The 9 Best Nikon Lenses of 2022
Nikon Lens – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
The art of photography offers the opportunity to explore the world through the lens of a camera, so it is important to have a model that integrates the functions and features that allow the light rays to be directed to the sensor in the right way. Currently, the renowned Nikon brand has a wide variety of lenses, however, we will focus on the most outstanding. One of them is the Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G, which has a versatile focal range and features Vibration Reduction technology. Also, the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G has Super Integrated Coating, which improves the quality of colors and has an aperture of f/1.8 to favor depth of field.
The 9 Best Nikon Lenses – Opinions 2022
Achieving sharp, high-quality photos requires a lens that allows you to get the most out of it in all circumstances. In this sense, we have prepared a list of the best Nikon lenses of 2022, where you will find the most relevant information on each of them.
Nikon 18-55 lens
1. Nikon AF S DX Nikkor Lens
This is a Nikon 18-55mm lens, which means it has a standard focal range, making it easy to take clear videos and sharp photos quickly and efficiently. Also, it has Nikon’s special Super Integrated Coating, capable of reducing glare and shadows.
Its diaphragm is round and is made up of seven sheets, in this way the elements that are out of focus can have a much more real and natural appearance. In addition, it incorporates a hybrid aspherical lens element, indicated to minimize different types of aberrations caused by focusing on spherical surfaces, which is why it is considered by many to be the best Nikon lens.
As for the technologies, one of the main ones is Vibration Reduction, capable of automatically compensating for camera movement to improve image stability. Also, it has Silent Wave Motor suitable for auto focus and AM, which means it can be used in manual mode.
If you are looking for the best Nikon lens of the moment to use it in most moments and environments, then you should consider the most important pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Aperture: It has an aperture of f / 3.5-5.6, so it lets in enough light to take photos in low-light environments.
Stabilization: It has VR to guarantee the stability of the images when taking photographs or videos with the camera in hand.
Focus: It has a focal range between 18 and 55 mm, which is the most versatile range and used to capture quick moments.
Cons
Accessories: It does not include a lens hood, which could be a problem with light when recording or taking pictures during the day outdoors.
Nikon 50mm lens
2. Nikon AF S 50mm F1.8 G Lens
Professional photographers know this is a must-have product because of the sheer amount of detail it can capture. This is the Nikon 50mm lens, which provides a large f/1.8 aperture for best results in low-light environments, whether on rainy or cloudy days.
In addition, by using its aperture correctly, it allows you to increase the depth of field and make the focus points stand out from the background, achieving blurred finishes with a lot of detail in the characters or objects, which translates into an image more faithful to reality.
On the other hand, it can reduce halos and make colors more vibrant, thanks to the Super Integrated Coating that improves light transmission and as a result provides higher image quality. In this sense, many think that it is the best value for money Nikon lens, since its cost can be high, but it also allows you to take professional shots without much effort.
Among the variety of models that exists, it is normal to wonder which is the best Nikon lens, however, experts agree that the 50mm is among the outstanding ones, so it is recommended that you consider its pros and cons:
Pros
Colors: It is capable of capturing colors with greater realism thanks to its Super Integrated Coating to improve light transmission.
Aperture: Its aperture is f/1.8 to offer clear images even in low light.
Backgrounds: Offers a good depth of field, so it can give you attractive Bokeh-like blurred backgrounds.
Cons
Zoom: This 50mm lens does not have a zoom, which forces you to move to zoom in or out of what you want to capture.
Nikon 55-200 lens
3. Nikon AF S DX 55 200mm f/4 5.6
This Nikon 55-200 lens is compatible with newer compact cameras with DX sensors, offering a retractable design that is very small and lightweight, weighing just 300g and measuring 83mm when folded. In addition, its zoom range is very versatile, making it possible to take group photos and portraits, as well as telephotos to take close-ups at events and sports fields.
