Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II is a versatile and popular lens among Nikon DX-format users. This all-in-one zoom lens covers a focal range from wide-angle to telephoto, making it an excellent choice for photographers who want to travel light without needing to swap lenses frequently. Its build quality feels solid and durable, which is an important factor for those who enjoy outdoor photography.

Optical Performance

The lens features a 16.7x zoom range, providing incredible flexibility for various shooting situations, from landscapes to portraits. The ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements help to minimize chromatic aberration, and the VR (Vibration Reduction) technology allows for sharper images at slower shutter speeds, especially useful in low-light conditions. Overall, the image quality is good for most scenarios, though there can be some softening at the edges when shooting at wide apertures.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus is generally fast and accurate due to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology. This allows for near-silent focusing, which is advantageous during video recording or when shooting in quiet environments. The lens features a relatively lightweight design that balances well on entry-level and mid-range Nikon DSLRs, making it user-friendly for both amateur and more experienced photographers.

Build and Design

While the build quality is quite sturdy, it leans towards being a plastic construction, which might not be as robust as some higher-end lenses. The lens also has a filter thread size of 67mm, which is pretty standard and gives flexibility in using different filters. One downside to note is that the lens does not have a weather-sealed design, so it may not be the best option in harsh weather conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile all-in-one zoom range (18-200mm)
• Good optical performance, with minimal chromatic aberration
• Effective Vibration Reduction (VR) for low-light shooting
• Fast and quiet autofocus due to SWM
• Lightweight and easy to handle

Cons

• Some softness at the edges at wide apertures
• Plastic build may not feel as robust as metal-bodied lenses
• No weather sealing, limiting usability in harsh conditions

Verdict

In conclusion, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II stands out as a practical solution for photographers seeking a single lens that can handle a variety of situations. While it has its limitations, particularly in edge sharpness and build robustness, the overall performance and flexibility make it a worthy option for anyone looking to simplify their photographic kit without compromising too much on quality. Whether you're a travel enthusiast or simply prefer a compact setup, this lens will serve you well in many shooting scenarios.