Nikon 18-200mm AF-S f/3.5-5.6G DX VR II

Katzprints: Reviewing the Nikon 18-200 mm lens is not an easy task because the impression of the lens will very much depend on the renter's expectations. You might really be satisfied with it or come to the conclusion that it is a rather mixed bag. I rented this lens for a four week trip to Europe. I usually carry several lenses with me, one of which a Nikon 70-200 mm VR, which I love. However, for this trip, baggage and carry-on weight were a consideration so I was looking for a compromise: a light-weight one-lens solution. The 18-200 mm certainly is such compromise and I would say its range covered about 90% of my needs. Only a few times did I miss a 10mm or a 400 mm. Having only one lens was also convenient and probably a bit safer, above all for big city shooting. Would I personally rent this lens again? No. And there are several reasons for that. First off, while the lens performs quite well in mid-range and in good lighting conditions, it just isn't sharp enough for my taste in the telephoto range or when the light is not perfect. I thought I would not notice the difference that much but I do - I guess the 70-200 mm has spoiled me for life... If all you do is print 4x6 pictures or share pics with your friends, you'll be fine. If you want or need really crips images, this lens is not for you. Secondly, lens creep is really bad shooting up and down. I had read that this version of the lens had that issue corrected but I cannot attest to that. With certain shooting angles, I had to hold the zoom to prevent it from falling in or out. Thirdly, autofocus at times did not perform well. It would just not react at all or it would clearly be off so I would have to refocus manually instead. Fourthly, and that is a minor issue - the lens and my camera bag did not cooperate well. Somehow, when putting the camera into the bag or taking it out, the VR switch would get set to Off and I would have to remember to always check the setting before shooting. To sum it up: I was very happy to have a light-weight travel lens for my trip which allowed me to shoot diverse scenes quickly and conveniently and without worrying about schlepping heavy and expensive equipment around. However, the results are just not up to my personal standards so I will continue to look for a better solution.

Lisa: You cannot beat this one for a walkaround lens. Covers all focal lengths you probably need? Yes please! It's not too heavy, so even a small girl like me is able to carry it around all day without trouble. Is it the ultimate "OMGZ bokeh" portrait lens? No. But for everyday, outside pics at the zoo, beach or birthday parties, it's awesome. Surprisingly sharp with great colors.