Nikon lenses are often given a lot less respect than what they really deserve. While, often times, this brand rarely comes up when discussing the best lenses for your DSLR camera available out there, the truth is that a great lens from Nikon is every bit as good as a great lens from brands like Canon, Leica, or the rest of the top names in camera lenses. And, they even have their own colored ring system to differentiate the levels of quality, just like Canon. For Nikon, gold rings are supposedly the best, but there are some sleeper picks, that you might not be aware of, in their lineup as well.
Here, we’ll go over the 10 best lenses that Nikon produces, considering features such as focal range, maximum aperture, sharpness, build quality, overall image quality, and of course the price. But before we jump into the list, let’s go over a few things that you will need to know about Nikon lenses.
Generally, like every DSLR maker, Nikon’s cameras come in APS-C and full-frame sensors. This means that their lenses are divided into two main segments, one for each of these sensor sizes. Full-frame cameras work only with FX lenses. APS-C cameras work DX lenses or FX lenses. While DX lenses are designed specifically for APS-C cameras, FX lenses will also work well, though they do tend to be more expensive.
Still, for photographers who are just starting out with an APS-C Nikon, you may want to consider buying only FX lenses. That way, if you ever decide to upgrade to a full-frame Nikon, you’ll have all the lenses you need. Because FX lenses work for every Nikon DSLR—and because they tend to work better than DX lenses—we will be focusing mostly on these lenses for this review.
One last thing before we start: Nikon’s naming abbreviations; it’s the way in which Nikon prefers to classify its wide range of products for us potential customers to get them, and this classification system, that uses abbreviations as labels, works in relation to each lens’s features in which we can classify them. Here’s a simple guide to what all those abbreviations stand for with regards to Nikon Lenses:
AF — Autofocus, which means that the lens will automatically assign a focus through the camera
AF-D — Autofocus with Distance information. Really useful for metering, though it’s not longer used in modern lenses
AF-I — Autofocus with integrated focus motor (can be labeled as AF-S ancestor) – no longer used in modern lenses
AI-P – Manual focus lenses with a computerized system for exposure metering. No longer used on modern lenses
AF-S — Autofocus with a Silent Wave Motor in the lens, necessary for certain camera models
CRC – Close Range Correction – A label for lenses that are optimized for close focusing distances
D — Distance to subject measured and sent to camera, helps with color mapping
DC — Defocus control, great for controlling the bokeh in portraits
DX — Abbreviation for “Crop Factor” lenses
E – Another new label for lenses; this one in particular refers to lens that feature electronic diaphragm control. By implementing this new system, the lenses will not have the aperture lever on the back of the lens, meaning they are fully electronic, so there is no way to manually adjust the aperture anymore. These are a step ahead of the G lenses as they are considered to be more accurate, though more expensive as well.
ED — Extra low dispersion glass elements, offers better image quality by boosting sharpness and reducing Chromatic Aberration
FL – Used for new lenses (post 2013), Fluorite Lens elements are optically superior and significantly lighter than glass elements
FX – Abbreviation indicates “Full-Frame”, as in 35mm film equivalent
G — No physical aperture ring on the lens, won’t work on most film cameras
IF —Internal focusing, allows the lens to focus faster but now included in most lenses
Micro – Lenses meant to be for close-up work
N – Assigned to lenses with Nano Crystal Coat, which is Nikon’s newest technology for handling color performance, reducing ghosting/flare effects while enhancing sharpness
RF – Rear Focusing – the focusing is done by moving the rear element inside of the lens
SIC – Lenses with Super Integrated Coating – It’s a system prior to Nano Crystal Coating, which gives better color performance and reduces ghosting/flare effects
VR — Vibration reduction, moves internal elements to counteract lens shake
Prime Lenses
AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4 G EDGo to Amazon
This lens has one of the largest apertures of any wide-angle out there. Plus, it’s sharp. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better 24mm prime from any lens maker. But of course, with great quality comes a very high price tag.
