13 Best Nikon DX lenses [list updated 2024]

Choosing the right lens can make all the difference when capturing great photos. For Nikon DX camera users, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to lenses. In this article, we will explore the best Nikon DX lenses.

We will discuss each lens’s features, performance, and use to help you choose the best lenses for your Nikon DX camera.

Read more: How to Choose a Camera Lens That Fits Your Needs.

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Best Nikon DX lenses

Some of the lenses here are F-mount lenses, which are more suitable for FX-format cameras. But still, these could also be mounted to DX formats; however, you must consider its 1.5x crop factor.

All lenses here are categorized by their type. Here, you will find options for prime, telephoto, macro, portrait, zoom, Sigma, wide-angle, and landscape lenses.

prime lens

1. Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Fit Lens

The 30mm prime lens, an affordable yet powerful choice for any photographer, offers a remarkable f/1.4 aperture and outstanding results with its HSM autofocus system and exceptional construction quality.

The prime lens has an eye-catching metallic shine and thermally stable composite construction, making it pretty reliable. Thanks to a perfectly calibrated focusing ring with the right resistance, your lenses will move smoothly during use.

Sigma’s Hypersonic Motor is incredible, thanks to its internal autofocus system, which provides smooth and quiet operation. Moreover, the 8-blade aperture gives a marvelous bokeh effect. Chromatic aberration may exist, but it can be easily managed with minor post-production work.

Nikon’s DX prime lens is the perfect choice for taking indoor portraits, due to its short focal length and a wide f/1.4 aperture that produces sharp images even in low-light settings. It also suits street architecture, landscapes, and everyday travel shots.

Boasting high-grade construction and delivering mesmerizing bokeh effects on out-of-focus areas. Although it does not provide weather protection, its affordable price minimizes that minor drawback.

telephoto lenses

2. Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM

A surprisingly cost-effective telephoto zoom lens is here to capture your desired wildlife or sports moments. It is mainly used for Nikon FX, but it can also be used for DX-format cameras. However, then the equivalent focal lengths are 225-900mm.

This lens, weighing only 68.1 ounces (or 1,930 g), is significantly lighter than its competitors while providing excellent performance and build quality. Its ergonomic grip and featherweight design will make it easier to capture quick shots on the go.

This sports lens will impress with its large aperture and professional-grade features. Other key elements include built-in image-stabilization technology and a hypersonic motor. These make it easier to get sharp photos, even in low-light photography situations.

It is already clear that this powerhouse is for outdoor enthusiasts. With a maximum focal length of up to 600mm (900mm), it is easy to get close to distant subjects such as wildlife animals, birds, or athletes. Other than that, it could also be used to capture landscape details.

This telephoto lens is the ideal choice if you need high-quality, distant photographs. With a maximum focal length of 600mm and even sharper results when set up on a tripod, it’s perfect for snapping shots of wildlife that might be too far to reach. Furthermore, apart from sports events, it’s also great for capturing landscape details.

It might be one of the most expensive items here, but this one is quite a bargain regarding its class.

3. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED

This budget-friendly telephoto zoom is a great option for those who don’t have much capital to invest in new camera gear. Although it is one of the cheapest options on this list, its features are top-notch and produce sharp image quality.

This lens’s construction is typical of consumer-level Nikkor lenses, which means it’s nothing extraordinary but still reliable. It weighs only 14.7 oz (415 g), making handheld shots effortless and clear images produced without strain!

This lens for Nikon DX cameras may not be ideal for low-light environments due to its f/4.5 aperture. A tripod is recommended to decrease shutter speeds to increase image quality and reduce noise in photos. However, a Vibration Reduction stabilization system is a big bonus in capturing crisp and clear photos.

It’s perfectly suited to shooting wildlife and landscapes, and its lightweight design makes it convenient to carry around while still being able to capture those rare wildlife moments. Specifically, its light weight is an advantage as it can easily be shot hand-held.

With a small investment, you could experiment with wildlife or sports photography.

macro lens

4. Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens

It is compact and features an f/2.8 aperture combined with optical stabilization, enabling you to take perfect photos even in low-light conditions. This one is also built for FX formats, but you could also use it for DX-format cameras. The equivalent focal length is 157.5mm.

The macro lens’s manual focus ring and toggle switches provide an ergonomic grip, allowing for a seamless transition between autofocus and manual mode. Additionally, its dimensions of 116 x 83 mm and weight of only 790 grams are quite impressive.

With its SWM Technology, this macro lens provides a smooth and silent autofocus. Its IF system ensures the front component stays still, so you can use circular polarizing filters efficiently. Additionally, due to its advanced VRII mechanization, you can take images four steps lower.

The macro lens is an ideal partner for capturing small objects and details. Also, this lens’s focal length is perfect for capturing small objects at a distance. So, you will be sure that you don’t scare off your tiny models and that lens shade won’t ruin any photo.

This lens’s focal length and features are perfect for your macro photography portfolio.

portrait lenses

5. Nikon AF S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G

What would be the best lens for portraits? That’s a good question because not everyone wants the same outcome from their images. But the most commonly debated options are 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm prime lenses. This 85mm lens is surely favored by many due to its features.

