autofocus in macro mode. The lens hood is OK, and I've always liked the hard diagonal zoom ring just where it is. I had been thinking of replacing my Min 28135 with a Tamron 24135 -- but this lens is so reliable, and so pleasant to use, that I think I'll stick with it for a very long time instead.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: 12AMS review date: March-06-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony SAL 18-55mm SAM Minolta 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5
price paid:	$35 CDN (used)
positive:	Amazing sharpness Minimal CA Build
negative:	Flare MFD Not quite wide enough
comment:	I love this lens. Some of my favorite pictures were taken with this lens on film, and it performs just as well on digital. I find flare to be an issue with this lens, however, and the hood is next to useless (use your hand instead). I have run up against the MFD a couple of times, but managed to overcome it by manually focusing in macro. This lens would never leave the camera if it was a bit wider, say 24mm, but that is why I keep the Sony 18-55mm around. Overall, though, I really like the focal range and the sharpness has to be seen to be believed. I tested all 3 lenses at 35mm, where you would expect the other lenses to be at a bit of an advantage since they are in the middle of their ranges and this lens is at one of its extremes. This lens soundly trounced the others, even wide open. It does have a little longitudinal CA, but who cares, as this type disappears when you stop down a little. I have never seen any lateral CA with my copy of this lens. Pick one up if you can find one.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: jon3453 review date: March-05-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 18-70 tokina 19-35 F3.5 4.5 min 50 F1.7 min 28 F2.8 min 35-105N min100-200 F4.5 min 100 F2.8 macro +various M42
price paid:	£65
positive:	Everything but MFD!
negative:	MFD
comment:	I love all my old minolta glass, but there is just something about this one which makes it my favourite. The colour, the sharpness from wide open, the bokeh it has the lot.Its on my camera nearly all the time.Hard to take a bad picture with it! Feels like real quality too.Macro's great bonus. Will never sell it. Yes the the MFD will wind you up at times and no 35mm isn't very wide but i say just track down a good one TODAY a bargain at the price they go for

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: ERH review date: February-20-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-135/4-4.5 Tamron 28-75/2.8 Tamron 35-105/2.8 Tamron 24-135/3.5-5.6 Minolta 28-70G
price paid:	180 USD
positive:	Perfect build Perfect bokeh True minoltian colors Good sharpness wideopen Compact
negative:	Contrast loss when shooting against the sun Rare (and price is rising) Rotating front filter
comment:	Good walkaround lens with excellent colours (Almost as best a at minolta 28-70G). Close to legendary Oldman 28-135/4-4.5, but in the contrary very lightweight and compact, bit faster aperture, much better bokeh... Only flares and loss of the contrast against the sun sometimes may be an issue. And don`t forget, that it`s price triple less than Oldman! Summary: Vintage Minolta`s gem! (if you can find it - get it!)

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: fdelgado70 review date: February-19-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	35-105mm RS 28-85/3.5 Original Beercan
price paid:	70 USD
positive:	Sharp Minolta Colors 3D like shots Build quality
negative:	Not really anything in my opinion.
comment:	I love this lens. Other reviewers also touted the 3D like effects of the photos, and they were not kidding. Beautiful colors, bokeh is excellent and of course the build quality is exceptional. I am lucky enough to have the Crossed X version and lucky that it was well cared for before I got it. Having a hard time removing it from my A100, and from Maxxum bodies that I use.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: kozmo review date: February-04-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	$90 US
positive:	Sharp Nice color Old Minolta build
negative:	min focus distance Odd range on apc oil on blades
comment:	Lens seems to have nice color and sharpness, bought with oil on blades that has been fixed but it seems to be a problem on this lens quite a bit. Have not used as much as I should but results have been worth the price. If you need this range there are worse choices to make. I feel this lens is a little hyped, but still a decent value for getting minolta colors. bokeh is also pretty good as well. Do not notice a world of difference between this lens and my old 28-85 minolta

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: francis review date: February-01-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135 28-85 28-75D
price paid:	40 USD
positive:	sharpness color rating build MACRO
negative:	Flare only with certain filters
comment:	The depth, bokeh, contrast and colors (actually natural and not overdone as with many other lenses) are truly unique. It's the combination that's right, not any feature on its own - this is pretty much what defines this lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Bahudda review date: January-22-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	24-70mm f2.8 ZA 28-135mm f4-4.5 100mm f2.8 50mm f1.4 Sony 35mmf2.0
price paid:	$60.00
positive:	Color, sharpness, bokeh and contrast
negative:	Minimum focus distance Minimum aperture
comment:	One marvelous lens! I love the color and contrast from this lens. It is what others are saying about it - a pure gem. Rather than repeat all of the sterling adjectives below I will just say, if you can get your hands on one don't let go! One more thing, I read the bokeh was nice and didn't think it could be - I was very very wrong.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Malinki_Malinki review date: January-18-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- Sony SAM 18-55mm kit lens. - 70-300mm 'Big Beercan'.
price paid:	70GBP
positive:	- Colours! Colours! COLOURS! - 3-D effect! - Sharpness! - Smooth operation; feels great. - Looks the part. :-) - Fast Autofocus with my A-390. - Weight. This is positive for me as it feels great to hold and gives good balance. - Price! 70GBP is an absolute bargain!!!
negative:	If I'm being very picky... - Occasional flare if sun or bright light in frame or close to picture frame. But what do you expect when you point a lens near the sun? - OK, its not perfectly silent, but I don't need this. (The lens is fairly quiet and runs very smooth though.) - Hunts just a little in very poor light sometimes, but hey, it is only f3.5-f4.5 - Very very slight purple fringing on high contrast against white at 105mm. But I had to look very hard for this... This is not a problem to me or anything I normally notice or worry about.
comment:	I LOVE THIS LENS! I have 3 lenses but this is the one that stays on my camera most of the time. The first day I used this I was blown away by the fantastic colours, the sharpness and the macro capability. On one macro picture in particular of a humble marigold I was astounded that the image of the marigold seems to jump right out of the picture like in 3-D and that the centre of the marigold seems to glow like the sun. I fell in Love with this lens from that point on... I got this lens from ebay from a professional photographer who had obviously looked after the lens so I am fortunate that the glass is pristine, and of course the body is built like a tank. Its hard to believe that this lens is probably 25 years old - a quarter of a century - and the glass still looks like new and the body almost like new. I use this lens a lot for portraiture and it is fantastic! As long as I am careful about the focus position of the eyes (like any lens!) then I get tack sharp eyes, and skin tones and clarity are wonderful. People really look like they are looking out right at you! I also use this as my standard lens for landscapes, cityscapes etc. and it stays on my camera most of the time. [If I want a picture of my daughter ice-skating, or of an animal or bird, or a zoomed-in landscape then I use my 'Big Beercan'. Since getting this lens I have not used my kit lens other than a few comparitive test shots with a test card. I may use it eventually if I really need its wide-angle...] It is interesting to note that when I bought this lens its rating here was 4.67 and has now nudged up to 4.68. I think this is a testimony to the continuing fantastic value for money of this lens. Unfortunately these deserved good ratings push the price up and I think most second-hand camera dealers see dollars in their eyes with this one and ask for ridiculous prices of 100GBP and more. Your best bet is ebay; even if the copy isn't the best one you could always pay to get the lens serviced and cleaned. I have to say that I am a relative newbie DSLR User so I haven't carried out any lab-style controlled test comparisons against my other lenses; my views here are mostly subjective and I admit to inexperience. However, I have compared pictures (using a tripod, SSIS off and timer delay on) of a lens resolution test chart I printed from the web. This lens reolved everything to the smallest detail and was sharp centre-to-corners with no noticeable (to me) pin-cushion or barrel distortion. I dread to think what price I would have to pay for a modern day equivalent of this lens. I really enjoy using this lens and it continually surprises me with its wonderful colours and 3-D effect. I intend to enjoy continuing to use this lens for a very long time to come!!!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: MCNGUYEN review date: January-17-11
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 28-135 Min 35-105 N version Min 70-210 the Beercan
price paid:	50
positive:	Sharp, sharp, sharp. Minolta Colors
negative:	Zoom creep. Range not so usefull on an aps camera. Focus a bit noisy for video capture on my A55, but not for still.
comment:	Sharper than my 28-135 copy, way sharper than the Beercan, but the range is not as usefull as the 28-135. Lightweight compares to the 28-135. The colors are great like Minolta Colors. Macro position very usefull. I didn't know there was an old version of the 35-105. I own the New version but I didn't used it because it range is not so usefull. I always used the 28-135 these 2-3 last years since I discovered this one, but know I wonder if I wouldn't change. I searched the old 35-105 since I read reviews on this site. Very usefull reviews thanks to all.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: eromance review date: December-25-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 50 F1.7 Sony 50 F1.8 Sony 16-105 Tamron 18-250 Sigma 70-300
price paid:	105 USD (used)
positive:	: sharp : color : build : macro most of all the price!!! almost everything
negative:	- didn't able to find this before I bought some of the expensive lens within it's range! - range
comment:	a very recommended lens for it's range!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: jenik.nk review date: December-23-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 28-105/3.5-4.5 Min 35-105/3.5-4.5N Min 70-210/4 beercan Min 35-70/4 Sigma 17-70/2.8-4.5
price paid:	3000 CZK (used)
positive:	* sharpness !!! * colours !!!
negative:	* MFD * not wide on APS-C * difficult to find
comment:	It took me two years to find this lens. I read many many reviews about it's qualities. Some time ago I bought the 35-105N, which is not so great... but quite nice stopped down. But this old version - wow! Definitely my best zoom in terms of IQ. Really extremely sharp, never needed stopping down for sharpness. Beautiful colors. AF seems to be fast. From my experience struggles against the light - I will have to test it more. But definitely a highly recommended lens. Best quality and cheap. Seems difficult to find though.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: mydarkstars review date: December-21-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 35-70 f4 Min 28-85 f3.5-4.5 Sony 18-55mm Sony 18-70mm
price paid:	£59
positive:	Sharpness Color Build Price
negative:	Only starts at 35mm
comment:	Been after this lens for awhile. Saw it on sale for only £59 in a camera shop, comes with a 1yr guarantee! Only played with it for a few days but it beats all the other lens I have that cover the same range. This lens out resolves my A550. Will probably be stuck to my A550 for the foreseeable future.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: reboot review date: December-11-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70 kit lens Minolta 50/1.7
price paid:	69 USD (used)
positive:	Sharper than sharp Great colors Almost indestructible Macro
negative:	A bit heavy Rotates when focusing
comment:	I love this lens. It's amazing that a lens of this quality can be bought for so little $$. I'm glad I bought mine while the price is still low. If you don't have one, buy one today.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: rouncey review date: December-08-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 28-85 minolta 50mm 1.7
price paid:	35 gbp
positive:	colour sharp build
negative:	flare auto focus a bit noisey
comment:	Love the colour on this lense,some pictures appear to be 3d like.bought this cheap from e bay,35 pounds and its blown me away!!!!!!.focus is a bit noisey and mine has some dust inside(thought it was fungus,but had it checked today and its dust) but the picture quality is fantastic.the macro is very usable and i have taken some lovely closeups with it.very underated lense and at the moment quite cheap,though the prices are going up,no doubt do too the reviews,if you havent got one you need too get it,the colours will blow you away.....

