The Nikon F-mount 18-200mm lens, specifically the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II, is a popular "superzoom" lens designed for Nikon's DX-format (APS-C sensor) DSLR cameras. It's known for its incredible versatility, allowing photographers to cover a wide range of focal lengths without changing lenses.
Here are its key features:
DX-Format Compatibility: Designed specifically for Nikon's DX-format DSLR cameras, providing an equivalent focal length of approximately 27-300mm on a 35mm full-frame camera.
11.1x Zoom Ratio: Offers a very broad 18mm wide-angle to 200mm telephoto zoom range, making it a highly versatile all-in-one lens for various shooting situations.
Vibration Reduction II (VR II): Nikon's second-generation in-lens image stabilization system provides up to 3.5 to 4 stops of shake compensation, crucial for sharp handheld shots, especially at longer focal lengths or in low light.
Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Features Nikon's SWM for fast, quiet, and precise autofocus operation, beneficial for both still photography and video recording.
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) Glass Elements: Incorporates two ED glass elements to minimize chromatic aberrations (color fringing) and deliver sharper images with better color accuracy.
Aspherical Lens Elements: Includes three aspherical lens elements to effectively correct spherical aberrations and distortion, contributing to overall optical quality and a more compact design.
Super Integrated Coating (SIC): Applied to lens elements to reduce flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color fidelity, particularly in backlit conditions.
Internal Focusing (IF): The lens uses an internal focusing mechanism, meaning the front element does not rotate during focusing, which is convenient for using polarizing filters or other rotation-sensitive accessories.
Zoom Lock Switch: A physical switch on the lens barrel helps prevent "zoom creep," where the lens extends or retracts unintentionally when pointed up or down during transport.
Compact and Lightweight: Despite its impressive zoom range, the lens is relatively compact and lightweight for easy portability and handling, making it an excellent "walk-around" lens