---
product_id: 51007689
title: "Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens"
brand: "nikon"
price: "VT220004"
currency: VUV
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 11
category: "Nikon"
url: https://www.desertcart.vu/products/51007689-nikon-af-s-dx-nikkor-16-85mm-f-3-5
store_origin: VU
region: Vanuatu
---

# 5.3x versatile zoom 17 elements, 2 ED + 3 aspherical VR II image stabilization Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

**Brand:** nikon
**Price:** VT220004
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 📸 Elevate your frame with Nikon’s all-in-one pro zoom!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens by nikon
- **How much does it cost?** VT220004 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.vu](https://www.desertcart.vu/products/51007689-nikon-af-s-dx-nikkor-16-85mm-f-3-5)

## Best For

- nikon enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted nikon brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Compact Durability:** Lightweight magnesium construction with weather-sealed mount offers rugged reliability and balanced handling for on-the-go pros.
- • **Zoom with Precision:** Capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits with a flexible 16-85mm focal range that adapts to your creative vision.
- • **Crystal-Clear Optics:** Advanced ED and aspherical lens elements minimize distortion and aberrations, delivering sharp, high-contrast images that stand out.
- • **Steady Shots, Anytime:** Nikon’s second-generation Vibration Reduction (VR II) lets you shoot handheld with up to 4 stops slower shutter speeds—perfect for low light and video.
- • **Silent & Swift Autofocus:** Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology ensures fast, whisper-quiet focusing so you never miss a moment or disturb your subject.

## Overview

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a compact, high-performance zoom lens designed for DX-format Nikon DSLRs. Featuring a versatile 5.3x zoom range, advanced vibration reduction for steady handheld shooting, and superior optics with ED and aspherical elements, it delivers sharp, vibrant images across a wide variety of shooting scenarios. Its silent autofocus and durable, lightweight build make it the go-to lens for professionals and enthusiasts seeking reliable, all-around excellence.

## Description

Shop Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85 mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens. Free delivery and returns on eligible orders.

Review: Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm - The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a versatile and compact option for DX-format Nikon DSLR users. It's designed primarily for beginners and enthusiasts looking for an affordable all-purpose lens with image stabilization (VR) and decent optical performance. In terms of build quality, the lens feels lightweight yet sturdy with a plastic construction typical of kit lenses. The zoom ring is smooth, though not exceptionally precise, and the autofocus is reasonably quick and quiet due to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM). Optically, the lens performs adequately for its price range. At 18mm, it provides a wide enough angle for landscapes and group shots, while at 55mm, it reaches into the short telephoto range, suitable for portraits and details. The f/3.5-5.6 aperture range limits low-light performance and depth of field control compared to more expensive lenses, but the VR (Vibration Reduction) system helps compensate for camera shake, especially useful in dimmer conditions. Image quality is generally good for everyday use and social media sharing. While sharpness is decent across the frame when stopped down, there is noticeable softness at wider apertures and towards the edges. Chromatic aberration and distortion are present but manageable with post-processing. Overall, the Nikon 18-55mm VR lens is a solid entry-level option that delivers what it promises: versatility, image stabilization, and acceptable image quality at an affordable price. It's ideal for beginners or those on a budget who want a reliable lens for everyday photography without breaking the bank.
Review: Sharp and Versatile - I really wished I had not been tempted by the 18-200mm VR Nikon lens before eventually settling on this.....I had the 18-200mm for a week before returning it as I was so disappointed with the image quality and sharpness (maybe a had a bad copy) I then tried the Tamron 18-270, slow slow slow focus, and aperture, so not a great success either, eventually sold it on Ebay. So having been burned by trying to get a lens for everything, I finally decided on a 3 lens solution, This Nikon 16-85 plus a Nikon 70-300mm VR, plus for really low light or portrait situations a Nikon 50mm 1.4 prime. So enough about those other lenses what about this. I have to say I am thrilled with the image quality, pictures are sharp, full of punch and contrast, and the extra couple of mm at the wide end is really handy. (If you are using anything wider than 16mm in my opinion it starts to look freaky anyway). The lens is a really handy compact size, but very solid feeling and nicely built. This lens pretty much stays on the camera 90% of the time as its all you really need. Admittedly sometimes you wish for a bit of extra reach without having to swap, but I have to keep reminding myself that, yes you can get more reach with a superzoom but the pictures are not going to be very sharp. The autofocus is adequate but not super speedy, so you have to leave the camera on continual focus if trying to capture running children etc, once focused on the moving target it will track it quite well so you get the majority of pictures sharp. By the way the 70-300 is also a brilliant lens. So don't be suckered by a superzoom, this is as zoomy as you should really get without too many compromises,