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ARkristian review date: December-06-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 70-210 f4 35-70 f4 28-135
positive:	sharp colors 3dimentional effect price built quality macro hackable
negative:	none i can think of...
comment:	this lens make my sony alpha shines! a real gem for beercan era!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: jlbigornia review date: December-06-10
	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 sigma 24mm superwide II tokina AT-X 28-70 2.8 sigma 70-300 DL macro
positive:	sharp! color! built! everything!
negative:	none for the price and performance!
comment:	one of the minoltas finest! i was suprised by the color, sharpness and 3d effect of the images taken by this nicely rated lens!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: marathonianbull review date: October-25-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 16-105mm Sony CZ 16-80mm Sony 50mm f1.4 Tokina 28-70mm f2.6 Minolta 50mm/100mm f2.8 Minolta 70-210mm f4 Minolta 50 f1.7
positive:	Very fast & precise AF! Colors & Contrats! Solid Built, Light!
negative:	Should have bought this one a LONG TIME AGO!
comment:	I love it; my best walkaround lens so far! No problem with flare when using the original hood...

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: SChurchill review date: September-23-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 28-135 Sony 18-70 DT Beercan Big Beercan Min 35-70 f4 Min 50 F1.7 Min 28-85 F3.5-4.5
price paid:	60 GBP
positive:	Sharpness Colour Build Macro function at long end.
negative:	MFD but macro function compensates for this.
comment:	This is my favourite Minolta lens that I own. I've fell in love with it the day I got it. I think it out performs my copy of the 28-135 hands down for sharpness and colour. The Minolta 28-85 F3.5-4.5, which looks almost identical, is dire in comparison, especially when CA is taken into consideration. I don't find the manual macro a problem as I tend to manually focus close ups anyway. Also the macro function is at the long end unlike the 28-135 which has it at the wide end. This feels far more natural to zoom in and if you hit the MFD limit then switch to macro. My copy exhibits beautiful contrast which seems to give a three dimensional feel to portraits. I would recommend this lens to anyone and am tempted to buy another as an insurance policy. Definitely an underrated and overlooked lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: JamesAlpha850 review date: September-16-10
	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 Sony AF50mm F1.4 Sony AF100mm f2.8 macro Minolta AF28-85 f3.5-4.5 Minolta AF28-135 f4-4.5 Minolta AF35-105N f3.5-4.5 Minolta AF70-210 f4-4.5 Tamron AF28-300mm XR f3.5-6.3
price paid:	80.00 USD
positive:	Sharp zoom wide open More evenly sharp throughout Best color of old Maxxum lenses/creamy bokeh Solidly built Useful walk-around range on FF Macro is a creative tool Semi-snappy focus Still a bargain, but hurry.
negative:	Becoming scarce Sometimes mistaken for vastly lacking 1987 MinoMaxx 35-105N (Read on.)
comment:	A Minolta classic to take seriously, the AF 35-105mm is a natural companion for a full-frame DSLR. It is the Secret Pinkyshake of the vintage 1985 era Maxxum zooms. IMHO, the Macro feature turns out to be the most functional of the beercan bunch, a crisp close-up range for casual portraits. It is impressive to see detail from a zoom that rivals a true macro. Could this walk-around zoom take full advantage of the Macro feature in AF mode? Much is commented regarding Pete G's AF hack. The Minolta Maxxum AF35-105 weighs in at a fraction of its big brother, the venerated 28-135mm. Importantly, it retains much of the Handshake's imaging luster, especially its very sharp focus. After indulging in random pixel peeking, edge sharpness looks quite good at several focal lengths. The colors are deep and wonderful, brilliant and contrasty. Several images of light hitting water and in and of out of focus reflections were examined at fit and full 1:1 screen resolutions. The bokeh produced from out of focus droplets is creamy in these images. Colors are given punch and objects sometimes suggest 3D. Having used this zoom for several weeks in preparation for an exhibit, it is significant to say that wide shots may require some distortion correction in PP. Minor adjustments of chromatic aberration in bright contrast are required. With Photoshop Lightroom 3 to tame it, the lens is perfect for my daily zoom purposes, a logical complement to the Minolta Maxxum AF28-135. I became so impressed by the performance of the first lens I bought that I decided to get a second one as a back-up. I have not yet gotten the nerve to attempt the Ganzel hack. For a walk-around zoom, I am beginning to prefer to use this lens over my AF28-135. The weight balance appears to be better suited for the Alpha 850, giving less shoulder and wrist fatigue with quite comparable results. For greater range, the logical pick is the Big Brother 28-135. Caveat: Beware of the distinction between the optic under review here and a newer version Minolta Maxxum lighter weight lens of the same focal length. The AF35-105N f3.5-4.5 came to me from a NY supplier by mistake in white (a limited-production model). It was not satisfactory and I returned it. This same model in black is also rated in the zoom lens section of dyxum.com. Note the performance ratings are somewhat different between these two lenses. It can be difficult, but possible to distinguish between them in the ebay photos as they have distinctive rubber focus bands. The style of the rubber ring of the vintage lens is of tightly ribbed grips perpendicular to the mount. The style of the focus/zoom ring of the Minolta AF35-105N is a wider diagonal grip design. I hope this information is useful as I am seeing more of the newer design posted for auction than the much more prized lens under review here.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: Zeeke review date: September-13-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta af 28-135mm Minolta af 24-105mm Minolta af 24-85mm RS Minolta af 28-105mm Minolta af 35-70 f4
positive:	sharpness price colour build
negative:	Non given the price of these lenses
comment:	This is the sharpest of all the old Minoltas,but I would still recommend the Minolta af 28-105 over this with faster af,more range and contemporary feel.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: tmarc review date: August-24-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 17-70/2.8-4.5, SAL 18-70.
price paid:	70 USD (used)
positive:	Sharpness, colours.
negative:	Weight, wide end not wide enough on APS-C.
comment:	My best pictures were made with this lens. Since it's wide end is limited on APS-C, it's best suited for portraits.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Basil review date: August-02-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-105 RS Minolta 28-85 Minolta 24-85 Sony 18-70
price paid:	$75 USD
positive:	Beautiful colors Built like a tank Macro switch Wonderful portrait zoom
negative:	Can flare if not careful Long MFD Awkward range on cropped sensor
comment:	This is my favorite portrait zoom. The colors are simply outstanding. while it's not as sharp as a prime, it is still very good. The long MFD can be an issue, but the macro switch helps. However, it becomes a manual focus lens at that point. It's a bit awkward as a walk-around lens (the 24-85 is better), but for static subjects it really shines.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: snajper review date: July-27-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	35-105N The rest of beercan series.
price paid:	65USD
positive:	Very sharp even wide open. Minolta colours. Build quality Macro switch
negative:	MFD
comment:	This must be the best $65 I have ever spent and it is almost in mint condition. It is way better in every way than the restyled newer 35-105mm. I have done macro hack on it and it is now awesome walkaround lens. IQ is very, very close to my 28-135 lens. Say no more.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: iceman review date: July-11-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	80.00 AUD
positive:	-Great colours -Solid build -Cheap -Easy to use
negative:	-Getting hard to find
comment:	Got this lens from an auction site at a good price, did not expect too much. Was I surprised!! The great Minolta colours just blew me away, and its solid construction means that I will be using it for a long time to come.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: gouldina review date: June-28-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	MinO Beercan, MinO 28-85mm MinO 135mm prime CZJ Flektogon 35mm
price paid:	40 GBP
positive:	Good colours,
negative:	"Funny" range. MFD
comment:	I've had this lens for a while but haven't used it much as I also have the 28-85 of the same generation and I find that more useful in terms of range. However, having spent a bit more time with it, I have to say that it's definitely an improvement over my copy of the 28-85 in terms of colour and probably sharpness although to a lesser extent. It has similar IQ to the beercan I would say but in a different range. Construction is awesome like all the MinO zooms of that era. I can't agree with some of the reviews about how sharp it is though - I'd say it was decent rather than razor sharp. The downsides: AF is noisy, macro is a bit half hearted and the MFD is far too long like all these lenses. The focal length range is neither fish nor fowl but apart from all that it's a very decent lens. Update: On my A850, this lens truly comes into its own in terms of focal length range. I've changed my mind about its sharpness too, it really is very sharp for a zoom. Well worth obtaining.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: paso144 review date: May-26-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	24-105D 24-85N 28-135 beercan big beercan
price paid:	60 euro
positive:	Very, very sharp. Excellent build quality. Rather compact for it's range. Minolta colors. Nice macro function.
negative:	Strange range on APS-C.
comment:	Sharpest lens of the beercan bunch. Very sharp with a lovely IQ. Typical Minolta colors. Compact lens for its range and therefore suited for travel. Because of the strange focal range I now prefer my 28-135 and this little gem stays in the bag. I cannot get to it to sell and I think I keep it as an example of excellent Minolta lens design during the 80's.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: manukaing review date: April-18-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:	sharp usefull macro mode
negative:	MFD
comment:

