Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens USA
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The Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens is a compact, lightweight, fully-featured zoom lens that covers a wide 5.3x focal zoom range, and is ideal for a wide range of shooting situations. It is ideally suited for use with compact Nikon digital SLR cameras with the smaller DX size chip. This lens offers an equivalent focal length in 35mm terms of 24-127.5mm. It will conveniently cover everything from tight indoor portraits to medium telephoto shots.
The improved Vibration Reduction (VRII) 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 4 stops 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. Three aspherical lens elements virtually eliminate coma and other types of lens aberration even when used at the widest aperture.
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! DX lenses are NOT recommended for use with "full-frame" digital or 35mm film SLR cameras
- Optics
- Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements offer superior sharpness and color correction by effectively minimizing chromatic aberration. Three aspherical lens elements virtually eliminate coma and other types of lens aberration even when used at the widest aperture.
- SIC Coating
- Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superior color performance and substantially reduced ghosting and flare.
- SWM (Silent Wave Motor)
- TSWM built into the lens offers smooth and quiet autofocus performance.
- Rounded Diaphragm
- The rounded diaphragm opening (7 blades) makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural.
- M/A Mode
- M/A mode allows rapid switching between autofocus and manual even during AF servo operation, with virtually no time lag.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 16 - 85 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 - 36 |
| Camera Mount Type | Nikon F |
| Format Compatibility |
Nikon DX FX in DX Crop Mode |
| Angle of View | 83° - 18° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.30' (39.6 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.22x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:4.54 |
| Groups/Elements | 11/17 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 67 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.8 x 3.4" (7.11 x 8.64 cm) |
| Weight | 1.07 lb (485 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 329 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (214)
- Durable (178)
- Lightweight (136)
- Easy to use (124)
- Reliable (102)
Cons
- Heavy (26)
- Pricey / poor value (10)
- Heavy / bulky (6)
- Slow focus (5)
- Not durable (4)
Best Uses
- Landscape photography (163)
- Travel (144)
- Everyday (140)
- General purpose (138)
- Portraits (120)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (177), Semi-professional (77), Professional (36), Casual user (14), Photo enthusiast (6)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (108)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great zoom range for me and new D300S
This lens was part of a combo (with new D300s - separate review) that replaced one of my two D70 bodies and its 18-70 kit lens. I also considered the 18-200 Nikon...Read complete review
This lens was part of a combo (with new D300s - separate review) that replaced one of my two D70 bodies and its 18-70 kit lens. I also considered the 18-200 Nikon "megazoom" and the 18-105 in a kit with the D90. I initially ruled out the 18-105 based on its reviews and where I was in my photography career. I also had a chance to try the 18-200 over the summer and was not as enamored with the 200 end on that one as with the 16 end on this one. This lens is nice and sharp, and produces striking wide angle shots I like. The 85 end is nothing to sneeze at either, equivalent to a 127.5 in 35mm and the FX format. It is more than sufficient for the portraits I do. And I have three other lenses in my collection that go out 200mm or better.
Right now this serves as what folks call a walkaround lens, a versatile lens that's on the camera all the time. In my Lowepro II case (not too big) I can fit the D300S with this lens attached, along with a 10.5DX fisheye and compact 28-200G, or an SB-800 in place of one of those lenses. Had I selected the 18-200, I would have needed a larger case and would probably have settled for the 28-200 as a walkaround or purchased the less-capable 18-55.
Within days of getting this outfit, we had a monster snowstorm, followed by two clear striking sunny days, which gave me a perfect chance for some striking landscapes, and the 16-85 working as a team with the D300S did not disappoint. It gives impactful wide shots, without giving up the tele end.
I'm still partly accustomed to the older zooms with focussing ring at the end and zoom close to camera body, but it is reversed on this one. The D300S has a respectable pop-up flash, but you have to remember to remove the lens hood at wide settings to avoid shadowing.
There is no macro function, but considering the striking wide end performance together with a respectable tele end, I'd be willing to give up the macro.
While I have the 17-55/2.8 for professional event and portrait jobs, I think this one will give it some pretty strong competition. Also, I have the 12-24 f4 DX, which is on the bulky side for casual use, but the 16-85 will give me much of that capability in a more versatile and compact system.
I am also expect this to perform well with the camera's video function.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good, but compared to what???
Given the many reviews of this lens, I'll focus my comments specifically on this 16-85mm lens versus the Nikon 18-105mm lens which is what i use with my Nikon D90. I was ...Read complete review
Given the many reviews of this lens, I'll focus my comments specifically on this 16-85mm lens versus the Nikon 18-105mm lens which is what i use with my Nikon D90. I was drawn to this lens for the slightly wider field of view it seemed to offer, and I hoped it might offer even further improvement in image quality (contrast and resolution). I shot over 150 pictures with the two lens on a tripod with shutter remote release at wide, mid and fully zoomed, both outdoors and indoors, and poored over them on the computer zooming in to all parts of the image. My impression - resolution/sharpness, color rendition/accuracy and contrast of the two lens is essentially indistinguishable - even at the edges. I know, everybody talks about how sharp the 16-85 is, and that's true, but its also true for the 18-105mm. And i found the extra width (16 versus 18) to be very minimally noticeable. (What is perhaps equally critical for the wide look is your own positioning and camera angle).
