If you want a strong DSLR camera it’s hard to do better than the Nikon D5200. However, as great as its numerous specs are, you can’t unlock the device’s true potential without lenses. There are many great options out there, with each one working for a specific type of photography. This guide will help find the one for you.
The following paragraphs will analyze a range of different lenses for the Nikon D5200 and explain what traits they bring to the camera. Each one has been graded on a series of important criteria, including aperture, durability, and focus, and they excel in every category.
Contents
Quick Summary
- The AF-S DX 18-200mm is a solid all-in-one lens that works for a lot of different shots. It can focus up to 20 inches, utilizes two extra-low dispersion elements, and has excellent image stabilization.
- The Sigma 10-20mm is a wide-angle lens that will deliver great shots again and again. If you need larger shots, this model’s ultra zoom, strong focusing distance, and 102-degree view will deliver every time.
- Those looking for a reliable everyday lens should check out the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm. Not only does this work in a range of situations, it is also durable, compact, and excels in low light.
Who Should Get This?
Every lens listed here works and is compatible with the Nikon D5200. They all add extra functionality to the camera, making them perfect for both new and advanced photographers. They also cover many types of photography, and are especially useful for landscape, close-up, and portrait shots.
While this guide focuses on the Nikon D5200, the below models can work with a wide range of cameras. Do not be afraid to try them out with other models in your collection.
Best Lens for Nikon D5200: What to Consider?
Lighting
Unfortunately, you will rarely shoot in ideal conditions. More often than not, you’re going to have to take pictures in light that’s either brighter or lower than what you would like. Get a lens that helps make those tough environments much easier to handle. If you shoot in low light quite a lot, buy something that helps fight back the darkness. If you shoot in bright conditions, get one that can handle those as well.
Durability
Lenses, like any other outdoor camera gear, tend to go through a lot of abuse. No matter how careful you are, you never know when you might drop a lens or have something knock into your camera. If you go with an option that’s built to stand up to impacts, you won’t have a problem. Always invest in sturdy items that you won’t have to replace when something goes wrong.
Weight and Size
Unless you only shoot at home, you’re going to bring your photography kit out of the house from time to time. While one or two extra lenses might not seem like much, the weight quickly adds up if you need to walk long distances or stand on your feet for long periods of time. Do your best to get light or compact lenses when possible. If you do need something a bit bigger, make sure you can handle the extra size.
Best Lens for Nikon D5200: Our Picks
1. AF-S DX 18-200mm
The AF-S DX 18-200mm is one of the most versatile lenses for the Nikon D5200. In fact, this is the only thing some walk-around photographers keep in their bag. It tops our list because it can handle just about anything you throw at it, ranging from wide-angle shots to extreme close-ups. It also captures sharp images and comes with a 20-inch focus on top of a good focal length range.
Another reason so many photographers choose the AF-S DX 18-20mm as their go-to everyday model is the fact that it’s quite durable. This is one of the sturdiest options for the Nikon D5200, which gives you some extra peace of mind as you move around. Add on the excellent anti-stabilization alongside the low price point and you get a lens that everyone can take advantage of and afford.
What We Like:
- 20-inch focus
- Versatile, adapts to many different situations
- Solid focal length range
- Anti-stabilization
- Sharp resolution throughout its range
- Durable and well-made
What We Don’t Like:
- Distortion present at the wide end
2. Sigma 10-20mm
If you want a wide-angle zoom lens for your Nikon D5200, the Sigma 10-20mm is the way to go. This model, due to its great capture range, is perfect for group pictures, building interiors, as well as general landscape photography. It requires a minimum focusing distance of 9.4-inches and utilizes a 102-degree wide angle view so you can always get the exact shot you want.
While this lens is a bit heavy for a plastic model, it still comes in at an affordable price and gives you a focal length range that matches 15-30mm. The optical performance is top notch and the AF motor is quite nice as well. With excellent maneuverability and the ability to capture foreground shots with ease, there’s almost nothing this can’t do.
What We Like:
- AF motor
- Full-time manual focusing
- Great for landscape and portraits
- Minimum 9.4-inch focusing distance
- Easy to maneuver
- 102-degree wide angle view
- A lot of value at a reasonable price
What We Don’t Like:
- Soft in the corners
- A bit heavy for a plastic build
3. Nikon AF-S DX 35mm
If you want something that effectively combines strength with specs, look no further than the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm. This option captures sharp images in a way that makes it perfect for travel, portrait, and street photography. It also comes with a strong metal mount that increases its durability and ensures it will last a long time. There is a solid aperture range here too.
The number one reason this makes our list is because of how well it excels in low-light conditions. No matter when or where you need to shoot, this will give you great results time and time again. It’s also affordable, which is great for photographers on a budget. This is the best model for those with blurred backgrounds.
What We Like:
- Durable metal mount
- Great in low light
- Sharp resolution
- Great aperture range
- Compact
- Silent wave motor AF system
- Low price point
What We Don’t Like:
- None. A fantastic everyday lens option
Useful Tips and Information
Premium lenses tend to help you shoot in low light conditions. However, even with them, recording or capturing images in less-than-ideal environments is never fun. Luckily, videos like the one here will help make that process much easier.
The Nikon D5200 is a well-rounded camera with a lot of moving parts. As with any device, you don’t want to go into it blind. Rather, check out this guide to get an idea of how the model works and where it all fits together.
Final Words
If you want to bring something extra to your Nikon D5200, it’s hard to do better than what’s listed in this article. All of the items work well in their own right and help take your photos or videos to the next level. Get the model that works best with your shooting style and you’ll be happy.
What lens do you use for your camera? What characteristics make it special? Let us know below.