With its solid body comprised of a plastic exterior and metal lens mount, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G is as strong as it looks. The rubber gasket of this lens efficiently protects your camera against dust. Despite its bulky appearance, it is surprisingly lightweight, making it a sturdy yet convenient tool.

With its large f/1.8 aperture, the Nikon portrait lens is ideal for low-light photography. This sophisticated lens also provides two focusing modes, manual priority AF and manual focus, with a fast, silent wave motor, making it perfect for videography.

It should already be clear that this lens is meant for stunning portraits. Additionally, it is essential to remember that 85mm has some downsides. It is not much use for every indoor photoshoot, as it requires more space. Therefore, it is not a good option for crowded events such as weddings and parties.

The key features are its 85mm focal length, aperture, creamy bokeh, and relatively cost-effective price. This one will give you an extra spark to your portrait snaps.

6. Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G

It’s more likely a beginner-level lens offering similar specs to the previous 85mm lens. But this one here is a much more cost-effective option. Despite its lower price tag, this lens provides plenty of features and valuable benefits, making it a great addition to your camera bag.

Like the earlier lens, this portrait lens is built for everyday use and comes with all of the necessary features on the lens. It weighs a light 6.6 ounces (185 grams), making it an ideal choice for those who need to shoot handheld for a longer period.

This lens has an impressive f/1.8 aperture, producing stunning bokeh and gorgeous subject differentiation from the background. Although the autofocus speed may be standard, you will still get sharp images thanks to the large aperture. However, some edge softness or corner vignetting might occur when using wider apertures.

Tailored for portrait photography, this lens differs mainly by its focal length (compared to the previous 85mm). It’s better to do indoor photoshoots, as you need less space to focus on your models. It’s even useful, for example, for weddings and product photography.

Featuring a generous aperture, lightweight structure, and solid image quality, this lens is ideal for beginners seeking to test their hand at portrait photography.

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

Nikon’s prime lens is a remarkable bargain for economically conscious photographers. Though compact, the image quality it delivers is also pretty solid.

It is ultra-lightweight and easy to transport at a mere 7 ounces (200 g). With its convenient size, you can capture pictures hand-held without feeling fatigued or drained afterward! So, you don’t need to go to the gym to gain extra strength in your arms.

As for all previous portrait lenses, the key feature here is the large aperture. It’s an essential advantage when you need to shoot in dimly lit environments without wanting to lower the shutter speed drastically. Furthermore, its silent focus motor makes shooting videos possible as well.

The 35mm fixed lens, with its minimal focal length, is ideal for portrait and indoor photography, offering versatility. Its compact size is an excellent addition to travel photography gear as a prime lens.

A lens with a large aperture and fast focusing is enough for beginners to get a boost in building their portfolio.

Standard zoom lenses

8. Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM

Its wide aperture and ability to capture images from close and far distances make it the perfect companion for beginner photographers looking for affordability and simplicity in one package.

The weight of this lens is pretty standard for this zoom range and class, but if you’re holding it for a long time, you might feel some heaviness. Fortunately, the built-in optical stabilization helps to alleviate the strain on your arms and shoulders.

From an optical perspective, it has two Fluorite Low Dispersion elements, two glass-molded aspherical elements, one hybrid aspherical element, and an additional Super Multi-Layer Coating that reduces flare and improves image quality.

The aperture of this zoom lens is one of the key features. With an aperture of f/2.8, you can capture high-quality visuals in various settings, also when the lighting is dim. Images remain clear throughout most of the photo frame and only become slightly blurred at corners while using mid-zoom levels.

Overall, this zoom lens would be a great addition if you want to get a job done with a single option. From group photography to sweeping landscapes, street scenes, and portraits, this 17-50mm lens does all the hard work.

9. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED

Nikon’s DX zoom lens is a budget-friendly option that produces remarkable photos and lets you capture images from close up or far away. Its simple design makes this lens perfect for those just starting in photography.

With its lightweight and compact design of only 3.3 x 3.1 inches, this travel lens is a powerful tool that provides effortless control over focus and zoom functions due to its ergonomic polycarbonate barrel. Featuring four ED elements combined with Nano Crystal Coat technology for minimal ghosting and flare and a 4-stop image stabilizer for extra clarity.

The image clarity at all zoom levels is pretty decent! Even though lateral chromatic aberration can be seen when using the shortest end, the performance and control are still impressive despite it.

Offering a wide range of possibilities, the 16-80mm lens is an excellent pick for budget travelers and photographers. From captivating landscapes to unique street scenes – this ultimate all-rounder can take your travel photography to the next level!

The expansive zoom capabilities, features, and cost-efficient pricing make this a reasonable investment.

Sigma lens

10. Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM

This Sigma lens is ideal for professionals, with incredible features that justify the higher price tag. Investing in this lens will be a fantastic investment and will provide you with superior specifications compared to other lenses on the list.