It has a Vibration Reduction stabilizer, appropriate to avoid blurry photos and moving videos, especially when you are using the camera without a tripod or external support. It offers Super Integrated Coating, which reduces ghosting, glare and greatly improves color reproduction.
One of its most innovative features is the extra-low dispersion ED glass, capable of eliminating optical distortion. It also incorporates a rounded diaphragm so that the elements out of little have a more realistic appearance.
It is necessary to have a quality lens that guarantees you to capture clear images, as is the case with this model. Therefore, we detail its important characteristics before you make the investment:
Pros
Multifunction: It can be used to capture realistic images in different environments and at any time.
Glass: It is made up of a high-tech ED optical glass, which corrects the chromatic aberrations of the image.
Weight: It has a weight of 300 g, so it is quite light so as not to cause exhaustion at the time of use.
Cons
Focus: Focus might not be as efficient in manual mode as you can easily lose focus point.
Nikon 18-200 lens
4. Nikon AF S DX 18 200mm F3.5-5.6G ED
The most outstanding aspect of this Nikon 18-200mm lens is that it has an optimal 11x zoom, which allows you to correctly visualize the details of the scene from wide angle to telephoto. In addition, when zooming in, the image will not lose stability, since it has Vibration Reduction technology, suitable for taking quality shots when using the camera in hand or in situations that require fast photography.
It can be used to take landscape photos with very good results, as it is also capable of maximizing optical performance while reducing chromatic aberrations, thanks to its Extra-Low Dispersion glass.
It offers Super Integrated Coating, indicated to improve color quality, reduce glare in the image and improve light transmission, in this way you can obtain an image more faithful to what your eyes see and with professional quality.
If you are wondering which Nikon lens to buy to take quality portraits, but you want it to offer you enough space to take group photos, then it is recommended that you know the main features of this Nikon wide-angle lens:
Pros
Scope: It has a focal length of 18 to 200 mm and incorporates a powerful 11x zoom, so it is capable of zooming in on the image without losing quality or taking pictures with a large field of view.
Aperture: Its aperture range is between f/3.5 and 5.6, thus, it is bright enough to take attractive photos in low light conditions.
Technologies: It has a Silent Wave Motor, Vibration Reduction and M/A mode, to favor the practicality of the lens.
Cons
Weight: It has a weight of 565 g, being heavier than other models of this brand.
Nikon 18-105 lens
5. Nikon AF S DX VR 18 105mm G
It is a Nikon 18-105mm lens optimized for effective use on DX-format DSLR cameras. In addition, it has a wide dynamic range, which is useful for capturing attractive portraits, capturing the beauty of landscapes and taking quality photos in intense action situations, as well as recording clear HD videos.
Its zoom is 5.8x, which is enough to capture most scenes with a single lens, giving you a higher level of versatility. In addition, its aperture is f/3.5-5.6, thus making it possible to take properly illuminated photographs even at night.
Also, its different technologies ensure the quality of the video and images at all times. ED glass and aspherical elements enable efficient correction of aberrations that can occur during focusing, as well as increased sharpness and color pickup.
This is a versatile lens that allows you to be prepared for any photo and video situation, so it’s worth checking out its most notable positives and negatives before you make a purchase decision:
Pros
Versatility: It is a multifunctional lens that saves you from having to continually change lenses, as it is suitable for most situations.
Stabilizer: It has Vibration Reduction, which allows you to capture sharp images with a handheld camera.
Silent: It has a Silent Wave Motor, indicated so as not to cause noise when using the autofocus.
Cons
Use: It is an appropriate lens for beginners, since its features may not be sufficient for professional use.
Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens
6. Nikon AF S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G
It is a Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens, which has extensive technological capabilities and a large aperture to illuminate the darkest environments, as well as add blurred backgrounds to your photographs with professional finishes, which highlight the presence of the focus point, in this way way, you can create memorable portraits.
