Question 1

Is the Nikon 18-200mm VR compatible with full-frame Nikon bodies?

Accepted Answer

No — this is a DX-format lens designed for APS-C sensor Nikon F-mount cameras. Mounting it on a full-frame body like a D800 or D750 will produce heavy vignetting across most of the zoom range. It's built to pair with DX bodies such as the D3500, D5600, or D7500.

Question 2

What is the difference between the Nikon 18-200mm VR and VR II?

Accepted Answer

The original AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED VR uses Nikon's first-generation Vibration Reduction system. The VR II version (AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II) introduced improved VR effectiveness and a zoom lock switch to reduce lens creep. Optically, both lenses share the same 11x zoom range and SWM autofocus motor. For everyday travel and general shooting, the original VR performs very well.

Question 3

Does the Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 have a zoom lock to prevent lens creep?

Accepted Answer

The original VR version does not include a dedicated zoom lock switch — that feature was added in the VR II revision. At longer focal lengths, the zoom ring can creep slightly when pointed downward. A practical workaround is to shoot with the zoom collar held or to use a third-party zoom lock band.

Question 4

How close can this lens focus?

Accepted Answer

The minimum focus distance is 0.5m, which gives you decent close-up capability for product shots or flowers — especially useful at the 200mm end where you get a flattering compression effect. It won't replace a dedicated macro lens, but it's genuinely handy for travel detail shots.

Question 5

Is the SWM autofocus on the Nikon 18-200mm fast enough for sports and action?

Accepted Answer

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) delivers quick, near-silent autofocus that handles moving subjects in good light — think kids running around, casual sports, or wildlife that isn't sprinting. In low light or at 200mm, AF tracking will slow down noticeably. For dedicated sports shooting with fast subjects, a lens with a wider maximum aperture will serve you better.

Question 6

What filter size does the Nikon AF-S 18-200mm use?

Accepted Answer

The filter thread is 72mm. That's a fairly common size, so UV filters, polarisers, and ND filters are easy to find. Because the front element does not rotate during focusing (internal focus design), a circular polariser is straightforward to use — just set the polarisation before shooting.

Question 7

Is buying a used Nikon 18-200mm VR worth it?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — this is one of the most popular all-in-one lenses Nikon has made, so used copies are plentiful and well-understood. The main things to check on a second-hand copy are zoom smoothness (watch for stiff spots or wobble), VR operation (listen for the quiet hum when half-pressing the shutter), and front element condition. Every used lens on Camera-tweedehands.nl is individually photographed and professionally inspected, and comes with a minimum 12 months warranty, so you can buy with confidence.

Question 8

How does the 18-200mm compare to the Nikon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR?

Accepted Answer

The 18-200mm is a DX-only lens, lighter at 560g, and starts wider at 18mm — great for travel and everyday DX shooting. The Nikon AF-S 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a full-frame lens, heavier, and widely regarded as sharper across its zoom range with less lens creep. If you're on a DX body and prioritise portability and wide-angle coverage, the 18-200mm makes a lot of sense. If you shoot full-frame or demand maximum sharpness at a zoom, the 28-300mm is the stronger performer.

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

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About the Nikon AF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G IF-ED VR DX

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