Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR is a versatile zoom lens designed for Nikon's DX-format cameras. This lens offers a focal range of 55-200mm, making it suitable for a variety of photography styles, including portraits, wildlife, and landscapes. With its lightweight design and compact size, it is an excellent option for photographers who want to travel with minimal gear while still having the ability to capture distant subjects with clarity.

Build Quality and Design

The lens features a solid construction that feels durable in hand, yet remains lightweight enough to carry around for extended periods. The 55-200mm has a plastic exterior, which helps keep weight down but may feel less premium compared to metal-bodied lenses. The zoom ring operates smoothly, allowing for quick adjustments between focal lengths. The lens is also equipped with a vibration reduction (VR) system that helps mitigate camera shake, making it easier to capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm offers good performance overall. The lens delivers sharp images with decent contrast, especially in the center of the frame. However, there can be noticeable softness at the edges, particularly when shooting at wider apertures. Chromatic aberration is present at times, especially in high-contrast scenes, though it can be mitigated during post-processing. This lens performs well in decent lighting conditions, but it's worth noting that it may struggle a bit in low-light situations due to its maximum aperture range of f/4-5.6.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system on this lens is relatively fast and quiet thanks to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM). This makes it suitable for both photography and videography, as the focusing noise is minimal. However, in low-light conditions, the autofocus may hunt a bit and take longer to lock onto the subject, which can be a drawback for action or wildlife photography.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile zoom range of 55-200mm, ideal for various types of photography.
• Lightweight and compact design, great for travel.
• Effective vibration reduction (VR) system.
• Fast and quiet autofocus performance.

Cons

• Build quality is mostly plastic, which may not feel as robust.
• Softness at the edges and some chromatic aberration.
• Maximum aperture range can limit low-light performance.

Verdict

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G VR is a strong contender in the mid-range zoom lens category for Nikon DX-format cameras. Its excellent range makes it a versatile option for both beginners and enthusiasts who want an all-around lens without compromising portability. While there are some optical limitations, the overall performance, combined with its lightweight nature and effective VR system, makes it a solid choice for those looking to expand their lens collection without breaking the bank.