best Nikon DX lenses

Throughout my photography career, I have explored a range of Nikon lenses. This time, I am m focusing on the best Nikon DX lenses designed specifically for APS-C sensor cameras. However, initially, I talked about the best Nikon macro lenses, offering insights into the best options.

My shift from macro to the versatile DX format has brought me here, where I’m pleased to share various lenses that will improve your photography.

Join me on the search for high-quality Nikon DX lenses, and let’s explore the capabilities of your APS-C camera.

List of best Nikon DX lenses [Quick list]

Quick list of best Nikon DX lenses.

1. Nikkor AF-P DX 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
2. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR
3. Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX II
4. Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
5. Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR
6. Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G
7. Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G
8. Nikon AF-S DX 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II
9. Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR

 

List of best Nikon DX lenses [Detailed analysis]

Let’s have a detailed analysis of the best Nikon DX lenses.

1. Nikkor AF-P DX 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR

• The maximum aperture of the Nikkor AF-P DX 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom. At 70mm, the maximum aperture is f/4.5, while at 300mm, it is f/6.3.
• This lens’s filter size is 58mm.
• This lens’s highest magnification is 0.22x, indicating its capacity for close-up or macro photography.
• However, while the lens is sealed to prevent dust and water droplets, it is not weather-proof.

 

Brand	Nikkor.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	DX format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F.
Image Stabilization	The lens has vibration reduction.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	14 elements in 10 groups.
Minimum focus distance	1.1 m.
Weight	415 g.
Adjustment	Uses a pulse motor (stepping motor) to focus extremely quickly and nearly silently.

Reasons to buy: 

• Telephoto zoom at an affordable price.
• Portable and lightweight.
• VR (Vibration Reduction) that works.
• For long-distance photos, the focus range is versatile.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Variable maximum aperture.
• It may not perform well in low light.

 

2. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR

• The maximum aperture of the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom.
• The maximum aperture at 10mm is f/4.5, while at 20mm, it is f/5.6.
• The diameter of filters or lens accessories that can be mounted to the front of the lens is 72mm for this lens.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 0.17x.
• However, because this lens is not weather-sealed, it is critical to take precautions when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Wide angle lens.
Lens format coverage	DX format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F.
Image Stabilization	The lens has vibration reduction.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	14 elements in 11 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.22 m.
Weight	230 g.
Adjustment	A near-silent autofocus stepping motor is suitable for video filming.

Reasons to buy: 

• For travel, it is small and lightweight.
• A low-cost wide-angle lens alternative.
• Vibration Reduction (VR) is available for crisper photos.

Reasons to avoid: 

• It is not suitable for low-light or indoor shooting.
• It may not be ideal for portraits or telephoto needs.

 

3. Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX II

• The continuous maximum aperture of f/2.8 on the Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX II lens means that the aperture does not vary as you zoom, allowing for consistent low-light performance and depth of field control.
• This lens’s filter size is 82mm.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 0.12x.
• Regarding weather sealing, the Tokina AT-X 11-20mm f/2.8 PRO DX II lens is not known to be weather-sealed thus use caution when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Tokina.
Type	Wide angle lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon DX.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	9 blades.
Lens construction	14 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	280 mm.
Weight	565 g.
Adjustment	Autofocus.

Reasons to buy: 

A fast continuous aperture of f/2.8 is used.

• Excellent for creative and low-light photography.
• Landscape and architecture photographers will appreciate the wide-angle range.
• Excellent optical quality.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Heavier and bulkier compared to some alternatives.
• Not as budget-friendly as variable aperture lenses.

 

4. Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

• The maximum aperture of the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom. At 18mm, the maximum aperture is f/3.5, while at 140mm, it is f/5.6.
• This lens accepts 67mm filters.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 7.8x.
• Regarding weather sealing, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is not known to be weather-sealed thus, use caution when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Wide angle lens.
Lens format coverage	DX format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F (DX).
Image Stabilization	The lens has vibration reduction.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	17 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.45 m.
Weight	490 g.
Adjustment	Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (AFS) allows quick, accurate, and silent autofocus.

Reasons to buy: 

• The zoom range is versatile, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto.
• Vibration Reduction (VR) is available for steady shots.
• Good optical quality for the price.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Some distortion and softness at the extreme ends of the zoom range.

