The Best Nikon lenses in 2023

Finding the best Nikon lenses requires answering a straightforward question and one that is a little more challenging. First, may I ask what kind of Nikon camera you own—a Nikon Z mirrorless model or a Nikon DSLR? They have two different Nikon lens mounts, and on top of that, they are available with two different sensor sizes: full frame (FX) and APS-C (DX), all of which impact the Nikon lenses that can be used with the camera. The second question is: what exactly are you planning to shoot?

To start, there is the issue of lens compatibility. With Nikon’s FTZ adapter, it is possible to attach lenses designed for Nikon DSLR cameras to Nikon Z cameras; however, this is not a suitable long-term option. Connecting Nikon Z lenses to a Nikon DSLR camera is impossible. The Nikon Z and the Nikon DSLR cameras are available in either a full frame or an APS-C sensor size (DX). There will be a ‘crop factor’ when using any full frame lens on a DX camera, making the angle of view appear more restricted.

However, it is possible to utilize any full-frame lens. This is not a significant issue when working with telephoto, portrait, or macro lenses. Still, when working with smaller DX-format cameras, you require ultra-wide Nikon lenses and standard zooms optimized for the smaller format. You can utilize DX lenses on full-frame cameras, but the image will be cropped to fit the smaller sensor when you do so.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 19/14 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: 4-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.37m | Maximum magnification: 0.21x | Filter thread: 82mm | Dimensions (WxL): 88x108mm | Weight: 1,020g

The ultra-wide-angle zoom Nikon lenses designed for full-frame cameras are often large and heavy. They do not include an attachment thread that allows for adding filter holders or filters. However, because it shares the same retractable design and modest f/4 aperture rating as its Z 24-70mm f/4 S-line standard zoom sibling, this Z-mount lens can cram an epic maximum viewing angle into a relatively compact and lightweight build. This is made possible by the lens’s design, which allows the aperture to be reduced.

In addition, it includes a detachable hood, which makes it possible to incorporate an 82mm filter thread. Even when shooting wide-open at the maximum zoom setting, the sharpness throughout the whole image frame is excellent, and the camera can efficiently avoid color fringing and distortion. It is a high-performance Nikon lens that comes at a price that is a bit steep for an f/4 zoom, but it is undoubtedly money well spent. There is an even better Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S lens, but it’s a cumbersome, pricey piece of equipment that weighs a lot.

Mount: Nikon DX | Elements/groups: 17/13 | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: 4-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.35m | Maximum magnification: 0.22x | Filter thread: 72mm | Dimensions (WxL): 80x86mm | Weight: 480g

Compared to similar third-party Nikon lenses produced by companies like Sigma and Tamron, the price of Nikon’s own-brand lenses is often more than the latter. That is without a doubt the situation with this lens, which comes in at a substantially higher price than alternatives such as the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art and the Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2, the latter of which offers the added benefit of optical image stabilization. The Nikon has a sturdy construction and provides robust performance in all areas, but the Sigma has a slight advantage regarding the image quality it produces.

Mount: Nikon Z FX | Elements/groups: 21/18 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor) | Stabilizer: 5-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.5-1.0m | Maximum magnification: 0.2x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 89x220mm | Weight: 1,440g

The powerful Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED may appear to be the most logical option for an ultra-wide landscape zoom for Nikon’s FX-format DSLRs, but the corresponding Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM Art is the lens that we find to be the most useful for our needs.

Nikon’s 16-35mm lens naturally has a less generous maximum viewing angle and aperture rating when compared to both of those Nikon lenses; nonetheless, it is less expensive to buy and has the advantages of including both a filter attachment thread and optical stabilization. As a result, it’s the most logical choice for photographers who specialize in landscapes.

Mount: Nikon Z FX | Elements/groups: 21/18 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor) | Stabilizer: yes | Minimum focus distance: 1.1m | Maximum magnification: 0.21x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 89x203mm | Weight: 1,430g

However, the Sigma 14-24mm provides clarity and contrast that are on par with the iconic Nikon AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED, an ultra-wide zoom Nikon lens designed specifically for professional use with FX-format cameras. To make matters even better, it outperforms the Nikon in controlling color fringing and aberrations, which are exceptionally well-managed for a zoom lens as comprehensive as this one.

This is most likely the most excellent Nikon lens for those interested in architecture and landscape photography. A barrel that is extraordinarily well-engineered and completely weather-sealed protects the high-performance optics that are housed inside. Image quality is superior to that of Sigma’s 12-24mm Art lens, even though the most excellent viewing angle is not nearly as wide as it is with that lens. The new Sigma 14-24mm lens exceeds the corresponding Nikon lens, yet it can be purchased for less money. This is the most crucial benefit.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 17/13 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Silent Wave Motor | Stabilizer: yes | Minimum focus distance: 0.45m | Maximum magnification: 0.24x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 84x104mm | Weight: 710g

As a ‘landscape’ lens, the Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR deserves much praise for its versatility and performance. The last thing you want is a backpack full of heavyweight camera equipment to lug around while climbing over rugged terrain in search of landscape photography chances.