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: pcarmalt review date: April-01-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 20 F2.8 CZ 24-70 F2.8 Sony 24-105 F3.5-4.5 Tamron 28-75 F2.8 Minolta 28-135 F4-4.5 Minolta 35-70 F4 Minolta 50 F1.7 RS Sony 50 F1.4 Minolta 70-210 F4 CZ 85 F1.4 Sony 100 F2.8 Macro Minolta 135 F2.8
price paid:	GBP 87
positive:	+ Great colour and sharpness, similar look to beercan and 28-135 + Quite sharp even wide open + "Macro" switch useful
negative:	- MFD just as bad as 28-135 (1.5m)
comment:	Compared to the much more expensive 28-135, there is very little in it in terms of IQ. However, the 28-135 range is much more convenient, and has faster AF so I think it's worth the extra money. The macro mode is good, though the Tamron 28-75 has better magnification without having to activate a special macro mode :-)

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Lukas07 review date: March-19-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 24-85 Minlta 28-100 DT Sony 18-55 Nikon 18-70 Nikon 18-135
price paid:	700RMB
positive:	Color!!! Abouslutly color!!And sharp enough
negative:	Nothing could be and should be...at least to this 25'years old len~ Only....focus noise
comment:	Good len,that's it

sharpness: 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 16-105, 55-200 Minolta 50 f:1.4, f:2.8 macro, f:1.7
price paid:	$65 used
positive:	Build, quick focusing, sharpness.
negative:	Close focasing std. distance is 5ft and macro is at the 35mm range.
comment:	This lens is a real sleeper. I had two both are amazing lenses. I use a Minolta 100-300/4.5-5.6 lens hood to reduce flare without vineting on my A700. This is my cary arround lens and is generally supplemented by my 24mm f:2.8 and either a Sony 70-300g or Minolta 28-200 f:2.8 G HS, depending on subject and lighting.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Sean21 review date: March-09-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	115 USD used
positive:	SHARP Very nice bokeh Excellent colors Excellent macro (@ 105mm)
negative:	MFD
comment:	One of Minolta's best kept secrets I think. I shot a roll of Ektar 100 this weekend, I couldn't tell which shots were taken with my 84 1.4G and this lens until I retrieved the data off my 7. Bokeh is that good, really sharp and the colors too. The prints have a 3D effect to them. I love this lens. To help with flare a bought a 80-200 lens hood new on ebay.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: tomz review date: March-01-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-70, Minolta 24-105, Minolta 70-210(beercan) Minolta 50/1.4
price paid:	35 GBP
positive:	Extremely sharp, creamy bokeh, nice macro capability, solid construction
negative:	The usual, 35mm not wide enough on APS-C, minimum focusing distance, feeling depressed it will probably outlive me
comment:	This copy of the lens is my second one and it was described as having oily blades. The first one I got was described as having oily blades too but had a snapped wiring inside, so AF and metering were pretty useless. Well, this has to be one of the most underrated lenses Minolta produced. The image quality is simply breathtaking. The detail is amazing. Better than 24-105, sharper than beercan after 70mm and also much better than 35-70. Actually, it has to be equivalent, if not better, to the legendary 28-135. Now, this is probably one of the latest copies with an 8 digit serial number, the first one I got was a 6 digit, the construction is different at the mount and after a comparison test I did, the second one showed better contrast and warmer colours, probably due to a later change in coating. While cleaning the blades, did AF in macro mode as well, thanks to a thread here. All in all, image quality doesn`t get much better than this. Buy it and you`ll be amazed!

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: oldguy review date: February-24-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 18-250. Beercan. Sigma 24-70. Sony 70-300 g. Tamron 70.
price paid:	105 USD used
positive:	Great walk-around lens, especially on film or, I imagine, digital full frame. Solid feel, nice hood.
negative:	Some vignetting on full frame at 35.
comment:	Bought it to see what all the fuss was about. Light enough to carry all day. Not wide enough for landscape on APS-C but you know that going in. Plenty long for most purposes and as sharp at 105 as the 70-300 is at 300 and on my copy that's very good.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: teddybear review date: February-14-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-70mm F4 Tamron 35-105mm F2.8
price paid:	R350.00
positive:	Color Sharp Light weight Small Good Range Macro
negative:	Requires macro to focus anywhere under 1.5 meters.
comment:	This lens is quite small and compact. It has very good range. The close focusing is an issue until you use the macro switch, then, WOW! It is very sharp and quiet cheap.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: kawung review date: February-03-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	kit 18-70 minolta 50/1.7 minolta 70-210/4
price paid:	-
positive:	sharpness bokeh build perfect size and FL for snapshot
negative:	MFD (sometime)
comment:	sharpness is comparable to my (very good copy) beercan. i still dont see 3d effect others say, and i dont understand what it mean by 3d.. i only have aps-c, and i think it's perfect for walkaround. you know 35mm is 50 on aps-c..its just great. i already sold my kit coz i dont need any wider than this, maybe 17-35 someday..

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: alphaPDX review date: January-28-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-105N, 70-210 f/3.5-4.5, 100-200; Sigma 17-70; Sigma 28-90
price paid:	$65 USD (used)
positive:	Solid, sharp & snappy focus
negative:	flare, needs macro/MF to focus closely
comment:	I owned the 35-105N for a year or more, but it didn't keep my interest. This lens does the trick: sharper wide open, strongly built and great color & bokeh. I don't mind going MF for 'macro' so won't do the online hack. I'm now convinced of the 1st-generation's qualities, having let go of the 70-210 and 35-105N in favor of this plus 100-200. As long as I do not let the sun hit the front element, this lens does excellent work.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Pygmy review date: January-22-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minoltas 35-70 (f4 + 3,5-5,6) Sigma 50 macro
positive:	Sharpness
negative:	Minimum focus distance
comment:	As it's been said, really nice lens for the price, it's absolutely sharp in all focal lengths and any aperture. Almost as sharp as my sigma 50 macro, and it's razor (and a prime). My copy is somehow soft on the right side at long distance focusing, but that's only really noticeable when cropping. Great walk-around lens, a bit heavy but nice build and zoomrange. The minimum focus distance sometimes bothers me. After some comparison of the colours, I must say I prefer the colours of my sigma over this one - like in the greens of vegetation and the blue sky. Ofc that's personal taste...

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 3 flare control: 5	user: tgx78 review date: January-16-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	17-35mm 2.8-4 28-135mm f/4-4.5 50mm f1.4 50mm macro 28mm f2.0 cz85mm f1.4
price paid:	140
positive:	sharp light handling good build
negative:	mfd distortion in full frame body (50-105mm)
comment:	I had to buy and find out what is all this fusses about this lens. Well well well, after using this lens quite extensively for last few days, I am happy to report this lens does deliver. Even on my a900 sharpness is surprisingly good. Color seems little better (subjectively) than my old and trusty 28-135mm. Very light and easy to handle i think I just found a perfect utility / walkaround lens. It is though little awkward focal range to work with in aps-c cameras. Old photodo MTF mark on this lens is little questionable. maybe they had a below average performing copy or something. I am positively surprised with the resolving power this little lens has. recommended.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 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:	I think I've owned ALL/perhaps sold some of the Minolta Consumer lenses by now!
price paid:	105 USD
positive:	Sharp
negative:	MFD
comment:	Well, this might sound selfish but I’ve been holding back reviewing this lens until I could get a few good copies of it! Truth is, it was 4th bought out of perhaps 40 Minolta lenses that I went through as I built my collection last spring and summer (2009) And what a fun build is WAS! As many of you now know; Minolta consumer lenses are WAY undervalued and if you’re like me – you never really lose any money buying them. I sold 90% of the ones I bought for more money…. In fact, if you bought yours last summer you may have bought it from ME…even the “bad” copies of these lenses are fabulous and I now sort of wish I had kept all of this particular model. I even had a complete box, manual, bag, hood, and silica from an original at one point but sold it – because I’m here to SHOOT (as the name indicates) not chew bubble gum and talk… but I digress. This little lens built in 1985 is THE best lens that I’ve ever used in my 25 year amature photographic career. Yes including the 28-135 (which is overrated) and all the others. The past few reviews here are spot on – 5’s all across. Never mind the aperture – just shoot….shoot….shoot. Because if you can’t shoot a good photo with this lens, an Alpha 350, and good subject matter – you better sell it all and get into oil painting. So much so in fact; that I’d say it’s almost unfair to the Nikon and Canon guys for us to be able to walk around with this lens on top of a $400 (internally image stabilized) camera and KICK ASS…. That’s all I have to say. I have two of these now and I won’t need to buy another. I also own 4 of the new version which doesn’t compare except in color and in that I just love this particular focal range for some reason. Also – the little one is nice and small and cheap – so I’ll sit on those and sell a few if I need to buy a new Alpha in 10 years…. Can’t wait to try this lens on a 25MB sensor by then – woooo hooo! Enjoy, Shootist

