Best Zoom Lens For Nikon D3500 (2024 Updated)

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When it comes to finding the best zoom lens for your Nikon D3500, there are a few key points that you should keep in mind. The D3500 is a popular entry-level DSLR camera that is great for beginners, but it is important to pair it with the right lens to achieve the best possible results.

Firstly, consider the focal length range that you need. Zoom lenses come in a variety of focal lengths, from wide-angle to telephoto. Think about the type of photography you will be doing and choose a lens that fits your needs.

Secondly, look for a lens with a wide aperture to allow for better low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects. This is especially important if you plan on doing portrait or indoor photography.

Thirdly, pay attention to the lens mount compatibility. Nikon lenses come in two types: DX and FX. Make sure to choose a lens that is compatible with your camera's DX mount.

Fourthly, consider the size and weight of the lens. A heavy and bulky lens may not be practical for everyday use or travel photography.

Lastly, take into account your budget. Zoom lenses can range from affordable to expensive, so it is important to find a lens that fits your budget while still providing good quality.

In summary, when looking for the best zoom lens for your Nikon D3500, consider the focal length range, aperture, mount compatibility, size and weight, and your budget. By keeping these key points in mind, you can find a lens that will meet your photography needs and help you take your skills to the next level.

10 Best Zoom Lens For Nikon D3500

1. Nikon D3500 24.2mp Dslr Camera W/af-P 18-55mm Vr Lens & 70-300mm Dual Zoom Lens (1588b) – (Renewed)

The Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR Camera is a highly capable and versatile camera that comes equipped with an AF-P 18-55mm VR Lens and a 70-300mm Dual Zoom Lens. This renewed camera offers all of the original accessories plus a 90 Day Warranty, making it a smart and cost-effective choice for anyone looking for a high-quality DSLR camera.

The D3500 features a 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor that delivers sharp and detailed images with excellent color accuracy. Additionally, the camera is equipped with an AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens and a Lens AF-P DX 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED lens, allowing you to capture stunning photos and videos from a variety of distances and perspectives.

The camera's native ISO range of 100-25600 and 5 fps shooting speed make it an excellent choice for capturing fast-moving subjects, while the included MH-24 Quick Charger ensures that you can keep your camera powered up and ready to go at all times. The D3500 is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

In addition to the camera body and two lenses, this package includes several other essential accessories, such as an EN-EL14a rechargeable Li-ion battery, an AN-DC3 strap, a BF-1B body cap, and a DK-25 rubber eyecup. The AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens also comes with an LC-55A 55mm Snap-On Front Lens Cap and a rear lens cap, while the AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED lens comes with an LC-58 58mm Snap-On Front Lens Cap and a rear lens cap.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR Camera w/AF-P 18-55mm VR Lens & 70-300mm Dual Zoom Lens (1588B) – (Renewed) is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality DSLR camera that delivers excellent performance and versatility. With its powerful sensor, fast shooting speed, and two high-quality lenses, this camera is an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture stunning photos and videos.

2. Nikon D3500 Dslr Camera Bundle With Two Lenses, 32gb Memory Card, Camera Bag And Accessories (13 Items).

The Nikon D3500 DSLR camera bundle is perfect for beginners and photographers new to DSLRs. The kit includes the Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR camera with AF-P DX 18-55mm and 70-300mm zoom lenses, along with a 32GB memory card, camera bag, and a variety of accessories.

This bundle is Nikon USA AUTHORIZED, which means it includes a full Nikon USA WARRANTY. Customers can rest assured that they are buying a high-quality product that is backed by the manufacturer's warranty.

The Nikon D3500 is a lightweight DSLR camera that is easy to use and perfect for capturing high-quality photos and videos. It features a 24.2MP CMOS sensor, EXPEED 4 image processor, and a 3.0" 921k-dot LCD monitor. The camera also has an ISO range of 100-25600, which allows for great low-light performance.

The AF-P DX 18-55mm and 70-300mm zoom lenses are ideal for capturing a variety of shots, from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits. The lenses are easy to use and provide great image quality.

In addition to the camera and lenses, the bundle includes a variety of accessories to help customers get the most out of their new camera. The Sandisk Ultra SDHC 32GB UHS Class 10 memory card allows for plenty of storage space, while the Nikon Deluxe Digital SLR Camera Case provides protection during travel.

