Last Updated on January 13, 2019
For new Nikon DSLR owners, their cameras will be backed-up by either 18-55mm or 18-135mm zoom lens. And just like most photography enthusiasts, investing in other lenses will be a decision to make as time passes by. Whether the consideration would be for fixed-focal lenses or better zoom quality, it’s wise to get the right lens for the right purpose.
Here are some of Nikon’s best SLR lenses for 2015:
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 G ED
Priced at $1,889.95, this is the lens of choice of professional photographers with full frame cameras. Although it gives out sharp images, it does not sport an optical vibration reduction system. With its price, this can be a setback. Moreover, this feature often results to distortion and compared to its competitor offered by Canon, this product from Nikon falls short.
Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4DC Macro OS HSM
With an asking price of just $499, this model gives out quality performance. It has wide aperture and a perfect replacement for users wanting to upgrade the 18-55mm lens that came with the camera. Also, it is compatible with the Sigma USB dock and mount conversion service. As for zoom range, it boasts of a sharp 4.1x zoom and a macro magnification ratio of 1:2.9. It has a 70mm edge softness that is responsible for some distortion when shooting. Overall, this lens has good performance when it comes to optics.
Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR
This lens sports a similar appearance with Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR. That said, it is one of lightest and smallest full-frame lenses in the market today. It is also capable of extending its reach up to 600mm, not bad for its hefty price of $2,000. Additionally, users need not worry of dirt, dust and water since it uses Fluorine coat technology. It also has an electronic diaphragm mechanism that results to full control of aperture setting when shooting fast moving subjects. As for its autofocus feature, it has a silent wave motor for silent and smooth operation. For optical stabilization, it has high ratings. The downside however is its incompatibility with older cameras.
AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
With its exceptional image quality results, this lens garnered higher ratings than some of the available Nikon lenses for 2015. Its vibration reduction function results to sharper images because of the minimal shake of the camera, it ensures stabilization. Priced at lesser than $1,000, this versatile lens is perfect for both macro shooting and close-up shots as well as other photographic shot requirements. Moreover, it is compatible with a number of teleconverters. And although it sometimes hunts during focusing, its “limit” switch addresses the issue. It has great contrast and color as well as works perfectly for mid-distance shooting.
AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G
This wide-angle lens sells at around $700, an expensive yet performing compact camera lens. It has an ultra-fast aperture and boasts of Nano Crystal Coat technology which is perfect for getting rid of ghosting and interior flare. Also, it can be used for both FX and DX cameras, making it a great choice for photographers who love landscapes, travels and architecture.