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: mwildwood review date: January-08-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	50mm 1.7
price paid:	95 USD
positive:	Sharp Great range on APS-C My Walk Around Lens
negative:	Hunts in low light Slow Focusing
comment:	Sharper than my 50mm 1.7 (but i think I have a bad copy of the 50mm. My favorite photos have been taken by this lens. Built like a tank. My copy is very noisy when focusing - probably needs refurbishing soon.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: lowcost4dslr review date: January-02-10
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	M 28-105 Tamron 17-50 Minolta 50 1.7 Minolta 135 2.8 beercan and bbc
price paid:	50€
positive:	very sharp for a zoom macro function very usefull buid quality wonderfull colors
negative:	slow AF in low light 35 is not wide enough min focus distance in AF operation (OK in macro mode)
comment:	The perfect outdoor portraiture dedicated lens ! Sharpness is impressing even wide open. It is razor sharp on 12 mpix sensor even wide open. It is as sharp as the tamron 17-50. Sharper than my 2 copy of the beercan ! It produce a 3D effect on picture due to it's contrast and smooth bokeh. One of my favorite lenses

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: ad_infinitum_oo review date: December-21-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 50/1.7 Minolta 70-210/3.5-4.5 Minolta 50/2.8 Macro
price paid:	$85
positive:	Great walk-around Macro function at long end Solid build Decent zoom range Fast AF Sharp at nearly all stops
negative:	Not wide enough Minimum focus distance Rotating barrel when focusing
comment:	This is a great walk-around lens, and I'm glad I have this in my collection. I hacked into mine to allow AF use with macro function, and I love playing around w/ this feature. Pictures are sharp when stopped down a bit, but still usable even wide open. The AF on my copy is a bit noisy, but I can live with it. Front element rotates when focusing which makes CPL use a bit more work.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: hayasa8 review date: December-17-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 28-70 2.8 "g" minolta 70-200 2.8 "g" minolta 50 2.8 macro minolta 100 2.8 macro sony 17-200 kit lens...
positive:	Great lens, perfect range for walk around! Sharp wide open, great bokeh, and did I mention its the perfect utility lens?!?
negative:	I may be crazy, but the color is odd. Seems a little flat and well, just odd. Minimum focusing distance is a little long when not in macro.
comment:	I've been watching eBay for one of these for a while, hoping it would be a good utility lens. I couldn't be happier with the find. I thought this was a good casual walk around lens but... I shoot guest portraits at corporate events and this lens is PERFECT FOR IT. Sometimes I get groups of five or more, sometimes its just a headshot. this lens allows me to shoot either with great consistency in focus, bokeh is smooth and predictable and seems creamier stopped down than other lenses... Tack sharp, even at 3.5. Perfect lens for me.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: derekw review date: November-20-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	!8-70 Kit lens
positive:	Sharpness Colour Contrast Everything
negative:	Nothing
comment:	Best lens you can buy for the price. Forget the focal length limitations. Just use the lens

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 5	user: daniel review date: October-11-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony SAL1870 Minolta 100-200 f4.5 Minolta 35-70 f4 Minolta 35-105 (2585-100) Sigma 28-80 aspherical
price paid:	35 euro
positive:	Very sharp Great build Nice macro mode
negative:	Minimal focussing distance
comment:	Low price because of a small scratch in the front lens. It doesn't seem to affect the image quality. It's much sharper than the other 35-105 (2585-100). Very well recommended!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: tuanle review date: October-09-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	125
positive:	Very sharp, It's ability to resolve and render details, Fast and spot-on AF Solid full metal built, Nice oldies minolta color, Beutiful and pleasant bokeh, Dedicated macro mode that brings down the minimum focus distance to 9cm, You can "hack" the macro mode to be auto-focus. Cheap for the price it is going now, Full Frame
negative:	It's not wide enough Flare ( you can use the rubber hood, then no more flare)
comment:	If you can hack the macro mode of this lens, you have a great "walk- around" lens. You can take pictures in any distance from 8 inches to infinity! The color, bokeh, sharpness... are amazing!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: mee review date: September-30-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	SAL16-80Z Zeiss, SAL17-80 kitlens SAL16-105
price paid:	75
positive:	Very sharp, It's ability to resolve and render details, Fast and spot-on AF on A100,A300,A350 & A700, Solid full metal built, Nice oldies minolta color, Beutiful and pleasant bokeh, Dedicated macro mode that brings down the minimum focus distance to 9cm, Cheap for the price it is going now, Full Frame
negative:	35mm wide focal length too long for APS-C
comment:	Still I consider this is a superb lens for it's age. As sharp as the sony zeiss 16-80 and 16-105 without the lens creep. It is a keeper definitely. It is the wider version of the beercan and fits into my beercan built line-up. I really had learned to appreciate what full metal built design lenses are. It's a 'G' lens definitely

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: salvageland review date: September-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	-KM 28-85mm -Tamron 28-200mm -KM 70-210mm -DT 18-70mm -Tamron 90mm f2.8 Macro
price paid:	$92
positive:	-build quality is top notch -feels very solid -perfect size compared to the range -35-105mm is a very usable range for even APSC sensor -If you can hack the Macro to AF, its usable for close up portraites aswell(eliminates the limitation of the MFD) -Sharp sharp sharp! even wide open! -Beautiful Minolta colors, vivid and excellent saturation -Controls flare just as well as new Tamron/Sony lenses(no need for hood) -much better in sharpness and colors than 28-85mm
negative:	-heavier than plastic barreled lenses(but i like this, keeps the camera in balance and helps to eliminate shaky jitters) -hard to find nowadays :/
comment:	Exceptional lens! if you can find one in good condition, jump on it! They are only getting more scarce! I love the build and finish, takes great sharp photos with MINOLTA colors....Macro mode is on the 105mm end not like the 28-85mm's 28mm end...Macro photos come out sharp!, very comparable to the Tamron 90/2.8 Macro...HIGHLY recommended lens! i agree with the previous review, definitely in the "G" realm of lenses.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: LyleG review date: September-18-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	sony 16-105 sigma 17-70 minolta 24-85 beercan CZ 16-80 Minolta 50/1.7 Minolta 28/2.8 Sigma 10-20 Sony 18-70 Sony 75-300 Sony 70-300G
price paid:	80USD
positive:	extremely sharp, especially stopped down macro feature actually works build excellent color and contrast no CA minimal flare
negative:	minimal focus distance of 5 feet noisy could be a touch wider on the wide end
comment:	An excellent lens for what they are selling for, even for a lot more. Extremely sharp, and produces excellent colors and contrast. Images seem very 3D right out of the camera. The macro feature actually works well compared to some lenses. With a few extension tubes wickedly sharp macros are possible. Even though it could be a bit wider, and have a better minimal focus distance, it is still a top notch performer imo. The best Minolta lens I have used, could easily have a G badge.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: baz review date: July-30-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	minolta 100-200mm minolta 28-80mm D sony kit lens
price paid:	70 GBP
positive:	macro function build size cost
negative:	minimum focusing distance
comment:	At the moment it's my favourite lens, it's a nice size, reasonable length for general purpose shooting and it's pretty sharp in good conditions. It is my sharpest lens but thats only because i'm skint. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another if it was in better condition at the same price I paid for this one.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: matoke review date: July-22-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70 Sigma 75-300 Minolta 100-200
price paid:	110
positive:	Really sharp Nice colors Amazing macro (especially with AF)
negative:	A bit heavy
comment:	Really nice piece of metal. In spite of its age, shows perfect build quallity. Pretty smooth zooming and rather fast focusing. I'm glad that I made a macro-hack, sticking some sello to one of the contacts - some problems away. Considering sa, not going to sell it for the next couple of years\months. Update: On a film camera gives perfect colours and sharpness. But isn't very cormfortable to use due to FF focal range - not really enough for portraits and a bit lack for nature.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: terrylloydsmith review date: July-09-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135 Maxxum
price paid:	$79 USD
positive:	Sharp Nice Colors Build Quality
negative:	MFD
comment:	Typical Maxxum quality. This lens is very nice and produces beautiful photos but MFD is too long and the wide end is not wide enough for some applications. However I love the lens. It's very sharp and contrasty and it produces really EXCELLENT photographs.