The 55mm Wide Angle & Telephoto Lens, 55mm UV, Polarizer & FLD Filter kit allows for even more versatility when taking photos. The kit includes a wide-angle lens for capturing large scenes, a telephoto lens for capturing far-off subjects, and a UV, polarizer, and FLD filter for adjusting the lighting and colors in photos.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 DSLR camera bundle is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into photography or upgrade their current camera equipment. With its lightweight design, high-quality image and video capabilities, and included accessories, it provides everything needed to start capturing stunning photos and videos right away.

3. Nikon Af-S Nikkor 35mm F/1.8g Ed Fixed Zoom Lens With Auto Focus For Nikon Dslr Cameras

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens is a high-quality lens designed for use with Nikon DSLR cameras. This lens is specifically designed for FX format F mount lenses, but can be used with DX format cameras as well. It offers a 35 millimeter focal length and a macro focus range of 0.25 meters which makes it ideal for capturing detailed close-up shots.

With a maximum aperture of F1.8 and a minimum aperture of F16, this lens offers excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a shallow depth of field for stunning portraits. Additionally, the lens features an ultrasonic type AF motor with full-time manual focusing, which allows for quick and accurate autofocus as well as manual focus for more precise control.

The lens is not zoomable but offers a 52.5 millimeter equivalent focal length on DX format cameras. It features a rear focusing system which ensures that the lens stays compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods. Additionally, the lens has a 58 millimeter filter size, which allows for easy attachment of various filters to enhance your images.

Before using the lens, it is important to refer to the user manual to ensure that you are using it correctly. This will help you to get the best possible results from your photography. Overall, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens is an excellent choice for photographers who are looking for a high-quality lens that offers excellent image quality and versatility.

4. Lightdow 420-800mm F/8.3 Manual Zoom Telephoto Lens With T-Mount For Nikon Cameras.

The Lightdow 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Zoom Telephoto Lens is an advanced optics, super zoom, and solid full metal construction lens that is designed for use with DSLR and SLR cameras. It comes with a T-mount for Nikon D5500 D3300 D3200 D5300 D3400 D7200 D750 D3500 D7500 D500 D600 D700 D800 D810 D850 D3100 D5100 D5200 D7000 D7100 cameras.

It is important to note that this lens is a FULL manual lens that has NO electronic contacts. Therefore, the camera will not detect the lens when mounted, which is why it may show "LENS NOT ATTACHED." To use this lens correctly, users must switch to MF MODE. The following tips can be used to make the most of this manual lens:

1. Set the mode dial to Manual (M).

2. Set the Release w/o Lens option in the camera menu to Enable.

3. Set the Shutter lock option in the camera menu to Off: no lens.

4. Fine-tune the front focusing ring to make the subject in-focus and take a sample picture.

If the picture turns out dark, there are several steps that can be taken to improve the image quality:

1. Lower the shutter speed, from 1/500s down to 1/100s or slower 1/50, etc.

2. Raise the ISO number, from ISO 100 to ISO 200/400/800, etc.

3. Use a remote shutter release and tripod to increase image stability.

4. Switch position to allow more environmental light coming through the lens into the camera imaging sensor.

This multi-coated low-dispersion glass, anti-reflection coating manual focus telephoto zoom lens is perfect for capturing distant subjects with clarity and precision. It has a 420-800mm f/8.3-16 manual telephoto zoom lens that is compatible with Nikon D850, D810, D800, D750, D700, D610, D300, D3100, D3200, D3300, D3400, D3500, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7000, D7100, D7200, D7500, D50, D60, D90, Df, D3, D3X, and other similar cameras.

With its advanced optics, super zoom, and solid full metal construction, the Lightdow 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Zoom Telephoto Lens is a reliable and high-quality option for any photographer who wants to capture distant subjects with clarity and precision.

5. Nikon D3500 Dslr Camera Bundle With 2 Lenses, 64gb Card, And Accessories.

The Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera with AF-P 18-55mm and 70-300mm Zoom Lenses is an excellent choice for photographers of all levels. This bundle includes a total of 64GB card (2 x 32) and accessory bundle, making it an all-in-one kit for capturing incredible images.

Equipped with a 24.2MP DX APS-C CMOS image sensor and backed by Nikon's signature EXPEED image processing system, the D3500 delivers high resolution photos that take in more light and deliver truer color. The lightweight design of the camera makes it comfortable and balanced in its design, while the 3-inch display gives you 921,000-dot resolution and a 170-degree viewing angle.

The AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is compact, lightweight, and extremely versatile, making it an ideal choice for conquering every landscape, video, or wide-angle shot. It features a near-silent pulse motor for autofocus and vibration reduction technology, ensuring that your images are always sharp and clear.

The Nikon D3500 is fast, responsive, smart, and easy to use, making it an ideal choice for photographers who want to capture the best moments without fussing around with camera controls. Each button and dial is carefully placed to maximize comfort and ease of use.

In addition to the camera and lenses, this bundle includes two SanDisk Ultra 32GB 80MB/s SD cards, a Focus FC-3000 Digital Slave Flash, a 55mm UV/CPL/ND Filter Kit, a 55mm 2.2 Telephoto Lens, and a 55mm 0.43 Wide Angle Lens. The Focus DSLR Accessory Kit has everything you need to get started, including a cleaning kit, a memory card wallet, and a screen protector.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera with AF-P 18-55mm and 70-300mm Zoom Lenses with Total of 64GB Card (2 X 32) and Accessory Bundle is an excellent choice for photographers who want to capture stunning images with ease.

6. Nikon D3500 Dslr Camera Kit With Dual Zoom Lenses – 24.2mp Dx-Format, 18-55mm & 70-300mm, Japan Import.

The Nikon D3500 is a high-quality digital camera that boasts a 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor and is paired with the EXPEED 4 Image Processor, making it the perfect combination for beautiful, high-resolution photos. This camera also offers easy-to-use features such as a 3" 921k-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Monitor and Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps.

The D3500 also comes with two lenses, the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens, providing users with the flexibility to capture a wide range of shots, from close-ups to wide-angle landscapes. The lenses are also equipped with Snap-On Front Lens Caps, making them easy to use and store.

One of the most notable features of the Nikon D3500 is its high-quality output, thanks to its Multi-CAM 1000 11-Point AF Sensor, Native ISO Range 100-25600, and 420-Pixel RGB Sensor and Dynamic-Area AF. This camera can produce stunning images, even in low-light conditions.

For those who love to take action shots, the D3500 offers a Fast Continuous Shooting Rate of 5 fps, allowing users to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. Additionally, the camera's SnapBridge Bluetooth Connectivity makes it easy to share photos and videos directly from the camera to a smartphone or tablet.

Included in the box with the Nikon D3500 DSLR Digital Camera Body are an EN-EL14a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-24 Quick Charger, AN-DC3 Strap, BF-1B Body Cap, DK-25 Rubber Eyecup, and both the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lenses. With all of these features and accessories, the Nikon D3500 is an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers alike.

7. Nikon D3500 Dslr Camera Bundle With 2 Lenses, Accessories, And Software.

The Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm and 70-300mm Lenses (1588) USA Model is a comprehensive photography bundle that includes everything a photographer needs to take stunning photos and videos. The bundle comes with a SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card, two EN-EL14a Replacement Batteries, Corel Photo Software with PhotoMirage, AfterShot, Painter Essentials, PaintShop Pro, and Video Studio, a Soft Padded Case, a 3 Piece Filter Kit, a Telephoto Lens, a Graduated Color Filter Kit, a Memory Card Reader, and much more.

The D3500 camera is easy to use, making it ideal for beginners and amateur photographers. It captures beautiful DSLR photos and videos that get noticed, thanks to its 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor and EXPEED 4 Image Processor. The camera does not have an Optical Low-Pass Filter, which means it can capture sharper images with more detail.

The camera has a native ISO range of 100-25600 and can shoot at a speed of 5 fps. The 3.0" 921k-Dot LCD monitor makes it easy to preview and review photos and videos. The camera also has Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps, allowing photographers to capture stunning videos with ease.

The Multi-CAM 1000 11-Point AF System ensures that the camera can focus quickly and accurately, even in low light conditions. The SnapBridge Bluetooth Connectivity allows photographers to transfer photos and videos to their smartphones seamlessly. The AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and AF-P DX 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens provide a wide range of focal lengths, making it easier to capture different types of images.

