Nikon Zoom Telephoto AF NIKOR 70-300MM

Novaman · Jan 7, 2011

I have an 18-105 and now looking at this Nikon Zoom Telephoto AF Zoom Nikor 70-300mm AF F/40-5.6 D ED Lens for my D90 (200. cdn) :drool:

As a Newbie I am enjoying the 18-105 but then again I would like to seek out a long zoom ...would this be the most compatable with my body ?
i am not sure of the D series ED Lens ...so your input would be appreciated !
Thanks

Trever1t · Jan 8, 2011

Non-VR lens. Don't know if it can be compared but I have the newer model, a 70-300 f4.5-5.6vr and it takes beautifully sharp shots. ($600usd)

KmH · Jan 8, 2011

The non-VR 70-300mm is not worth buying. It has nowhere near the optical quality your 18-105 has, thats why it's so cheap.

tirediron · Jan 8, 2011

I'd debate that Keith - this image was shot with the non-VR version of the lens:

It's a decent lens, certainly not a stellar performer, BUT it's a fair price, and, assuming it's in good shape, and the budget doesn't allow you to spend more, I would say go for it! I still use mine frequently.

orb9220 · Jan 8, 2011

I would probably opt for the 55-200vr as a stop gap measure. Until I could afford either the 55-300vr for $355 new or used 70-300vr for $400. Picked mine up used for $125 and been quite happy for what it gives. Light compact tho the build leaves something to be desired being plastic mount.

A Day at the Portland Zoo - 01 of 36 - "Open the Gates!...I Dare You!" by orb9220, on Flickr

Tho the Nikor 70-300mm AF F/40-5.6 D ED may work for you. For me finding the VR in a lens for this old fart a helpful necessity at anything over 100mm or so. So would find the 55-200vr more helpful in more situations then losing the 100mm on the long end.
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djacobox372 · Jan 8, 2011

KmH said:
The non-VR 70-300mm is not worth buying. It has nowhere near the optical quality your 18-105 has, thats why it's so cheap.

"No where near" ??

I disagree, in fact I think the non-g "ed" version is very close in optical performance as the 18-105mm. Most people wouldn't be able to discern between the two.

$200cn is a bit high for this lens, you can buy it used on ebay for about half that.