Best Nikon lenses for 2020

The lens is the most important link in photography, as the image quality depends on it. There are many units of goods for this purpose on the sales market. The review presents popular models of lenses for cameras brand "Nikon".

Selection criterion

Before you go shopping for a lens, you need to decide exactly on the type of activity (the direction in which you are going to work). How to choose the right model? Let's consider the main functionality of the structures and its purpose, and then we can make a small conclusion and decide on the model.

All lens models have a common structure:

1. Lens - directs light into the camera, which hits the matrix. Optical elements are responsible for further image formation.
2. Thread - Used to screw on various filters or camera accessories.
3. Focus ring - focusing.
4. Zoom - changes the focal length.
5. Aperture (ring) - sets a numerical value that is controlled through the body of the device.
6. Bayonet - a place for attaching photographic equipment and a lens.

Device classification:

• Super wide angle;
• Short throw;
• Normal;
• Portrait;
• Television Lens: Accommodates huge imaginary spaces, designed for landscape photography (city bustle), group portraits, interiors and genre photography. Wide-angle lenses provide a viewing angle of 60 degrees and above.
• Fisheye - gives an unusual image for human perception: a round picture. An image is inscribed in this circle, the viewing angle of which is 180 degrees.
• Macro - taking pictures from a short distance, allowing you to get an image in a photo at its real size.
• Zoom lenses are equipped with a variable focal length, which allows you to create a shot according to the photographer's exact idea. Thanks to such models, images of different scales can be obtained from the same point. The disadvantage is a weak aperture in comparison with fixes.
• Fixed lenses. They have a constant focal length, which is endowed with high optical properties and aperture.
• Whales. Standard lenses included with purchase. Suitable for photographing portraits, objects, landscapes and life events. However, the pictures taken with these types of structures are of poor quality.

Lenses List

The catalog of quality lenses for photographic equipment was compiled by the best manufacturers for this year. All models are divided into main subcategories, and in some cases, several types of lenses are taken for comparison.

Standard

This category is made up of simple lenses, inexpensive in the price segment. They are often purchased by novice photographers and are in the collection of every professional, and are also used in photo salons for photographs for documents.

"50mm f / 1.8G AF-S Nikkor"

This model is ideal for portraits or photographs in which you need to separate the background from the subject. The lens is very sharp. Covering the diaphragm is recommended to 2-2.2. The lens produces an excellent picture. With this lens, even on budget 3100 models, you can take great pictures. This lens will not work for crop if used for birthday photography in small spaces.

A full-frame high-aperture device designed for still life photography, street photography and other genres. It supports automatic and manual focusing as well as Live View mode. The drive of the system is high-speed, with the most accurate focusing. This lens offers flawless image quality. The body is metal, durable. The pads are gold-plated for enhanced signal conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Specifications
Bayonet	F
Focal length	5 cm
Aperture (F):	1.8; minimum –16
Viewing angle	47 degrees
Filter thread	5.8 cm
Dimensions (in centimeters):	diameter - 7.2; length - 5.25
Weight	185 gram
average price	15,000 rubles

• Price;
• Aperture ratio;
• Sharpness;
• Constructive;
• Fast, silent autofocus;
• Good color rendering;
• Great bokeh;
• The presence of a portrait "fifty dollars";
• Easy;
• Compact.

• Strong distortion when shooting at close range;
• Blurs AF in low light conditions.

"NIKKOR AF-S 50 /1.4G"

Features of the model: high-quality optics with a large aperture, equipped with an electronic drive, which works quietly when operating equipment. The design gives a spectacular picture to the sight. It is suitable for shooting in low light conditions or obtaining a shallow depth of space (in some cases, with a sharp image).

Due to its functionality, it allows you to eliminate the appearance of chromatic aberration and flare; has 2 focus modes. The element in front does not rotate, therefore it is possible to separate rays from natural light with a certain orientation of the plane of wave oscillation and use accessories for shooting with flash, which is carried out using a bayonet mount.

