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Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for Nikon lenses that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of options out there that won’t compromise on quality.

Before buying any lens, it’s important to consider your budget, shooting style, and the type of photography you plan on doing. Are you shooting in low light situations? If so, lenses with wider apertures would be a better choice. Are you looking to shoot landscapes or portraits? Different lenses are optimized for different types of photography.

Are you tired of sacrificing quality for affordability? Have you been searching for a lens that won’t put a dent in your wallet? Look no further. We’ve done the researching for you and have compiled a list of the best cheap lenses for Nikon cameras. Keep reading to find out which lens will best fit your needs and budget. Which factors are most important to you when it comes to purchasing lenses? Are you willing to sacrifice certain features for a cheaper price point? Keep these questions in mind as we dive into the world of budget-friendly Nikon lenses.

10 Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for Nikon DSLR cameras to capture a range of distances with auto-focus and vibration reduction.
2
Ideal for capturing high-quality photos with a shallow depth of field on Nikon DSLR cameras.
3
The product is ideal for capturing sharp, low-light images with a shallow depth of field.
4
Ideal for capturing high-quality images with a wide range of focal lengths and a large maximum aperture.
5
This product is ideal for capturing close-up shots with Nikon DSLR cameras.
6
This product is ideal for capturing distant subjects with a Nikon DSLR camera.
7
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality and versatile photos with a Nikon camera.
8
This lens is ideal for capturing ultra-wide angle shots with fast focus and high-quality image rendering on Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.
9
This lens is ideal for capturing ultra-wide angle shots with a mirrorless Nikon camera.
10
This lens is ideal for taking close-up photos with Nikon DSLR cameras.
The product is ideal for Nikon DSLR cameras to capture a range of distances with auto-focus and vibration reduction.
Ideal for capturing high-quality photos with a shallow depth of field on Nikon DSLR cameras.
The product is ideal for capturing sharp, low-light images with a shallow depth of field.
Ideal for capturing high-quality images with a wide range of focal lengths and a large maximum aperture.
This product is ideal for capturing close-up shots with Nikon DSLR cameras.
This product is ideal for capturing distant subjects with a Nikon DSLR camera.
The product is ideal for capturing high-quality and versatile photos with a Nikon camera.
This lens is ideal for capturing ultra-wide angle shots with fast focus and high-quality image rendering on Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.
This lens is ideal for capturing ultra-wide angle shots with a mirrorless Nikon camera.
This lens is ideal for taking close-up photos with Nikon DSLR cameras.

1. Renewed Nikon Zoom Lens With Vibration Reduction

The Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor Zoom Lens is a versatile all-in-one lens that is perfect for capturing great snapshots and videos in almost any situation. It is designed to deliver top-notch performance from Nikon's latest high-resolution image sensors. With its compact design, this lens is easy to carry around, making it ideal for travel and outdoor photography.

Equipped with Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, this lens ensures that your photos and videos remain sharp and steady even in low-light situations and when taking telephoto shots. You can also get as close as 1.48-feet from your subject and then zoom in for stunning macro-style close-ups.

The NIKKOR optics and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass in this lens provide superior contrast and color accuracy, while Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures ultra-fast and super-quiet autofocusing. Whether you are shooting landscapes, portraits, or action shots, this lens delivers exceptional image quality every time.

Pros

  • Versatile all-in-one lens that is perfect for capturing great snapshots and videos in almost any situation
  • Compact design makes it easy to carry around, making it ideal for travel and outdoor photography
  • Equipped with Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that ensures sharp and steady photos and videos in low-light situations and when taking telephoto shots
  • Allows you to get as close as 1.48-feet from your subject and then zoom in for stunning macro-style close-ups
  • NIKKOR optics and Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass provide superior contrast and color accuracy
  • Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures ultra-fast and super-quiet autofocusing

2. Nikon Af-S Dx Nikkor 35mm F/1.8g Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras, 2183, Black

The F mount lens/DX format is a high-quality lens that is perfect for any Nikon DX format camera. With a picture angle of 44 degrees and a 52.5-millimeter (35-millimeter equivalent), this lens is great for capturing stunning photos. The lens features rear focusing and manual focus override, making it easy to use in any situation. The aperture range is F/1.8 to 22, giving you the ability to adjust the depth of field to your liking. The lens measures approximately 70 x 52.5 millimeters, making it compact and lightweight. The silent wave motor AF system ensures that your photos are in focus and sharp. The lens accepts screw-on filters, allowing you to further customize your shots. The lens construction consists of 8 elements in 6 groups, ensuring that your photos are of the highest quality. The lens is compatible with DX and FX in DX crop mode, making it versatile and adaptable to any situation. The maximum reproduction ratio is 0.16x, allowing you to capture even the smallest details. Please note that this lens is not zoomable, but its many other features more than make up for it.

