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Best Nikon lenses 2018

November 19, 2018
Newsynic

In 2018, Nikon users had access to one of the most diverse and respected lens lineups in photography. Whether you were shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, or everyday moments, Nikon’s lenses—both FX (full-frame) and DX (APS-C)—offered excellent optical quality, durability, and performance.

This article explores the best Nikon lenses of 2018, covering prime and zoom lenses for different photography styles, budgets, and skill levels.

Understanding Nikon Lens Types (FX vs DX)

Before choosing a lens, it’s important to understand Nikon’s two main formats:

  • FX lenses are designed for full-frame Nikon cameras but also work on DX bodies

  • DX lenses are made specifically for crop-sensor cameras

FX lenses generally deliver better low-light performance and future-proofing, while DX lenses are lighter and more affordable.

Best All-Around Nikon Zoom Lens (2018)

Nikon AF-S 24–70mm f/2.8E ED VR

The 24–70mm f/2.8 was widely considered Nikon’s flagship standard zoom lens in 2018.

Why it stood out:

  • Constant f/2.8 aperture

  • Exceptional sharpness

  • Vibration Reduction (VR)

  • Weather-sealed professional build

This lens was ideal for:

  • Weddings

  • Events

  • Portraits

  • Travel

  • Documentary photography

It offered versatility without compromising image quality.

Best Portrait Lens (2018)

Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G

The 85mm f/1.8G was one of the most popular portrait lenses among Nikon photographers in 2018.

Key strengths:

  • Beautiful background blur (bokeh)

  • Sharp subject separation

  • Lightweight and affordable

  • Excellent low-light performance

It delivered professional-quality portraits without the high cost of Nikon’s f/1.4 version.

Best Budget Prime Lens

Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G

Often called the “nifty fifty,” the 50mm f/1.8G was one of the best-value Nikon lenses available in 2018.

Why photographers loved it:

  • Extremely affordable

  • Sharp even wide open

  • Great for portraits and everyday shooting

  • Excellent low-light capability

This lens was a must-have for beginners and experienced photographers alike.

Best Wide-Angle Lens for Landscapes

Nikon AF-S 14–24mm f/2.8G ED

The 14–24mm f/2.8 was legendary among landscape and architecture photographers.

Highlights:

  • Ultra-wide field of view

  • Outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness

  • Minimal distortion

  • Professional build quality

Despite being heavy and expensive, it was considered one of the best wide-angle lenses on the market in 2018.

Best Travel Zoom Lens

Nikon AF-S 24–120mm f/4G ED VR

For photographers who wanted versatility in a single lens, the 24–120mm f/4 was an excellent choice.

Why it worked for travel:

  • Wide focal range

  • Constant f/4 aperture

  • Vibration Reduction

  • Lighter than f/2.8 zooms

It was perfect for landscapes, portraits, street photography, and casual wildlife shots.

Best Telephoto Zoom Lens

Nikon AF-S 70–200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR

The 70–200mm f/2.8 was a staple lens for professionals in 2018.

Ideal for:

  • Sports

  • Wildlife

  • Portraits

  • Events

Key features:

  • Fast autofocus

  • Incredible sharpness

  • Strong background compression

  • Durable, weather-sealed design

It delivered consistent results even in challenging lighting conditions.

Best Wildlife and Sports Lens (Affordable Option)

Nikon AF-S 200–500mm f/5.6E ED VR

For wildlife photographers on a budget, this lens was a standout.

Why it was popular in 2018:

  • Long reach

  • Constant f/5.6 aperture

  • Effective VR

  • Excellent image quality for the price

It offered serious telephoto performance without the cost of Nikon’s super-telephoto primes.

Best DX Lens for Crop-Sensor Cameras

Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G

This lens was considered essential for Nikon DX shooters.

Benefits:

  • Natural field of view

  • Lightweight and compact

  • Sharp and affordable

  • Great for low light

It was ideal for street photography, portraits, and everyday use.

Best Macro Lens

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

For macro and close-up photography, this lens was a top choice in 2018.

Features:

  • 1:1 life-size magnification

  • Vibration Reduction

  • Extremely sharp optics

  • Doubles as a portrait lens

It was widely used for product photography, nature, and detailed shots.

Best Prime Lens for Low Light

Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED (FX)

The 35mm f/1.8 FX lens delivered excellent performance in low light while maintaining portability.

Why it stood out:

  • Wide aperture

  • Sharp optics

  • Natural perspective

  • Ideal for street and documentary photography

Why Nikon Lenses in 2018 Were So Respected

In 2018, Nikon lenses were praised for:

  • Optical excellence

  • Reliable autofocus

  • Strong build quality

  • Wide selection for all budgets

Whether you were a beginner or a professional, Nikon’s lens lineup offered tools that matched nearly every shooting style.

Final Thoughts

The best Nikon lenses of 2018 combined performance, reliability, and versatility. From budget-friendly primes to professional zooms, Nikon provided photographers with options that delivered stunning results across genres.

Many of these lenses remain highly relevant today, proving that good glass never goes out of style.