Specifications
Bayonet	F
Focal length	4.5 cm
Aperture (F):	1.4; minimum –16
Viewing angle	46 degrees
Thread	5.2 cm
Dimensions (in centimeters):	diameter - 6.45; length - 4.25
Weight	230 gram
By price	19,700 rubles

• Nimble;
• Metal bayonet;
• “At f / 1.4, the softness is nice in the distance”;
• High aperture ratio;
• Produces a sharp and beautiful picture (with open aperture);
• Perfect geometry;
• Excellent glass;
• Drawing corners;
• Handheld and indoor shooting;

• Expensive, relative to fellow f / 1.8;
• Chromatic aberration sometimes appears.

Universal

Models of this kind have an extended list of features. In the price segment, they are expensive, but they allow you to take pictures in several variations, for example, portrait and landscape photography. Designs are a priority among amateur and professional photographers.

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f / 3.5-5.6G ED VR

The 11.1x super zoom lens supports DX format (sensor size 24 x 16 mm). There is a vibration suppression system and a SWM ultrasonic motor. The model provides a lot of possibilities in the photo process or improves the quality of images:

• Shooting in low light (providing image stabilization);
• Instant operation of the autofocus system;
• Multilayer antireflective coating;
• The presence of 2 elements of ED glass;
• Reproduces color with minimal distortion.

The design is equipped with a switch that locks the zoom, thereby protecting the lens if not in use. Suitable for shooting any format: wide landscapes, macro photography of distant objects and much more. Designed for non-full frame cameras.

Specifications
Fasteners	F
Focus:	variable, 18-200 mm; distance (min) - 0.5 m
Dimensions (centimeters):	length - 9.65; width - 7.7
Net weight:	565 gram
Overview	76-8 degrees
Aperture ratio	3,5-5,6
Thread diameter	7.2 cm
How much is	about 30,000 rubles

• Focal length range;
• Universal;
• VRII works great;
• The presence of a retainer;
• Design;
• Stabilizer;
• Workmanship;
• Nice drawing;
• Body material;
• High level of autofocus performance;
• Sharpness.

• Heavy;
• A bit dark.

Fish eye

These models usually have a short focal length and a field of view from 180 degrees. In the applied areas of photography (for example, meteorologists), a circular type of lens of this category is used, which gives a circular perspective, but the picture partially fills the frame.

The most popular is the diagonal type: it completely fills the frame.

"10.5mm f / 2.8G ED AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor"

The full-frame fixed focal length lens is compatible with sub-frame cameras. The fastening of the structure is not equipped with a built-in motor, therefore, noise is heard during operation.

Purpose: shooting spherical panoramas with a cropped matrix, due to which the device provides a wide angle view and retains detail.

Specifications
A type	fix
Focus	auto
System:	FX, DX
Diagonal angle	180 degrees
Aperture (F):	2.80; minimum - 22
Focus distance	1.05 cm
Least focusing	0.14 m
Dimensions (in centimeters):	length - 6.3; width - 6.25
Weight	300 grams
The cost	47,000 rubles

• Large depth of field;
• Detailing;
• Compact;
• Cutting;
• Great photos;
• Color rendering;
• Viewing angle;
• Autofocus.

• Glare instability;
• Noisy;
• Price.

Telephoto lens

Models of this series perform a wide range of tasks: shooting at a distance of objects that cannot be approached; blur the background - this is good for portrait photography; good macro shooting.

Where they are used: for filming video reports, observing nature, photo hunting, etc.

AF-S Nikkor 105mm f / 1.4E ED

Decent glass for creating a portfolio. Is able to isolate the subject from the background from various distances. Bokeh from any angle produces an even, smooth blur. The picture is endowed with many shades, which indicates the high plasticity of the technique.

With an aperture of 1.4, the image is high contrast with little chromaticity and excellent detail.