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 35-105/3.5-4.5N Minolta 24/2.8 Minolta 135/2.8 Tamron 90/2.8
price paid:	L69
positive:	Sharpness Weight Build Colours
negative:	Weight Focal Range
comment:	Very good 'Walkabout lens' really good images are produced time after time with this lens, very good alround sharpness and colours, its weight gives it a nice feel but it can feel a bit heavy if you have it round your neck all day long. Excellent build quality giving the lens a really nice feel to it. The macro function is only 1:4 but its very easy to use and is handy when you unexpectedly need that function and don't have a 'true' macro to hand. Its a shame that its not a little bit wider, but I still find it has a nice range. I had the 'N' version of this lens before but had a chance of getting this one at a very good price so I sold the 'N' version, this version is just marginally better but both are highly recommended.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: smoljan review date: June-19-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5 Minolta 35-70mm f/4 Minolta 35-70mm f/3.5-4.5 Minolta 24-105mm f/3.5-4.5 Minolta 50mm f/1.7
price paid:	80 USD (used)
positive:	colour contrast bokeh sharp inexpensive
negative:	minimum focus distance
comment:	Very nice colours, contrast, amazing sharpness, beautiful smooth bokeh, decent focal range. Somewhat annoying minimum focus distance of 150cm, but everything else about this lens is just wonderful.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: aplmike review date: June-13-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	50 mm f/1.7, 28-80 Xi, 70-210 f/4 (beercan)
price paid:	28 USD (eBay)
positive:	Very sharp, Solid build. Frequently very inexpensive.
negative:	Heavy. A little bulky. Doesn't focus close in.
comment:	Very sharp, very little CA in APS-C frame, does not quite match up to 50 mm prime at wider apertures. Nice color, Easily worth 4x what I paid. Maybe one day when I have money to burn I'll get a 24-105 but until then it's my walk-around zoom. Fits in well with 100-200 f/4.5 (which I like so far but haven't had long enough to form a real opinion about). Update: I keep this lens on my A350 and every day I like it more. Update: OK, flare is substantial shooting into light. Gotta have a lens shade, but I see flare from bright diffuse light vs darker areas (shooting into light in early AM, for instance). 3 for flare may be a little harsh, but 4 would be decidedly kind (but otherwise I still love it).

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: dartanianalataque review date: June-13-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28 135 f4 4,5 Minolta 70 210 f4 Minolta 35 70 f4
price paid:	80 USD
positive:	La nitidez, su construccion, la calidad de sus cristales, los colores minolta.
negative:	enfoque a 1,5 mts. por decir algo.
comment:	En los anos que corremos no creo que halla un objetivo tan nitido a tan bajo costo, su construccion sobre todo da sensacion de indestructible, al mismo lo busque por mucho tiempo y no daba quien lo tenga y lo venda hasta que encontre una persona que lo tenia y lo vendia, lo encontre en un muy buen estado de conservacion, en modo macro funciona perfectamente el autofocus pero trabaja en 85 mm, supongo que el mismo fue jackeado y por eso funciona en este modo el autofocus, la verdad me ha impresionado en las fotografias su nitidez sin demostrar en sus extremidades distorcion ni falta de nitidez. Lo recomiendo a toda persona que este buscando un objetivo economico y que no pueda comprarce el actual Carl zeiss 16 80 de Sony.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Gonkie review date: June-04-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	DT SAL 18-70mm
positive:	- Nice Solid Build - Sharp
negative:	- 35mm end not wide enough - Minimum Focusing distance is a tad too long.
comment:	Lovely lens that cost relatively cheap for the sharpness you get. Nice robust build that makes you feel confident with the durability. The only complaints I have is that the 35mm end isn't wide enough, and that the minimum focusing distance is a little be too long. It can be a challenge to frame the shot in a tight space. Great lens nonetheless.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: soken review date: May-27-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70
price paid:	220 SGD
positive:	great color, sharp, and nice built
negative:	hood.
comment:	This is my favourite walk around lens, decent sharpness and color, very nice built except the hood is not convenient, anyway i hope I can get oen more copy for my collection.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: MrXpress review date: May-27-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 28-75/2.8 KM 18-70 kit Tamron 24-135/3.5-5.6 Tamron 17-35/2.8-4 Minolta 50/1.7
price paid:	45 USD
positive:	-Quite sharp -Well built -Fast focusing -Value! -Lovely color
negative:	-Prohibitive min. focus distance -Clunky sounding -Somewhat odd range on crop (for me at least) -Rotating front element
comment:	Amazing value for the price, and even compared to my more expensive lenses it's hard to find any negatives about the optical quality; pictures are very sharp, have great color, and I haven't had any major issues with distortion, CA/PF, or flare. Metal build is also nice, although the focus ring is too narrow and it can sound a little cheap when it's hunting for focus. As in other reviews, the MFD is pretty bad but the macro switch helps.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: dsoulsticec review date: May-21-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 100mm Macro F2.8 Minolta 28-135mm F4.0-4.5 XX's Crossed Minolta 135mm F2.8 Minolta 70-210mm F4.0 Minolta 50mm F1.7 Minolta 100-200mm F4.5 Minolta 35-105mm F3.5-4.5 Minolta 28-85mm F3.5-4.5 Minolta 35-70mm F4.0 Sigma 35-135mm 3.5-4.5 Minolta 100-300mm APO F4.5-5.6 Sony 18-70mm F3.5-5.6
price paid:	125 USD (used)
positive:
negative:
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: 14445col review date: May-06-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	35 105 N 18 70 SONY DT SIGMA 35 70
price paid:	L76 e-bay
positive:	One of the best minolte lenses
negative:	none
comment:	I have not added anything on this site yet but feel i must remark on some statements made about flare etc, i am old school 63 yrs old box browni era , flare I now live in spain this lense into spanish sun no hood just kenka mc pro uv filter NO FLARE , No auto focus on macro auto focus my SRT 101 you were the auto focus DONT MAKE ME LAUGH , THIS IS A GREAT SHARP LENSE IN THE RIGHT HANDS, yes you need to step back on digital with crop but you new this when you bought it be lucky you have one they are getting scarse

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: lucy58uk review date: March-16-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	67 GBP
positive:	SHARP BUILD MACRO
negative:
comment:	I was looking for a lens as stop gap until I can afford some CZ or G ,I arrived at this lens as a bit of a sleeper getting a high rating ,But the price still being low ,The same can not be said of the beercans there price being so high on ebay you might as well throw in some more money and get the G 70 300 ssm.I love this little lens it feel just right,And I love metal build you feel as if you have quality engineering that's with all lens not just this one,It looks and feels as if it was made for the A900 and they work well together,Why would I want AF on macro? Its no problem focusing on the A900 it is bright and clear and easy to home in ...at L67 a steal

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 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:	30 € (used)
positive:	very sharp size weight
negative:	min. focus distance
comment:	A very compact little zoom lens with an amazing good IQ. The min. focus distance is a little bit to long, but macro helps. A perfect addition to the 17-35mm 2,8-4 (D). I had to repair the oily iris of my copy (Thanks to Pete Ganzel) and was able to convince of the easy to repair, good build quality.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: villykl review date: February-25-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tamron 17-50 f 2.8 Minolta 75-300 BBC Minolta 70-210 f 4 Sony 70300 g ssm
price paid:	110 usd (EBAY)
positive:	sharp full frame f 3.5 great colors
negative:	a little flare
comment:	Impressed by quality of pictures. PICTURES LOOKS LIKE 3D!!!!(SONY A 700 AND SONY HVL F58AM FLASH) Bought in mint condition!!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: perslucht review date: February-12-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-70 f4 Minolta 28-135mm f4-4.5 Minolta 70-210mm f4 Sony DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 Sigma 70-200mm f2.8-3.5
price paid:	15€
positive:	Solidly build Sharp Nice range on film
negative:	A bit heavy No wide angle on aps-c
comment:	I bought this lens together with a Dynax 7000 body for 15 EUR. This because the aperture blades where sticky. Luckily it's not a hard job to clean them. Now the lens works perfectly! It gives very sharp images. I like this lens more than the 35-70mm f4 because of the 105mm and the Macro! Though the 35-70mm is a lot smaller. But because of the missing wide angle I don't use it very often. Still looking for a nice alternative.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: surfsup review date: February-12-09
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70mm kit Minolta 70-210 F4
price paid:	L85GBP
positive:	Very sharp Great colors Fantastic feel Solid construction Fast auto-focus Macro
negative:	Heavy No AF in macro
comment:	This is a really excellent all-round lens. I use it a lot for close-up work, and when out and about. Amazing sharpness when stopped down. Lovely Minolta colors. Really well built - made to last. I would highly recommend this lens!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	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:	Min 50 1.7 Min 24 2.8 Sony Kit 18-70
price paid:	250$ CAD
positive:	Excellent built Original Minolta color Cheap and not too hard to find
negative:	A little heavy The rubber grip turns white making it look old and ugly
comment:

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Ome_Joop 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:	Minolta 28-135 F4-4.5 Minolta 70-210 F4 Minolta 35-70 F4
price paid:	30 Euro
positive:	Sharp Built cheap
negative:	No AF in macro
comment:	Actually the best thing is there can be AF in macro but you need some modification (can find that on DYXUM it's the same mod as the 35-70mm F4!) Mine is still manual macro af but i think this one will be modified! My first old style Minolta lens and used it to make Macro shots wich it is actually quite good at! Use it oustside and you will be amazed (especially as you can get it still very cheap!) The Mod: http://www.dyxum.com/dforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=12549&PN=1

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: dca1213 review date: December-26-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 18-70 kit lens Minolta 35-70 macro Minolta 70-210 Beercan
price paid:	FREE
positive:	Sharp Build Macro Function
negative:	A littlee bit heavy for a walk around lens. Front element is really out there and can easily be damaged.
comment:	I got this lens in a lot that included a 7000 body, a mint Minolta 28mm and an MC-1000L remote for $75 USD. I sold the 28mm for $125 USD. I already had a 28mm, and I kept the zoom and remote. This lens has been a real treat to find. I had been using a Minolta 35-70mm Macro as my everyday walk around lens but the additional reach of this lens comes in handy. My copy compares favorably with the 70-210 in terms of wide open sharpness, my 35-70 is a bit sharper wide open. Stop it down to 5.6 and it compares very well to both Minolta lenses. All three Minolta lenses outperform the Sony kit lens which I promptly disposed of. I have not yet noticed CA at the long end so it appears to top the 70-210 in that category, about on the par with the 35-70. All things considered this is a very nice lens that can be had at a very affordable price on the used market. It has left me with a pleasent problem, my copy of the 35-70 has beautiful IQ, almost 3D, but the 35-105 is close in IQ and has that extra reach. Which will be my everyday walkabout?

