When it comes to capturing perfect shots with your Nikon DSLR camera, the lens you choose is just as important as the camera body itself. A top-quality lens can make all the difference, delivering sharp, detailed images with fantastic color reproduction and contrast. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best Nikon DSLR camera lenses on the market today, along with a helpful buying guide to help you choose the right lens for your needs. Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply a keen amateur, our reviews and recommendations are sure to help you get the best possible shots every time.
Best Choices
Last update on 2023-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Everything you Need to Know About Nikon Dslr Camera Lenses
Nikon has a vast selection of DSLR camera lenses that cater to various kinds of photography. They offer a range of prime lenses, zoom lenses, and telephoto lenses with varying focal lengths and maximum apertures. These lenses are compatible with Nikon’s range of DSLR cameras, ranging from entry-level to professional models.
Nikon’s prime lenses are perfect for portrait, street, and low light photography. These lenses have a fixed focal length but they offer sharper images, better color, and contrast as compared to zoom lenses. Zoom lenses, on the other hand, allow photographers to compose shots with a range of focal lengths. Nikon’s zoom lenses range from wide-angle to telephoto lenses and are ideal for landscape, sports, and wildlife photography. Lastly, Nikon’s telephoto lenses are perfect for shooting far away subjects, such as wildlife or sports events. They have longer focal lengths and narrower angles of view, allowing for closer shots of the subject. Overall, Nikon DSLR camera lenses provide a wide range of options for photographers to choose from and create stunning images.
10 Best Nikon Dslr Camera Lenses on the Market
- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
- M/a focus mode switch. Filter-attachment size is 67 millimeter (p=0.75 millimeter)
- Nikon super integrated coating (sic)
- F mount lens/DX format. Picture angle with Nikon DX format 44 degree
- 52.5 millimeter (35-millimeter equivalent). Rear focusing; Manual focus override
- Aperture range: F/1.8 to 22; Dimensions(approx.) 70 x 52.5 millimeter
- Silent wave motor AF system. Accepts filter type is screw on. Lens construction: 8 elements in 6 groups
- Compatible formats is dx and fx in dx crop mode. Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.16x
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90-day warranty
- Compact all-in-one DX-format zoom lens that goes from wide-angle (18mm) to telephoto (140mm) for great snapshots and videos in just about any situation.
- Designed to draw peak performance from Nikon's new high-resolution image sensors. VR image stabilization for sharper handheld photos and videos in low-light...
- Get as close as 1.48-feet from your subject, then zoom in for dazzling macro-style close-ups. Superb NIKKOR optics, Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass for better...
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90 day warranty
- Fast, f/1.8 prime lens is perfect for low-light conditions, travel, environmental portrait and general photography, Engineered for Nikon DX-format D-SLRS, the...
- Aspherical lens element minimizes coma and other types of lens aberrations, further improving image integrity, Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) enhances...
- Close focusing to 1 foot for creative perspectives and versatility, Rounded 7-blade diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural, Accepts...
- Compact super telephoto zoom lens for birding, wildlife, motorsports, events and more
- 500 millimeter of zoom power on fx format DSLR; 750 millimeter equivalent on dx format DSLRs, minimum focus distance: 7.2 feet ( 2.2 meter), focal length range:...
- Fast f/5.6 constant aperture for beautiful out of focus backgrounds and low light performance
- 4.5 stops of vibration reduction with sports mode. Approx. Weight 81.2 ounce. Approx. Dimensions (diameter x length) 4.2 inch x 10.5 inch( based on CIPA...
- Af compatible with optional TC 14e series tele converters and DSLRs that offer f/8 support. Mount type: Nikon f bayonet
- 55-200mm zoom Nikon lens with f/4-5.6 maximum aperture for Nikon digital SLR cameras
- 2 extra-low-dispersion (ED) glass elements for minimized chromatic aberration and superior optics
- Silent Wave Motor produces quick and quiet high-speed autofocusing; weighs 9 ounces
- Measures 2.7 inches in diameter and 3.1 inches long; 1-year warranty
- White box(bulk packaging)
- F-mount lens/DX formatfilter-attachment size: 58mm, (p = 075 mm) Maximum Reproduction Ratio: 0.22x. 105-450Mm (35mm equivalent) Aperture range: f/45-63 to F/32
- Nikon VR image stabilization. Access Lens settings in camera menu
- The number of cameras Compatible with both lenses is limited even for compatible cameras, firmware update may be required* Fully compatible Models: D7500,...
