DX lenses are NOT recommended for use with "full-frame" digital or 35mm film SLR cameras
The Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Lens is an ultra compact, lightweight standard zoom lens that has a 3x focal zoom range and is ideally suited for use with compact Nikon digital SLR cameras that feature the smaller DX sized chip. This lens offers the most basic zoom range in the DX lens series, an equivalent focal length in 35mm terms of 27-82.5mm. It will conveniently cover everything from tight indoor portraits to standard snap shots.
The innovative Vibration Reduction (VR) system allows handheld telephoto zoom shooting even in poorly lit conditions. It minimizes image blur caused by camera shake, and offers the equivalent of shooting at a shutter speed 3 stops (8 times) faster. The Nikon Super Integrated Coating used in this lens minimizes ghosting and flare to provide even higher contrast and more vivid images, even in challenging light conditions.
This G-type Nikkor lens is designed with no aperture rings, and offers easier, virtually mistake-free operation because the aperture does not need to be set to minimum.
Note: AF-S feature is not supported by certain camera models. Please click here for a list of compatible models.
Note! DX lenses are NOT recommended for use with "full-frame" digital or 35mm film SLR cameras
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 18 - 55 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon DX FX in DX Crop Mode |
| Angle of View | 76° - 28° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 11" (28 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.31x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:3.22 |
| Groups/Elements | 8/11 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 52 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.9 x 3.1" (7.37 x 7.87 cm) |
| Weight | 9.35 oz (265 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Most Liked Positive Review
Great Lens for the Money
This lens is perfect for the amateur to semi-professional photographer looking for a good wide-angle zoom lens. Yes, there are better lenses out there, but not in this price range.
Grant...Read complete review
This lens is perfect for the amateur to semi-professional photographer looking for a good wide-angle zoom lens. Yes, there are better lenses out there, but not in this price range.
Granted, there is a fairly significant amount of barrel distortion (when I was pointing this out to a non-photographer friend, he actually replied that he thought the curve in the ends of the horizon lines actually were due to the natural curvature of the earth...), but if you're handy with Photoshop, it's fairly easy to fix and you only end up having to crop a little bit of the edges off of your image. For the price, this is an acceptable trade off. Also, the distortion is most noticeable at the 18mm end, and less so the more zoomed in you are.
I found the focusing to be fairly fast and accurate (though that's partly a function of my camera) and I've been very happy with the sharpness of the images. If you're debating between this lens and the slightly cheaper non-VR version--get this one: the VR (vibration reduction) works wonders and allows you to hand hold in much lower light than you would otherwise be able to. If you're shooting on a tripod and using the timer or a cable/remote release, though, you can turn the VR off for even sharper images.
My primary reasons for getting this lens are that I wanted something with a wider angle that would be better suited for landscapes, and also to allow me to shoot in lower-light conditions (including indoor locations). My previous lens is only a 55-200mm lens and couldn't adequately do either of those things. With this lens, I can even shoot inside my mid-size car and get acceptable levels. This is a great go-anywhere all purpose lens, though if you do much outdoor portraiture and such, you'll eventually want something a little more telephoto, if you don't have it already.
Yes, for several hundred (or, thousand) dollars more, you can get better lenses that won't have barrel distortion, will provide a wider range of apertures, sturdier construction, and are probably even sharper--however, for the price, this lens can't be beat, and has performed very well for me in the time that I've been using it. So far I've used it for landscapes, flowers and fall leaves, sporting events, and people, and it's been a joy. If price is a factor, this is the best lens you will find in this range--the trade-offs (plastic mount, barrel distortion, etc.) are worth it.
(Note, this lens doesn't allow true macro photography, but it does allow you to get quite close to your subject--11 inches away--which makes for some great near-macro isolation and detail.
Also, if you're looking at DX lenses, you should already know that 18mm [or 55mm and between, for that matter] are not what you will actually get since you are shooting with a smaller than full-frame sensor. As it says in the specs., 18mm is actually equivalent to approximately 27mm--but, if you don't have anything this wide already, it will still be a worthwhile increase!).
