10 Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon (2024 Update)

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As a photography enthusiast, finding affordable lenses for your Nikon camera can be a challenging task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your search to the perfect lens that suits your budget and photography style. However, there are a few key points that you should keep in mind before purchasing cheap lenses for Nikon.

Firstly, you should consider the type of photography you want to capture. Different lenses are designed for various photography styles, such as landscape, portrait, or street photography. Thus, it is essential to choose a lens that matches your photography needs.

Secondly, the aperture of the lens is a crucial factor to consider. A wider aperture can allow more light to enter the lens, resulting in better quality images, especially in low-light conditions.

Thirdly, you should look for lenses that are compatible with your Nikon camera model. Not all lenses fit all cameras, and some lenses may not work correctly with certain camera models.

Fourthly, you should check the lens's build quality and durability. While cheap lenses may save you money, they may not last as long as high-end lenses.

Lastly, you should read reviews and do thorough research before making a purchase. This can help you avoid buying low-quality lenses and ensure that you get the best value for your money.

In summary, finding cheap lenses for Nikon requires careful consideration of your photography needs, aperture, compatibility, build quality, and researching reviews. By keeping these key points in mind, you can find affordable lenses that can produce high-quality images and meet your photography requirements.

10 Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon

1. Nikon Af-S Nikkor 70-200mm F/2.8e Fl Ed Vr Lens

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens is a versatile and high-performance lens designed for professional photographers. With a minimum focus distance of 3.6 feet, this lens allows users to capture stunning images from a variety of distances. The lens features nine diaphragm blades, which allows for a smooth and natural-looking background blur.

This lens is designed for use with FX/35mm cameras and has a minimum aperture of f/22. The focus distance indicator ranges from 1.1 meter to infinity, making it easy for photographers to adjust the focus according to their needs. The lens also accepts screw-on filters, which allows users to add special effects or filters to their photographs.

In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens is also highly compatible with a wide range of Nikon system accessories. It is compatible with over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses, as well as the latest Z Nikkor lenses. This makes it a highly versatile lens that can be used for a wide range of photographic applications.

The lens is constructed from high-quality materials and features a robust design that is built to withstand the demands of professional use. The lens barrel is made from magnesium alloy, which provides excellent durability and protection against the elements. The lens also features Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat, which helps to reduce ghosting and flare, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens is an exceptional lens that offers a wide range of features and benefits for professional photographers. Its impressive technical specifications, compatibility with a wide range of Nikon system accessories, and robust construction make it a great choice for photographers who demand the very best.

2. Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8 S Standard Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Standard Zoom Lens for Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras is an essential tool for photographers and videographers alike. It is a compact mid-range zoom lens that works seamlessly with Nikon's Z series cameras, making it the perfect companion for your photography needs.

One of the most notable features of this lens is its f/2.8 constant maximum aperture. This means that the exposure is consistent across the entire zoom range, delivering sharp and well-lit images regardless of the lighting conditions. This feature is especially useful for low-light photography, where a wider aperture is needed to let more light into the camera.

The lens also features an all-new Multi-Focusing System, which consists of two autofocus drive units that work in perfect synchronization to deliver fast and accurate autofocusing. This allows you to capture images with precision and speed, ensuring that you don't miss any important moments.

Another feature that sets this lens apart is Nikon's Stepping Motor (STM), which provides smooth, fast, and quiet autofocusing. This is particularly useful when shooting videos, where loud focusing noises can ruin the audio quality. With the NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Standard Zoom Lens, you can capture high-quality videos with clear audio and smooth, uninterrupted focusing.

To ensure its durability, the lens is extensively sealed to keep dust and moisture out, especially around all moving parts of the lens barrel. This makes it a reliable tool for outdoor photography, where unpredictable weather conditions can pose a risk to your gear.

In summary, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Standard Zoom Lens is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to capture high-quality images and videos with precision and speed. Its constant maximum aperture, Multi-Focusing System, Stepping Motor, and durable build make it a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of photo and video applications.

3. Nikon Nikkor Z 24-200mm F/4-6.3 Compact Telephoto Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 Compact Telephoto Zoom Lens is a versatile lens designed for Nikon Z mirrorless cameras. It is packed with advanced features and cutting-edge technology that allows photographers to capture stunning images with ease.

One of the standout features of this lens is the use of Aspherical Lens Elements, which reduce spherical aberrations and distortion to deliver sharp and clear images. The lens also features ED Glass Elements that help to minimize chromatic aberrations, resulting in images with accurate colors and improved contrast.

Additionally, the ARNEO Coat and Fluorine Coat technologies used in this lens help to reduce ghosting, flare, and reflections, ensuring that images are clear and free from unwanted artifacts. This makes it an ideal lens for use in challenging lighting conditions.