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: warpspasm review date: December-16-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 50mm1.7 Minolta 35-70mm Sony 18-70mm kit Sony 50-210mm kit Tamron 24-135mm
price paid:	85 USD (in lot including a 50mm 1.7)
positive:	Very sharp Great colors Fantastic feel Solid construction Fast auto-focus Macro Fast AF
negative:	Zoom creep Could be a bit wider Minimum focus distance
comment:	This has become my new favorite lens. I love everything about it. Well, I guess it could be a bit wider, but for the vast majority of uses it's fine, and (as long as there's room) I'm not so lazy I can't back up a few feet to zoom out if I have to. It has a size and feel that just feels perfect in my hands and produces wonderful photos. Even though I'm not a pro sports photographer, it's, by far, the best lens I have for taking shots of my son playing ice hockey. Unlike the Tamron 24-135mm I own, it has lightning fast auto focus and the perfect range for most hockey shots. This does not mean it doesn't perform beautifully outside the rink. If there are any downsides to this lens, it would have to be the minimum focusing distance of close to 6 feet and the lens creep. This is a great lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: DarkScribe review date: November-15-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	28-135, 35-70 F4, 35-105 RS, Beercan, 70-210 3.5/4.5, 70-210 4.5/5.6
price paid:	au$125 (1988)
positive:	One of the most consistently sharp of the original Minolta lenses. Good colour, really solid construction, fast focus on A100. Great walk about lens, solid but still light enough to carry all day without concern.
negative:	None.
comment:	I tend to relate most of my comparisons with zooms to the Beercan because of the inexplicable status that lens has acquired. This lens definitely has a better IQ than the Beercan and I own two copies of it, as well as two copies of the Beercan. If I do not need the reach, I prefer this lens to the Beercan or any other lowrange zoom aside from the even lower range 35-70 F4 (which is also consistently sharp with great colour.) It is one of the few zooms that I can use either wide open or full stretch without any softness on a digital. It performs better on digital than it does on my Minolta 700si.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: wahgongzai review date: November-04-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 28-70 Minolta 18-70 Minolta 50mm F1.7 Minolta 28-85
price paid:	S$160
positive:	Sharp Build 1/4 macro
negative:	not true macro... Not fixed F4 like the mini
comment:	I first bought this lens because of a longer zoom range compare to the mini Beercan. A good carry around lens as it is not heavy compare to beercan and big beercan. The sharpness and color is excellent for this lens.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Derek 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:	M 35-105 (New) M 28-105 RS
price paid:	30 GBP w M 7000
positive:	Sharpness Colour Build
negative:	Nothing
comment:	Very good lens. Excellent value for money. The ratings say it all

sharpness: 4.5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: madecov review date: August-24-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-85 f3.5-4.5, Tamron 17-50 f2.8
price paid:	$27.00 USD used
positive:	Excellent build, great Minolta colors. moderately fast focus. Macro Switch with macro in the tele end vs. the 28-85 wide end macro
negative:	Long minimum focus distance. (my copy has LOUD auto focus)
comment:	Picked this lens up at a local photo shop. The exterior has some scuffs and small scratch on the distance scale window. Image quality seems to be superb in my brief indoor test shots. With an affective angle of view covering the 52mm-157.5mm (50-160) it makes a nice general lens for outdoor picnics and family outings, wide enough for small group portraits and long enough for individual portraits. I didn't really need it since I have the Tamron 17-50f2.8 and the Minolta 28-85 but it is a very nice lens and the price I paid was a steal.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: peaches review date: June-08-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Min 75-300 Min 35-70 Min 17-35 Min 50 f/1.7 Sigma 50 EX DG macro
price paid:	$20ish ($40 for lot)
positive:	-colors -sharpness -range (but wish it were a little longer) -build -price
negative:	-need to watch for flare -having an issue with this hood so I tend not to use it -wondering if there's one just like it that has a little bit longer range and then I will need no other!
comment:	I got this lens by accident, sort of. It was part of a lot on ebay that included a Maxxum 7000, teleconverter (which I thought I wanted), flash, etc. for $45 shipped. I ended up getting it in its original box, with all paperwork, caps and hood. Not mint, but excellent, for sure. And in the end, this lens ended up being the shining star! It's like the big brother of the 35-70, and the little brother of the 75-300. That is to say, it's solid, and has some of the same pros and cons. The colors are brilliant, perhaps the best I've seen from any of my lenses, with the exception of the 50mm, to which it comes close. The macro switch is an added bonus, because while I can't get as close as I can with the Sigma, the shots I get are wonderfully sharp. I honestly end up taking more macro shots than anything, and having a lens on just for that really isn't practical all the time - sadly not everything is an insect :o) I do most macro using MF anyhow, so that it's the only option with this lens isn't a problem for me, but may be for others. Unlike the 75-300 where I find I really need a tripod for sharpness, I don't with the 35-105. I've been pseudo-testing and get nice, sharp shots at f/8 and f/11 (off the top of my head), even f/14, handheld. It's even sharp at the long end which I don't get with the 75-300 (which may be down to camera shake). Additionally, while there's a flare issue (I have the hood but don't always remember to use it), it's not as bad as the 17-35 or the 75-300, nor is the CA as bad. CA really hasn't been an issue at all. I rated it 4 for flare instead of 3 because I think if you keep it in mind, use the hood even, it doesn't have to be that bad. This is probably my favorite "all-purpose" lens and I was amazed at what I got for the money. With one lens, I got pics of jumping spiders, swans, flowers, kids, and a lightning storm. I would have needed a combination of the others to get that (and I got dust on the sensor trying to switch between a few of them, outside, before I scored this one). I keep meaning to put some pics up because I tend to judge mostly by what I see here, first, then read after. In my opinion, this lens is fantastic, especially for the price...it's like a secret or something and I'm totally happy I stumbled upon it! If I had one thing I'd change, it would be to add just a little length and then all I'd need to carry extra would be the 17-35!

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: wross review date: April-28-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	18-70 kit 28-105 (original) 28-135 70-210 (beercan)
price paid:	55 USD
positive:	Sharpness Color Build Size Price
negative:	Would be nice if the zoom range was little greater on the wide end, the long end, or ideally... both.
comment:	For the money, this may be one of the best lenses available. The price is very cheap by just about any standard. However, considering the excellent performance of this lens, the price is a steal. At one point I had this lens and the 4 listed in the "compared to" section above, and ran a series of tests to see which would be the keeper. At the wide end, this lens beat everything else for sharpness (except the 70-210, which it tied), at all apertures. At the long end it started to soften up a little bit, but still outperformed the others with the exception of the 28-135 and 70-210, which were slightly sharper, particularly wide open. Color is very classic Minolta, better than the 28-105, and only a fraction less saturated than the 28-135 and the 70-210. I kept the 28-135 (partly based on the sound judgement that I'd always wanted one!), and I sold the others. For me it was a mistake. I shoot mostly with primes, and keep one or at most two zooms in the kit for flexibility, particularly in traveling. For my purposes, as an alternative when the primes aren't my best choice, the 35-105 is a better choice. The 35-105 is about half the size and weight of the 28-135, uses 55mm filters instead of 72mm, and costs 1/4 as much. And with performance that compares well against the "legendary" 28-135 and 70-210... I've sold the 28-135 and am looking again for a 35-105. UPDATE: I've gone through 3 more 35-105s in the quest to replace the one I sold. Each one was as great as the first one was, but each one was contaminated w/ fungus. I've never run into a lens where such a high percentage had this problem, although granted, this isn't a large sample. Anyway, the 4th was the charm. It's crystal clear, and the image quality is even better than the one I ran tests with originally. I can't rave enough about this lens. Nothing comes close to it in terms of performance at this kind of price. Get one, even if you have to buy and sell a few before you get a clean example.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: karchon review date: April-23-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-85mm f3.5-4.5 Minolta 35-70mm f4 Sony DT 18-70mm
price paid:	62 USD (ex used)
positive:	-Super Sharp -Bright beautiful colors -Macro mode = nice bokeh & sharp images
negative:	- Minimum focus distance is way to far for my comfort at ~1.5 feet -Manual focus on Macro mode
comment:	I recieved this lens by "accident" but in the end decided to keep it. I tested this lens next to all 3 lenses above at the same location on a bright sunny afternoon at different Apt. (f4, f5.6, f6.3, f8, f11) and different focal dist. (35, 50, 70, 85 and 105) The Minolta 35-105mm performed the best out of the lot. My copy performed best in sharpness and color after f5.6 (or 1-stop down) thought the range. At 35mm, it gets a little bit soft (especially at edges), but for the rest of the range, stopped down a bit, its sharp sharp. Comparisons: It is definitely sharper than the my copy of M28-85. I've read and heard that the M28-85 should be sharper wide at f8 but from my tests at 100% crop of parking lot signs, the 35-105 still out performs in detail in shadow and text sharpness. However, the 28-85mm outer edges are more consistently sharp than this lens. The Sony DT gets blown away by this lens. The M35-70 can keep up with this lens, as details are almost same in sharpness if stopped down, but I'd still perfer the M35-105. The KICKER (for me): Horrible minimum focus distance. I gotta step back so far just to get into focus. BUT being this is my favorite lens so far, I have adapted to switch over to MACRO if its not within range. This usually solves my problem as it reduces the MFD. Bokeh is nice in macro mode. Lens FLARE when pointed near towards the sun (I dont have a lens hood). It DEFINITELY needs a lens hood. I've had it come up bright orange 4-5 times out of the 500 pictures i've shot with this lens.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Blunderstein review date: January-07-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sony 50/1.4, Minolta 50/2.8 macro, Sony 18-70 kit
price paid:	$40 (used)
positive:	-Wonderful colours -Nice build
negative:	-The range is a bit impractical at the wide end
comment:	I especially like the colours. Note: I rarely shoot near strong light sources, and know very little about flare. I haven't seen any flare in my shots, but this might just be my lack of knowing what to look for.