Pros

  • High-quality lens that is perfect for any Nikon DX format camera
  • Rear focusing and manual focus override for easy use in any situation
  • Aperture range of F/1.8 to 22 for adjusting the depth of field
  • Compact and lightweight, measuring approximately 70 x 52.5 millimeters
  • Silent wave motor AF system ensures that your photos are in focus and sharp
  • Accepts screw-on filters, allowing you to further customize your shots
  • Compatible with DX and FX in DX crop mode, making it versatile and adaptable
  • Maximum reproduction ratio of 0.16x, allowing you to capture even the smallest details

Cons

  • – Lens is not zoomable

3. Nikon Af-S Nikkor 50mm F/1.8g Lens

Experience exceptional image quality with the fast and upgraded f/1.8 compact FX format prime lens. With a focal length of 50 millimeters and a picture angle of 47 degrees, this lens offers maximum reproduction ratio of 0.15X. Whether you're capturing portraits or landscapes, this lens delivers edge-to-edge sharpness on both FX and DX format DSLRs. The newly developed optical system with an aspherical lens element ensures excellent clarity and contrast in your shots.

Equipped with an exclusive Nikon silent wave motor (SWM), this lens provides ultra-quiet and accurate autofocus. The M/A focus mode switch allows quick switching between manual and autofocus modes, making it easier to capture the perfect shot. With a minimum focus distance of 1.48 feet (0.45 meter), you can get up close to your subject and capture fine details with ease. The lens is optimized for both FX and DX format DSLRs, ensuring exceptional performance in any situation.

This lens is not zoomable, but with its compact design and filter thread of 58 millimeters, it's easy to carry and use. The dimensions (approx.) (from the camera lens mounting flange) are approximately 2.83 inches in diameter and 2.01 inches in length. Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, this lens is a must-have for capturing stunning photos.

Pros

  • Fast and upgraded f/1.8 compact FX format prime lens
  • Newly developed optical system with an aspherical lens element ensures excellent clarity and contrast in your shots
  • Equipped with an exclusive Nikon silent wave motor (SWM), this lens provides ultra-quiet and accurate autofocus
  • M/A focus mode switch allows quick switching between manual and autofocus modes
  • Optimized for both FX and DX format DSLRs, ensuring exceptional performance in any situation
  • Compact design and filter thread of 58 millimeters make it easy to carry and use

Cons

  • – The lens is not zoomable

4. Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art Dc Hsm Lens For Nikon

The 18-35mm lens is designed specifically for cameras with APS-C sized sensors, providing excellent image quality. With internal focusing and zooming, the lens offers more usability and functionality. This versatile lens is perfect for capturing stunning landscapes, portraits, still life, casual shots, and close-ups. It has an angle of view (SD1) of 76.5º-44.2º, allowing you to capture a wide range of scenes with ease.

Whether you're a beginner or a professional photographer, this lens is a great addition to your gear. It has a maximum aperture of f/1.8, making it ideal for low light situations and creating beautiful bokeh. The lens is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use on the go. It has a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches, allowing you to get up close and personal with your subject.

In summary, the 18-35mm lens is a must-have for any photographer looking for a high-quality, versatile lens. It offers excellent image quality, a wide range of focal lengths, and a fast maximum aperture, all in a compact and lightweight package.

Pros

  • Designed specifically for APS-C sized sensors
  • Internal focusing and zooming for more usability and functionality
  • Ideal for landscapes, portraits, still life, snap shots, casual, and close-ups
  • Maximum aperture of f/1.8 for low light situations and beautiful bokeh
  • Compact and lightweight for easy portability
  • Minimum focusing distance of 11 inches

5. Sigma 258306 105mm F2.8 Ex Dg Os Hsm Macro Lens For Nikon Dslr Camera

The lens is exclusively designed for full-frame digital SLR cameras, but can also be used with smaller APS-c size sensors with an equivalent increase in focal length to approximately 150mm with most cameras. It has a 1:1 magnification ratio and a minimum focusing distance of 12.3 inches, making it an ideal choice for macro photography. The lens comes with a hood adapter, front and rear lens caps, and a lens hood for added convenience. The lens is not zoomable, but its fixed focal length ensures sharper images with more details and less distortion.