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
For the money, not bad!
Obviously, having a wide lens suitable for a digital SLR is a must. I have many of Nikon's pro lenses in 35mm film compatible lenses, and I use them on my digital cameras. ...Read complete review
Obviously, having a wide lens suitable for a digital SLR is a must. I have many of Nikon's pro lenses in 35mm film compatible lenses, and I use them on my digital cameras. However, I haven't yet gotten to the point I feel I need the ultra-wide pro lens yet. This lens, for the money, is a good deal. It's not super fast, but the VR makes a definite difference. It's my first VR lens, and it's taken me a bit of getting used to. There is some barrel distortion at the wide end, but the color rendition is above average. If you don't have $1200 to drop on the pro wide zoom, this baby will do you just fine.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 298 customers
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Does exactly what it is supposed to and love the way the pictures turn out!
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I bought this lens to replace one that I dropped and broke. I like this one better because of the VR which wasn't available when I purchased my camera originally. I would definetely recommend this product and B&H for superior, price comparitive and fast service.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
This is a replacement lens for one that broke when dropped. This lens is a good multi-purpose lens that is good for everyday photos of kids. Which is what it is mostly used for. Of course, a faster lens would be awesome. But for the budget, you can't go wrong with the kit lens.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
As an entry-level zoom, this one performs well, and is a good compromise in terms of price and versatility for the Nikons. My original one survived a drop with the camera, hitting the concrete first, with a corner of the external lens segment. It still worked for almost a year after that, but after a second drop - kids... - I had to get a new one. It feels as solid as the original did at first, no noticeable difference from the "US made" one.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
My yearbook students use it to take photos in classrooms, cafeteria, gym, pretty much anywhere in the school.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Exactly what I was looking for, a replacement lens without the full replacement cost.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
The best one.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
This is the basic lens I bought with the Nikon D7000 body, instead of going with the 18 - 105 kit lens, as I also got a 70 - 300 zoom lens
This lens does what its supposed to do. The pictures come out nice.
Although it says VR, you need to work really hard with slow shutter speeds, particularly in low light.
I am happy with the performance and the price I paid for it
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
This lens was a replacenment for the camera I got from my father. We use this lens for everything, school pictures, sports games, and even for general everyday use.
The picture come out crystal clear - especially with the autofocus and anti-vibration features on the Nikon camera. I would highly recommend this lens to anyone looking for a professional lens that is easy to use, change out quickly, and is a great value.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Good, light weight, inexpensive lens for trips and landscapes.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I bought 2 of these for myself and daughter. Great light weight med zoom for casual shot, b-days, weddings,etc. Only issue-both Serial no. labels fell off.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Best value, excellent image quality and very light to carrying it around.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Good general use lens for DX Format cameras. Only negative is the new plastics which lower weight doesn't give it a solid feel. Lens works great but doesn't have the smooth glide feel of the older lenses.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Great lens all around.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I think this lens is the perfect everyday lens. Its great for outdoor shots and portraits. For someone new to photography, its easy to use, especially with the AF feature.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I frequent the theme parks here in Orlando, FL and needed a great lens for all day use... This lens provides sharp images and great range for exactly that use. If you need a great travel lens for a low LOW price.... look no further... I went with the refurb and have had NO trouble. love it.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I have a 18 mm ro 135mm lens from my old D80 and moved it to my D90. I wanted a lens that was not so bulky to use. This lens has been perfect in this regard. I believe I will be able to use it for 75% of my shots. I currently hasve a D7000
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Great general purpose lens, auto-focus is a bit slow on my D300 than my other lenses but still quite good! Very light, lens mount seems a bit fragile but if care is taken in handling it should last a long time. My only real complaint is the rear lens cap does not fit well, but a proper f-mount cap will fix that.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
The lens was simple and affordable, but nothing too exciting.
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Comments about Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Good quality, Nikkor standard.
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