* Picture: (Nikon) Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4-5.6G IF-ED
Lens built quality was very well constructed for Nikkor’s version. The lens feels solid and purposeful. Ergonomics are well thought off with the buttons layout and the large (yes, super large) zoom ring. The weird part is, it has the same tiny focus ring (like the 18-55mm) right at the front just behind the front lens elements. This is quite stupid in my view, but once getting used to it, I can live with it. The focus ring feels a little plasticky to touch and use, but it works. (Of course). The VR feature is well appreciated, though a very basic version, it works down to 2 stops when I tested it. (Nikon claims 4 stops – like every other brands)
Among Nikon, Canon, Tamron & Sigma being the most talked-about 55-200mm lenses at that time, Nikon & Sigma emerged as the winners for the better built quality, better design and excellent image quality. Nikon incorporated their proprietory Silent Wave Motor (SWM) while Sigma added their Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for super fast focusing and near-silent operation. Canon has their Ultrasonic Motor (USM) in place, however, users had complained about the noisy operation and average focusing speed. Apart from these negatives noted, image quality is excellent. Tamron probably lost due to its lens built quality. Tamron’s version looks sophisticated (at that point of time – go Google for it), but feels like a toy when handled. "Filmsy" was the best description I can think of. I almost thought I was holding some SLR Lens when I played with a fellow photographer’s unit. Image quality from the Tamron is average.
On InfraRed Photography (IR), Nikkor AF-S DX VR 55-200mm F4.0-F5.6G IF-ED is really at home. I’ve gotten super sharp IR photos using this lens with ZERO hotspots at all focal range and apeture stops. Not sure if it is just me, I also noticed the IR Colors from this lens is better than the AF-S DX 18-55mm. Please let me know if you feel the same. The focal range of this lens is also great for portraits, be it IR or normal photos, DX 55mm (83mm after corresponding increase x1.5 for DX) makes it a very good and cheap portrait lens. This is like the super-budget Nikkor 70-200mm or 85mm for FX (Full Frame Bodies). If you own a DX, get this lens.
(If you are looking for the specs, please google yourself, it’s all over the internet.)
– Filter Size 52mm
– Lens Hood HB-37 (Sold separately).
– AF Runs on Fast & Silent Wave Motor (SWM).
– Focal Range when used on Nikon bodies with smaller APS-C sensors – 82.8-300mm.
– Nikon DX Mount is designed for use on Nikon’s Cropped Bodies (with corresponding increase x1.5 APS-C)
– Designed & Built to pair with the AF-S DX 18-55mm Kit lens.
What I Like:
– Good Portrait to Medium Telephoto range when used on my D60 & D70-IR.
– Super Cheap.
– Tough & Solid Built.
– Larger than Sony or Canon’s equivalent.
– Good picture quality from a Cheap Zoom Lens.
– SWM provides a quiet and fast focusing.
– VC works well. (on the test unit)
– Nice Zoom Ring – good to touch & use.
– Plastic Construction.
– Weird Design again (Big Body small head).
– Hood not included in package.
*Picture Source Internet.
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