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Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm: Which Lens Is Better For You?

The Tokina 11-16mm lens offers a wider aperture range and sharper image quality compared to the 11-20mm lens. The Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm are both ultra-wide-angle lenses used primarily for landscape, architecture, and interior photography.

Whenever you are thinking about Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm and trying to figure out what is the best, however, there are some key differences between the two. The Tokina 11-16mm offers a maximum aperture of f/2. 8, which is wider than the f/2. 8-f/4 range of the Tokina 11-20mm.

This means that the 11-16mm allows in more light and is better suited for low-light situations and creating a shallower depth of field.

Additionally, the 11-16mm has sharper image quality, while the 11-20mm has better distortion control. Ultimately, the choice between these lenses depends on your specific needs and shooting preferences.

Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm: Build And Design

If you’re a photography enthusiast, you already know the importance of having the right lens for capturing stunning images. The Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm are two excellent and widely used lenses in the market.

Both lenses are popular for their wide-angle capabilities, sharp image quality, and reasonable price point.

Physical Structure Of The Lenses

The first difference that stands out when comparing the physical structure of the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses is the size difference. The 11-20mm is known to be a bit bigger than the 11-16mm.

But when it comes to the barrel construction, both lenses have a solid and robust structure that looks and feels much better than their entry-level price point would suggest.

Material Composition

Both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm are built with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. Both lenses feature high-grade plastic and metal materials that enhance their overall construction quality.

Weights And Dimensions Of Lenses

When it comes to dimensions and weight, the Tokina 11-16mm lens measures 84 x 89mm and weighs around 550 grams. Meanwhile, the Tokina 11-20mm measures 84 x 93mm and weighs around 560 grams.

These measurements make both lenses relatively compact and easy to carry around.

Differences And Similarities In Build Design

The Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses look quite similar in terms of design and build quality. Both lenses come with a built-in lens hood that provides better protection for the lens while shooting in harsh weather conditions.

Both lenses also feature a focus ring that’s smooth and easy to rotate. The primary difference in the building design is the aperture ring.

The 11-20mm has an aperture ring that makes a clicking sound while the 11 16mm is silent. The lens mount also differs, with the 11-20mm having a wider mount compared to the 11-16mm.

In build and design, both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses are well-built, durable, and compact. While the 11-20mm may have a larger size, wider mount, and clicking aperture ring, the 11 16mm is quieter and more suitable for videography.

Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and shooting style.

Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm: Optical Performance

If you’re on the hunt for a wide-angle lens, the Tokina 11-16mm f/2. 8 and Tokina 11-20mm f/2. 8 are both great options. However, what sets them apart from each other is their optical performance.

Here’s a closer look at how they compare.

Aperture Range And Differences Between Lenses

  • Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/2. 8, making them ideal for low-light situations and creating a shallow depth of field.
  • The Tokina 11-20mm has the advantage of a 2mm extended focal length, providing a slightly wider image.
  • On the other hand, the Tokina 11-16mm lens has a larger constant maximum aperture of f/2. 8 throughout the whole zoom range.

Image Stabilization Capabilities

  • Neither lens has built-in image stabilization, making it vital to have a steady hand or use a tripod to prevent camera shaking when taking photos.
  • However, some camera bodies may have built-in stabilization which will help.

Chromatic Aberration And Distortion

  • Both lenses have minimal chromatic aberration and produce sharp images with minimal barrel distortion.
  • However, the Tokina 11-20mm has slightly less distortion compared to the 11-16mm.

Sharpness And Clarity Of Images

  • Both lenses provide excellent sharpness and clarity, producing sharp images across the whole frame.
  • The Tokina 11-16mm lens is known to be sharper in the center, whereas the Tokina 11-20mm lens is sharper at the edges.

Low Light Performance And Quality

  • Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/2. 8, providing excellent low-light performance.
  • However, the Tokina 11-16mm lens offers slightly better low-light performance with its larger aperture throughout the zoom range.

Comparing the optical performance of the Tokina 11-16mm vs. 11-20mm lenses, it comes down to what you intend to photograph. If you’re looking for a lens with a constant maximum aperture and better low-light performance, the Tokina 11-16mm is an excellent choice.

However, if you need slightly wider coverage and less barrel distortion, the Tokina 11-20mm is the way to go. Regardless of your choice, both lenses provide high-quality optics that deliver fantastic image quality.

Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm: Autofocus And Manual Focus

When it comes to autofocus (af) and manual focus (mf) performance, speed and accuracy play a vital role. Both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm have well-designed autofocus systems that can focus accurately on subjects without any trouble.

  • The autofocus on both lenses is quick and snappy, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects such as outdoor events, sports, and wildlife.
  • Both lenses have sophisticated autofocus systems, allowing them to focus accurately on the subject in the frame without any delay or loss of focus.
  • The focus speed and accuracy on both lenses are consistent across the entire zoom range.
  • The autofocus system can handle a variety of lighting conditions and still deliver optimal results.

Smoothness Of Focus Rings

The smoothness of the focus rings is another essential factor to consider when comparing the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses. The focus ring determines the level of control you have over the focus point and is crucial for obtaining precise and sharp images.