The bundle includes a range of accessories that photographers will find useful, such as a Soft Padded Case to protect the camera during transport, a 3 Piece Filter Kit to enhance the quality of photos, and a Telephoto Lens for capturing distant subjects. The Memory Card Reader makes it easy to transfer photos and videos to a computer, while the Corel Photo Software with PhotoMirage, AfterShot, Painter Essentials, PaintShop Pro, and Video Studio provide a range of editing tools to enhance photos and videos.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm and 70-300mm Lenses (1588) USA Model is an excellent photography bundle that provides everything photographers need to take stunning photos and videos. It is easy to use and versatile, making it ideal for travel and everyday use.

8. Opteka 420-800mm Hd Telephoto Zoom Lens With 2x For Nikon F-Mount Cameras. Compatible With Various Models Including D7500, D5600, D850, D5, And More.

The Opteka 420-800mm (w/ 2X- 840-1600mm) f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens is a powerful and versatile lens for Nikon F-Mount cameras. With its push/pull zoom and manual focus, this lens allows for quick and precise adjustments to capture the perfect shot. The minimum focus distance of 5.25 feet (1.6 meters) and aperture of -16 provide excellent depth of field and sharpness.

The newly improved version of the Opteka 420-800mm lens features multi-coated glass optics that deliver sharper images. The lens's 4 elements in 2 groups have been digitally optimized to provide exceptional image quality without breaking the bank. A built-in rotating tripod mount has also been added to help stabilize the lens, especially when using the 2x converter, which increases the zoom to an incredible 1600mm.

This lens is a superb long-range choice for a variety of scenes, from sports and surveillance to everyday shooting. With manual focus 420-800mm or 840-1600mm with the 2x converter, this lens is not only a powerful zoom lens but also performs well in a variety of settings.

The all-metal yet lightweight body and rear mount of the Opteka 420-800mm lens allow it to withstand wear and tear much better than plastic lenses while commanding a rugged, solid feel when using indoors and outdoors. It is compatible with all Nikon FX full-frame and DX APS-C cameras, including D6, D5, D4, D3, D2, D1, D7500, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5600, D5500, D5400, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3500, D3400, D3300, D3200, D3100, D3000, D850, D810, D800, D780, D750, D700, D610, D600, D500, D400, D300, D200, D100, D90, D80, D70, D60, D50, D40.

The Opteka 420-800mm lens comes with a 5-year warranty against manufacturer defects, providing peace of mind when investing in this powerful lens. Whether capturing wildlife, sports, or landscapes, the Opteka 420-800mm lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a powerful and versatile zoom lens for their Nikon F-Mount cameras.

9. Big Mike’s High-Power 500mm/1000mm F/8 Manual Telephoto Lens For Nikon Dslr, Black

Big Mike’s High-Power 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon DSLR is a remarkable addition to any photographer's arsenal. This lens is designed to provide high-quality images with a telephoto focal length of 500mm, which can be doubled to 1000mm with the 2X teleconverter included in the package.

The lens is compatible with digital and 35mm Nikon DSLR cameras and comes with a T-mount adapter that ensures easy attachment to your camera. This feature makes it a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography, including wildlife, sports, and landscape photography.

One of the standout features of this lens is the high index, low-dispersion multi-coated optical glass used in its construction. This glass is designed to minimize flare and provide sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions. The lens is also equipped with a 67mm filter thread that allows for the use of various filters to enhance image quality further.

This high-power lens is perfect for capturing distant subjects with excellent detail and clarity. The manual focus ring provides a smooth and precise focus adjustment, enabling you to capture sharp images of fast-moving subjects. The lens is also built to be durable and long-lasting, making it an excellent investment for any photographer.

In conclusion, the Big Mike’s High-Power 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon DSLR is an exceptional lens that offers outstanding image quality and versatility. It is a perfect addition to any photographer's collection and is sure to provide remarkable results in various types of photography.

10. Nikon Crtnk70300krb 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3g Vr Dx Af-P Ed Zoom-Nikkor Lens – (Renewed)

The Nikon CRTNK70300KRB 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G VR DX AF-P ED Zoom-NIKKOR Lens is a high-quality lens designed for use with F-mount cameras and DX format sensors. With a 105-450mm equivalent focal length range, this lens is ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects, from portraits to wildlife.

One of the standout features of this lens is its aperture range of f/4.5-6.3 to f/32, which allows for excellent low-light performance and depth-of-field control. Additionally, the lens includes one extra-low dispersion element that helps to reduce chromatic aberrations and produce sharp, clear images.