sharpness: 4 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: Chickenhawk review date: January-04-08
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
price paid:	L22
positive:	- Build Quality - Sharpness - Weight - General feel
negative:	- Manual focus in macro mode but then I usually focus manually in macro anyway. -Weight could be an issue for some, though I like the feel.
comment:	Bought this lens a month ago on ebay and have been pleasantly surprised. Built like a tank and weighs as much compared to modern lenses but it feels like a quality product that is built to last, which you cant say about the majority of the modern plastic lenses. Very sharp.

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, 24/2.8, 28-85/3.5-4.5, 35-70/4, 35-80/4-5.6
price paid:	250€ new
positive:	Very sharp; Built like a tank; Good macro
negative:	Heavy; Macro only manual focus
comment:	Bought this to replace the kit lens I got on my 7000i. Used it with great results, as general lens, for macro and for portraits. Now that I have the CZ16-80 I do not use it anymore. Maybe I have to take it out for portraits again, but it could be that also then the 16-80 is even better. Unless I insist on 105 mm wide open, which is really good on the 35-105. Or I buy an a700 one day and my daughter gets the KM 5D with 35-105…

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: chych review date: May-16-07
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 50/1.7, KM 70-210/4 beercan, KM 24-85/3.5-4.5, Sony 18-70/3.5-5.6, Tokina 80-400/4.5-5.6
price paid:	15 USD (used)
positive:	Extremely sharp at tele end, cheap, macro mode, good AF
negative:	Close focus too far, not wide enough
comment:	Picked this lens up for cheap as it had an oily aperture; fixed it promptly after, so I got a bargain on this. This lens produces very good images; sharpness and color are excellent. I am astounded at its sharpness wide open on the tele end, way sharper than my 24-85 wide open; similar to beercan performance on its short end. Though on the wide end it's average (worse than 24-85). On APS-C this lens isn't really wide enough for a walk around, so I use it mostly for short telephoto and some macro. Its macro functions is pretty good, quality is there. I also hacked mine to get AF in macro mode (there's a forum thread that shows how), which works decently if you know how to control it. I do like it that macro mode gives you a bit of distance to work with, since its 105 mm. Weight doesn't bother me, it's nothing compared to my bigger lenses. The minimum focus distance hurts though, and along with 35mm on APS-C, I don't use this lens that much.

sharpness: 3.5 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: sooner review date: April-29-07
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	KM 18-70, M 28-85, M 35-70, M 50-f/1.7, Sigma 28-200, Baby Beer Can, M 75-300 (silver)
positive:	Very good center resolution. Nice size and range. Capable of good to excellent 8 x 12 prints at f/8
negative:	Corner resolution not so good, but on par, with the other lenses listed.
comment:	I have tested this lens, and those listed above, using the Koren, 2003, (5mm) test charts to determine the resolution based on MTF-50. The following information is based on results from two of the sine-wave, test, strips; one horizontal near the center of the frame, and the other, diagonal, very close to the corner of the frame. The tests were made with a KM5D, hand held, image stabilization “on”, ISO 100, in bright sunlight so that the shutter speed was quick enough to satisfy the reciprocal of the focal length criterion. Results: (focal length/f-stop/lines per inch on an 8” x 12” print at center/ditto-at corner). (105/8/175/78), (105/4.5/133/34), (35/8/172/67), (35/3.5/84/35). My understanding of photo resolution quality is: >150 lpi=excellent, >110 lpi=very good, >80 lpi=good. I believe the corner results represent a pretty severe test since the test strip extended radially, and the region of interest was very near the corner. More details on this and other lenses can be found at: http://www.geocities.com/royanddee/lens_test_results_mtf50.htm www.roystuff.info.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Belfast 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:	Tamron 17-50 Minolta 28-135 Minolta 70-210 (Beercan) Minolta 100-200
price paid:	95 USD (used)
positive:	Decent Sharpness for price Colors Overall build quality
negative:	Border quality Zoom creep
comment:	Perhaps I had a bad example (paid $95 at KEH, rated Exc.), but I found this lens over-extended on the A100 10mp sensor. Center sharpness was decent, as long as one did not exceed 8x10 inch prints, but the borders were much less sharp. Again, perhaps I had a bad example that was suffering from a decentering issue, because one side of the image would be worse that the other. Colors were wonderful and the overall sense of 3-dimensionality was seductive. Based on my example, for the price this is a great lens, provided the anticipated print sizes remain at 5x7 inches or less.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Callam9774 review date: March-08-07
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Tokina ATX Pro 28-70. Tokina AF 19-35. Minolta 135 2.8. Kit 18-70.
price paid:	£20 with camera
positive:	Sharp; quick auto focus.Well made.Feels substantial on 5D.Love the macro facility.Manual focus seems more like 'fine tune' control. Has same 'magic' as 135 2.8 but is more versatile. Love the colour.Lovely with A55.
negative:	Wish it was a 17-105 with same quality...and price!
comment:	I bought this lens atached to a Minolta 7000 for L20 on Seedybay. I have been amazed and thrilled at how similar it performs to my fav.135 2.8. yet it is so much more versatile and the macro facility is an extra excellent bonus.

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Sildra review date: February-16-07
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Kit lens 18-70 3,5-5,6 Minolta AF 75-300 4,5-5,6
price paid:	48 Euro (used)
positive:	impressive sharpness good AF speed great felling in hand
negative:	weight for some users lack of AF in macro distance of focus (min.1500mm)
comment:	I bought lens to replace my kit lens. I had been searching for long time any review about them and after significant number of read opinions I decided to get one. Know I wonder why I hadn't bought them ealier. Build is excellent and the felling when I hold it with body is pretty nice. The weight is a plus in my opinion as it properly balance camera during making a picture and better stabilizes hand (importent in long exposure by hand). Sharpness. That is the point I was looking for. This one raises over other lenses and It's a tough player. Simply excellent even wide open at 3,5. Impressive. I took several pictures at my home when I shut some lights down and left only my desk lamp. I noticed that noice level is much less that with kit lens at ISO800 (Dynax 5D). That fact ensures me I made a good choice. Minimal distance may be a problem inside small rooms (I like to picture my little boy and sometimes I miss more angle). But generally for me it's not a case, I use other lens then. If someone asked me whether to buy this one to his collection I would answer: Even don't think about that, hurry up!