With expert-grade quality and a luxurious feel in the hands, it’s no wonder why photographers love the Sigma ART series. Made from aluminum alloy, this sleek and sophisticated device weighs 28.6 oz (810 g). For sure, you can feel pro-grade features in your hands.

This one stands out thanks to its remarkable f/1.8 aperture – an extraordinary feature for any zoom lens. It’s also one of the sharpest Nikon DX lenses with a relatively fast focusing system due to its hypersonic motor.

It’s extensive-angle and large aperture make it perfect for capturing moments like indoor events. Moreover, it’s also perfect for exploring street scenes and portraits during daily travels. Additionally, if astrophotography is your field, this lens will do wonders on that front, too!

For its convenience and expansive range of shooting scenarios, this lens is an ideal option at a significant cost. Whether you’re dealing with over-exposed skies or low light conditions, it will ensure great results!

wide-angle lenses

11. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED

Its quick autofocus and diverse focal lengths will fill your photos with depth and perspective. Plus, its budget-friendly price tag makes it more appealing!

At only 16.2 oz (458 g), the consumer-level lens is ideal for hobby photographers taking pictures handheld. Despite its size, it has enough power to create images of good quality and includes a switch that makes it effortless to toggle quickly between M/A and M focusing modes.

This lens offers a maximum aperture of f/3.5 at an economical cost, yet to ensure excellent results, you must have good lighting conditions; otherwise, your photos can be grainy and noisy. This device is crafted with a Silent Wave Motor to guarantee smooth focus.

If you’re looking to take photos in tight environments, such as real estate shoots, crowded events, group photos, or street photography, this lens can be a huge help. Its wide-angle capabilities and focal lengths allow multiple subjects to fit in one frame.

Considering all relative factors, the wide-angle lens is a fantastic option for amateur photographers who wish to capture extensive scenery without investing large sums in camera accessories.

12. Tokina AT-X PRO 11-16mm F2.8 DXII Lens

This Tokina lens allows photographers to capture incredible photos with great precision and speed, even in the darkest conditions. Its f/2.8 wide aperture zoom provides outstanding clarity at all focal lengths.

It’s crafted from rugged plastic, and its ergonomic rubberized ring gives a secure grip for optimal control. Moreover, the nine shutter blades in the aperture create velvety bokeh-style photos. This lens also includes two Super Low Dispersion glass elements and two aspheric elements that minimize chromatic aberration to better clarity and contrast.

With its internal motor, the autofocus system grants you an effortless and quiet experience that allows you to capture clear images without any edge distortion. When shooting in bright sunlight, faint chromatic aberration or fringes can appear near the corners of your photos. However, this can be quickly resolved with minimal editing!

This wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing images in tight spaces, such as real estate photography. Furthermore, it’s wide-angle capacity, and large aperture allows you to snap stunning night sky photographs too!

With its wide and consistent f-stop throughout the zoom range and exceptional optical performance, this lens is an excellent bargain for your money.

landscape lens

13. Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 Contemporary DC Macro OS HSM

The Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS Lens is a reliable and budget-friendly option for photographers who need an all-rounder lens. With versatile focal lengths, swift HSM autofocus abilities, and its optical stabilization feature, it gives you efficiency even in the closest shots!

Sturdily constructed with metal and plastic build, this lens includes features such as a brass bayonet mount that is highly durable and professional glass optics. The thermally stable composite material keeps your images crisp and clear at any temperature, while the 7-blade diaphragm produces breathtaking bokeh effects.

With a minimum focus distance of 8.6 inches, this landscape lens offers 1:2.9 macro magnification at a 70mm setting. Also, this lens has built-in Vibration Reduction technology, which provides up to 3 stops of compensation for better clarity and sharpness.

At shorter focal lengths, you can capture sweeping landscapes. When zooming out, you can be more creative and take magnificent photos of nature, cityscapes, and architectural masterpieces.

With its image quality and remarkable macro capabilities, you can take photos that stand out.

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Nikon DX-format cameras

DX-format cameras are digital cameras that use a sensor size of approximately 24mm x 16mm. These cameras are primarily designed for enthusiasts and professionals who require high-quality images with a smaller form factor than full-frame cameras. Check which cameras are DX-format.

The main selling point for DX cameras is that they are relatively affordable. This makes them popular for those looking to start photography more seriously. Additionally, DX-format lenses are more compact and lighter than full-frame lenses.

However, one of the downsides of DX-format cameras is that they have a smaller sensor size, which can limit their low-light performance and dynamic range compared to full-frame cameras. Additionally, some lenses designed for full-frame cameras may not be fully compatible with DX-format cameras due to differences in the sensor size. However, the lenses mentioned above are all compatible with DX cameras.

See more: Nikon lenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nikon DX lenses offer a wide range of options for photographers using DX-format cameras. From wide-angle to telephoto, lenses are available for every type of photography, including landscapes, portraits, sports, and wildlife.

Ultimately, the best Nikon DX lens for you depends on your needs and shooting style. When choosing a lens, it is essential to consider factors such as focal length, aperture, image stabilization, and build quality. With the right lens, a DX-format camera can produce stunning images and offer a great shooting experience for photographers of all levels.

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