 

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

• The maximum aperture of the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom.
• The maximum aperture at 16mm is f/2.8, while at 80mm it is f/4.
• This lens accepts 72mm filters.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 5x.
• Regarding weather sealing, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR lens has some, making it more resistant to dust and moisture. However, in inclement weather, it must be used with caution.
• The glass’s nonstick protective fluorine layer prevents water, grime, and smudges.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Wide angle lens.
Lens format coverage	DX format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F.
Image Stabilization	The lens has vibration reduction.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	17 elements in 13 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.35 m.
Weight	479 g.
Adjustment	Autofocus.

Reasons to buy: 

• The zoom range is versatile, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto.
• A fast and consistent aperture of f/2.8-4 is used.
• High-quality lenses ensure clear visuals.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Telephoto reach is limited.
• Some photographers may not be able to afford it.

 

6. Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G

• The Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G lens has a fixed maximum aperture of f/1.8, which means it stays constant and wide open throughout the zoom range.
• The diameter of filters or lens accessories that can be mounted to the front of the lens is 52mm for this lens.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 0.16x.
• Regarding weather sealing, the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G lens is not known to be weather-sealed.
• Therefore, use caution when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Standard lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F.
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups.
Minimum focus distance	30 cm.
Weight	200 g.
Adjustment	Silent wave motor AF system with rear focusing and manual focus override.

Reasons to buy: 

• The f/1.8 aperture allows for great low-light performance and background blur.
• Compact and lightweight, ideal for daily use.
• The price point is reasonable.

Reasons to avoid: 

• When compared to zoom lenses, they have less versatility.
• You may need to relocate for framing physically.

 

7. Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G

• The Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G lens features a fixed maximum aperture of f/2.8, consistent throughout its zoom range.
• The diameter of filters or lens accessories that can be mounted to the front of the lens is 52mm for this lens.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 1x and a reproduction ratio 1:1, making it an excellent choice for close-up and macro photography.
• However, because this lens is not weather-sealed, it is vital to take precautions when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Standard lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F (DX).
Image Stabilization	No image stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	9 elements in 7 groups.
Minimum focus distance	16.3 cm.
Weight	235 g.
Adjustment	Silent wave motor (SWM ).

Reasons to buy: 

• This lens is ideal for macro and close-up photography.
• Affordably priced and small.
• Excellent optical quality and crispness.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Limited for subjects at a distance.
• Not suitable for telephoto or wide-angle needs.

 

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

• The maximum aperture of the Nikon AF-S DX 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom.
• At 18mm, the maximum aperture is f/3.5, while at 200mm, it is f/5.6.
• The diameter of filters or lens accessories that can be mounted to the front of the lens is 72mm for this lens.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 11x.
• Regarding weather sealing, the Nikon AF-S DX 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II lens is not known to be weather-sealed.
• Therefore, use it cautiously in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	DX format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon F (DX).
Image Stabilization	The lens has vibration reduction.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	16 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.5 m.
Weight	565 g.
Adjustment	Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM).

Reasons to buy: 

• Wide-angle to telephoto zoom range in one lens.
• Image stabilization by vibration reduction (VR).
• Excellent for a variety of photography techniques.

Reasons to avoid: 

• May not excel in low light.

 

9. Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR

• The maximum aperture of the Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lens is variable, which means it changes as you zoom. The maximum aperture at 50mm is f/4.5, and at 250mm, it is f/6.3.
• The diameter of filters or lens accessories that can be mounted to the front of the lens is 62mm for this lens.
• This lens has a maximum magnification of 0.23x.
• In terms of weather sealing, this lens is not known to be weather-sealed; thus, use caution when using it in inclement weather to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Brand	Nikon.
Type	Telephoto lens.
Lens format coverage	APS-C format.
Compatible Mounting	Nikon Z.
Image Stabilization	The lens has optical stabilization.
No.of diaphragm blades	7 blades.
Lens construction	16 elements in 12 groups.
Minimum focus distance	0.5 m.
Weight	405 g.
Adjustment	Autofocus.

Reasons to buy: 

• A telephoto zoom lens that is small and light.
• The price is reasonable.
• Vibration Reduction.
• Ideal for photographing faraway subjects.

Reasons to avoid: 

• Limited low-light performance at the telephoto end.
• It’s not ideal for wide-angle or close-up photography.

 

What to look for in the best Nikon DX lenses?

1- Image quality 

Image quality is critical when looking for the best Nikon DX lenses. Pay attention to sharpness, clarity, and color fidelity to determine this. Lenses with low distortion and negligible chromatic aberration provide sharp, true-to-life images.