This remarkably lightweight ultra-wide zoom Nikon lens weighs only 230 grams. However, it still packs some valuable features, such as stepping motor-based autofocus and 3.5 stops of vibration reduction. These features provide quick performance for still images and smooth, almost silent transitions when recording video.

The sharpness of the image is likewise relatively high, but if you do not activate the in-camera adjustments, fringing and distortion will be very noticeable. Despite this, the pricing makes this an ultrawide zoom that offers excellent value for the money.

Mount: Nikon Z DX | Elements/groups: 16/12 | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor) | Stabilizer: 5-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.5-1.0m | Maximum magnification: 0.23x | Filter thread: 62mm | Dimensions (WxL): 74x110mm | Weight: 405g

This new ultra-wide zoom for APS-C format cameras from Tamron features improved optics, a 4-stop VC (Vibration Compensation) stabilization system, and a new HLD (High/Low toque-modulated Drive) autofocus system. It is a significant upgrade over Tamron’s previous 10-24mm ultra-wide zoom for APS-C format cameras. In addition, weather seals and a fluorine coating are applied to the front element to prevent moisture buildup and make cleaning easier.

The image quality is excellent; all things considered, it is simply the most excellent Nikon-fit ultra-wide zoom lens for the DX format. It outperforms Nikon’s long-standing AF-S DX 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED lens in terms of performance and picture quality, and it costs significantly less to purchase. But, on the other hand, it costs twice as much as Nikon’s affordable 10-20mm VR zoom (which you may also want to consider if you are on a budget).

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 16/11 | Diaphragm blades: 8 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: 4-stops | Minimum focus distance: 1.2m | Maximum magnification: 0.21x | Filter thread: 67mm | Dimensions (WxL): 89x143mm | Weight: 1,050g

The retractable 24-70mm f/4 Z lens from Nikon is sold independently and included in kits for the Z 6 and Z 7 cameras. Because it is such a good lens, you can get away without thinking about purchasing a better one. But, on the other hand, this lens is the one to get if you want a shallower depth of field and quicker shutter speeds because it has an aperture value of f/2.8, which is significantly faster.

It has a suitable high-grade optical path, just like the Z 70-200mm f/2.8, which this time includes four aspherical elements and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements, coupled with the same combination of ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coat. Additional commonalities include a Lens Function button that may be customized and an information display.

This lens does not include optical VR, which is a noteworthy departure from its telephoto counterpart. However, considering the in-body stabilization in the Z 6 and Z 7 cameras, this is not an essential feature, given this lens’s reduced focal length range. As a result, both overall performance and image quality are of the highest possible standard.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 20/12 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Silent Wave Motor | Stabilizer: yes | Minimum focus distance: 1.75m AF, 1.5m MF | Maximum magnification: 0.2x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 96x203mm | Weight: 1,570g

The newest and most advanced ‘trinity’ standard zoom Nikon lens for F-mount DSLR cameras from Nikon is constructed like a tank and quite big for this category. Image quality and overall performance are the most critical parts of the design, and no compromises are made to maintain the size and weight of the device at a manageable level. In terms of color fringing and aberrations, it is razor-sharp, but it fails to excite in any meaningful way.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 20/14 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: 4-stops | Minimum focus distance: 2.8m | Maximum magnification: 0.2x | Filter thread: 95mm | Dimensions (WxL): 105x260mm | Weight: 1,930g

This Z DX mirrorless makeover of Nikon’s iconic Nikkor AF-S DX 18-140mm VR lens was initially developed for APS-C format DSLRs. It bridges the gap between a conventional zoom and a superzoom in terms of focal length range. Therefore, it possesses the same broad zoom range, equivalent to 27-210mm in terms of full-frame, but it is physically smaller and weighs roughly two-thirds as much as the other model.

The mounting plate is constructed out of plastic rather than metal, and there is no gasket to protect against the elements, contributing to the overall weight reduction. Despite this, it is a fine choice for everyday photography with a Nikon Z30, Z50, or Z fc body due to its high picture quality and comfortable handling, which are supplemented with a 5-stop optical stabilizer and a customizable control ring. Additionally, it makes a great travel Nikon lens due to its compact size. Finally, it offers a good value for the money, costing only a tad more than a pair of Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lenses would do individually.