Pros

  • Compatible with full-frame digital SLR cameras and smaller APS-c size sensors
  • 1:1 magnification ratio for accurate macro photography
  • Comes with a hood adapter, front and rear lens caps, and a lens hood
  • Fixed focal length ensures sharper images with more details and less distortion
  • Minimum focusing distance of 12.3 inches allows for closer shots

Cons

  • – Not zoomable, limiting its versatility in certain situations

6. Nikon Af-P Dx Nikkor 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3g Ed Vr Lens For Nikon Dslr Cameras

The Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED lens is designed for F-mount and DX-format cameras. It has a filter-attachment size of 58mm with a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.22x. This compact and lightweight lens has a focal-length range of 70-300mm and an aperture range of f/4.5-6.3 to f/32, making it a versatile option for photography enthusiasts. The lens features Nikon VR image stabilization that reduces camera shake, resulting in sharper images. Users can access lens settings in the camera menu, giving them more control over their shots. The lens is fully compatible with Nikon D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300, D500, and later models. However, firmware updates may be required for some compatible cameras. The lens is also compatible with other Nikon models but with limited functions. It is not compatible with D4 series, D3 series, D2 series, D1 series, D800 series, D700, D610, D600, D300 series, D200, D100, D7000, D5100, D5000, D90, D80, D70 series, D3200, D3100, D3000, D60, D50, D40 series, and film cameras.

The lens has one ED glass element that helps in achieving satisfactory optical performance, resulting in high-quality images with minimal lens aberrations. The 4.3x telephoto zoom lens has a 35mm equivalent of 105-450mm, making it suitable for capturing distant objects. The lens is easy to use and provides excellent results, making it an ideal choice for photographers looking to upgrade their kit.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around
  • Nikon VR image stabilization reduces camera shake, resulting in sharper images
  • One ED glass element helps in achieving satisfactory optical performance
  • Versatile focal-length range and aperture range suitable for various photography styles
  • Easy to use with Nikon cameras that are compatible with the lens

Cons

  • – Compatible with limited Nikon camera models
  • – Firmware updates may be required for some compatible cameras
  • – Not compatible with several Nikon camera models

7. Tamron B028n 18-400 Mm F3.5-6.3 Di Ii Vc Hld Lens For Nikon – Black

Looking for a lens that can do it all? Look no further than the world's first 222x ultra-telephoto all-in-one zoom Lens. With a filter diameter of 79 mm and a focal length of 18-400mm, this lens is perfect for any situation. Whether you're taking landscape shots or zooming in on a far-off subject, the 620mm full-frame equivalent telephoto reach has got you covered.

One of the standout features of this lens is the VC (Vibration Compensation), which ensures that your images are sharp and blur-free, even when shooting at long focal lengths. Additionally, the moisture-resistant construction means you can take this lens out in any weather and not have to worry about damaging it.

When it comes to close-up capability, this lens truly shines. With a minimum object distance of 17.7 inches and a 1:29 max Mag Ratio, you'll be able to capture incredible detail and texture in your shots. And with the ability to switch between 0.15x and 0.26x magnification, you'll have even more versatility to work with.

Overall, the world's first 222x ultra-telephoto all-in-one zoom Lens is a fantastic option for photographers who want a single lens that can handle any situation. With its impressive focal length, vibration compensation, and close-up capabilities, you'll be able to capture stunning images with ease.