To obtain an idea of a lens’s performance, read reviews and examine example images. Consider the maximum aperture of the lens, which affects low-light performance and depth of field.

Finally, choose a lens appropriate for your photographic demands, whether landscapes, portraits, or other topics. Remember that image quality combines lens quality and your own abilities, so practice and experiment to utilize the best Nikon DX lenses fully.

2- Focal length 

Understanding focus length is critical while looking for the best Nikon DX lenses. The focal length of a lens determines its field of view and compatibility with various photography genres.

Choose a shorter focal length (e.g., 10-20mm) for landscapes and wide photos. Portrait photographers frequently prefer lenses in the 35-85mm range for their versatility. Wildlife and sports photographs benefit greatly from telephoto lenses (70-300mm).

To select the best focal length, consider your specific shooting requirements. Remember that DX cameras include a crop factor (usually 1.5x for Nikon), which affects effective focal length. Consider this while choosing a lens to guarantee it fulfills your needs for the best Nikon DX lenses.

3- Aperture 

When looking for the best Nikon DX lenses, the aperture is an important factor. Aperture is represented by a “f-stop” value (for example, f/1.8 or f/2.8) and influences low-light performance and depth of field.

Wider apertures, such as f/1.8, let in more light and provide lovely background blur (bokeh), making them ideal for portrait photography. Consider the range of zoom lenses, which frequently have varied apertures.

Smaller apertures (higher f-stop numbers, such as f/4) might be useful in well-lit situations. Look for lenses with larger apertures to capture low-light situations or to generate creative effects. It’s an important factor to consider when looking for the best Nikon DX lenses for your shooting style.

4- Build Quality 

When comparing the best Nikon DX lenses, build quality is an important consideration. Look for a solid construction made of high-quality materials. A strong lens not only withstands wear and tear but also ensures long-term dependability.

Weatherproofing is an added feature for outdoor shooting, guarding against dust and moisture. Examine the smoothness of the lens’s focus and zoom rings, as well as the mount’s precision. To avoid optical flaws, production quality control is critical. Consider the weight and size for your comfort over time.

To purchase the best Nikon DX lenses for your photography needs, prioritize lenses that are durable and reliable.

5- Autofocus 

Autofocus performance is essential when looking for the best Nikon DX lenses. Examine the autofocus motor type; Silent Wave Motor (SWM) or comparable technologies provide fast, quiet, and precise focusing that is appropriate for a variety of shooting settings.

For superior subject tracking and sharpness, look for lenses with several focus points. Compatibility with your camera model is critical for smooth integration. Some lenses additionally have full-time manual focus override for fine-tuning.

Examine reviews and user feedback to determine real-world autofocus performance. Prioritize lenses with dependable, fast, and precise autofocus, as this is essential for capturing sharp and well-focused photographs with the best Nikon DX lenses.

Best Nikon DX lenses FAQs

1- Are DX lenses any good?

On the Nikon D500, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 A DC, Nikon 35mm f/1.8G, and Nikon 40mm f/2.8G deliver some of the highest image quality we’ve seen for DX-format lenses. They’re compact and lightweight, making them easy to use, and they’re reasonably priced, especially the $197 Nikon 35mm f/1.8G and the $277 Nikon 40mm f/2.8G.

2- Why are DX lenses cheaper?

The DX classification is included in the lens name, which is AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED. These lenses are smaller and lighter in weight, and they satisfy the market’s demand for low-cost, high-performance lenses with a wide range of focal lengths and zoom options.

3- Can I use a Nikon DX lens on a full-frame camera?

DX lenses are generally designed to work best on APS-C sensor cameras, and using them on full-frame cameras may result in some image deterioration, particularly around the frame’s corners.

4- What happens if I put a FX lens on a DX camera?

Crop factor: Because DX cameras have smaller sensor sizes, the image will be cropped when using an FX lens. This can lead to a reduction in wide-angle coverage and a reduced field of view.

Conclusion 

Now that I have shared my research on the best Nikon DX lenses, it’s your turn to decide. Remember that the right lens can make a difference in your photography experience.

If you’re a beginner, don’t forget to check out my beginner’s guide for buying a camera lens. Choosing the best Nikon DX lens will depend on your unique needs and preferences. These lenses provide versatility and quality when capturing landscapes, portraits, and other subjects.

So, explore, compare, and choose the lens that fits your style and helps you create remarkable images.