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 Compact Telephoto Zoom Lens also features built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology. This helps to reduce camera shake and allows photographers to shoot at slower shutter speeds without worrying about blur. This is especially useful when shooting in low light or when using longer focal lengths.

The lens also has a customizable, clickless control ring that allows photographers to quickly and quietly adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This makes it easy to make adjustments on the fly, without having to take your eye off the viewfinder.

In terms of technical specifications, the lens has an optical zoom of 8.3x, which makes it ideal for a wide range of shooting situations. The mounting type is Nikon Z, which means that it is compatible with Nikon Z mirrorless cameras. The lens is also relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use on the go.

Overall, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 Compact Telephoto Zoom Lens is a versatile and high-quality lens that delivers excellent performance in a wide range of shooting situations. Its advanced features and cutting-edge technology make it an ideal choice for photographers who demand the best from their equipment.

4. Nikon Nikkor Z 20mm F/1.8 S Ultra Wide Angle Fast Prime Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S Ultra Wide Angle Fast Prime Lens is a top-of-the-line lens designed specifically for Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras. This lens is perfect for capturing stunning landscapes, architecture, and interiors with its ultra-wide-angle perspective.

One of the key features of this lens is its wide f/1.8 aperture, which allows photographers to capture images with a shallow depth of field, making subjects stand out against a blurred background. The lens also features advanced Nikon technologies, including ED glass elements and a Nano Crystal Coat, which work together to reduce chromatic aberrations and flaring, resulting in sharp, high-quality images with excellent contrast and color accuracy.

The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S lens incorporates an all-new multi-focusing system that enables fast, accurate autofocusing, making it easy for photographers to capture their desired shots quickly and efficiently. The lens also has a quiet stepping motor for smooth and silent autofocus, making it an ideal choice for video shooting.

This lens is designed with a Nikon Z mount, which is compatible with over 360 F-mount Nikkor lenses and Teleconverter. This feature provides photographers with a wide range of lens options to suit their various photography needs.

Overall, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S Ultra Wide Angle Fast Prime Lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want to capture stunning and dynamic images with their Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras. Its advanced features, including its wide aperture, advanced Nikon technologies, and fast autofocus, make it a versatile lens that can handle a wide range of photography styles and subjects.

5. Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary Dg Os Hsm Lens For Nikon

The Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon is a top-of-the-line hyper-telephoto zoom lens designed to meet the needs of professional photographers. Featuring a focal length range of 150-600mm and a minimum focusing distance of 280 cm/110.2 inches, this lens is capable of capturing stunning images of distant subjects with incredible detail and clarity.

Constructed from high-quality materials, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens is both lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and use in a variety of shooting situations. Additionally, the lens features a dust-proof and splash-proof mount, which helps to protect it from the elements and ensures that it is able to perform in even the most challenging shooting conditions.

One of the standout features of this lens is its 9 diaphragm blades, which enable it to produce beautiful, circular bokeh that is sure to add depth and dimension to any photograph. Furthermore, the lens is compatible with a 95mm filter, which allows photographers to further customize their shooting experience and achieve the desired look and feel for their images.

For photographers who require even greater flexibility and reach, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens is also compatible with the Sigma TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 and TC-2001. These dedicated teleconverter lenses provide an additional 1.4x and 2x magnification, respectively, allowing photographers to get even closer to their subjects and capture images with even greater detail and clarity.

To ensure that the lens remains in top condition and is easy to maintain, it features a water and oil repellent coating on the front glass element. This makes it easy to clean and ensures that the lens is able to perform at its best, even in challenging shooting conditions.

Overall, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon is an exceptional lens that is sure to meet the needs of even the most demanding professional photographers. With its advanced features, high-quality construction, and exceptional performance, this lens is a must-have for anyone who is serious about capturing stunning images of the world around them.

6. Nikon Nikkor Z 14-24mm F/2.8 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens is an exceptional tool for photographers looking to capture stunning landscapes, cityscapes, night skies, architecture, interiors, and environmental portraits. This lens is designed specifically for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras and offers an ultra-wide, ultra-compact zoom with an f/2.8 constant aperture.

One of the standout features of this lens is its outstanding optics and resolution across the entire frame. With a 1.7 multiplier_x optical zoom, photographers can capture incredible detail and clarity in their images, even in low light conditions. The lens also features aspherical and ED glass elements that work together to reduce distortion and chromatic aberration, resulting in images that are sharp and true-to-life.

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S is built to withstand the elements, making it an ideal choice for outdoor and travel photographers. Its weatherproof build ensures that it can withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain, dust, and humidity.

The lens is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and handle. The lens barrel is made from magnesium alloy, which not only makes it durable but also adds to its sleek and professional appearance.