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Overall rating:
90
Performance:
0
95
100
Focus Speed:
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80
100
Weight:
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90
100
Features:
0
95
100
Pros
Superior sharpness
Silent
AF Capable
Cons
Expensive
A bit slow
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A lens that was launched in February 2010, and since then has become a classic for any landscape or architectural photograph. This lens Nikon 24 mm f/1. 4 g has been designed for demanding professionals who seek high quality optics of a fixed wide angle lens for low light situations or to create pronounced effects of depth of field. The result is a lens of exceptional sharpness, both in the center and towards the edges of the lens; resistant to demanding weather conditions and sealed to protect the lens from dust; keeping a silent profile in the process.
Handling: As it's mainly a weather-resistant lens, it was made of a sturdy plastic material, which gives us the impression of being a metallic material at first glance. It wisely combines the technology of Autofocus with a manual focus ring located in the front of the barrel, allowing us to force the focus to convenience.
Focus speed and precision: despite what's mentioned above the focus speed of this lens is not one of its strongest points. Compared with some other Nikon lenses, we can say that its focus speed has just met the basic requirement for the mid-range of Nikon lenses; however, thanks to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM), Nikon compensates for that delay with a sharpness without any noise, enviable for many lenses.
Contrast: In comparison with the new models of Prime Lenses, the contrast of the Nikon 24 mm f/1. 4 g is a plus; getting an amazing range of tones uncommonly seen in Prime Lenses - however, it does not act in as sharp as current lenses would do so.
Bokeh: It is not the highlight of this lens (such feature is mostly attributed to portrait lenses), but can meet our expectations with convincing results.
Vignetting can be appreciated while in value of maximum aperture (f/1.4); being considerably reduced at f/2.8. In regards to unwanted lighting, Nano-Coating Technology collaborates us by significantly reducing flares when photographing landscapes during the day.
It is necessary to compensate for the distortion of the lens in perspective - we find ourselves mostly prone to this while being closer to the object we are getting photographed.
AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8GGo to Amazon
The only DX lens on this list, this one is a great alternative to the 50mm listed below. On a DX camera, that 50mm will perform like an 85mm, and this 35mm will perform like a 50mm. So if you’re considering an affordable, general use prime lens for your DX camera, this is probably your best bet.
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Overall rating:
79
Performance:
0
85
100
Focus Speed:
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70
100
Weight:
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100
100
Features:
0
60
100
Pros
Cheap
AF-Capable
Exceptional quality for its price
Little focus shift
Acceptable handling of ghosting and flare
Good performance in low light conditions
Cons
Doesn't feature Nano Crystal Coating
High Vignetting levels
High amount of Chromatic Aberration
Doesn't handle Bokeh in a comfortable way
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This compact and lightweight lens (which really is super light-weight), as well as being incredibly efficient is very economical, making it a must-have for your Nikon camera kit.
35mm format is considered "in the middle", as far as the focal length is concerned. It is not too broad as a wide angle nor is it as narrow as a telephoto, allowing for a wide range of scenarios to be covered, from landscape to portraits. This is actually one of the options preferred by the street photographers, since it is a lens "on the go": practical, lightweight and versatile.
Also, it can be used in both Full Frame and Crop Factor cameras, making it an economical choice for your kit that will certainly last for years. From capturing images with poor lighting conditions to creating interesting Bokeh effects, the Nikon 35 mm f/1.8G ED won't leave you disappointed.
The ED denomination used for this lens refers to the Extra-Low Dispersion system, which references a technology designed to reduce chromatic aberration; which added to a Silent Wave Motor (SWM/AF-S), will ensure greater shooting accuracy without compromising the speed of capture.
Handling: Much of this lens's light weight is due to its carefully planned construction from rigid plastic; while the material is less damage resistant when compared to the metal materials used in the zoom models, we must simply keep that in mind when operating in order to avoid unnecessary shock or wear from consistent use. Despite the overall plastic construction, the stud is made with metal, and has a rubber gasket installed to prevent dust and other similar elements from accessing the internal workings of the camera. Additionally, this lens is so light that it is comfortable to operate without the need of a tripod, even in scenarios where we cannot allow even the slightest movement. With a considerably thick focus ring, you can easily adjust the manual focus at any time without having to change the position of the camera. It also includes an HB-70 Lens Hood, which is removable.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: Unlike what many might expect, This lens has a much more agile behavior than the older model, the f/1.4G. With a Silent Wave Motor system, this is a fast, accurate and quiet lens. As far as its Autofocus goes, it has good performance in poor lighting conditions, which reinforces the idea of cost-effectiveness.