Pros

  • Impressive 222x ultra-telephoto all-in-one zoom Lens
  • 620mm full-frame equivalent telephoto reach
  • VC (Vibration Compensation) for sharp, blur-free images
  • Moisture-resistant construction for use in any weather
  • Excellent close-up capability with a 1:29 max Mag Ratio

Cons

  • – Large and heavy compared to other lenses
  • – Higher price point than some other all-in-one zoom lenses

8. Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm F/1.8 S Ultra Wide Angle Fast Prime Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens is a versatile and high-quality lens that is perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos. With a wide f/1.8 aperture, this lens is great for low-light photography and achieving shallow depth-of-field effects. The lens also features advanced Nikon technologies, including ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat, which help to reduce flare and ghosting and produce sharp and clear images. The lens incorporates an all-new multi-focusing system for fast, accurate autofocusing, making it great for capturing fast-moving subjects or for shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens is designed with a Nikon Z mount and is compatible with over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses and Teleconverters, allowing you to use it with a wide range of Nikon cameras. The lens is also built with a durable and weather-resistant construction, making it ideal for outdoor use. Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, the NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens is a great choice for capturing stunning and high-quality images and videos.

Pros

  • Wide f/1.8 aperture is great for low-light photography and achieving shallow depth-of-field effects
  • Advanced Nikon technologies, including ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat, help to reduce flare and ghosting and produce sharp and clear images
  • All-new multi-focusing system for fast, accurate autofocusing
  • Compatible with over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses and Teleconverters
  • Durable and weather-resistant construction

9. Nikon Nikkor Z 14-24mm F/2.8 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S is an ultra-wide and ultra-compact zoom lens that delivers exceptional performance with its outstanding optics and resolution across the entire frame. It is an ideal choice for capturing stunning landscapes, cityscapes, night skies, architectural structures, interiors and environmental portraits. The lens features a constant f/2.8 aperture that provides excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects. It has a weatherproof build that makes it suitable for use in different weather conditions.

This ultra-wide zoom lens is compatible with all Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras and has a 1.7x optical zoom multiplier that allows you to zoom in on your subject without compromising image quality. The lens is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great choice for travel photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.

With its advanced optical design, this lens delivers exceptional clarity, contrast, and color accuracy, making it ideal for professional photographers who demand the best image quality. Its advanced coatings and Nano Crystal Coat help to reduce flare and ghosting, while its aspherical and ED glass elements correct for distortion and chromatic aberrations. With the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, you can capture stunning images with ease and confidence.

Pros

  • Ultra-wide and ultra-compact zoom for capturing stunning landscapes, cityscapes, night skies, architecture, interiors, and environmental portraits.
  • Outstanding optics and resolution across the entire frame for exceptional clarity, contrast, and color accuracy.
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects.
  • Weatherproof build makes it suitable for use in different weather conditions.
  • Compatible with all Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras and has a 1.7x optical zoom multiplier that allows you to zoom in on your subject without compromising image quality.

Cons

  • – Relatively expensive compared to other ultra-wide zoom lenses in the market.

10. Nikon Af-S Dx Micro-Nikkor 40mm F/2.8g Close-Up Lens For Nikon Dslr Cameras

The DX-format close-up lens is a compact and lightweight lens that is perfect for capturing stunning close-up shots. With a maximum reproduction ratio of 1.0x and a focal length of 40mm, this lens is capable of producing sharp images from infinity to life-size (1x). The lens construction consists of 9 elements in 7 groups, ensuring optimal image quality.

The lens features an autofocus system that can focus up to 64 inches, allowing you to capture clear and detailed shots from a comfortable distance. Additionally, the lens comes equipped with a Close-range correction system (CRC) that helps to minimize image distortions and aberrations, resulting in crisp and clear images.

The lens is also equipped with a Silent wave motor (SWM) which provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, making it ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects. The angle of view is 38 degrees 50 feet, and the lens features a focus distance indicator that ranges from 0.53 feet to infinity. With a minimum focus distance of just 0.53 feet, you can get up close and personal with your subject and capture stunning close-up shots.

It's important to note that this lens is not zoomable, but its fixed focal length makes it ideal for capturing sharp and detailed close-up shots. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the DX-format close-up lens is an excellent addition to your kit.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Maximum reproduction ratio of 1.0x
  • Fast and accurate autofocus performance
  • Close-range correction system helps to minimize image distortions
  • Silent wave motor provides quiet and smooth autofocus performance

Cons

  • – Not zoomable

Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon FAQs

Are there any third-party lens manufacturers that offer affordable options for Nikon cameras?