Recommendation: For good balance, it is better to use cameras with a large grip and comparable or higher weight.

For shooting in the open air or in a studio with difficult light, it is better to wear a hood to avoid the appearance of glare in the frame.

The lens is uniquely for professionals; amateurs and beginners are better off buying cheaper models.

Specifications
Bayonet	Nikon F
Focal length	105 mm
Aperture values ​​(F):	1.4 and 16
Distance	1m
Overview	23 degrees
Light filter	8.2 cm
Weight	985 gram
Parameters (in cm):	diameter - 9.45; length - 10.6
Price	143,000 rubles

• Plastic picture;
• Fast autofocus;
• Blur quality and aesthetics;
• Silent ultrasonic motor;
• Moisture protection;
• Accurate color reproduction;
• Robust body;
• No significant chromatic aberration;
• Depth of the displayed space.

• Lack of VR;
• Plastic case;
• Dear;
• Weight.

Portrait

Purpose: for portrait and "cinematic" close-up photography.

The optics gives a soft image of the object, while masking the imperfections of the skin. Typical features: fixed focal length, which is approximately equal to the diagonal of the frame (2 times increasing the indicator) and high luminous power. Together, this gives the desired picture for a portrait frame due to the shallow depth of definition and minor distortions.

AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f / 1.8G

The beginner model is easy to operate and provides a clear image. The functionality of all indicators is high, and there are practically no shortcomings. The structure can be taken on trips.The versatility of the fixture is well suited for handheld photography. The glass "concentrates" quickly, but it can occasionally "smear", so it is better to shoot in series and check the sharpness in the process of shooting. Distortion is very pronounced here. Portraits are best done indoors.

Specifications
Latch	Nikon F
Aperture (F):	1.8; min 22
Weight	200 grams
Dimensions (centimeters):	length - 7; width - 5.25
Angle	44 degrees per minute
Focused shortest distance	0.3 m
Filter thread	5.2 cm
Price tag	12,000 rubles

• Value for money;
• Convenient focal length for DX;
• Lightweight;
• Ultrasonic motor;
• Compact;
• Equipment;
• Beautiful bokeh;
• Manual guidance;
• Quality;
• Silent;
• Can be used as a staff;
• Light power.

• Slight chromatic aberration.

Wide-angle type

The constructions are equipped with lenses that make the object of attention huge, and the background ones, on the contrary, small. Those. such lenses indirectly distort reality. Most often, this feature is used to better showcase the subject, while maintaining the background image.

"10mm f / 2.8 Nikkor 1"

One of the smallest models. It has good properties. At its cost, it is available to everyone. The lens is easy to operate and fully automated.

Specifications
Distance	1 cm
Dimensions (centimeters):	length - 5.55; width - 2.2
Weight	77 gram
Aperture (F):	2.8; minimum - 11
Fasteners	Nikon 1
Filter thread	4.05 cm
Price tag	22,000 rubles

• Protected from dust and moisture;
• Can be put in your pocket;
• Color rendering;
• High-quality shooting;
• There is no power button;
• Inexpensive;
• Saves battery;
• Stylish design;
• Several variations of body color.

• The focus ring is missing.

"24mm f / 1.4G ED AF-S Nikkor"

The model has an ultra-high luminous power. The design mechanism ensures the sharpness of the picture in any light. It also features an anti-reflective coating to reduce ghosting and flare. The lens is equipped with an ultrasonic drive.

For whom: amateurs or professionals.

What for: creating unusual shots, subject shooting, portraits, etc.

Specifications
Focal length	24 mm
Aperture (F):	1.4; min - 16
Bayonet	F
Dimensions (in centimeters):	length - 8.3; width - 8.85
Focus distance (shortest)	0.25 m
Thread diameter	7.7 cm
Visibility	84 degrees
Compatibility:	FX format
Weight	620 gram
By cost	153,000 rubles

• Little distortion, even at the edges of the frame;
• Color rendering;
• Juicy picture;
• Contrasting;
• Aperture ratio;
• Build quality;
• Interesting opportunities;
• Quiet operation of the lens;
• Focused motor;
• Versatility.
• Anti-reflective coating;
• A variety of subjects.

