Nikon Zoom Lenses – Comparison and Reviews 2010-2011

Nikon DX Lenses = were specifically designed for Nikon Digital SLRs with DX sized imagers (not full frame). These include: D1, D1H, D1X, D100, D200, D300, D2H, D2Hs, D2X, D2Xs, D40, D50, D60, D70, D70s, D80, D90, D3000, D3100, D5000, D5100 and D7000. SLRs with APS-C size imagers have a conversion factor of 1.6 applied to the lens focal length. These lenses were not designed for Nikon full frame SLRs (also known as FX imager SLRs).

DX Imager = This imager is smaller than a Full Frame imager. Lenses used on SLRs with DX imagers have a focal length about 1.6x that of full frame imagers. This means that the telephoto end of the lens will be greater. New digital lenses have been developed for these type of SLRs, however DX SLRs can use many regular Nikon lenses as well.
Full Frame Imager = This means that the imaging sensor is the same size as 35mm film. 35mm lenses will operate on these DSLRs with the same focal lengths as they do on 35mm film cameras.
VR = This denotes that this lens has built-in image stabilization (Vibration Reduction) to negate vibration and camera shake that can make pictures blurry. This is especially important with telephoto lenses where camera shake is magnified.
AF-S = This lens has a Silent Wave Motor – This is a special type of motor within a modern autofocus Nikon lens that allows for extremely quick focus shifts with very little sound. (Non AF-S lenses can be slow and noisier). An AF lens has autofocusing without the Silent Wave Motor. The d40, d40x, d60, d3000, d3100, d5000 and d5100 require AF-S lenses as they do not have a built in focus motor drive.
IF = This signifies Internal Focusing. Which allows for faster, smoother autofocusing and eliminates changes in lens barrel length for consistent handling.
ED = ED means that this lens has Extra-low Dispersion glass elements
for superior sharpness and color correction by effectively minimizing chromatic aberration.
G = This signifies a G-type NIKKOR lens which have no aperture control ring and are intended for use on Nikon Digital SLRs that allow the lens aperture to be adjusted via the camera’s command dial.