Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)
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A 1.4-pound, 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G DX-format zoom lens with 4-stop VR, designed for Nikon DSLR users who want one lens for most situations.
This renewed 18-140mm lens is a situational fit because its 18-140mm focal range and 4-stop VR make it incredibly convenient for general photography, especially travel, by reducing lens changes. However, its variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture and reported issues with corner sharpness and distortion mean it makes compromises in optical performance that might not suit all users.
If you need consistently sharper images across the frame or better low-light performance, look for lenses with a fixed, wider aperture (e.g., f/2.8) or prime lenses, even if it means sacrificing zoom range.
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Pros
- Covers a wide 18-140mm focal range (equivalent to 27-210mm on full-frame) reducing the need for lens changes.
- Features 4-stop Vibration Reduction for sharper handheld photos and videos, even in lower light.
- Constructed with a metal lens mount and tight tolerances, indicating a step up in build quality compared to some other kit lenses.
- Achieves macro-style close-ups with a minimum focusing distance of 1.48 feet (0.45m) and 0.23x magnification.
- Utilizes a Silent Wave Motor for quiet and accurate autofocusing.
- Includes Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass for improved contrast.
Cons
- Exhibits noticeable distortion, particularly barrel distortion at 18mm, which often requires in-camera or software correction.
- Shows lackluster edge and corner sharpness, especially at wider apertures and longer focal lengths.
- Has a variable aperture that narrows from f/3.5 at 18mm to f/5.6 at 140mm, limiting low-light performance at the telephoto end.
- Does not include a lens hood, which is sold separately.
- Can suffer from vignetting at 140mm, requiring post-processing to correct.
- The zoom ring can sometimes feel stiff, and the lens may experience zoom creep if held vertically.
Dimension Scores
While center sharpness is good and colors are realistic, the lens exhibits noticeable distortion, lackluster corner sharpness, and some chromatic aberration, which are common compromises for its zoom range.
The Silent Wave Motor provides accurate and quick autofocus, though some users note it can be on the slower side compared to higher-end lenses.
The 4-stop Vibration Reduction system is effective for stabilizing handheld video, and the quiet autofocus minimizes audio interference.
Weighing 1.4 pounds (490g) and offering an 18-140mm zoom range, it's a compact all-in-one solution that eliminates the need to carry multiple lenses, making it highly portable for its capabilities.
Best For
- Travel photography where carrying multiple lenses is inconvenient.
- Everyday photography, covering a broad range of subjects from wide landscapes to distant subjects.
- DX-format DSLR users seeking a single, versatile lens for general use.
- Situations requiring effective image stabilization for handheld shots.
Not Recommended For
- Professional photographers needing consistent edge-to-edge sharpness across all focal lengths and apertures.
- Low-light photography without flash, due to the f/5.6 maximum aperture at 140mm.
- Pixel peepers who demand absolute optical perfection without any chromatic aberration or distortion.
Watch Out For
- Expect to purchase a lens hood separately, as it's not included with the lens.
- Corner sharpness can be significantly reduced, especially at 70mm and beyond, and in the meridional direction.
- Chromatic aberration and color fringing can be present, particularly if not corrected in post-processing.
- The zoom ring might be stiff initially or develop some looseness, potentially leading to zoom creep.
- Vignetting is noticeable at 140mm, which will require software correction.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B01882XYPO |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Language | English |
| Lens Type | Wide Angle, Normal, Telephoto |
| Item Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Item model number | CRTNK18140VRRB |
| Product Dimensions | 3.82 x 3.07 x 3.07 inches |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F |
| Focal Length Description | 140 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users consider this 18-140mm lens a go-to for everyday and travel photography because of its broad focal range, which means less lens swapping. The 4-stop Vibration Reduction is frequently highlighted as a key benefit, helping to capture sharper images handheld. However, recurring complaints point to optical compromises like noticeable distortion and softer corners, especially at the telephoto end. Some also mention the zoom ring can be stiff or prone to creep.
“Okay, so I got this renewed 18-140mm and it's pretty much glued to my D7500 now. It's not perfect, like the corners are a bit soft sometimes and yeah, distortion is there, but for just walking around and travel, not having to change lenses is a game changer. VR actually works, which is huge.”
Common Praise
- Covers a wide 18-140mm focal range, making it a versatile single-lens solution.
- Effective 4-stop Vibration Reduction helps achieve sharper images in various conditions.
- Center sharpness is often described as very good, especially at 18mm.
- Build quality, including a metal mount, feels more substantial than some other kit lenses.
- Autofocus is generally quick and accurate.
Common Complaints
- Corners and edges can lack sharpness, particularly at wider apertures and longer focal lengths.
- Noticeable barrel distortion at the wide end and pincushion distortion at the telephoto end.
- Chromatic aberration and color fringing are present and often require correction.
- The zoom ring can be stiff or experience zoom creep when pointed up or down.
- Vignetting is apparent at 140mm.
- The variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture limits its usefulness in low-light situations without increasing ISO.
Ownership Tips
- You'll probably leave this lens on your camera most of the time because the zoom range is just so convenient.
- Be prepared to do some minor corrections for distortion and chromatic aberration in post-processing, especially if you shoot RAW.
- The VR is genuinely helpful for getting sharp shots at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths.
- Consider investing in a separate lens hood to help with flare and provide some physical protection.
- The lens extends quite a bit at 140mm, so be mindful of its length when fully zoomed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this lens offer true macro capabilities?
While it can focus as close as 1.48 feet (0.45m) for macro-style close-ups, providing 0.23x magnification, it is not a dedicated macro lens.
What does 'renewed' mean for this lens?
This lens is 'FACTORY REFURBISHED' by Nikon USA and comes with all original accessories plus a 90-day warranty. It means it has been inspected and restored to working condition.
How effective is the Vibration Reduction (VR) on this lens?
The VR system is highly effective, providing approximately 4 stops of image stabilization, which helps in achieving sharper handheld photos and videos.
Will I need a lens hood for this product?
Yes, a lens hood is not included with this lens and is sold separately by Nikon.
Buying Guide
When looking at a zoom lens like this, you're balancing convenience with optical performance. A wide zoom range means you don't have to swap lenses as often, which is awesome for travel or just everyday shooting. But that convenience often comes with compromises in sharpness, especially at the edges, and a variable aperture that gets smaller as you zoom in, making low-light shots harder. You need to decide if the flexibility of one lens outweighs the absolute best image quality.
18-140mm focal range (DX-format)
f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
1.4 pounds (490g)
Alternatives
If this lens doesn't fit, consider a fixed-aperture zoom for consistent low-light performance and sharpness, or a set of prime lenses for maximum optical quality, understanding you'll lose the all-in-one convenience.
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