Nikkor Z 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR DX

bythom nikon 16-50

Thom's Commentary: When purchased with a camera in a bit, this lens is the bargain of the century from Nikon. Optically, I’d argue that this is one of the best, if not the best, kit lenses ever produced for APS-C (DX) cameras. Other than its slow aperture at the telephoto end, you really can’t find any real fault with it. Moreover, the lens nearly disappears when traveling because it collapses to a very small size. It’s a bit meh in terms of maximum magnification, so don’t think of it a close-up lens. But for all other work this lens produces excellent results. Note that you don’t get a lens hood with the lens, and it really needs one. Third party hoods are available more cheaply than Nikon’s version. Recommended Read Thom's Full Review of the 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 DX lens

  • Coverage: crop sensor (DX)
  • Build: dust and drip resistant, collapses for travel, plastic bayonet
  • Optic design:
    • 9 elements in 7 groups
    • 4 aspherical, 1 ED elements
  • Field of view: 72-114° diagonal
  • Stabilization: VR (4.5 stops CIPA)
  • Aperture:
    • f/3.5 to f/16 (at 16mm)
    • 7-blade rounded diaphragm
  • Focus: 
    • autofocus, internal focus
    • 8" (0.2m at 24mm best case) minimum focus
    • 1:5 maximum magnification ratio
  • Filters: 46mm filter size
  • Lens hood: optional HN-40
  • Size and weight:
    • 1.3" (32mm) long (unextended)
    • 2.8" (70mm) diameter
    • 4.8 ounces (135g)
  • Model number: 20084
  • Price: US$299
  • Other: Shutter Type must be set to Auto or Electronic
  • Announced: October 10, 2019 (in June 2021 a silver edition was added to go with the Zfc)
  • Firmware: 1.01 (June 2021)

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text and images © 2023 Thom Hogan — All Rights Reserved


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