The 18-55mm 3.5-5.6G AF-S Zoom-Nikkor lens is a midrange zoom lens manufactured by Nikon for use on Nikon DX format digital SLR cameras. Often included as a kit lens on entry-level DSLRs, it also can be purchased separately from the camera body. Nikon first introduced the lens in 2005 and has provided three subsequent updates. Following are the four variants as of 2014:
Note:VR means Vibration Reduction as used in Nikon Lenses.IS means Image Stabilization as used in Canon Lenses.VR (Nikon) and IS (Canon) are both the same thing, but each maker uses their own acronyms.[6]
Like all lenses in the DX format, the 18-55mm casts a smaller image circle than lenses for full-frame 35mm cameras and is therefore only compatible with cameras having APS-C-sized sensors (or vignetting will happen). However, from 24mm onward until 55mm, the image circle will cover the full 35mm frame, and is usable on film.
(Lens construction details vary between models; see table below for specifications).
Thom Hogan praised its value and optical performance, but criticized its handling, noting a diminutive focus ring that rotates during focusing, with no manual override.[7]
| Attribute | 18-55mm 3.5-5.6G ED | 18-55mm 3.5-5.6G ED II | 18-55mm 3.5-5.6G VR | 18-55mm 3.5-5.6G VR II | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autofocus | Yes | ||||
| Vibration Reduction (Image Stabilization in Canon) | No | Yes | |||
| Maximum aperture | 3.5-5.6 | ||||
| Minimum aperture | 22-32 | 22-36 | |||
| Weight | 210 g | 205 g | 265 g | 195 g | |
| Maximum diameter | 69 mm | 70.5 mm | 73 mm | 59.5 mm | |
| Length | 75 mm | 74 mm | 79 mm | 66 mm | |
| Filter diameter | 52 mm | ||||
| Picture angle < | -- My specs don't say which dimension it is --> | 76° - 28°50' | |||
| Groups/elements | 5/7 | 8/11 | |||
| 7 | ||||
| Closest focusing distance | 0.28 m | ||||
| Release date | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2014 | |
| MSRP $ | $200 | $250 |