Plus, it’s one of Nikon’s cheapest and most compact lenses, so you can take it on the road and integrate it into your photography kit without spending a lot of money. On the other hand, its focal length allows you to achieve more realistic viewing angles and with sharper details, in this sense, it is suitable for giving your captures a more natural perspective that generates emotions in the viewer.
Offers Rear Focus System, indicated so that only the rear lens moves during focus in order not to change the physical length of the lens. Also, it can be used manually or automatically for greater versatility.
If you have little experience, it is possible that all lenses seem similar to you, so if you are looking for a lens that allows you to take different photos, then you should carefully analyze the pros and cons of this 35mm, which is also one of the cheapest.:
Pros
Compatibility: It is compatible with DX-format SLR cameras, so it can be part of your photography kit.
Realism: It has a 35mm focal length, with which you can capture moments with greater realism and naturalness.
Backgrounds: Thanks to its f/1.8 aperture, you can get attractive blurred backgrounds in your photos.
Cons
Zoom: It is a fixed lens, so it does not allow you to zoom in on events or sports.
Nikon 55-200 lens
7. Nikon 55 200mm f/4.0 5.6 AF S DX
This is a 55-200 Nikon lens that has a Silent Wave Motor, indicated above all to not make noise during autofocus, it is also more precise than traditional models.
It has an aperture range of f/4.0-5.6, so it is mainly indicated for use outdoors where the light is greater, in this way you can correctly illuminate your photographs. In this case, you will not only be getting an image with more vibrant colors, but you will also be getting blurred backgrounds, to isolate the subject and achieve a more professional finish.
Its 200mm focal length makes close-up telephoto shooting possible, whether shooting portraits or landscapes. Similarly, it can give you a wide field of view thanks to its 3.6x zoom, suitable for capturing details in natural subjects, such as flowers or insects.
A telephoto lens might be the safest option for shooting events and intense action situations. In this sense, it is worth reviewing the pros and cons of this model before deciding:
Pros
Glass: To reduce the spots of aberrations in photos during focusing, this lens features ED Glass for optimal correction.
Zoom: It has a 3.6x zoom, which is appropriate for capturing details in portraits, sports or when photographing wildlife.
Mode: It can work manually or automatically according to your preferences.
Cons
Aperture: Its aperture has a range between f/4.0-5.6, which may not be enough in low-light indoor spaces.
Nikon 18-140 lens
8. Nikon AF S DX NIKKOR 18 140 f/3.5 5.6G
This powerful and versatile Nikon 18-140 lens is optimized to enhance Nikon camera sensors and take high-resolution photos. In addition, it has a 7.8x zoom to shoot from different distances and take wide family portraits or telephotos of the action at sporting events.
It incorporates Vibration Reduction technology to help stabilize images when you use the camera handheld. Also, its image quality closely resembles a Nikon macro lens, thanks to the sharpness it offers when used at slow shutter speeds.
It has a good performance at night, since it integrates ED glass, which means that it eliminates reflections and improves contrast, in this way, the colors of the image will be more intense and vibrant. As if that were not enough, it has an IF lens, in which the internal elements of the lens are the only ones that move during focus.
A high resolution lens that gives you a higher level of sharpness may be the most appropriate option for professional photos. If this is what you are looking for, it is recommended that you know the main characteristics of this lens:
Pros
Focus: Its focal length range is between f/18-140mm, so you can use it as a wide angle lens for a wide field of view or as a telephoto lens for details.
Aperture: It has an aperture of f / 3.5-5.6, so you can adapt it without much effort in dark and light environments.
Stabilizer: It has Vibration Reduction to avoid blurry photos with the camera in hand.
Cons
Vignette: In some lighting situations, it may create a faint vignette around the image. However, it incorporates ED glass to reduce the constancy of these and other aberrations.
Nikon 70-300 lens
9. Nikon AF P70 300mm f/4.5 5.6E ED
One of the most outstanding features of this Nikon 70-300 lens is its innovative NIKKOR P-series Stepper Motor, capable of offering a quieter and more precise focus compared to other automatic drive systems, which makes it appropriate during video recording.