The lens is compatible with all Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras, making it a versatile tool for photographers who own multiple cameras. It also features a customizable control ring that can be programmed to adjust aperture, exposure compensation, and ISO.

In conclusion, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens is an exceptional tool for photographers looking to capture stunning images with exceptional detail and clarity. Its outstanding optics and resolution, along with its weatherproof build and compact design, make it a versatile and reliable choice for photographers who demand the best.

7. Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di Vc Usd For Nikon Fx Digital Slr Camera (6 Year Tamron Limited Usa Warranty)

The Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD lens is a high-performance telephoto zoom lens designed specifically for Nikon FX digital SLR cameras. It features a constant f/4 aperture, which allows you to maintain a consistent level of exposure throughout the zoom range. This makes it an ideal lens for photographers who want to capture sharp and clear images in a variety of lighting conditions, including low light situations.

One of the standout features of the Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD lens is its moisture-resistant construction. This lens is designed to withstand the elements, making it a great choice for outdoor photographers who need a lens that can handle rain, snow, and other adverse weather conditions. The lens is also built with layered protection, which helps to prevent dust and dirt from getting inside and causing damage to the lens.

The Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD lens features 20 elements in 14 groups, including 3 LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements. These elements work together to deliver exceptional image quality, with sharp detail and minimal distortion. The lens also features an internal zooming mechanism, which prevents lens "sagging" and ensures that the lens remains stable throughout the zoom range.

In terms of performance, the Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD lens is a great all-around lens that can be used for a variety of different photography genres. It's perfect for capturing portraits, landscapes, and sports events, thanks to its fast and accurate autofocus system. The lens also features Tamron's Vibration Compensation (VC) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially when using slower shutter speeds.

Overall, the Tamron 70-210mm F/4 Di VC USD lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want a high-quality telephoto zoom lens that offers a range of features and capabilities. With its moisture-resistant construction, internal zooming mechanism, and Vibration Compensation technology, this lens is designed to deliver sharp and clear images in a variety of shooting conditions. And with a 6-year Tamron limited warranty, you can be confident in your investment and the longevity of this lens.

8. Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30mm F/4 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens is a top-of-the-line accessory for Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras. It boasts a compact 14-30mm zoom range with a fixed f/4 aperture, delivering outstanding image quality that's perfect for adding depth and drama to both stills and videos. Designed as the ideal partner for compact Z series cameras, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a must-have for photographers and videographers who want to achieve next-level optical performance.

One of the key features of this lens is its retractable lens mechanism, which collapses the lens down to a mere 3.5 inches for safe and minimal packing. This makes it easy to take the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S on-the-go, without having to worry about damaging the lens or taking up too much space in your bag. Whether you're traveling to a remote location or simply need to pack light, this lens is the perfect solution.

Another standout feature of the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is Nikon's Stepping Motor (STM), which provides smooth, fast and quiet autofocusing. This allows you to capture stunning images and videos with minimal noise and maximum precision. Whether you're shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S delivers exceptional performance that you can rely on.

In addition to its impressive technical features, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is also part of Nikon's Z lenses lineup, which are perfectly matched to Z camera bodies. These lenses are designed with next-dimension optical performance in mind, giving you the freedom to create stunning images and videos that truly stand out. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a must-have accessory that will take your photography to the next level.

Overall, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S Ultra-Wide Angle Zoom Lens is an exceptional accessory that delivers outstanding image quality, fast and quiet autofocusing, and next-level optical performance. Whether you're capturing stills or videos, this lens is the perfect choice for adding depth and drama to your shots, while taking up minimal space in your bag.

9. Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 Dg Os Hsm Art Lens For Nikon F

The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art Lens for Nikon F is a highly capable lens that offers exceptional performance and functionality. This all-new lens is designed to meet the needs of professional photographers in a range of fields, including news, nature, and many other areas of photography.

One of the key features of this lens is its OS functionality, which ensures that images are sharp and stable even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects, as it helps to reduce blur and improve image quality.

In addition, this lens features a newly designed HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) that provides fast and accurate autofocus, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects. Whether you're shooting fast-moving sports action or capturing stunning landscape shots, this lens delivers the performance and functionality that you need to succeed.

Another key feature of the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art Lens for Nikon F is its high rigidity lens barrel. This design ensures that the lens is durable and capable of withstanding the rigors of professional use. This means that you can rely on this lens to perform consistently and deliver the results that you need, even in challenging shooting conditions.

Overall, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art Lens for Nikon F is a top-performing lens that offers exceptional functionality and performance. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast looking to take your photography to the next level, this lens is an excellent choice that is sure to deliver the results that you need.

