Tokina AT-X 28-70mm f/2.8 AF PRO SV Reviews

I got this lens by mistake - thinking it was the Tokina 28-80 Pro.
From what I read it is not as good optically as the 28-80 but for the price (£199.99 from WE) its a not bad f2.8 general lens. Its described as an internal focus lens which I suppose it is but it seems more like a conventional extending lens body construction inside an outer tube.
Still, it handles quite nicely despite the "rotate then push - pull then slide the switch system" to go from from AF to MF (its quite easy when you get used to it but can be annoying to start with). The results are a bit soft wide open in bright light but are excellent for indoor photography (in fact it has very similar characteristics to the Tokina 17mm I also own). Once the aperture gets to about f8 there is a definite improvement in image quality and it is capable of very good results indoors and outside. Its not a lens I would recommend you buy "sight unseen" but if you can try one out you may find it suits a need. Mechanically its robust with the usual Tokina metal mount and disconnected focus ring in AF mode. This makes it easy to hold and in MF the focus ring is smooth, progressive and accurate. There is no sign of "Zoom Creep" even after extnesive use. Its not one of my favourite lens to use, however it will have to do until I can afford something better (which will cost a lot more - so I guess its good value for money?)

Probably above average picture and build quality assumingg that the zoom range is what you are looking for. The only complaint is about the unique push+rotate clutch AF-MF switch. Not my favorite switch...