• Expensive.

Macro lens

Macro photography - photographing small objects from a short distance (back to back).

Nikkor 85mm f / 3.5G ED VR DX AF-S

The shortest distance of this lens allows you to get close to the subject during shooting at the desired distance. A positive property of the design is the presence of a built-in stabilization system + the luminosity of the device. 1: 1 scale shows sharp and beautiful pictures.

The dimensions of the equipment allow you to easily take it with you on a trip or on a regular walk.

The model is suitable for both beginners and amateurs, as well as professionals in their field.

The scope of use is the sale of goods, photography of portraits, reporting, etc.

Specifications
Crop field of view	12.75 cm
Parameters (see):	diameter - 7.3; length - 10
Weight	355 gram
Focal distance	28 cm
Filter thread	5.2
Aperture (F):	3.5; minimum - 32
Purpose:	for non-full-frame cameras
Amount	34,000 rubles

• For subject shooting;
• Vibration suppression system;
• Advanced handheld shooting capabilities;
• ED glass;
• Internal focusing;
• One year warranty;
• Parameters;
• Lightweight;
• SWM;
• Contrast of the picture.

• Not identified.

Long focus

Lenses of this kind are designed for shooting distant objects.

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f / 4-5.6G ED VR II

The lens works excellently on cropped cameras. The model was developed using the latest technologies and has a number of advantages: lens parking system; the presence of image stabilization; provides high quality pictures and many other benefits. The design is not suitable for macro photography, as the capabilities are weak for this process.

The budget versions can be used by any photographer; this lens belongs to this category. You can shoot anything: nature, sports games, etc.

Specifications
Fasteners	F
Maximum shooting scale:	1:3,7
The smallest distance	1.1 m
Aperture (F):	max - 4-5.6; min - 22-32
Thread	5.2
Net weight:	300 grams
Dimensions (see):	length - 8.3; diameter - 7.05
Image angle	28; 5-8 degrees
Focal length:	55-200 mm
Price	8000 rubles

• Sharpness;
• Compact packaging;
• Lightweight;
• Budget version;
• Stabilizer;
• Good color rendering;
• Focusing is fast;
• Universal;
• The brother of the telephoto lens.

• Not found.

Super wide angle

The visual diagonal field of such lenses starts from 90 degrees. This category has 2 subspecies: fisheye and without distortion (rectilinear). These models are well suited for landscape photography.

AF Nikkor 20mm f / 2.8D

This lens is often used for indoor photography. When positioned correctly, you can cover the entire width of the room. To minimize trapezoid, it is necessary to shoot from an average height.

Specifications
Bayonet	F
Focal length	20 mm
Aperture (max / min):	2,8/22
Angle	94 degrees
Parameters (in centimeters):	diameter - 6.2; length - 4.25
Weight	270 gram
Thread	6.9 cm
Average cost	35,000 rubles

• Good width for FF;
• Inexpensive;
• Fixes;
• Cutting;
• Small amount of distortion;
• Covers full frame;
• Little;
• Blurs the background;
• Visibility field;
• Autofocus.

• Great DOF.

Output

According to buyers, this year the presented lens models are of high quality and the most affordable.

There are several types of lenses for the camera, which are briefly described above and have their own characteristics. Therefore, in order to avoid mistakes when choosing a design, it is necessary to thoroughly study all the technical aspects of the product and read customer reviews.

The best-selling lens is inexpensive and can shoot several types. For example, portrait and landscape.

The rating of high-quality designs was made not only by fresh models, but also by those that came out a long time ago and continue to adhere to leading positions.