10. Nikon Nikkor Z 70-200mm F/2.8 S Telephoto Zoom Lens For Nikon Z Mirrorless Cameras

The NIKON NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Telephoto Zoom Lens is a high-performance lens designed specifically for use with Nikon Z mirrorless cameras. This lens is ideal for capturing stunning portraits, landscapes, and sports action shots with precision and clarity.

With a focal length range of 70-200mm, this lens offers a versatile zoom range that allows you to capture a wide range of subjects. At 70mm, the lens can focus as close as 0.5m from the subject, making it perfect for close-up shots.

The lens utilizes a standard 77mm filter thread, making it compatible with a wide range of filter options. This allows you to enhance your photos with polarizers, neutral density filters, and other filter types to achieve your desired effect.

One of the unique features of this lens is its customizable function buttons and control ring. This allows you to customize the lens to your shooting style and preferences. The function buttons can be programmed to perform a variety of tasks, such as activating autofocus or adjusting aperture. The control ring can be used to adjust aperture, exposure compensation, or other settings.

The lens offers an optical zoom of 2.9, which allows you to capture distant subjects with ease. This makes it ideal for sports photography or capturing wildlife. The lens also features a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, which allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects.

Overall, the NIKON NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Telephoto Zoom Lens is a top-of-the-line lens that offers exceptional image quality and versatility. It is a must-have for any professional photographer or enthusiast looking to capture stunning photos with their Nikon Z mirrorless camera.

Best Cheap Lenses For Nikon FAQs

Are third-party lenses a good option for those on a budget?

Yes, third-party lenses can be a good option for those on a budget. These lenses are often less expensive than their branded counterparts, yet they can offer similar performance and image quality. Third-party lens manufacturers have come a long way in terms of quality control and technology, so many of their lenses are on par with the branded versions. Additionally, third-party lenses can offer unique features that are not available with branded lenses, such as wider maximum apertures or specialized focal lengths. However, it is important to research and read reviews before purchasing a third-party lens to ensure that it is compatible with your camera and meets your specific needs. Some third-party lenses may also have compatibility issues with certain camera models or may not perform as well in certain shooting conditions.

How do I balance affordability and quality when choosing a Nikon lens?

As a photographer, it's important to consider both affordability and quality when choosing a Nikon lens. One way to balance these factors is to research and compare different lenses within your budget range. Look for reviews and feedback from other photographers to get an idea of the lens's performance and image quality. Consider the type of photography you will be doing and choose a lens that fits your needs. It may be worth investing in a higher quality lens if you plan on using it extensively or for professional work. However, if you are just starting out or on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options that still offer good image quality. Ultimately, it's important to find a balance that works for you and your photography goals.

What are some affordable lens options for Nikon cameras?

As a professional photographer or videographer, investing in high-quality lenses is crucial to capture stunning images and videos. However, not all lenses come with a hefty price tag. If you are looking for affordable lens options for Nikon cameras, here are some great choices:

1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens – This lens is ideal for portrait, landscape, and street photography, and comes at an affordable price point.

2. Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 Di LD Macro Lens – This lens is perfect for wildlife and sports photography, and offers a great zoom range at an affordable price.

3. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Lens – This lens is a versatile option for everyday photography and offers vibration reduction technology at an affordable price.

4. Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM Lens – This lens is great for landscape and architecture photography and offers a wide-angle perspective at an affordable price.

Overall, these lenses offer excellent value for money and are great options for those looking for affordable lens options for Nikon cameras.

What are some budget-friendly prime lenses for Nikon cameras?

As a budget-conscious photographer, there are several prime lenses that you can consider for your Nikon camera without compromising on quality. One of the best options is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens, which is an excellent choice for low-light photography and portrait shots. Another great option is the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G lens, which is ideal for portrait and street photography.

If you are looking for a wider angle, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED lens is a good choice for landscape and architecture photography. For those who want an affordable macro lens, the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G lens is an excellent option that is great for close-up shots.

In conclusion, there are several budget-friendly prime lenses for Nikon cameras that can provide excellent image quality and versatility for a range of photography genres. The above mentioned lenses are just a few options that you can consider based on your specific photography needs and preferences.

Where can I find the best deals on Nikon lenses?

to answer the question, there are several places where you can find the best deals on Nikon lenses. First, check out online retailers such as Amazon, B&H Photo Video, and Adorama. These sites often have deals, discounts, and promotions that can save you a lot of money on Nikon lenses. Second, you can also check out local camera stores, especially during sales or clearance events. Third, consider buying used or refurbished Nikon lenses from reputable sellers such as KEH Camera and MPB. You can save a lot of money buying used or refurbished lenses without sacrificing quality. Finally, consider waiting for Nikon's annual sales events or specials to get the best deals on their lenses. Regardless of where you choose to shop, be sure to do your research and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

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