- Compatible Models with limited functions: D5, D810 series, DF, D750, D7200, D7100, D5200, Nikon 1 Series with the ft1
- Incompatible models: D4 series, D3 series, D2 series, D1 series, D800 series, D700, D610, D600, D300 series, D200, D100, D7000, D5100, D5000, D90, D80, D70...
- Fast, upgraded f/1.8, compact FX format prime lens. The picture angle with 35 millimeter (135) format is 47 degree and the maximum reproduction ratio is 0.15X
- Focal length 50 millimeter, minimum focus distance 1.48 feet (0.45 meter)
- Newly developed optical system with aspherical lens element, exclusive Nikon silent wave motor (SWM)
- M/a focus mode switch, filter thread 58 millimeter, autofocus: Yes. Dimensions (approx.) (from the camera lens mounting flange): Approximately 2.83 inches...
- Optimized for edge to edge sharpness on both fx and dx format d SLRS
- High-speed normal lens Great for travel and for shooting full-length portraits in available light
- Distortion-free images with superb resolution and color rendition, Provides high-contrast images even at maximum aperture
- Format Compatibility: Nikon FX/35mm Film and Nikon DX
- Autofocus operation with this lens is possible with Nikon autofocus cameras (except the F3AF); manual focus possible via separate focusing ring with all Nikon...
- 11.1x zoom in DX format with 18-200mm focal length
- Stabilisation System Vibration Reduction II (VR II) in Normal and On modes
- Silent wave motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus
- M/A mode allows you to quickly switch between autofocus and manual focus.
- The 7-blade circular aperture corrects blurred elements for more natural backgrounds..Download the instructions in French here
Last update on 2023-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Reasons for Buying Nikon Dslr Camera Lenses
There are various compelling reasons why investing in quality Nikon DSLR camera lenses can make a remarkable difference, helping you capture professional-grade images with ease. Here we dive into some of the key benefits to consider when selecting your lens.
Better image quality
A Nikon DSLR camera with a high-quality lens can produce images that have excellent clarity, sharpness, and detail. The lens determines the amount of light that reaches the sensor and controls the depth of field, which affects the sharpness of the subject in the foreground and background of the image. A high-quality lens allows more light to enter the camera and produces a shallow depth of field, resulting in a crisp, clear image with a beautifully blurred background.
In addition, the lens affects the color, contrast, and distortion of the image. A good quality lens produces colors that are more vibrant and accurate and reduces distortion, resulting in images that look more true to life. A better lens also has better image stabilization, allowing for sharper images in low light or when using slower shutter speeds. Overall, investing in a good quality Nikon DSLR camera lens can greatly improve the image quality and capture stunning, professional-grade photographs.
More versatile
Nikon DSLR Camera Lenses can be more versatile than their fixed lens counterparts. With a zoom lens, for example, you have the ability to adjust the focal length to capture images both up close and at a distance. This can be particularly useful for landscape, wildlife, or sports photography where you need to constantly adjust your shooting position or subject distance.
Additionally, interchangeable lenses allow for greater creative control over depth of field and focal length. You can choose a lens with a wider aperture for a shallower depth of field, or a longer focal length for more reach. This versatility allows for greater experimentation and can lead to more unique and interesting shots. Ultimately, having access to a range of Nikon DSLR Camera Lenses can help you capture a wider variety of images with greater control and creativity.
