Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens Review: A versatile kit zoom with great range and VR
posted Friday, May 15, 2015 at 12:08 PM EDT
The Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens comes as a replacement to Nikon's former higher-end kit lens, the 18-135mm. This newer model adds not only a little extra versatility with longer zoom range, but also Vibration Reduction, which is a great feature considering the not-so-bright f/3.5-5.6 variable aperture.
Optically, the 18-140mm is a solid performer for a kit lens, with nice, sharp images throughout the most of the focal length range (it does soften a bit at 140mm, though). It's not far and away better than the 18-135mm predecessor, but the extra bit of a reach and the addition of VR makes the 18-140mm a more enticing kit lens option. CA, vignetting and distortion are sort of all over the map, in a sense. These characteristics are all present to some degree, though none are severe enough to be objectionable for the most part.
For all the details from our review, including our analysis of image quality as well as handling, AF performance and image stabilization testing, head over SLRgear for our in-depth Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G VR review!
The lens is available for purchase primarily as part of a kit configuration with the Nikon D5300, D5500, D7100 and D7200 DSLRs. It can, however, be purchased separately, and has a retail price around $496.95. Check out Amazon, Adorama or B&H for more info on ordering. Buying this lens, or any other item, at one of these trusted affiliates helps support this site and keeps the reviews coming!
In the meantime, check out some sample photos shot by our lens technician Rob Murray using our Nikon D7000 test camera. You can view more sample photos, plus download the full-resolution files, over at our Flickr page.
