Are you on the hunt for the best zoom lenses for Nikon cameras? With an overwhelming array of great options on the market, it’s no wonder making a choice can be tough. After carefully studying and testing various Nikon zoom lenses, I’ve selected 5 top picks that I’m excited to present to you today.

In this article, you will learn about the best zoom lenses for Nikon cameras, discover my top pick, and find out why it stands out from the rest

QUICK TAKE

  • I recommend Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR 
  • Another reliable option is the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens

 

5 Must-Have Zoom Lenses for Nikon Cameras


There are many zoom lenses for Nikon cameras, but some of them stand out for their performance, versatility, and image quality. Below mentioned are 5 such amazing lenses for you to choose from:

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S 

Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S | Professional large aperture mid-range zoom lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
  • NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/ 2.8 is a compact mid-range zoom that is indispensable for a wide...
  • With an f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, exposure is consistent across the entire...
  • Lens incorporates an all-new Multi-Focusing System, consisting of 2 AF drive units,...

When it comes to the ultimate Nikon zoom lens, the verdict from renowned photography experts is resounding: this lens stands as the undisputed champion.

As attested by Photographer Touch, it claims the title of the best Nikon zoom lens overall. Crafted meticulously for Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens redefines what’s possible in the world of photography.

Its standout feature is a fast and constant f/2.8 aperture, ensuring that you can effortlessly capture stunning shots even in challenging lighting conditions. 

What further solidifies this lens’s reputation is its exceptional optical performance. It not only delivers impeccable sharpness, but it also boasts minimal distortion, ensuring that your images are a true reflection of reality.

More Nikon Z lenses: All the best Nikon Z mount lenses>>>

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR 

SPECIAL SALE
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
  • Compact super telephoto zoom lens for birding, wildlife, motorsports, events and more
  • 500 millimeter of zoom power on fx format DSLR; 750 millimeter equivalent on dx...
  • Fast f/5.6 constant aperture for beautiful out of focus backgrounds and low light...

One of the finest Nikon zoom lens for sports and wildlife photography upon this exceptional piece of optical engineering. Designed to cater to the needs of professional and amateur photographers alike, it emerges as the pinnacle choice when it comes to capturing dynamic and elusive subjects.

Its compatibility with Nikon’s F-mount DSLRs establishes it as a versatile option for those who demand precision in their work. With an impressive focal length range that extends from 200-500mm, equivalent to a jaw-dropping 300-750mm on DX cameras, this lens offers an unparalleled reach that brings distant subjects into clear and vivid focus.

This capability is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and sports photographers who need to capture the action from a distance.

What further distinguishes this Nikon zoom lens is its array of advanced features that elevate your photography experience. The inclusion of an effective image stabilization system ensures that even at its maximum telephoto range, your shots remain sharp and blur-free.

The lens’s rapid autofocus system is a boon for capturing fast-moving subjects, be it a sprinting cheetah on the savannah or a high-speed sporting event. Remarkably, it manages to house all these capabilities in a relatively compact and lightweight design for its class, making it a practical choice for photographers on the move. 

Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM | C

Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Contemporary DC Macro OS HSM Lens for Canon
  • Maximum Aperture Range: f/3.5-6.3
  • Focal Length : 18-300 mm, Minimum focusing distance -39cm/15.3 inch; Offers a maximum...
  • One SLD and Four FLD Elements, Super Multi-Layer Coating

In the realm of Nikon super zoom lenses, one stands head and shoulders above the rest, earning the coveted title of the best in its class, as recognized by Digital Camera World.

This remarkable lens is the ultimate choice for photography enthusiasts who crave versatility and excellence in their gear. Specifically tailored for Nikon’s DX-format DSLRs, it emerges as a true powerhouse, capable of handling a staggering focal range that spans from 18-300mm.

Translated to full-frame equivalence, this encompasses an astonishing 27-450mm range, providing photographers with an extensive spectrum to capture scenes near and far.

It also features a versatile macro mode that allows for close-up shooting at an impressive 0.39x magnification, unveiling the intricacies of small subjects with exceptional detail. Furthermore, it incorporates essential technologies to enhance your photography experience, such as an optical stabilizer that ensures your shots remain steady and blur-free, even in challenging conditions.

The addition of a hypersonic motor guarantees swift and silent autofocus, enabling you to capture moments discreetly and without disturbing your subjects.

Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR

SPECIAL SALE
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm VR | Compact all-in-one telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
  • Lens features Nikon technologies including Aspherical Lens Elements, ED Glass...
  • Lens features built-in Vibration Reduction image stabilization
  • The customizable, clickless control ring offers quick and quiet access to most used...

Precision-engineered to cater to the demands of Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens embodies versatility and optical excellence. With a zoom range that spans from 24-200mm, equivalent to an impressive 36-300mm on DX cameras, it effortlessly covers an extensive spectrum of focal lengths.

This means photographers can transition seamlessly from wide-angle landscapes to capturing distant subjects with exceptional clarity.

Discover: the best wide angle lenses for Nikon>>>

What sets this superzoom lens apart is its arsenal of advanced features that enhance both its performance and user experience. It boasts a 5-stop image stabilization system, a vital asset when working in low light conditions or using longer focal lengths, ensuring that your shots remain crisp and blur-free.

The lens incorporates a customizable control ring, allowing photographers to tailor its functionality to their specific shooting preferences. Its retractable design not only makes it compact and portable but also adds to the overall convenience, making it an ideal choice for photographers on the move. 

More Nikon Z lenses: 10 best options for Nikon cameras>>>

Nikon AF-S DX 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR

SPECIAL SALE
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
  • World's lightest 5x zoom with an f/2.8-4 maximum aperture
  • Inspiring image quality; ideal for daily life, travel, blogging, HD video and more
  • Versatile zoom range that covers wide angle to portrait views. Minimum Focus Distance...

This lens is a testament to Nikon’s commitment to delivering exceptional quality and performance for their DX-format DSLRs. Tailored exclusively for these cameras, it raises the bar with its high-performance zoom range, stretching from 16-80mm.

When translated to full-frame equivalence, this translates to a versatile 24-120mm range, perfect for photographers looking to capture a wide array of subjects, from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits.

What sets this DX-format zoom lens apart is its impressive array of features that cater to both enthusiasts and professionals alike. The lens boasts a fast and variable aperture of f/2.8-4, providing not only low-light prowess but also the creative control of depth of field.

Its advanced optical design incorporates four Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) elements and a Nano Crystal Coat, ensuring images are razor-sharp with minimal chromatic aberrations and ghosting.

The electromagnetic diaphragm featured in this lens guarantees consistent exposures even during high-speed shooting, enabling photographers to capture fleeting moments with precision.

 

What Are Best Zoom Lenses for Nikon?


Choosing the right zoom lens for Nikon was quite the task, but I’ve landed on a couple of favorites. I’d heartily recommend the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR and the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Lens for their razor-sharp clarity, speedy autofocus, and stellar performance in low light.

These lenses are the real deal, combining top-notch build quality with optical brilliance and a range of focal lengths that can handle just about anything. They’re absolute must-haves for both professionals and serious enthusiasts.

More lenses: 9 Must-Have Camera Lenses for Nikon Camera

 

 

Thanks for reading!

I hope this guide helped you learn about some of the best zoom lenses for Nikon cameras 🙂 

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