  • The focus ring on both lenses is well-built and feels smooth to operate, making it easy to make subtle adjustments for precise focusing.
  • The focus ring is silicone-coated, which provides a comfortable and non-slip grip, even in wet or cold conditions.
  • The focus ring has a wide rotation angle that makes it easier to adjust the focus point accurately.

Comparison Of af/mf Modes

The ability to switch seamlessly between autofocus and manual focus modes is another essential feature of any lens. Both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm have a superb focus mode switch that enables the user to switch between af/mf modes quickly.

  • Both lenses have a well-designed focus mode switch that allows for smooth and easy switching between af and mf modes.
  • The autofocus mode lever is easy to reach and can be operated with one hand, allowing the photographer to switch rapidly between modes without any delay.
  • The manual focus override feature allows the photographer to fine-tune the focus point even when the lens is set to autofocus mode.

Differences In Manual Focus Control

Manual focus control is another aspect that sets the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses apart. While both lenses have a similar manual focus control system, they differ in the level of control they provide.

  • The manual focus control on both lenses is smooth and easy to operate, making it ideal for precise focusing.
  • The Tokina 11-16mm lens has a longer focus throw, which provides greater control over the focus point.
  • The Tokina 11-20mm lens has a shorter focus throw, which makes it easier to adjust the focus point quickly.

Tokina 11 16mm vs 11 20mm: Price And Value

Are you a photography enthusiast looking for a wide-angle lens that offers exceptional value for money? The Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses are highly popular options, each with its advantages and limitations.

We’ll compare the price and value of these two lenses to help you make an informed decision.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both lenses are relatively affordable and offer excellent value for money. However, there is a slight difference in their prices, which can influence your buying decision.

  • Tokina 11-16mm: Around $429
  • Tokina 11 20mm: Around $459

As you see, the 11 20mm lens is a bit costlier than the 11 16mm. But before making any conclusions, let’s take a closer look at their value proposition.

Value For Money Comparison

Comparing the lenses’ value is essential as it can help you understand which lens suits your requirements the best.

Tokina 11-16mm:

  • Offers a wider aperture
  • Ultra-wide focal length (11mm)
  • Amazing image quality with minimal distortion
  • Great for low-light photography
  • Affordable price

Tokina 11-20mm:

  • A more versatile focal length (11-20mm)
  • Better image stabilization
  • Great for both indoor and outdoor photography
  • Slightly costlier
  • Impressive image quality with minimal distortion

Both lenses feature Tokina’s state-of-the-art technology, including a one-touch focus clutch mechanism, internal focusing, and multi-coating to ensure optimal image and color accuracy.

Professional Vs. Amateur Photography

The lenses’ use-case is something that distinguishes them. The Tokina 11-16mm lens is highly popular among amateur photographers, whereas the legendary Tokina 11-20mm lens is an ideal choice for professionals.

  • For amateur photographers: If you’re starting your journey into photography and are looking for a budget-friendly and versatile lens with remarkable image quality, the Tokina 11-16mm lens is an exceptional choice.
  • For professional photographers: If you’re a professional photographer who requires a lens with a more significant zoom range, better image stabilization, and excellent image quality, the Tokina 11-20mm lens is the way to go.

Recommendation Based On Price And Value

The final decision to purchase either lens depends on your requirements and budget. But, if you’re an amateur photographer, looking for an affordable, versatile, and great quality wide-angle lens, the Tokina 11-16mm lens is the way to go.

On the other hand, if you’re a professional photographer, willing to invest a bit more for better image quality and a bigger zoom range, go with the Tokina 11-20mm lens.

To sum up, both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses are valuable investments, but they cater to different users. The right one depends on your requirements, needs, and budget. We hope our comparison has been useful in making an informed decision.

FAQs For Tokina 11 16Mm Vs 11 20Mm

What Is The Difference Between The Tokina 11-16Mm And 11-20Mm Lenses?

The main difference between the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses is their focal length range. The 11-16mm is wider and better suited for interior and landscape photography, while the 11-20mm offers slightly more reach and versatility in various shooting scenarios.

Which Lens Is Better For Landscape Photography?

The Tokina 11-16mm lens is better suited for landscape photography. Its focal length range allows for a wider field of view, making it easier to capture vast landscapes and sweeping vistas with a single shot.

Which Lens Is Better For Indoor Photography?

The Tokina 11-16mm lens is better suited for indoor photography. Its wide-angle focal length range allows for capturing detailed interior shots, even in tight spaces.

Can I Use These Lenses For Astrophotography?

Yes, both the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses are suitable for astrophotography. Their wide-angle and fast apertures allow for better capture of the night sky and stars.

Is There A Significant Price Difference Between These Lenses?

There is a slight price difference between the Tokina 11-16mm and 11-20mm lenses. However, the price difference is not significant enough to sway a purchasing decision based solely on cost.

Conclusion

After thorough research and analysis, it is clear that both the Tokina 11-16mm and the 11-20mm are exceptional lenses, each with unique features that appeal to different photographers.

While the 11-16mm is a popular choice for those wanting a wide-angle lens with excellent image quality, the 11-20mm offers added flexibility with its wider zoom range and superior autofocus capabilities.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as shooting style, budget, and the intended use of the lens.

Whether you are an amateur or professional photographer, both lenses are equipped to meet a wide range of photographic needs. Overall, the Tokina 11-16mm and the 11-20mm are both excellent choices that will take your photography to the next level.

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