Question about VR quality.

[domromer]

I've got the 18-135 kit lens that came with the d80. I'm thinking of replacing it with a VR lens. When buying a VR lens under 400$ are the optics/build quality going to be better than that of my 18-135, or am I just paying for the VR at that price range?

I'm trying to decide if it's worth it or should I just keep the 18-135.

 

[Tennessee Landscape]

I've got the 18-135 kit lens that came with the d80. I'm thinking of replacing it with a VR lens. When buying a VR lens under 400$ are the optics/build quality going to be better than that of my 18-135, or am I just paying for the VR at that price range?

I'm trying to decide if it's worth it or should I just keep the 18-135.

The VR for Nikon is $50 added to whatever lens it is on, does not affect the quality of the glass

 

[kidchill]

I can't comment on other lenses, but I have the 18-200mm VR lens for my D80 and I love it. I don't see any negative quality issues. I tend to have shaky hands to start with, not to mention I'm a coffee addict....so VR was essential for me!! Here's a link that a guy had posted when I was researching the lens I bought. It's not the same lens you're looking at, but it may help.

http://www.digitaldingus.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=3033

 

[domromer]

So here is the lens I was comparing the 18-135 against. I assume it has better optics and glass than my lens. It's not twice the price for the vr and 5mm of zoom.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/277219-GREY/Nikon_2145_24_120mm_f_3_5_5_6G_ED_IF_AF_S.html

 

[kundalini]

Photozone.de review here.

I only read the verdict at the end and...
All-in-all it's a nice package but on APS-C DSLR the focal length range isn't all that great anymore and most users shopping for a new lens will probably prefer to have a look at the new AF-S 18-200mm VR.