Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 G II VR Autofocus APS-C Lens, Black {52}

Nikon's DX kit standard zoom with VR II stabilization built in

The 18-55mm focal range translates to roughly 27-82mm in full-frame terms on a DX body, covering wide-angle environmental shots through short telephoto portrait framing. That range alone makes it the workhorse lens for a large portion of everyday shooting. VR II image stabilization gives you meaningful handheld latitude in lower light, where the variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture would otherwise push you toward slower shutter speeds.

The Silent Wave Motor drives autofocus quietly and without relying on the camera body's screwdriver coupling, so it works on any Nikon DSLR regardless of whether the body has an internal AF motor. Internal focus means the front element doesn't rotate during focusing, which matters when you're using a polarizing filter on the 52mm thread. The zoom lock switch keeps the barrel from creeping when the lens is pointed down or slung over a shoulder.

For a DX shooter building a first kit or needing a compact travel lens that doesn't demand much bag space, this is a proven starting point that handles more shooting situations than its modest specs suggest.

Who It's For

New Nikon DX shooters get a practical introduction to the system without overcomplicating their kit, the SWM autofocus and VR II handle most everyday conditions without manual adjustment. Travel photographers working light will appreciate the compact form factor and zoom lock, which prevents the barrel from extending in a bag. Documentary and street shooters benefit from the quiet SWM motor during candid work. Anyone adding a second body to a DX kit as a walk-around pairing will find the 18-55mm range covers the gaps left by longer telephoto glass.

Key Features

• 18-55mm focal range covers wide environmental shots through short telephoto portraits
• VR II stabilization provides 2-3 stops of handheld latitude in low light
• Silent Wave Motor autofocus operates on any Nikon DSLR body regardless of AF motor
• Internal focus keeps front element stationary for polarizing filter compatibility
• 52mm filter thread accepts standard accessories without rotating front element
• Zoom lock switch prevents barrel creep during transport and storage
• DX format lens optimized for APS-C sensor coverage

FAQ

What's the actual focal length on a full-frame Nikon body?

This lens is DX-only and won't mount on full-frame bodies. On a DX sensor, the 18-55mm range equals roughly 27-82mm in full-frame terms due to crop factor.

Does VR II make a real difference for handheld shooting?

Yes. VR II gives you roughly 2-3 stops of stabilization, which matters at 55mm where you'd otherwise need faster shutter speeds or higher ISO in indoor light.

Can I use this lens on older Nikon DSLRs without autofocus motors?

Yes. The Silent Wave Motor is self-contained in the lens, so it autofocuses on any Nikon DSLR regardless of whether the body has a built-in AF motor.

Will my polarizing filter work with this lens?

Yes, without headaches. Internal focus means the front element doesn't rotate, so a polarizing filter stays in the same position throughout focusing.

Is there an aperture ring on this lens?

No. It's a G-type lens with no aperture ring, so you set aperture through the camera body. This also saves weight and keeps the design compact.

What's the zoom lock switch for?

It prevents the barrel from extending when the lens hangs down or is slung over a shoulder, which keeps your bag packed tight and the lens from creeping during storage.