Improved low light performance
Improved low light performance is a crucial factor in choosing DSLR camera lenses. In low light conditions, a lens with a larger aperture (lower f-stop number) allows for more light to enter the camera’s sensor, resulting in brighter and better-exposed photos. Nikon lenses with wide apertures, such as their 50mm f/1.8 lens or 85mm f/1.4 lens, are ideal for shooting in low light conditions, as they offer a shallow depth of field and a faster shutter speed, resulting in better image quality, less noise, and sharper images.
Moreover, the more advanced lens coatings also help in enhancing the low light performance of Nikon DSLR camera lenses. These coatings help in reducing the glare and reflections, hence increasing the overall brightness and sharpness of the image. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right Nikon DSLR camera lens for low light photography to capture detailed and high-quality images even in dimly-lit environments.
Buyer’s Guides
When it comes to capturing stunning photographs, having the right lens is just as important as the camera itself. With a plethora of options available, finding the best Nikon DSLR camera lens can be a daunting task. To help make the decision easier, here are some key factors to consider.
Focal length
The focal length of a lens is an essential factor to consider when buying a Nikon DSLR camera lens. This is because it determines how much of the scene your lens can capture, how much of the image will be in focus, and how far away you can be from your subject. A lens with a shorter focal length will capture a wider field of view, while a lens with a longer focal length will capture a smaller field of view. This is important because it affects how much of the scene you want to capture, whether you are shooting a landscape or a portrait.
Furthermore, the focal length also affects the image quality. Different lenses have different optical properties, and some may be better suited to certain shooting scenarios than others. For example, a lens with a longer focal length may produce better background blur or “bokeh” than a shorter focal length lens, which is ideal for portraiture. Therefore, considering the focal length is crucial when choosing a Nikon DSLR camera lens that will suit your photography needs.
Aperture range
Aperture range is an important factor to consider before buying Nikon DSLR camera lenses because it determines the amount of light that enters the lens. A larger aperture allows more light to enter the lens, which is important for low light photography and creating a shallow depth of field. This means that you can create a blurred background effect while keeping the subject in sharp focus. A smaller aperture is good for capturing landscape scenes where you want everything in focus. Knowing the aperture range of a lens can also help you choose the right lens for a specific type of photography.
In addition to the above, considering aperture range before buying a Nikon DSLR camera lens is important because it determines the cost and weight of the lens. Generally, lenses with larger maximum apertures are more expensive and heavier than those with smaller apertures. For example, a 50mm f/1.8 lens is cheaper and lighter than a 50mm f/1.4 lens. Therefore, knowing the aperture range will help you choose the right lens for your needs and budget.
Lens compatibility with camera body
When buying a Nikon DSLR camera, it is essential to consider the compatibility of the lens with the camera body. The lens system of Nikon cameras is complex and varied, and not all lenses will work with all camera bodies. Matching the lens to the camera is crucial for optimal performance, autofocus, and stability. Additionally, while you can use certain lenses on older camera models, newer lenses need the corresponding firmware and features from the latest camera body. It is therefore important to ensure that the lenses you purchase work correctly with the camera body to avoid the risk of malfunction or suboptimal performance, and to ensure the best possible image quality.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization is a technology that helps reduce camera shake, allowing for sharper and more stable images even when shooting in low-light or at slower shutter speeds. When buying Nikon DSLR camera lenses, it’s important to consider image stabilization as it can greatly improve the quality of your photos, especially in challenging shooting conditions.
Without image stabilization, a photographer may need to use a faster shutter speed or higher ISO to compensate for camera shake, which can result in grainy or blurry images. With image stabilization, however, the photographer can shoot at slower shutter speeds and lower ISO settings, resulting in cleaner and sharper images. As such, investing in Nikon DSLR camera lenses with image stabilization can help you capture better quality photos and give you more creative control over your shots.
Autofocus motor
Autofocus motor is an essential feature to consider before buying Nikon DSLR camera lenses. It is responsible for adjusting the focus of the lens automatically, allowing the photographer to take sharp and clear images without any hassles. Nikon offers two types of autofocus motor, namely AF and AF-S motor. AF motor is an older technology that is relatively slower and noisy compared to its newer counterpart, AF-S motor. AF-S motor is faster, quieter, and more precise than the AF motor, making it the better choice for professional photographers who need to quickly capture fast-moving subjects without any distraction.