Yes, there are several third-party lens manufacturers that offer affordable options for Nikon cameras. One of the most popular brands is Tamron, which offers a range of lenses that are compatible with Nikon cameras at a lower price point than Nikon's own lenses. Sigma is another reputable third-party lens manufacturer that offers a variety of lenses for Nikon cameras, including some affordable options. Other third-party lens brands to consider include Tokina, Rokinon, and Samyang. When shopping for third-party lenses, it's important to do your research and read reviews to ensure that the lens you choose will meet your needs in terms of image quality, autofocus performance, and other factors. Additionally, be sure to check that the lens you choose is fully compatible with your Nikon camera model. Overall, third-party lenses can be a great way to expand your lens collection without breaking the bank.

How do cheap lenses for Nikon compare to more expensive ones in terms of image quality?

When it comes to comparing cheap lenses for Nikon to more expensive ones in terms of image quality, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, cheap lenses are often made with lower quality materials and may not have the same level of precision in their construction as more expensive lenses. This can result in lower image sharpness, more distortion, and less accurate color reproduction.

On the other hand, more expensive lenses are often made with higher quality materials and have more advanced optical designs. This can result in sharper images with less distortion and better color accuracy. Additionally, more expensive lenses often have wider apertures, which can allow for more creative control over depth of field and low-light shooting.

That being said, it's important to note that not all cheap lenses are created equal, and some may perform better than others. It's also worth considering that even a cheap lens can produce great images in the hands of a skilled photographer.

Ultimately, the decision between a cheap and expensive lens will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you're just starting out in photography and don't want to invest too much money upfront, a cheap lens may be a good place to start. However, if you're looking to achieve the highest level of image quality and have the budget to invest in a more expensive lens, it may be worth the extra cost.

What are some reliable sources for purchasing affordable lenses for Nikon cameras?

As a photographer, finding affordable lenses for Nikon cameras can be a challenge, especially when you want to maintain high-quality images. However, there are some reliable sources that you can consider for purchasing affordable lenses for your Nikon camera.

One of the best ways to find affordable lenses is to look for second-hand or used lenses. You can check out sites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace, where you can find sellers who are offering used lenses at a lower price. Just make sure you are buying from a reputable seller and that the lens is in good condition.

Another option is to purchase lenses from third-party manufacturers like Tamron or Sigma. These manufacturers offer lenses that are compatible with Nikon cameras and are often more affordable than the original Nikon lenses. However, make sure to read reviews and do your research to ensure you are buying a quality lens.

Finally, you can also consider purchasing refurbished lenses from Nikon itself. Refurbished lenses are those that have been returned to Nikon, repaired, and tested before being sold at a lower price. This option is a great way to get high-quality Nikon lenses at a more affordable price.

In conclusion, finding affordable lenses for Nikon cameras requires a bit of research and patience. But by considering these reliable sources, you can find the right lens for your photography needs without breaking the bank.

What are the best budget-friendly lenses for Nikon DSLRs?

As a content writer, I can suggest several budget-friendly lenses for Nikon DSLRs. One of the best options is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens, which is an excellent choice for portraits, landscapes, and street photography. This lens has a wide aperture that allows for great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh. Another option is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Lens, which is a versatile lens that can be used for everyday photography. It has a compact design, image stabilization, and a zoom range that covers wide-angle to telephoto. Additionally, the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens is a great choice for wildlife and sports photography. This lens is affordable and has a long zoom range, making it perfect for capturing distant subjects. Overall, these lenses offer great value for their price and can help photographers capture stunning images without breaking the bank.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cheap lens for a Nikon camera?

When it comes to choosing a cheap lens for your Nikon camera, there are a few important factors that you should consider. Firstly, it's important to know the type of photography you'll be doing and what kind of lens will be suitable for that. For instance, if you're into landscape photography, a wide-angle lens would be ideal, while a telephoto lens would be more suitable for capturing wildlife or sports.

Another important factor to consider is the aperture of the lens. A lens with a wider aperture (lower f-number) will allow more light to enter the camera, which is especially useful in low-light situations. However, lenses with wider apertures tend to be more expensive, so it's important to strike a balance between cost and functionality.

The build quality of the lens is also an important consideration. A cheap lens may not be as durable as a more expensive one, so it's important to choose one that is well-built and can withstand regular use.

Finally, it's important to read reviews and do some research before making a purchase. This will help you to get a sense of the performance and reliability of the lens, as well as any potential issues or drawbacks. By taking all these factors into consideration, you can find a cheap lens that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

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