The Nikon AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR is another excellent macro lens from Nikon thanks to exceptional sharpness and 1:1 magnification.

• +

  Very sharp. 1:1 magnification. Compact. Optical stabilization system.

• -

  Lacks focus limiter switch. Short working distance for 1:1 photography. Not a full-frame lens. Some barrel distortion.

The AF-S DX Micro-Nikkor 85mm f/3.5G ED VR was Nikon's first macro-lens designed specifically for DX-bodies. And it's only the second macro lens that offers image-stabilization following its larger cousin, the AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED.

The 85mm VR Micro Nikkor ($529.95, MSRP) benefits from next-generation VR II technology and is stated to deliver usable results at up to four steps below the optimum shutter speed. Keep in mind that we’re dealing with a DX-dedicated lens for an APS-C sensor camera (like my D300).

Is the Nikon 85mm f/3.5G AF-S DX VR Micro Lens right for you? Learn all you need to know in The-Digital-Picture.com's review!

;This is Nikon's first 1:1 Micro Nikkor in the DX (APS-C) format. With a street price of $500, it offers D3000, D500, D300, and D90 shooters true close-ups--with Vibration Reduction II--at a much lower cost than Nikon's other VR macro, the $890, full-frame, 105mm f/2.8G.

This telephoto macro lens for DX format Nikon cameras costs around £400 and sports Vibration reduction technology, a modest maximum aperture of f/3.5, an internal focusing design and a silent wave focusing motor.

Looks really well if you supplement with a flash, preferable diffused.. (my sb-700 has those).. Didnt' look so well with led ring-light, but that was more the light I used... I may continue to keep , though I now wish for the 105mm f/2.8. It's a great price for beginning...

• +

  Sharp, fast focus, accurate, auto-focus works well with macro of butterflies that are not moving, light, rugged. good color. f3.5 is adequate for many situations involving sun light

• -

  not a FX lens for full frame, will vignette and not a good match with D800 if FX mode (which I should have payed attention to prior to ordering that bundle)

I've been using this macro lens for about 6 months now and it's a very good macro lens. I've gotten some awesome shots and when used with extension tubes you get amazing detail in your focus stacks. I love having the extra working distance this lens provides as well. Buy it.

• +

  Consistent Output, Durable, Easily Interchangeable, Fast / accurate auto-focus, Nice Bokeh

• -

  Poor in Low Light

I put my Nikon 85mm DX Macro Lens through its paces this weekend. It performed extremely well as both a macro lens and a portrait lens. Its light weight makes it very portable and the optics are excellent.

I loved taking pictures of flowers with my point-and-shoot, so I was missing the ability to picture the small things in life after upgrading to dSLR. This is my first true Macro lens and I'm not disappointed.

• +

  Nice Bokeh

I have only had this kit about a month. I bought this package with the Nikon D5300 and it works great. The pictures are crystal clear. With this lens you do not have to be right on top of the object in order to get a closeup photo.

I have taken over 400 photos of different subjects at different distances. The details are sharp clean and crisp in all the photos, except those where I failed to hold the camera steady or where I snapped the shutter before the AF functioned.

Lens has great auto focus, clear sharp pictures and nice colors. The VR is helpful for slower shutter speeds. I use this lens to take pictures of birds, chipmunks and insects.

• +

  Consistent Output, Durable, Easily Interchangeable, Fast / accurate auto-focus, Lightweight, Nice Bokeh

Was this review helpful? |

• +

  -Able to take pictures of wildlife such as rabbits without frightening them away, meaning, able to stand pretty far back and get a good shot. -Takes pretty sharp images for the most part. Still learning how to use this lens so hopefully that will improve. -Photos are nice and contrasty!

• -

  -Camera shake is still present with handheld shots even with VR function

Just got the lens today and shot a few dozen macro shots and about 15 or 20 portraits. I love the optics! The body is pretty cheaply made, but the glass is excellent. Good weight as well.

• +

  Great picture quality, Lightweight