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: Dumont review date: November-28-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Kit 18-70, 28-80 3.5-5.6, 28-80 4-5.6 Xi, 28-105 3.5-4.5 Xi, Quantaray 28-80 3.5-5.6
positive:	Very sharp, AF pretty fast, good build quality, relatively inexpensive, good value
negative:	No AF in Macro mode
comment:	I like these lenses a lot (see all 5's) but having cut down my keepers to avoid overlaps this one really doesn't fit in (as probably won't hold onto a 24-50/4 beercan's little brother but not tested yet). This is a lens that should be in any starters line-up (or the 28-135 macro but believe is rarer and more expensive)

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: coralito review date: September-03-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	kit Minolta 18-70 minolta 70-210 f/3.5-4.5 Canon 20d + 50mm f/1.8 + tamron 17-35+tamron 28-75
price paid:	79,99 $
positive:	Very sharp Very fast AF Excellent build
negative:	heavy Auto focus does not work in macro Minimum focus distance of 1.5 meters
comment:	Very good lens for portrait

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: karaatanasov review date: August-18-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	- kit Minolta 18-70 - Tamron 17-50 f2.8 - Minolta 50 f1.7 - Sigma 70-300 Macro Super II
price paid:	90 Euro (used)
positive:	- Very sharp - Very fast AF - Excellent build - Heavy
negative:	- Colors seem slightly different from kit lens(green looks brownish) - Heavy - Auto focus does not work in Macro - Minimum focus distance of 1.5 meters
comment:	I love this lens. I got it today and am extremely happy. It is superb in every way. Only problem is that it is heavy and may not be pleasant to carry along. I took about 15 portraits all superbly sharp. Outdoor it makes excellent very sharp photos too. It proves that Pictures can look very well/sharp even stretched to 100% on the monitor. In my opinion result on min aperture are quite sharp too, perhaps just an idea softer then f8. The lens feels very well on the camera. Very solid very nice to handle. No plastic what so ever. Unfortunately this has bad impact when you walk around as the lens is much heavier then the kit lens. Manual focus is very nice and easy with this lens compared to kit (In this aspect my Sigma is even better though). In macro mode the AF does not work. As well minimum focus distance is quite big. Not big issues, but need to be clear if one thinks of buying the lens. I used my 5D with the lens. Update: I used on A300 & A700 and the lens is a good performer there as well, I think it beats the Tamron 17-50 sharpness and is only slightly softer then 50 f1.7, or Tamron 90/2.8 Di Macro

sharpness: 4.5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 2 flare control: 3	user: coffeebean review date: July-27-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	18-70 kit lens
positive:	Overall a good lens. fas AF on both 5 and 7D cameras.
negative:	Old, the zoom is a little rough.
comment:	I purchased this lens on Ebay for $150 AU a month a go and expected it to be a dud. I was mistaken, the lens is great for indoor studio photography, a good range . I generally use the 28-75mm (D) (what a lens) as my general lens but this little wonder is interesting. Quick to AF on 5 and 7D and good colour straight up. Sharp from f5 onward, but acceptable at 3.5.

sharpness: 5 color: 4 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Bob S. review date: April-03-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:
positive:	Build quality - original all metal construction. Very nice "all around" range.
negative:	Heavy for such a small lens, but that's to be expected of all the Minotla 1st generation lenses.
comment:	I find myself reaching for this lens more than any other. That may change in the near future once the weather clears and I can break out the 28-135mm I received.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4	user: former member review date: April-03-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 18-70DT, Minolta 28-75D f2.8, Minolta 28-105D 3.5-5.6, Minolta 50mm 1.7, Minolta 35-70 f4, Sigma 28-105 f2.8-4, Vivitar 28-105 f2.8-4, Ozunon 35-80 f3.5-4.5
positive:	Solid metal build. Sharpness is tremendous even wide open. Good feel mounted on the 5d. Color is very nice. Price used is good. Macro function is usable. Uaseble indoors without flash on 5d.
negative:	Nothing at all for the price but the weak spots as I see them is the front element turns when focusing and there are some wide angle distortions when straight lines are prominent. No auto-focus when in macro mode. Close focus distance not great without using macro mode.
comment:	This lens is a good one. It's sharpness across the range for me has been tremendous. The lens is fast enough to use at indoor events on the 5D if some care is taken. I really like this lens and I would say it is very tough to beat for the money. If you don't want to carry a super-zoom or drag around your heavy glass this lens will do some things for you. Overall I rate this lens as an excellent choice for the money. The only reason I marked the build down was the design of the lens since it is not IF and the lens telescopes when zooming. I have not had many situations for flare so I am hoping my mark will stand on the flare control. I don't have the original hood at this time so I am using a collapsable rubber hood until I pick up an original. I have not had any major problem with flare up to this point. This is a solid lens you can count on in many situations. It makes a good everyday lens or a very good backup to better glass. If you are using the 18-70 kit lens this should be an inexpensive treat for you especially if you don't need the wide. It is not built like a toy and will perform much better indoors in low light in most all applications. The sharpness is sweet, I just had to say that again. If you purchase this lens for your collection you will not be sorry. If you purchase this lens to use you should be well pleased.

sharpness: 5 color: 3 build: 5 distortion: 4 flare control: 3	user: slash review date: April-01-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Sigma 28-75 2.8 Minolta 18-70D
positive:	-Cheap Lens -Built like a Tank (suits a 7d very good) -Good sharpness around f5.6 -Very sharp from f8 and above -Macro mode usable
negative:	-Built like a Tank ;) -Slow AF -No Af on Macromode -Macromode at max focal lenght only 1/4 lifesize -The range of course -Mediocre bokeh
comment:	I use this lens with my 7d and it performs very well. It's a heavy piece of metal and glas and therefore suits a 7d better than a little 5d. Once used as a kit lens this 3x zoom suffers a bit from the reputation of being a cheap lens with low performance. Well, let me say, it's far far away from that. I wonder about the reputation because i found my copy to be a wonderful lens that i'm very happy with. This is the main reason: When stopped down it very clearly outperforms my other zooms on that range (Kit 18-70 and Sigma 28-75) and while watching the results 100% full view on screen i can't hardly spot a difference compared to my 50/1.7 and 28/2.8 primes. Therefore my 5point rating for sharpness is directed at stopped down performance. Wide open its much softer and would only get something around 3.5 to 4 points. Anyway, how come this lens is so good and almost nobody knows and speaks about it? Occasionally people are being very happy with this lens and post a bit on forums about it, but most of the time you won't find many information about it. I can't say a thing about the newer version of the 35-105 which is much smaller and lighter, but the old version is definatly a very good piece of glas for a bargain. If you are using a 5D/7D try this one out. Especially when the price is good. Cons: While the results from this lens are very good the range is not very usefull for indoor(tough you get used to it) but very good for portrait and people photography. If you are used to Primes around 50mm in the good old days you will come quite good along with the range of this lens. Anyway, Range and Weight (full metal) keep it from being used every day. Further downsides: The AF is slow and likes to hunt in low light situations and if you are searching for a perfect creamy bokeh search again. Most negative point i can think of: the minimum focus distance with AF is not very good (around 1.5 meter) and the macro mode, while being fun to use, does only work with MF. But heck, this lens has an incredible price performance ratio! You can get one of these older 35-105 variants for less then 50$, an all metal lens that delivers very good sharpness on my Dynax 7D. Stop it down further and be surprised how sharp a zoom lens can be. I'm even more surprised about how the minolta communities (from my point of view) don't seem to know or talk a lot about this lens. It's not the fastest, not the sharpest zoom lens wide open, BUT: on a sunny day, when f8-f11 is possible with good shutter speeds and ISO at 100-200, this lens will become one of your most used buddys on a Minolta DSLR unless you can't handle the range after crop factor. I for myself got used to it and the results are well worth it.

sharpness: 4 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 3	user: paulofessel review date: March-17-06
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 35-70 f:4, Sigma 28-70 f:2.8, Sigma 17-70, Kit lens
positive:	- Good from f:5.6 - Razor sharp between f:8 and f:13 - No distortions at the wide end
negative:	- Not THAT sharp wide open (but still better than the 18-70) cameras - Large MFD (0,85m!)
comment:	(I've reassessed this lens lately, and I've got some new thoughts about it. New and improved review follows.) This is the kit lens I've got with my Maxxum 8000i. It is a pity that Sony does not build most of their lens like this one: built like a tank with metal mount, and will withstand adverse meteorologic conditions. It was my walk around lens in film days because of its range (which in digital is not that useful as it was with film). The biggest issue with this lens is really the large MFD (0,85m). Trying to use it at 35mm in APS-C to emulate a "52mm" is somewhat disappointing, since you can't normally get sufficiently close to the subjects as a 35mm lens should permit. And since this lens gets to f:4.5 really fast, you'll have to use slower shutter speeds (or higher ISOs) to compensate for the large MFD. OTOH, I've found lately this lens a good (not stellar) performer wide open, but with f:5.6 and beyond it really shines on, producing crisp and detailed pictures. In short, a good performer with an excellent price/performance ratio. If you can get for US$ 100 (or less), it is worth every cent.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 4	user: Blind Boy review date: December-22-05
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	5D kit lens, 50/1.7
positive:	Macro mode Price Build
negative:	All metal so it's on the heavy side Rather slow AF
comment:	A great lens for the price. Built like a tank and has the weight to show for it, unfortunately. The macro mode is nice to have for us cheap people who can't afford a real macro lens. My only real gripe with it is the AF speed. Mine has a tendency to hunt while focusing. I wouldn't shoot action with this lens but for just about anything else it's a great lens for the price. I got mine for about $100.

sharpness: 5 color: 5 build: 5 distortion: 5 flare control: 5	user: agetan review date: November-22-04
	tested on film camera: tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP: tested on full frame:24MP
compared to:	Minolta 28-85 f3.5-4.5 & Minolta 28-70 f2.8 G
positive:	Very versatile Cheap 2nd hand Image quality is excellent Well built
negative:	No longer in production
comment:	This is the lens that stays on my Dynax 7 whenever I go out for a shoot. I bring this lens with a Minolta 20mm f2.8 to UK about 1 year ago and Every shot is pin sharp. Being quite cheap, and well built, I don't have any worry of using this lens. Macro switch at 105mm is useful for close focus. I love it and have used it extensively with a extension tubes before I got my Minolta 100mm f2.8 Macro. Very interesting lens indeed. I don't see any distortion and 35mm is ideal focal length for me. Great lens and highly recommended... buy one if you see it..

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Summary ratings

sharpness: 4.81

color: 4.89

build: 4.89

distortion: 4.63

flare control: 4.14

overall: 4.67

total reviews: 123

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AF 35-105 F3.5-4.5 lens details

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Minolta - AF 35-105 F3.5-4.5 N