Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR is a versatile and well-rounded zoom lens designed specifically for Nikon's DX-format DSLRs. It covers a broad range of focal lengths, making it an excellent option for numerous photography scenarios, from landscapes to portraits to everyday shooting.

Build Quality and Design

One of the first things you'll notice about this lens is its solid build quality. The lens has a robust plastic exterior that feels durable in hand, although it lacks the premium feel of higher-end lenses. The compact design makes it easy to handle, and at 490 grams, it won’t weigh you down during long shooting sessions. The inclusion of a retractable lens hood adds to its portability, allowing for easy storage and transportation.

Image Quality

The optical performance of the 18-140mm lens is commendable, particularly in the center of the frame. Images are generally sharp throughout the zoom range, with good color rendition and contrast. The lens incorporates Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements that help reduce chromatic aberration, providing clear images even at longer focal lengths. However, you may notice some softness at the edges, especially when shooting wide open at 18mm.

Vibration Reduction

Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system is a standout feature of this lens. It allows for sharper photos in low-light conditions by stabilizing handheld shots. With up to four stops of compensation, it makes a noticeable difference for both stills and video work, allowing for smoother footage without the jitters that can plague handheld shooting.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system is quick and quiet, thanks to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that Nikon employs. This is particularly useful for video recording, where autofocus noise can be intrusive. The lens does a good job tracking moving subjects, though there can be instances of hunting in very low-light situations.

Versatility

One of the key strengths of this lens is its versatility. The 18-140mm focal length range allows you to easily transition from wide-angle shots to moderate telephoto ones, making it a great all-in-one lens for travel or everyday photography. It reduces the need to constantly swap lenses, which can be cumbersome and disruptive.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal length range (18-140mm)
• Good image sharpness, especially in the center
• Effective Vibration Reduction
• Quick and quiet autofocus
• Compact and relatively lightweight

Cons

• Softer edges at wider apertures
• Build quality feels more plastic than premium
• Autofocus can struggle in very low light

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR is a solid choice for Nikon DX-format users seeking a reliable and versatile lens. While it might not be the sharpest in its class, its combination of good image quality, effective stabilization, and convenient focal range make it a great option for general photography, travel, and video work. If you’re looking for an all-in-one lens that won’t weigh you down, this may be the perfect addition to your kit.