Contrast: For being a 35mm lens we can expect a pretty consistent behavior at any point of the lens area; however, this lens has excellent color and contrast in the center, noticeable enough to make it stand out when compared to other similar models from the competition, as well as some of the others produced by Nikon. Despite being an old lens, even in comparison with more modern lenses, this one still has plenty to be admired.
Bokeh: As this isn't a lens designed for portraits, we cannot expect an excellent performance with regards to Bokeh. Being the midpoint between wide-angle and telephoto, The user just has to remember not to get too close to the subject, as this tends to produce distortions. For situations like that, the f/1.4G would a considerably better option.
The Vignetting effects are clearly visible with this lens, especially around the larger aperture values. As it lacks the Nano Crystal Coating System (f/1.4G does implement it), this lens relies on the Super Integrated Coating (SIC) technology to reduce issues such as ghosting and flare. Not a first quality result like what you would see with 'N' lenses, but given its price, that is something that could probably be ignored.
AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8GGo to Amazon
One of the cheapest lenses Nikon makes also happens to be one of their best. If you search for a 50mm Nikon, you’ll find a few, very similar options. To be honest, they’re all great and perform almost the same. But this one is half the price of the f/1.4 option, works on FX cameras, and also works really well for video too.
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Overall rating:
79
Performance:
0
80
100
Focus Speed:
0
85
100
Weight:
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90
100
Features:
0
60
100
Pros
Cheap
Lightweight
AF-Capable
Extremely sharp images
Great for street, wedding, landscape or portrait photography
Cons
Considerable Distortion
Heavy Vignetting
Complicated to clean the front glass element
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When the Nikon 50 mm f/1.8 g came to the market in 2011, the intention was to offer a good quality portrait photography lens for either amateur public or professionals, under affordable terms.
Designed as an update of the old Nikon 50 mm f/1.8D, in comparison with its predecessor, adds more optical elements in 6 groups (optical 7 elements in 6 groups against 6 optical elements in 5 groups of the 2002 model). With this upgrade, Nikon guarantees to reduce the Chromatic Aberrations of its predecessor, and to improve the quality of the focus.
Handling: Like most of the Nikon Prime lens models, it is built with a durable plastic and a metal mount, adding the rubber gasket to ensure that our camera is not affected by the dust that can exist in the environment at the time of a photo shoot - the 50 mm f/1.8D did not implement this gasket. The change in size in relation to its predecessor is notorious, being almost one-third larger; however, it is just 95 grams heavier than the Nikon 50 mm f/1.8D. It must be borne in mind that it is not a weather sealed lens, so exposure to climatic factors such as rain, snow or extreme temperatures run entirely at our risk.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: In comparison with the more expensive version of this lens, the 50mm f/1.4G, it has a better focus speed - speed that sadly acquires by sacrificing a quieter profile. It was not intended to be exceptional in bad lighting conditions, quite the opposite; on more than one occasion we would need to activate the AF-Assist Lamp to ensure accuracy in the focus.
Contrast: It shows an excellent performance both in sharpness and reproduction of the colors captured.
Bokeh: It is in the Bokeh effects where this lens has an outstanding performance against potential competitors in the market. If we compare the quality of the Bokeh of this lens with its predecessor or the f/1.4 we will see a similar behavior to the f/1.4, but in a 7 blades instead of the 9 system that presents the first. Speaking on quality/price ratio, f/1.8 wins.
As a wide angle lens that is, the effects of Vignetting will be very evident, so it will be necessary to resort to photo editing tools to compensate for these values. Distortion values are so rare that they should not be taken into account in most cases.
Ghosting and Glare situations are properly regulated, despite not having Nano Crystal Coating (works with SIC); which can be even improved using a lens hood or a UV filter.
AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8GGo to Amazon
Although a budget portrait lens, this one really performs well above its price range. If you’re adding to your lineup with some lower cost prime lenses, this is a great portrait lens to have. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done with very few restrictions.
