The Nikon D5300 is a reliable camera that’s able to capture great shots or videos in just about any situation. Even so, what makes it truly special is the number of lenses it can use to take its functionality to the next level.
Whenever you get a new camera, you want to pay attention to its available accessories. However, picking out just one tends to be a bit more difficult than it first seems. There are quite a few lenses out there, and they all do something different. The below sections will analyze the best ones for the Nikon D5300 and explain how they can advance your photography.
Contents
Quick Summary
- The Nikon 18-300mm is one of the best well-rounded lenses for the Nikon D5300. If you work in multiple disciplines or enjoy switching up your shooting style, this lightweight option may be for you.
- The Nikon 55-300mm is the best option for users who need a reliable telephoto zoom lens. Not only does this get in close, it also has great features like VR image stabilization.
- If you want a compact wide-angle lens, look no further than the Sigma 10-20mm. Equipped with three aspherical lens elements and inner focusing system, this is perfect for landscape photography.
Who Should Get This?
Anyone who owns a Nikon D5300 needs the lenses in this guide. They all come with special features and incredibly useful traits that help you take your shots to the next level. Beginners will appreciate how easy they are to use, while more advanced photographers will love the different methods they unlock.
Also note that these lenses are not specifically made for the Nikon D5300. Though they work incredibly well with the camera, they are compatible with a wide range of other models and designs. Don’t be afraid to use them with your other devices as well.
Best Lens for the Nikon D5300: What to Consider?
Lighting
Not every lens works perfectly in every type of light. Some do well in bright environments, while others excel when it’s dim. Low-light lenses are the most difficult to find. If you’re someone who likes to shoot when you don’t have a lot of sun or natural light, those are the ones you want to focus on. If you’re someone who likes to shoot outside or in open areas, it’s also important to get a lens that does well in bright conditions.
Durability
A camera lens needs to be able to hold up to a lot of use. Even if you’re a casual photographer or someone who’s new to the game, you need a well-made device that can handle being in your bag for hours on end. Scratch-proof materials matter, and you should also do your best to find a lens that can stand up to water. Designs that won’t break after a fall or accident should get priority as well.
Size and Weight
Lens size might not be the first thing you think of when making a purchase, but every serious photographer knows that bag weight matters. You never want to get something too bulky or that will add more mass to your bag if you can avoid it. That’s especially true for walk around photographers or people who like to shoot as they travel.
Best Lens for the Nikon D5300: Our Picks
1. Nikon 18-300mm
If you’re someone who wants to cover a wide range of focal lengths, the Nikon 18-300mm is a great option. This lens is incredibly lightweight compared to similar models, which works well for those who like to shoot on their feet for extended periods of time. It is also extremely versatile because it can freely switch between wide-angle and super-telephoto zoom. That gives you a wide range of options that other models can’t match.
Another bonus of this lens is its excellent vibration reduction image stabilization. Every photographer knows the issues camera shake can cause on a photo. The stabilization cuts down on that to ensure your shots come out as clear as possible. Add on the quiet autofocus system and balanced design and you get a complete lens capable of clear shots.
What We Like:
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Great aperture range
- Incredibly versatile
- Vibration reduction and image stabilization
- High-end image quality
- Affordable price
What We Don’t Like:
- Aimed at more advanced photographers
- Softness at the top end
2. Nikon 55-300mm
If you want a more compact lens for your D5300, the Nikon 55-300mm is a solid option. This device, which comes with two extra-low dispersion glass elements, lets you easily capture far off images. It also has a wide range that gives you extra versatility with your shots. On top of that, the VR image stabilization stops blur when you’re shooting and gives you much sharper images.
This device also comes with a silent wave motor to ensure it’s both quiet and fast while autofocusing. The Super Integrated Coating is also great, as it minimizes ghosting and flare. That then works with the incredible low-light shooting to give you great results no matter how dim it gets. That always provides you sharp images and excellent coloration.
What We Like:
- 5.5x telephoto zoom lens
- HRI lens element
- Silent wave motor
- VR image stabilization
- Quiet autofocus
- Great in low light
What We Don’t Like:
- Slow autofocus
3. Sigma 10-20mm
The Sigma 10-20mm is another affordable lens for the Nikon D5300. This is a wide-angle model that gives you a solid focal length range to create strong optical performance. That is then complemented by a view that ranges from 102.4 to 63.8 degrees. There are three special low dispersion elements and three aspherical lenses as well.
This model also comes with a special inner focusing system on top of a hyper sonic motor (HSM) system. You get a minimum focusing distance of 9.4 inches at every focal length too. All of that is then packed into a tight compact design that’s easy to use and gives you a lot of features without weighing you down.
What We Like:
- Ring-type AF motor
- Great for group and landscape shots
- Three aspherical lens
- 9.4-inch minimum focusing distance
- Solid focal length
- Advanced optical performance
- Lower price point
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be soft on the corners
- Plastic build
Useful Tips and Information
No matter how well-made your lens is, you need to take care of it. Proper lens care is not hard to do, but it’s something people overlook when they get a premium model. This article gives a great in-depth breakdown on how to ensure you get the most from your device.
As great as the NikonD5300 is, it’s not the easiest model to understand. As with any new camera, it always helps to get to know the device before taking it out and shooting. If you want to enhance your experience, check out this video.
Final Words
A camera is nothing without a good lens. As strong as the Nikon D5300 is on its own, you’ll never be able to truly take advantage of its excellent traits without a strong lens. Though searching for such models can be tricky, the above models will improve your shots no matter how you like to shoot.
What lens do you use with the Nikon D5300? What traits do you value the most? Let us know in the comments below!
