Best Nikon DX Lenses for 50-75mm Ranges: Budget-Friendly Options

Choosing the right lens for your Nikon DX camera can be a challenge, especially when you have a budget. If you're looking for a prime lens in the 50mm to 75mm range for less than $250, or a zoom lens within the same focal range under $500, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Introduction to Nikon DX Lenses

Nikon DX lenses are designed for APS-C format cameras, making them a great match for budget-friendly digital SLRs and mirrorless cameras. They offer a cost-effective alternative to full-frame lenses while still delivering impressive image quality. If you have a Nikon D7200 or a similar APS-C model, these lenses are a perfect fit for your budget and performance needs.

Nikkor AF-D 50mm f/1.8D Review

The Nikkor AF-D 50mm f/1.8D is a classic prime lens that offers excellent value for its price. While it lacks an internal focusing motor, this lens is known for its sharpness, compact size, and competitive price point. At approximately $160, it's an affordable option for achieving a pleasing bokeh effect and capturing portraits or macro shots with a Nikon D7200. However, due to its mechanical design, autofocus is slower and less quiet than newer lenses, which might be a drawback for shooting in low-light conditions or when you need quick focus.

Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8G and 85mm f/1.8G Reviews

Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8G is another excellent choice for budget-conscious users. This lens is slightly more expensive than the AF-D 50mm, but it offers essential features such as internal focusing and the capability to autofocus with your Nikon D7200. The f/1.8 maximum aperture provides a shallow depth of field for better background blurring, which is perfect for portrait photography. Prices for the 50mm f/1.8G typically range from $200 to $300, making it a premium option within the budget constraint.

Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.8G is a superior choice if you need a slightly longer focal length. This lens is designed for portraiture and is known for its exceptional sharpness and bokeh. It delivers outstanding image quality and is particularly useful for professional photographers or advanced enthusiasts. While more expensive, with prices ranging from $400 to $500, it still falls within the stated budget. The 85mm focal length is ideal for portrait photography and can be a versatile addition to your camera kit.

Considering the 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens

If you prefer a zoom lens, the Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR is a reasonable choice. While it covers a wider range at the expense of a slower aperture, it is known for its versatility and reliability. The VR (Vibration Reduction) feature helps to reduce camera shake, making it ideal for general photography, including landscapes, still life, and everyday snapshots. Though this lens might not offer the same level of performance as the prime lenses in the 50mm to 75mm range, it is a solid and reliable option for a more budget-friendly $150 to $200.

Conclusion and Summary

Whichever lens you choose from the Nikon DX lineup, you can be assured of its reliability and optical quality. The Nikkor AF-D 50mm f/1.8D and AF-S 50mm f/1.8G are excellent choices for the 50mm range, offering excellent value and performance. For a slightly longer focal length, the AF-S 85mm f/1.8G is a premium offering that is perfect for professional-grade photography. The Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, while more general in its application, is a reliable and budget-friendly option for diverse photography needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the differences between prime and zoom lenses?
A: Prime lenses, like the 50mm f/1.8, typically offer better image quality and a wider maximum aperture compared to zoom lenses. Zoom lenses, such as the 18-105mm, offer versatility but sometimes compromise on optical quality and speed. Both types of lenses have their advantages and are suitable for different types of photography.

Q: Can the Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lenses be used with a full-frame Nikon camera?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that using a lens designed for an APS-C camera on a full-frame sensor will result in a crop factor, necessitating the equivalent focal length to be calculated. The 18-105mm lens on a full-frame camera would be equivalent to about 27-158mm.

Q: Which lens is better for portraiture on a Nikon D7200?
A: Both the Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8G and AF-S 85mm f/1.8G are excellent choices for portraiture. The 50mm f/1.8G is more affordable and versatile, while the 85mm f/1.8G, with its longer focal length, is better suited for isolating subjects against the background.