Watch video review
Overall rating:
62
Performance:
0
75
100
Focus Speed:
0
80
100
Weight:
0
52
100
Features:
0
40
100
Pros
AF-Capable
Exceptional resolution and contrast
Lightweight
Compact
Cons
A bit expensive for being a prime lens
Heavy Chromatic Aberration
Prone to Distortions
Can show some Ghosting
Front/back focusing issues
Not weather sealed
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The first Prime lens designed for portrait photography in this list. It was released in January of 2012, falling into the modern category of lenses (this is the reason why its price tends be slightly higher when compared to similar models). First of all, we must keep in mind that, unlike zoom lenses, this lens has more of a consumer approach to it - which does not imply that it may not be used by professionals.
Designed to work well with both Crop Factor (DX) cameras and Full Frame (FX) cameras; to be the equivalent to 128mm when used with the Crop Factor, which can be considerably narrow for portrait photography in many cases.
Handling: Similar to other Nikon models, this model is built with a durable plastic and metal mount, then adding a rubber gasket to ensure that the camera is not affected by dust or other elements that may exist in the environment where you are shooting. Despite having a larger appearance than its close relative, the f/1.4G, this model is actually much lighter, having nearly half of its weight. This lens was not designed to be exposed to extreme weather conditions (unlike the zoom models), so it should not be a surprise that it is not weather sealed. It is a good idea to be a little cautious of the environments and climates that this lens is used in.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: compared to similar models on the market, it has more than an acceptable level of performance; not being full appreciated for its differences between photographs captured either indoors or outdoors. Note that it is particularly important to be mindful of the need to calibrate the focus in very low light situations.
Contrast: This lens displays excellent performance both in sharpness and the correct reproduction of the captured colors.
Bokeh: Bokeh effects are one of the strong points of this lens, creating very convincing results to different viewers.
Given its similarity to wide angle lenses, Vignetting effects are going to be very evident, so it will be necessary to resort to photo editing tools to compensate for these values. The distortion values are so rare that they should not be taken into account in most cases.
AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-EDGo to Amazon
This is the macro lens to get for your Nikon camera. With the 1:1 magnification ratio, combined with its long focal length, this lens has the ability to capture some incredibly detailed images. It’s fairly heavy, but that probably won't seem like a big deal once you see what this lens can really do.
Watch video review
Overall rating:
75
Performance:
0
90
100
Focus Speed:
0
80
100
Weight:
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50
100
Features:
0
80
100
Pros
AF-Capable
Nano Crystal Coating technology
Internal Focussing
Extremely Sharp images
Lovely Bokeh Effects
Cons
Expensive
Heavy
Can experience some minor vibrations
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Awarded by Nikon (in 2006) as the world's first macro lens equipped with Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Vibration Reduction (VR) system, this lens is a jewel as far as technology is concerned, featuring Nano Crystal Coating (N), Extra Low Dispersion (ED) and Internal Focusing (IF).
Handling: Given the fact that this is a larger sized Prime model because of being macro lens (focal length), it will be considerably heavier than most Prime lenses we know. Built in the same style of durable plastic with metal mount and a rubber gasket to prevent the passage of dust inside the camera. It is not a weather sealed lens, so, as with other lenses mentioned previously, is entirely up to the user to expose the gear to extreme weather conditions.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: Thanks to VRII system included with this lens, photographers can work, in terms of shutter speed, up to 4 times lower than the usual values; however the closer we get, it tends to produce a minimum (expected) vibration, which, depending on the case, may compromise our work regarding to sharpness.
Contrast: It shows an excellent performance both in sharpness and reproduction of the colors captured.
Bokeh: A performance that is enviable for creating Bokeh effects! Since Nikon won't us disappoint at this point, this lens is equipped with a 9-blade diaphragm system, capable of creating realistic bokeh effects.
Regarding the Vignetting, we can say that it is very little noticeable in contrast to other Primes; perhaps because of its proximity in characteristic to Zoom models.
Geometric distortions would be noticeable only in cases of being very close to the subject and, above all, if we talk about architecture/landscape/urban photography.
AF DC-NIKKOR 135 f/2DGo to Amazon
This unique lens has “defocusing control,” which allows you to control the effect of out-of-focus areas. It’s hard to describe but if you scroll through these Flickr images taken with this lens, you’ll see why people love it. It’s certainly not for everyone, but if you want to add a recognizable quality to your images, then this lens can’t be beat. But be careful, it's older technology that may not be compatible with all modern DSLRs.
