This is a versatile standard zoom lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras, covering wide angle through to short telephoto in a single, stabilised lens. Compared with a basic kit lens, it offers a broader focal range and vibration reduction for more confident handheld shooting.
It is compatible with Nikon full frame cameras and can also be used on DX bodies with a cropped field of view. In real world use, it suits travel, landscapes, everyday photography, casual portraits and video where flexibility and stability matter.
Who This Product Is Best Suited To
This lens is best suited to photographers who want a dependable everyday zoom without carrying multiple lenses. It appeals to enthusiasts and practical shooters who value image stabilisation, compact handling and consistent results across common focal lengths.
It suits users who want one lens that covers most situations comfortably.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The built in vibration reduction makes handheld shooting easier and more enjoyable, especially in lower light, reducing missed shots due to camera shake. The zoom range feels natural for everyday use and keeps kit size manageable.
Cons
The variable maximum aperture limits low light performance and background separation compared with constant aperture zooms.
Real World Performance and Day to Day Use
In everyday use, this lens feels well balanced on Nikon full frame bodies and remains comfortable during longer sessions. Autofocus is fast and quiet, making it suitable for candid photography and video. The minimum focusing distance of 0.38 metres allows for close framing of details and small subjects without switching lenses.
Optical performance is consistent across the frame, supported by ED glass and aspherical elements that help control aberrations and maintain contrast.
Why We Like This Product
From the YPC Team perspective, this lens works because it removes friction from everyday shooting. In real use, it is easy to rely on when moving between scenes without stopping to change lenses.
A common buyer mistake is assuming only professional zooms deliver reliable results. This lens shows how a well designed stabilised zoom can handle most real world situations comfortably.
Comparisons With Similar Systems
Compared with non stabilised standard zooms, this lens makes more sense for handheld shooting and video, while non stabilised options suit tripod based work.
Compared with constant aperture professional zooms, this lens prioritises portability and cost, while professional lenses suit demanding low light or event work.
Compared with longer all in one zooms, this lens offers better balance and image consistency, while super zooms suit maximum reach in one lens.
Alternatives Worth Considering
If low light performance is a priority, a constant aperture zoom may be a better fit. If you want a lighter travel setup, a compact prime lens could suit your needs better.
Tips for Getting the Best Performance
Use vibration reduction when shooting handheld, especially towards the longer end of the zoom. Take advantage of the close focusing distance for detail shots. Stop down slightly when light allows for improved edge to edge sharpness.
Full Technical Specification
Mount: Nikon F mount
Format compatibility: Full frame and DX
Focal length range: 24 to 85 mm
Maximum aperture: f3.5 to f4.5
Minimum aperture: f22 to f29
Optical construction: 16 elements in 11 groups
Special elements: One ED element and three aspherical elements
Angle of view FX: 84 degrees to 28 degrees 30 minutes
Angle of view DX: 61 degrees to 18 degrees 50 minutes
35 mm equivalent on DX: Approximately 36 to 127.5 mm
Minimum focusing distance: 0.38 m
Stabilisation: Optical vibration reduction
Autofocus: Silent Wave Motor with manual focus override
Aperture blades: Seven blade circular diaphragm
Filter size: 72 mm
Dimensions: Approximately 78 mm diameter by 82 mm length
Weight: Approximately 465 g
Included items: Front lens cap LC 72, rear lens cap LF 4, bayonet hood HB 63, soft lens case CL 1118
Buyer’s Guide
Buy this if you want a reliable stabilised standard zoom that covers most everyday photography on Nikon F mount cameras.
Do not buy this if you regularly shoot in very low light and need a constant wide aperture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this lens suitable for full frame Nikon cameras?
Yes, it is designed for full frame use and also works on DX bodies.
Does it include image stabilisation?
Yes, it features optical vibration reduction.
Is it good for travel photography?
Yes, the focal range and stabilisation make it very practical for travel.
Can it be used on DX cameras?
Yes, with a cropped field of view equivalent to approximately 36 to 127.5 mm.
Is autofocus quiet?
Yes, the Silent Wave Motor provides fast and quiet focusing.
How close can this lens focus?
It can focus as close as 0.38 metres across the zoom range.
Is it suitable for video recording?
Yes, stabilisation and quiet autofocus work well for video.
Is it heavy to carry?
It is moderately lightweight for a full frame zoom and comfortable for everyday use.
Does it include a lens hood?
Yes, a bayonet hood is included.
Is this lens beginner friendly?
Yes, it is easy to use and forgiving for everyday photography.
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