For greater precision, it has an electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism that is activated when using automatic exposure in continuous shooting situations, which favors good lighting and quality in captures. On the other hand, it has a versatile system that allows you to switch from manual to automatic focus and vice versa by simply moving the switch on its structure.
It is a telephoto lens that can slightly blur the backgrounds to give a better finish to the photographs. As if that were not enough, it is a model resistant to dust and drops of water, so you can use it in intense action environments.
If you are looking for the best brand of lenses, it is possible that this Nikon product meets your expectations, since it is for professional use and incorporates a series of technologies that make it innovative and practical. For this reason, it is worth knowing its pros and cons:
Pros
Diaphragm: Offers an innovative automatic mechanism that improves the performance of light in high-speed sequences.
Focus: It is capable of a more precise focus thanks to its Stepper Motor, which is also quieter than other systems.
Distance: It is a tele lens with a focal length between 70 and 300 mm, to capture details from long distances.
Cons
Weight: Its weight is 680 g, which could affect the stability of the camera and cause exhaustion at the time of use.
Shopping guide
It is especially necessary to know the nomenclature and the terms used in the description of the objectives, since this facilitates the search and makes it possible for us to determine the quality of the equipment. Big brands, like Nikon, often put a lot of letters and numbers around their lenses, usually indicating their highlights. To understand them, we have prepared a guide to buying the best Nikon lens, which will allow you to fully understand the concepts of each model.
Focal distance
The most outstanding aspect of each Nikon lens is its focal length range, which we find after the mark expressed in millimeters. This is the one that allows us to know the angles of vision, where the lower numbers show us a wider image, appropriate for taking general shots and photographing large scenes, while the higher numbers close the field of vision more and make it possible to take long distance photography.
Among the shorter focal lengths we can find the most common lenses, which are 18-55mm, also called wide angles and are functional to capture most situations that occur around you. Also, we find the 18-200mm models, which are even more versatile and can take pictures up close or far, but tend to have a larger design, which is worth considering for the stability of the camera.
The large 70-300mm lenses tend to provide more detail and sharpness in the image, which is why they are part of the kits of professionals, who call them tele lenses. However, it is also possible to find simpler models that do not have a focal length range, which means they do not allow you to zoom or change the scale, but are usually just as powerful and provide more detail, such as the 50mm or 35mm.
The focal length is complemented by the zoom, which may not be necessary for still photography, but is highly functional for events that require dexterity and skill, such as weddings or parties, where many things are happening around you and you need to capture them all without moving. of your position. Usually zooms can be available from 5.8x up to 11x.
Opening
After making a comparison of Nikon lenses, we can understand that its aperture capacity is a characteristic that can define how much the lens costs and the performance of the camera in low light environments, as well as the quality of its focus. This term is found with the lowercase letter f followed by a number, the smaller this number, the more light that will enter the lens.
In this sense, you can find lenses with a range of f/3.5-5.6, as well as other models with a single aperture of f/1.8, also called bright lenses. This type of lens is less economical but provides professional quality shots.
Not only can light change with the aperture, but also its depth of field. The smaller the value of its aperture, the greater the level of blurring in the background, in this way, the subject in focus can stand out more, that is, a smaller depth of field, which is widely used in professional photography due to the finish in your images.
Technology
Current lenses are not only capable of focusing or allowing you to control the lighting of an image, but also incorporate a series of technologies that facilitate their use and provide higher quality captures. One of Nikon’s most outstanding technologies that should be available in the lens of your choice is Vibration Reduction (VR), which ensures photography stability and lets you shoot handheld, which is very useful on telephoto lenses..
On the other hand, some Nikon models have a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), capable of producing rotational energy from traveling waves, which is especially practical in autofocus mode, since it increases its precision and is also silent.
As for the technology used in the lens, the most popular today is Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass, which improves aberrations for a more realistic image. In this sense, the ED glass increases sharpness and captures the colors of the image in greater detail. This type of technology is useful in telephoto lenses that require higher quality.