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Overall rating:
68
Performance:
0
80
100
Focus Speed:
0
80
100
Weight:
0
40
100
Features:
0
70
100
Pros
AF-Capable
King of Portraits
Ideal for Bokeh
Cons
Expensive, Heavy, Doesn't have many electronic improvements
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It is known by the experts under many names, but they all share the position that this lens is the actual definition of the term "Portrait Lens" in what its characteristics and performance respect.
With the nomenclature DC (referring to De-Focus Control), this lens is designed to have greater control of the Bokeh effects by avoiding focus softening or anti-aliasing effects. How can we control this Bokeh effect? The lens will show us a ring with options for the aperture numerical range, from F to R. Values that tend to F will show a greater focus in the background, while the values for R mellow after it, disappearing with Bokeh effect. These effects are not as pronounced as they seem; being significant after capturing photography rather than the viewfinder. And what happens if we leave the ring at the midpoint? We will obtain a lens for portrait photography with an amazing sharpness quality.
Handling: As it has been a lens of considerable size; mainly made of mechanical elements, its weight is something to consider. It is built with high strength materials, with a metal mount and the familiar rubber gasket. Unlike other Prime lenses, this model does feature weather sealing protection features, so it will quickly become a travel companion.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: Considering that it is a lens of 1995, electronic systems for the optimization of focus were virtually non-existent, so 75% of the time, or more, we will depend on manual focus.
Contrast: It shows an excellent performance both in sharpness and reproduction of the colors captured.
Bokeh: A performance that is enviable for creating Bokeh effects! Since Nikon won't us disappoint at this point, this lens is equipped with a 9-blade diaphragm system, capable of creating realistic bokeh effects.
Regarding the Vignetting, we can say that it is very little noticeable in contrast to other Primes; perhaps because of its proximity in characteristic to Zoom models.
Geometric distortions would be noticeable only in cases of being very close to the subject and, above all, if we talk about architecture/landscape/urban photography.
AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VRGo to Amazon
This prime lens shows the others why Nikon is considered the telephoto king. For its focal length, it's crazy sharp, has a wide aperture, and excellent image stabilization. Nikon makes some much larger/longer primes, some even up to 800mm, but very few photographers need anything beyond this massive 300mm reach. If you're a sports or nature photographer, this is a great lens to have.
Watch video review
Overall rating:
71
Performance:
0
90
100
Focus Speed:
0
90
100
Weight:
0
30
100
Features:
0
75
100
Pros
AF-Capable
Weather Sealed
Faster and silent than its predecesor
Sharp image quality
Capable of working with modern or retro teleconverters
Phase Fresnel Technology
Cons
Expensive
Not quite capable of handling every single aspect of the bokeh process
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One of the lighter weighted lenses in format is 70 - 300mm in the world, if not the lightest of all. To achieve such category, Nikon implemented a new technology known as Phase Fresnel (PF), which reduces the amount of optical elements necessary to correct problems like Chromatic Aberrations or Ghosting. At the same time Nikon includes the new Fluorine Coat for climate conditions as well as dirt or water repelling.
Handling: Built in durable plastic with a metal mount, was the intention of Nikon work with lightweight materials in the construction of this lens; at the same time incorporating the Rubber Gasket. Comparing on how small this lens is in comparison with its predecessor, it's a huge upgrade for any photographer to use it.
Focus Speed and Accuracy: By doing comparisons between this lens and its predecessor, we can notice a considerable upgrade in terms of focus speed, which makes it even more attractive since there are few lenses with high speed and precision in this format; and not losing its silent profile.
Contrast: It shows an excellent performance both in sharpness and reproduction of the colors captured.
This lens is compatible with current teleconverters as ancient, being his impeccable performance on both. Thanks to the VR system included with this lens, the image stabilization allows us to use up to 4 times lower shutter speed values in comparison of what happened previously.
Bokeh: Acceptable performance despite having the Fresnel; however, it is not capable of working efficiently with the highlights.
Regarding the Vignetting, we can say that it is very little noticeable in contrast to other optical Prime; perhaps because of being closely related to Zoom models instead of most Primes.
As a lens that is prone to severe problems of flare and ghosting, Nikon included with this lens a of considerable sized lens hood in order to reduce such effects.
Geometric distortions would be noticeable only in cases of being very close to the subject and, above all, if we talk about architecture/landscape/urban photography.
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