I think this says more about how good the 18-105mm lens is, rather than any slight to the 16-85mm. If i had say the 18-55 mm kit lens, i'd consider replacing it with this 16-85 for the extra zoom range. The 16-85mm is solid, handles great, feels durable and the VRII seems to really help to reduce the # of blurred results. But up against the 18-105, it's just didn't seem to offer any better image quality, and the wider wide range wasn't significant enough to justify it's higher cost. I was prepared to love it and keep it, but instead i got more content with my kit 18-105mm. Funny thing about the grass being greener. ;-)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 329 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Lens is well built hence it has some weight but very sturdy hand holding and VR technology is excellent. Takes great pictures. I use this as my general purpose lens for scenic, Fall leaves, Landscape, Architecture.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
The auto-focus is quick and the image sharpness exceeded my expectations. I am extremely happy with this lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Great picture quality
- Lightweight
- LIGHT WEIGHT
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Good for flowers
- Landscape Photography
- Macro Photography
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I got rid of my 17/55 pro/style Nikon because it was just to heavy to spontaneously pick up and Carry. This 16-85 is nearly as useful; not a 5 star, but soon to be the lens on my d80 in the day time. It takes remarkable images of flowers, including a Blurry-background close up of an orchid that will be an 11x14 on my wall this week. I took it to the 49'ers game; disappointed by the under-exposed frame when set on Program with 320 ASA set. viewfinder on a very bright day was reading 1/1000 to 1/1600, @ 6.3-11.
However, adjusted shots, all at 85mm setting were crisp edge to edge.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
- SturdyautofocusPrice
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I`m an old school photographer. 35mm film to be specific. With formal pro training. And if one thing I`ve learned about lenses in particular zoom lenses is THE FACT that any zoom lens has a specific flaw. At no particular range a zoom lens is as sharp as a prime lens in a certain focal point. But the comparison should be made against other zoom lenses. So utilizing this intro I will explain the 16-85 nikon lens against other zoom lenses. Since the mechanics of achieving a certain zoom range involves glass,mechanical parts & movement within the lens,it`s therfore impossible for a zoom lens even from the same company to give you sharpness,contrast...performance if it has a greater zoom range than the 16-85. Case in point...the 105. To avoid further explanation, I`ll simply recomend the 16-85 within it`s price range for shots in this particular focal range. SHARP! CONTRAST,GHOAST FLARING unbeatable price vs performance. More range? Nikon 70-300. NEVER buy a "package" that includes camera & lenses. Pick camera first & good lenses after,acording to your photographic needs. The 16-85 is a VERY GOOD starting choice.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Reliable
- Sharp and fast focusing
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Everyday use
- Portraits
- Studio
- Weddings
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
The lens is excellent! Very sharp and the focusing is very fast.. As a professional Photgrapher these are the qualities I look for in the equipment I use. I use it for all kinds of work: weddings, portraits, studio work, events, etc.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
This is currently my first lens (opted to get this instead of the stock 18-105). It's great! Really sharp almost at the entire range. The only downside is that it only extends to 85mm. I sometimes find myself needing more.. beyond that, great lens!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Reliable
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Studio
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Things that are great about it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Sharp great zoom ratio
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Landscapes, travel and indoor portraits.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Durable
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Landscape Photography
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I guess I'm on one of the few who does not think this lens is overpriced. For a few hundred more than the DX 18-105 you are getting a moderately better build quality and better optics. The 16 on the 16-85 has less distortion than the 18 on the 18-105. You'd pay this and maybe more for a decently built 24-135 zoom in the film era. This kind of lens is a perfect walk around and the VR really does make up for the lack of speed. A perfect match for a D90. Taking great pictures...
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Reliable
- Very sharp
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Studio
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I use for landscapes, some portraiture and travel
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Compared to the kit lens that came with the D90, the tightness of the focusing ring is very reassuring and precise. Not loose. The brightness and clarity of the image are noticable to even my old and faulty eyes. I love it. It is my new "walk around" lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Extreme contrast situations, low light etc.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Studio
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Use this lens for a walk around lens. wide to medium telephoto. very sharp, great portrait lens, great for landscapes.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape Photography
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I am a nikon d7000 user and befor Bought the 16-85mm lense, my main camera lense was the 18-105mm lense which comes with the camera. After several month of shooting, I decided to change my gear and even the 16-85mm is much more expensive than my old lense, however, the photo quality that you can get really will make the price seems to be reasonable.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Landscape Photography
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Easy to use in many situations. only con is the weight. no regrets with this purchase
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
this and my 50 is all i use, and all you need.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Reliable
Cons
- Heavy bulky
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Great Lens with a lot of features. It is definitely worth every penny.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
Better to have a 16mm wide angle than 18-105mm. You will use the wide angle much more than the zoom. This is a much sharper lens than the 18-105 and is great in low light. Metal mount and solid feel. Definitely worth the money.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
great walking around lens
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Reliable
Cons
Best Uses
- Everyday use
- Home
- Landscape Photography
- Portraits
- Traveling
Comments about Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Lens:
I own 2 of the 16-85. My wife and I travel the world and use this lens as the default lens on D300s to insure high image quality output. Perfect focal range, quality build, lightweight, sharp everywhere, fast focus, good in low light. If you shoot DX with no plans for moving down to FX, this is a must-have lens.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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