Mount: Nikon Z FX | Elements/groups: 16/11 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Yes | Stabilizer: 4.5-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.29m | Maximum magnification: 1.0x | Filter thread: 62mm | Dimensions (WxL): 85x140mm | Weight: 630g

This lens was our favorite’superzoom’ and go-to lens for walkabout and travel photography for many years until Nikon’s Z system cameras came along, accompanied by the Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR. We must admit that this lens was our favorite ‘superzoom’ and go-to Nikon lens for walkabout and travel photography.

Built for DX-format DSLRs, the 18-200mm is more refined than the AF-S DX 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR and more manageable than the oversized AF-S DX 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6 VR. However, it still provides a handy ‘effective’ zoom range of 27-300mm in full-frame terms, which is a significant advantage.

Mount: Nikon Z FX | Elements/groups: 14/12 | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor) | Stabilizer: None | Minimum focus distance: 0.28mm | Maximum magnification: 0.16x | Filter thread: 82mm | Dimensions (WxL): 89x85mm | Weight: 485g

The most recent version of Nikon’s AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens may appear an excellent option for full-frame Nikon DSLRs, yet, this monstrous lens is costly to purchase. Although the Sigma lens is not as wholly protected from the elements as the Nikon, its construction and design are still of the highest quality.

It is physically shorter and slightly lighter than the Nikon, but it is on par with the Nikon in terms of overall performance and image quality. The sharpness and contrast are incredible, and the bokeh is silky smooth. The vignetting, color fringing and distortions have all been successfully managed. The autofocus is fast and almost entirely silent, and the 4-stop stabilizer is just as effective as Nikon’s VR system. The Sigma is an incredible deal compared to the Nikon lens because it costs around half as much.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 14 elements in 11 groups | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: None | Minimum focus distance: 0.28m | Maximum magnification: 0.15x | Filter thread: none | Dimensions (WxL): 98x132mm | Weight: 1,000g

In terms of a 35mm camera, this lens is analogous to a 24-120mm lens due to its industry-leading wide-angle coverage and its substantial zoom range. At higher zoom settings, the lens’s widest aperture narrows from f/2.8 to f/4; however, this tradeoff is offset by the fact that the lens is more compact and lighter than constant-aperture f/2.8 zooms and that it offers a more excellent range of magnification.

Features include an electromagnetically controlled diaphragm, ring-type ultrasonic autofocus, a focus distance scale underneath a viewing panel, four ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements, and a Nano Crystal Coat are included among the high-tech features of this product. In addition, fluorine coatings are applied to the front and rear parts to resist dirt buildup.

We believe this is a superior option over Nikon’s older 17-55mm f/2.8 zoom, which does not include image stabilization. As a result, it is the ideal Nikon lens for anyone wishing to update their standard zoom.

Mount: Nikon FX | Elements/groups: 17 elements in 12 groups | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: Yes | Minimum focus distance: 0.29-0.28m | Maximum magnification: 0.25x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 83x125mm | Weight: 680g

Zooms with a focal length range of 70–200 millimeters and a maximum aperture of 2.8 millimeters are frequently the telephoto lens of choice for the most demanding photographers, and this new optic for the Nikon Z-mount is among the very finest. The optical finery consists of at least six ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements, two aspherical elements, a fluorite element of the highest possible quality, a short-wave refractive element, and no fewer than six of each.

ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coat are also available, which work to reduce ghosting and flare. Among its advanced handling qualities are two programmable Lens Function buttons, a programmable control ring, and a display that shows information in many modes. The autofocus is lightning quick and spot-on every time, and the virtual reality provides a decisive 5-stop advantage. The visual clarity is breathtaking, and the build quality is quite reliable.

Mount: Nikon FX | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: None | Minimum focus distance: 0.26m | Maximum magnification: 0.19x | Filter thread: None | Dimensions (WxL): 96x135mm | Weight: 1,150g

This 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom Nikon lens is remarkable because it possesses an epic feature set complemented by top-notch build quality, all-around performance, and picture quality. It expands on the popularity of earlier generations by introducing a slew of new features such as fluorite glass, improved optical stabilization, and an electromagnetically controlled aperture diaphragm; however, the latter of these features renders it incompatible with some older Nikon DSLRs. The only drawback is that the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports lens performs almost as well, if not better, but can be purchased for a significantly lower price.

Mount: Nikon DX | Elements/groups: 14 elements in 11 groups | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: Yes | Minimum focus distance: 0.22m | Maximum magnification: 0.17x | Filter thread: 72mm | Dimensions (WxL): 77x73mm | Weight: 230g

In addition to being a lens that comes standard with several Nikon cameras, such as the D750 and D780, it is also an excellent investment when purchased on its own. The exceptional image quality is maintained throughout the extensive 5x zoom range, which ranges from a wide maximum viewing angle to a practical telephoto reach. Additionally, the image quality is improved when shooting handheld, thanks to 3.5 stops of optical stabilization. It is a fantastic alternative if you don’t require the faster f/2.8 aperture because it is considerably more compact and lightweight than the most recent Nikon AF-S 24-70mm lens, and it only costs half as much to buy.