## Features

- image_stabilisation

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B0013A1XDE |
| Best Sellers Rank | 14,747 in Electronics & Photo ( See Top 100 in Electronics & Photo ) 84 in Camera Lenses |
| Box Contents | AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, CL-1015 Soft Case, HB-39 Bayonet Lens Hood, LC-67 Snap-on Front Lens Cap, LF-4 Rear Lens Cap |
| Brand Name | Nikon |
| Camera Lens | Nikkor AF-S DX 16-85mm zoom lens with f/3.5-5.6 maximum aperture and vibration reduction (VR) for image stabilization. Designed for Nikon DSLR cameras with DX sensor. Offers an effective focal length of 24-128mm on cameras with APS-C sensor. Includes ED glass elements for superior image quality. |
| Colour | black |
| Compatible Camera Models | Nikon D40, D60, D80, D90, D300 |
| Compatible Devices | Nikon Cameras, Nikon Digital SLRs |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (DX) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Customer Reviews | 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (4,261) |
| Exposure Control Type | Automatic |
| Fixed Focal Length | 85 Millimetres |
| Focus Type | Auto Focus |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00182080217896 |
| Has Self-Timer | No |
| Image Stabilization Type | Optical |
| Item Weight | 485 Grams |
| Lens Coating Description | BBAR Coating |
| Lens Design | Zoom |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Maximum Focal Length | 85 Millimeters |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/16 second |
| Media Type | ProductImage |
| Minimum Aperture | 36 |
| Minimum Focal Length | 16 Millimeters |
| Model Name | 2178 |
| Number of Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Photo Filter Size | 67 Millimeters |
| Screen Size | 3.4 Inches |
| Shooting Modes | Manual Focus |
| UPC | 182080217896 018208021789 |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical viewfinder |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Zoom Ratio | 1:5.3 |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Nikon
- **Compatible mountings:** Nikon F (DX)
- **Focal length description:** 16-85 millimeters
- **Focus type:** Auto Focus
- **Lens design:** Zoom
- **Lens type:** Zoom
- **Lens-fixed focal length:** 85 Millimetres
- **Maximum focal length:** 85 Millimeters
- **Minimum focal length:** 16 Millimeters

## Images

![Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71mwcmbjHpL.jpg)
![Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61yfArfyKwL.jpg)
![Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51pD2WhMhFL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Pattern, Size** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: What image quality improvements are people seeing over the 18-105, if any? Apart from the obvious build quality.**
A: hi nigel, I was attracted to this lens because of what it offers at the wide end of the focal range. What is effectively 24 mm in old money is quite significant in my opinion, compared to the "standard" wide angle of 27-28mm, (18mm on a DX lens), when capturing interiors or landscapes. That said the lens is very sharp and has performed well in numerous tests in the last few years. Unfortunately I am unable to compare it to the 18-105 in terms of sharpness, because I have never used that lens. It depends on your priorities but what i do know is that tests have commented that if there is a weakness in sharpness in the 16-85mm it is at the telephoto end. But I havn't noticed to be honest. If the telephoto reach is what attracts you to the 18-105, I am sure it performs at least as well as the suggested alternative. If you want stunning landscapes with big sky however, I can heartily recommend the 16-85. Not sure I have helped really? Good luck.

