This is Nikon’s mid-level in price and speed and mid-range in focal lengths 3.8X zoom for its DSLR cameras with APS sized sensors. It is a popular kit lens with the Nikon D70.
Attractively finished in an epoxy-like crinkle surface, with an amply large, ribbed and rubberized zoom ring and slightly smaller focusing collar, the lens is of average size and weight for its class of variable-aperture, moderate-range zooms. Both focus and zoom rings feature a well-damped turning action, and both are adequately marked with distance (feet in yellow; meters in white) and focal-length scales. Like all Nikon G lenses, it does without an aperture ring; it also has Nikon’s polular manual/AF-manual switch, which, in the latter setting, lets you instantly touch up autofocus in the manual-focus mode.
SQF performance was excellent at the three tested focal lengths, and distortion was very well controlled, based on DxO Analyzer 2.0 tests, with slight barrel distortion (0.98%) at 18mm and pincushion distortion (0.58% and 0.64%) at 35mm and 70mm. Light falloff was gone by f/5.6 at 18 and 35mm and by f/8 at 70mm. The close-focusing distance was a constant 14.4 inches, with magnification ratios ranging from 1:6.3 at 70mm to 1:16.9 at 18mm.
Conclusion: Outfitted with many of the high-tech tools in Nikon’s optical kit, including ED glass (three elements) to control chromatic aberration, aspheric element for sharpness, Silent Wave Motor for more quiet AF action, and internal focusing that prevents the outer lens barrel from turning (making it more suitable for use with accessories such as ring lights and polarizing filters), this lens is perfect for portraits and general photography. And excellent multipurpose every day, mid-level zoom, there’s nothing “mid-level” about its image quality or handling. Both are exceptional.