Mount: Nikon DX | Elements/groups: 15/12 | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: HLD (High/Low toque-modulated Drive) | Stabilizer: 4-stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.24m | Maximum magnification: 0.19x | Filter thread: 77mm | Dimensions (WxL): 84x85mm | Weight: 440g

This lens was designed for use with the Z 50 and is both tiny and lightweight, much like its more diminutive sister, the Z DX 16-50mm VR zoom. The compact size is made possible by a design that allows it to retract and a modest aperture rating of f/4.5-6.3. Additionally, the mounting plate is made of plastic rather than metal, which helps to keep the weight down.

The Nikon lens has no weather sealing, even though it is both compact and lightweight. Nevertheless, the build quality seems excellent and robust. The ED (Extra-low Dispersion) element in the optical path, the fast and incredibly silent stepping motor autofocus technology, and the highly effective 5-stop VR are some of the highlights of this camera. The image quality is excellent; however, as with the vast majority of inexpensive telephoto zooms, the sharpness suffers slightly when the zoom setting is increased to its maximum.

Mount: Nikon Z FX | Elements/groups: 17/15 | Diaphragm blades: 9 | Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor) | Stabilizer: None | Minimum focus distance: 0.38m | Maximum magnification: 0.22x | Filter thread: 82mm | Dimensions (WxL): 89x126mm | Weight: 805g

This is the optimum focal range for a telephoto zoom, and many Nikon lenses on the market are comparable to 70-300mm in focal length. However, this Nikon lens offers excellent value for the money spent despite its higher price. In addition to having an electromagnetically controlled diaphragm, it possesses an AF-P (Pulse motor) autofocus mechanism that is extremely quick and produces almost no audible noise when functioning.

The newest iteration of VR (Vibration Reduction) has improved the performance of 4.5 stops and introduces a ‘Sports VR’ option. This simplifies keeping track of items moving irregularly within the viewfinder and eliminates any potential for the lag in short continuous photography.

The lens features a sturdy construction that can withstand adverse weather conditions; nevertheless, there is no focus distance scale typical of the vast majority of stepping-motor Nikon lenses. As a result, the performance in every aspect is outstanding, and the visual quality is unquestionable of the highest caliber. Although it might appear pricey right now, this lens will demonstrate its value in the years to come.

Mount: Nikon DX | Elements/groups: 14 elements in 11 groups | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: Yes | Minimum focus distance: 0.22m | Maximum magnification: 0.17x | Filter thread: 72mm | Dimensions (WxL): 77x73mm | Weight: 230g

This professional-grade super-telephoto zoom lens from Nikon is a significant upgrade from the company’s first AF lens, which suffered from excruciatingly sluggish focusing and inefficient optical stabilization. This problem is remedied with the ‘AF-S’ model, which features a quick ring-type ultrasonic autofocus and a 4-stop VR.

However, compared to the most recent standards, its telephoto reach is slightly restricted, and the cost to purchase it is relatively high. So on balance, we feel that the far more affordable Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is the better option.

Mount: Nikon Z DX | Elements/groups: 17/13 | Diaphragm blades: 7 | Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type) | Stabilizer: 5 stops | Minimum focus distance: 0.2-0.4m | Maximum magnification: 0.33x | Filter thread: 62mm | Dimensions (WxL): 73x90mm | Weight: 315g

When shooting some objects, a standard 70-200mm or 70-300mm lens will not give the level of magnification that you require. In this situation, you’ll want a super-telephoto Nikon lens with a focal length of up to 600 millimeters, and the current generation of zoom lenses that go from 150 to 600 millimeters will serve you well. This Nikon lens is the best for photographing wildlife and long-range sports, and aviation enthusiasts may find it very useful.

Our top recommendation for picture quality is the more costly Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports lens; however, this Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports lens offers a better cost and weight tradeoff for the majority of people while still covering the same focal range. In addition, the ‘C’ (Contemporary) version of Sigma’s lens is almost a kilogram less heavy than the ‘S’ (Sports) version of the same lens.

It may not have quite the same level of weatherproofing as the other model, but it is still quite nicely constructed, almost as crisp, and comes with the same assortment of upscale features and settings. If you only require a lens of this kind rarely as opposed to continuously, then the purchase makes the most sense overall. It is intended for use with full-frame FX Nikons, but when mounted on a DX-format Nikon and used in conjunction with the 1.5x crop factor, it offers an incredibly effective focal range of 225-900mm.