Internal Focus (IF) is a new technology that tells us that the lens does not change its size during focus, as it happens with traditional lenses, so it maintains its physical structure and is practical for professional photographers who require greater precision..
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a Nikon lens?
Any type of objective should be used according to the needs, but for this you must know the most recommended utility for each one. For example, a Nikon 50mm lens is suitable for taking highly detailed casual photos, even in low-light situations. On the other hand, there are the telephoto lenses that exceed 200mm and up to 300mm, which can focus on details at a great distance, are generally indicated for use in action sports or capturing wildlife.
Adding to the versatility are lenses with a focal range of 18mm to 55mm or more, which are considered wide angles and allow you to capture moments in different types of environments, no matter the distance from the lens. However, they tend to be of low to standard quality.
Q2: Which macro lens to buy for Nikon?
Macro lenses are one of the most used today by professional photographers in all specialties, since they are capable of showing a number of details that cannot be seen with the naked eye, so they serve as a tool to exploit creativity.. In the case of Nikon, these lenses are indicated by the name of Micro-NIKKOR, which usually have a reproduction of 1:2 or 1:1, which means that they are the closest to the real size of the subjects.
These are a great value as part of a photographer’s equipment and are easy to use. Among the most outstanding we find the Micro-Nikkor 40mm to capture the beauty of all kinds of environments, the Micro-Nikkor 55mm that can be used in events and the Micro-Nikkor 200mm indicated for professional telephotos.
Q3: Where to fix Nikon lenses?
It is necessary to know the delicacy and dedication that Nikon lenses have received during their development, so they are equipment that must be treated with due care in any circumstance. In this sense, it is not recommended to open them or carry out repairs on your own, since the failure could be worse and returning the objective to its original state could be impossible, even for experts in the area.
Nikon’s official technical service centers are the only ones that have up-to-date and complete information on the operation of the lenses, so you should go to the nearest office according to your region to receive professional advice for your repair.
Q4: How to know if a Nikon lens is Full Frame?
Nikon lenses compatible with the FX format are suitable for use on full frame sensors. This nomenclature usually goes at the beginning or end of your title, so it’s easy to know. In the case of placing DX, then they are indicated lenses for cameras with APS-C sensors, which although they are compatible with Full Frame sensors, they may cause some aberration in photography.
Q5: How to disassemble a Nikon lens?
All cameras have a button in their front area right next to the lens, this is the one that allows the release, so before touching it you must have the lens held with the other hand and have previously turned off the camera. After releasing the lens you must turn it counterclockwise and have its cap ready to cover the sensitive area, both the lens and the camera.
Q6: How to adapt a Nikon lens to Canon?
Manufacturers are quite exclusive with their lenses and equipment that complement their cameras, for this reason, you cannot directly mount a lens from Nikon to Canon or vice versa, since the aperture set in the camera simply does not have the measurements or the technology adequate to recognize the target. For this reason, you need a mount adapter, which must be specific to the Nikon lens and compatible with the Canon camera of your choice, so it is necessary to make sure of this aspect before buying one.
Q7: How to clean a Nikon camera lens?
It is possible that over time and no matter how careful you are, your Nikon lens will absorb particles of pollen, dust or hair, as well as fingerprints or any other dirt that stains the lens. As a solution, you must have a special brush or blower pump that can remove the particles. To remove stains, it is necessary to use a paper or cloth that does not release additional particles and spray with a little cleaner made for this purpose, carefully sliding it over the lens until it is clean.
Q8: How to put a Nikon lens?
The mounting procedure is similar to the dismounting procedure. First of all, the camera must be turned off, then you remove the cap that covers the mirror in the case of cameras or remove the lens that is already attached. Now you must place the lens over the opening of the camera and turn clockwise, while exerting a little pressure, when you feel a small click, the lens will already be correctly mounted.
