Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED is a versatile zoom lens designed for Nikon F mount (DX) cameras. This lens provides a wide focal range, making it an excellent choice for landscape, travel, and general photography. Its compact and lightweight design ensures that it can be easily carried around without adding significant weight to your camera bag.

With a maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5, the lens boasts decent performance in various lighting conditions. The f/3.5 aperture at the wide end is quite useful for brighter situations, while the f/4.5 on the telephoto end allows for a bit longer reach without sacrificing too much in terms of light. Despite these specifications, it's essential to consider its performance in low-light environments, where you might find yourself wishing for a faster lens.

The optical construction of the AF-S Nikkor 18-35mm has been designed to minimize chromatic aberrations and distortion, yielding sharp images across the frame. Utilizing ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements, the lens strives to deliver color accuracy and contrast, and in most scenarios, it meets these expectations commendably. Tests show that sharpness is impressive, particularly at the center of the images, though the corners may soften a bit, especially at larger apertures.

One of the most notable features is the Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which provides fast and quiet autofocus. This feature is especially beneficial for videographers or anyone who wants to capture spontaneous moments without drawing attention to themselves. The lens also features a weather-sealed construction, offering some protection against dust and moisture, which can be a significant advantage when shooting outdoors.

However, the lens doesn't come without its drawbacks. The relatively slower maximum aperture may limit its versatility in dimly lit conditions. Additionally, while the build quality is good, it may not feel as premium as some of Nikon's higher-end lenses. Also, the absence of VR (Vibration Reduction) might be a dealbreaker for those who do a lot of handheld shooting, particularly in low light or at the telephoto end of the zoom range.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Wide focal range (18-35mm) ideal for landscapes and versatile shooting.
• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel.
• Impressive sharpness, especially at the center.
• Fast and quiet autofocus with Silent Wave Motor.
• Weather-sealed construction for outdoor shooting.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5 may limit low-light performance.
• Corner sharpness can be softer at larger apertures.
• Build quality may not match higher-end models.
• Lacks Vibration Reduction (VR), affecting handheld shooting stability.

Verdict

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G ED is an excellent option for photographers looking for a versatile wide-angle zoom lens for their DX-format Nikon cameras. With its intelligent design, decent optical performance, and features tailored for convenience, it serves well for multiple photography styles. While it has some limitations, particularly in low-light scenarios and with the absence of VR, its positives definitely outweigh the negatives for casual shooters and those seeking an affordable, reliable zoom lens. Overall, this lens offers great value, meeting the needs of many enthusiasts while allowing for plenty of creativity in your photography.