* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8 G ED IF Autofocus APS-C Lens, Black {77}
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$226.00
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KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear, expertly inspected†
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Nikon's constant f/2.8 standard zoom built for DX shooters
The 17-55mm f/2.8G covers the most-used focal range on APS-C bodies, running from wide-angle environmental shots at 17mm to tight portrait compression at 55mm, with f/2.8 available at every stop in between. Internal Focusing keeps the front element stationary during AF, so a circular polarizer or graduated ND on that 77mm thread stays put throughout the frame. Silent Wave Motor autofocus is fast and quiet enough for event work where a hunting lens draws attention.
ED glass throughout the optical formula keeps chromatic aberration in check even wide open, which matters when shooting under mixed event lighting or against high-contrast edges in architectural work. The G-type designation means aperture is body-controlled, standard practice on any modern Nikon body. For DX shooters who want a single workhorse lens than a bag full of primes, this 17-55mm is the established answer, a focal range that covers news, social events, indoor sports, and documentary work without swapping glass.
Who It's For
Photojournalists and documentary shooters working on DX bodies get a focal range from 17mm to 55mm that covers wide establishing shots through close subject work without a lens change. Event and wedding photographers shooting in dim reception halls rely on the constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent exposure control and shallower depth of field across the zoom range. Street photographers benefit from the Silent Wave Motor's quiet AF and the compact footprint compared to full-frame alternatives. Studio and portrait shooters using APS-C bodies find the 55mm end produces a natural compression for head-and-shoulder framing.
Key Features
- f/2.8 constant maximum aperture across entire 17-55mm focal range
- AF-S Silent Wave Motor autofocus for fast and silent operation
- Internal Focusing keeps front element stationary during AF
- ED glass elements minimize chromatic aberration throughout range
- G-type design with body-controlled aperture
- 77mm filter thread
- DX-format (APS-C) coverage with 25.5-82.5mm equivalent range
FAQ
- What's the actual focal range on a full-frame body?
- This is a DX lens - it will vignette and not fill the frame on FX bodies. Nikon designed it specifically for APS-C sensors, where 17-55mm gives you a 25.5-82.5mm equivalent range.
- Does the front element rotate during autofocus?
- No. Internal Focusing keeps the front element stationary, so filters stay in place and don't rotate during AF.
- How fast is the autofocus?
- The AF-S Silent Wave Motor is fast and quiet enough for event work - you won't hear it hunting, which matters in quiet rooms or during ceremonies.
- Can I use this for portraits at 55mm?
- Yes, but understand the compression limits of 55mm on crop sensor (equivalent to 82.5mm full-frame). It works for headshots and tight framing, but doesn't offer the subject separation you'd get from a 85mm prime on full-frame.
- What does the G-type designation mean?
- No aperture ring on the barrel - aperture is controlled entirely by the camera body. Standard on modern Nikon DSLRs.
- Does ED glass really matter at f/2.8?
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements control chromatic aberration, which shows up most at wide apertures and along high-contrast edges. Wide open under mixed lighting or shooting architectural detail, the difference is visible.
- Is this a replacement for multiple primes?
- It covers the most-used focal range on DX bodies and runs constant f/2.8, so yes - for news, events, indoor work, and documentary shooting, one lens replaces carrying 17mm, 35mm, and 50mm primes.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 17-55mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Nikon F (DX) |
| Filter Thread | 77mm |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 77mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount G Type |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle, Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 55mm |
| Min Focal Length | 17mm |
Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .
Exceptions
- New
- New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
- Like New
- Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
- As Is
- Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
Like New Minus
Like New Minus
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent
Excellent
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Ugly
Ugly
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.