**Q: Will this lens really make that much of a difference compared to my kit lens on the Nikon D3200?**
A: Optically not very much; it only improves contrast and flare management a little over and above the kit lens.  The 18-55 kit lens is a very good lens but is poorly made compared to the 16-85 and of course doesn't have the telephoto range.  I've been very pleased with mine on a d5100 and now a D7000.  If you've got the money, it's the best zoom covering this focal length range currently on the market.

**Q: What type of mount does this lens have metal or plastic?**
A: HiIt has a metal mount.RegardsJanet

**Q: How robust is the lens hood? Is it likely to break if knocked?**
A: The lens hood is as robust as it needs to be. Admittedly when in use the wings of the hood do stick out from the lens body, but they are fairly robust and i would imagine it would take a fairly hefty whack to snap the wings off. I've found that when the hood is not in use i can reverse it so that the wings of the hood are facing inwards toward the body of the camera. This ensures that the whole unit fits snuggly into the camera bag and the wings are no longer susceptible to damage.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm
*by G***J on 20 June 2024*

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a versatile and compact option for DX-format Nikon DSLR users. It's designed primarily for beginners and enthusiasts looking for an affordable all-purpose lens with image stabilization (VR) and decent optical performance. In terms of build quality, the lens feels lightweight yet sturdy with a plastic construction typical of kit lenses. The zoom ring is smooth, though not exceptionally precise, and the autofocus is reasonably quick and quiet due to the Silent Wave Motor (SWM). Optically, the lens performs adequately for its price range. At 18mm, it provides a wide enough angle for landscapes and group shots, while at 55mm, it reaches into the short telephoto range, suitable for portraits and details. The f/3.5-5.6 aperture range limits low-light performance and depth of field control compared to more expensive lenses, but the VR (Vibration Reduction) system helps compensate for camera shake, especially useful in dimmer conditions. Image quality is generally good for everyday use and social media sharing. While sharpness is decent across the frame when stopped down, there is noticeable softness at wider apertures and towards the edges. Chromatic aberration and distortion are present but manageable with post-processing. Overall, the Nikon 18-55mm VR lens is a solid entry-level option that delivers what it promises: versatility, image stabilization, and acceptable image quality at an affordable price. It's ideal for beginners or those on a budget who want a reliable lens for everyday photography without breaking the bank.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sharp and Versatile
*by D***Y on 8 June 2012*

I really wished I had not been tempted by the 18-200mm VR Nikon lens before eventually settling on this.....I had the 18-200mm for a week before returning it as I was so disappointed with the image quality and sharpness (maybe a had a bad copy) I then tried the Tamron 18-270, slow slow slow focus, and aperture, so not a great success either, eventually sold it on Ebay. So having been burned by trying to get a lens for everything, I finally decided on a 3 lens solution, This Nikon 16-85 plus a Nikon 70-300mm VR, plus for really low light or portrait situations a Nikon 50mm 1.4 prime. So enough about those other lenses what about this. I have to say I am thrilled with the image quality, pictures are sharp, full of punch and contrast, and the extra couple of mm at the wide end is really handy. (If you are using anything wider than 16mm in my opinion it starts to look freaky anyway). The lens is a really handy compact size, but very solid feeling and nicely built. This lens pretty much stays on the camera 90% of the time as its all you really need. Admittedly sometimes you wish for a bit of extra reach without having to swap, but I have to keep reminding myself that, yes you can get more reach with a superzoom but the pictures are not going to be very sharp. The autofocus is adequate but not super speedy, so you have to leave the camera on continual focus if trying to capture running children etc, once focused on the moving target it will track it quite well so you get the majority of pictures sharp. By the way the 70-300 is also a brilliant lens. So don't be suckered by a superzoom, this is as zoomy as you should really get without too many compromises,

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Not well prepared
*by R***. on 1 February 2026*

Rubbish…

## Frequently Bought Together

- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Tiffen 67UVP Slim 67mm UV Protection Filter for Camera Lens, Clear Optical Glass, Impact Resistant MADE IN USA

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*Product available on Desertcart Vanuatu*
*Store origin: VU*
*Last updated: 2026-05-02*