To further enhance image quality, the Nikon CRTNK70300KRB lens features a super integrated coating that helps to minimize ghosting and flare. This makes it an excellent choice for shooting in bright or backlit conditions.

The lens also incorporates a pulse stepping motor AF system, which provides smooth and quiet autofocus performance. This is particularly useful for shooting video or in situations where noise needs to be minimized.

Another key feature of the Nikon CRTNK70300KRB lens is its VR image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharp, clear images even when shooting handheld. This feature is especially useful when shooting at longer focal lengths or in low-light conditions.

Finally, the lens features a rounded 7-blade diaphragm that helps to produce smooth and natural-looking bokeh. This makes it an excellent choice for portraits and other types of photography where shallow depth-of-field is desired.

Overall, the Nikon CRTNK70300KRB 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G VR DX AF-P ED Zoom-NIKKOR Lens is a high-quality and versatile lens that is well-suited for a wide range of photographic applications. Its combination of excellent image quality, fast and quiet autofocus, and image stabilization make it an excellent choice for both still photography and videography.

Best Zoom Lens For Nikon D3500 FAQs

Can you recommend a versatile zoom lens for travel photography on the Nikon D3500?

The Nikon D3500 is a great camera for travel photography, and a versatile zoom lens to pair with it would be the Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. This lens offers a wide focal range, allowing you to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to portraits of locals. The Vibration Reduction (VR) technology also helps to reduce camera shake, making it easier to take sharp photos in low light or when shooting handheld. Additionally, the compact and lightweight design of the lens makes it easy to carry with you on your travels. Overall, the Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a great all-around choice for travel photography with the Nikon D3500.

Is it worth investing in a high-end zoom lens for the Nikon D3500, or can I achieve similar results with a more affordable option?

Investing in a high-end zoom lens for the Nikon D3500 can offer several benefits, including improved image quality, faster autofocus, and better control over depth of field. However, it ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. A more affordable option can still produce great results, especially for beginner photographers who are still exploring their style and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as focal length range, aperture, and lens distortion when choosing a lens. Additionally, consider investing in other accessories such as a tripod, filters, and a remote shutter release to improve your photography experience. Ultimately, the decision to invest in a high-end zoom lens for the Nikon D3500 should be based on your individual needs and goals as a photographer.

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a zoom lens for the Nikon D3500?

When choosing a zoom lens for the Nikon D3500, there are several key factors to consider. First, consider the focal length range you need for your intended photography. A wide-angle lens is ideal for landscapes and architecture, while a telephoto lens is best for sports and wildlife photography. Second, consider the maximum aperture of the lens, which determines the amount of light that can enter the lens and is critical in low-light situations. Third, consider the image stabilization feature, which reduces the effects of camera shake for sharper images. Fourth, consider the lens mount compatibility with the Nikon D3500. Finally, consider the lens build quality and brand reputation. A high-quality lens with a good reputation is a wise investment that can last for years and produce excellent results.

What are the top-rated zoom lenses for Nikon D3500 on the market?

The Nikon D3500 is a great entry-level camera that comes with a kit lens, but for those looking to expand their photographic capabilities, there are several high-quality zoom lenses available on the market.

One of the top-rated zoom lenses for the Nikon D3500 is the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR lens. It offers a versatile zoom range and comes with vibration reduction technology to reduce camera shake.

Another great option is the Tamron 18-400mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD lens, which provides an impressive zoom range and is perfect for travel photography.

For those looking for a higher-end lens, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR lens is a great choice. It offers a wide zoom range and has advanced optical technology for sharp and clear images.

Overall, these zoom lenses provide excellent performance and versatility for the Nikon D3500, allowing photographers to capture a wide range of subjects with ease.

What is the best zoom lens for capturing portraits on the Nikon D3500?

The Nikon D3500 is a great camera for beginners and enthusiasts alike, and it's capable of capturing stunning portraits when paired with the right lens. When it comes to zoom lenses, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a great option for portrait photography.

This lens offers a versatile focal length range that allows you to capture both wide-angle and telephoto shots, which is ideal for capturing portraits in a variety of settings. The fast autofocus system and vibration reduction technology also make it easy to capture sharp, clear images, even in low light conditions.

Overall, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is an excellent choice for portrait photography on the Nikon D3500, offering great image quality, versatility, and ease of use.

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