Choosing a lens with an AF-S motor ensures that the autofocus is not only fast and accurate but also silent, making it ideal for video recording. Nikon lenses also have a built-in focusing motor, which means that the autofocus motor is inside the lenses rather than the camera body. This allows for better compatibility and versatility among different types of lenses. In conclusion, investing in lenses with autofocus motor technology is crucial for achieving sharp, clear, and high-quality images with your Nikon DSLR camera.
Lens construction and durability
Lens construction and durability are important factors to consider before buying Nikon DSLR camera lenses because they directly affect the image quality and longevity of the lens. A well-constructed lens with high-quality materials will produce sharper and clearer images, while a poorly constructed lens may result in distortion, aberration, and other image quality issues.
Durability is also key to consider, as lenses are a significant investment and should ideally last for years of use. Lenses that are built with strong and sturdy materials will withstand wear and tear, accidental drops, and daily use. Choosing lenses with weather-sealing and other protective features can also help make them more durable and versatile for various shooting conditions. Ultimately, considering lens construction and durability will ensure that your investment in Nikon DSLR camera lenses is worth it and will provide lasting quality for your photography needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lenses are available for Nikon DSLR cameras?
Nikon DSLR cameras support a wide range of lenses that cater to different photography needs. One of the most popular types of lenses available for Nikon cameras is the standard kit lens, which typically offers a focal range of 18-55mm and is ideal for general purpose photography. Telephoto lenses are also available, which are great for capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife, sports, or events.
Additionally, Nikon offers a variety of prime lenses that have a fixed focal length and are perfect for portrait, street, or low-light photography. These lenses can range from 35mm to 85mm, and some can have wide apertures, making them ideal for shallow depth-of-field shots. Other types of lenses available for Nikon DSLR cameras include macros, fisheye, and zoom lenses, each offering a unique perspective and functionality for different types of photography.
What is the difference between a prime lens and a zoom lens for Nikon DSLR cameras?
Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, meaning that they only have one magnification level and cannot be adjusted. Zoom lenses, on the other hand, have a range of magnification levels that can be adjusted by changing the focal length of the lens.
Prime lenses typically have a wider maximum aperture than zoom lenses, meaning they can let in more light and produce sharper images with a shallower depth of field. They are often smaller and lighter than zoom lenses, making them easier to carry and handle. Zoom lenses are more versatile as they allow photographers to quickly switch between different focal lengths without changing lenses. They are useful for capturing a wider range of subjects in different situations, but typically have a narrower maximum aperture and are more expensive.
What is the importance of aperture in Nikon DSLR camera lenses?
Aperture is one of the most important factors in photography, and it plays a crucial role in Nikon DSLR camera lenses. Aperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens through which light passes into the camera sensor. The wider the aperture, the more light can enter the camera, and the better the low-light performance of the camera. A larger aperture also creates a shallower depth of field, which means that the subject is in focus while the background is blurry, creating a beautiful bokeh effect.
Nikon DSLR camera lenses have a range of aperture settings, which are measured in f-stops. The lower the f-stop number, the wider the aperture. Cameras with larger apertures can capture better quality images in low light conditions, and they allow photographers to control depth of field for more creative and artistic shots. Therefore, understanding how aperture works and how to manipulate it is essential for any photographer using a Nikon DSLR camera lens.
Final Words
After careful evaluation and thorough research, we have concluded that the top 10 best Nikon DSLR camera lenses are each unique in their own way, providing exceptional features and performance. From wide-angle to zoom lenses, each product on our list offers superior optical clarity and versatility.
When it comes to capturing high-quality images, having the best Nikon DSLR camera lens is crucial. Our comprehensive guide and reviews have helped identify the top-rated options on the market. No matter what your photography needs may be, these lenses are sure to impress. Invest in the best Nikon DSLR camera lens for breathtaking captures every time.
