About this model
The Nikon AF-S DX 16-85mm ED VR is a high-quality standard zoom for Nikon DX-format (APS-C) DSLRs. Its 16-85mm focal range gives a 24-127.5mm equivalent, covering wide-angle to short telephoto – ideal for travel, landscapes, portraits and everyday shooting. Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and three aspherical elements deliver sharp, contrasty images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. Vibration Reduction compensates for camera shake, allowing hand-held shooting at slower shutter speeds. The Silent Wave Motor provides fast, quiet autofocus with full-time manual override. Built with a metal mount and a comfortable zoom ring, it's a step up from standard kit lenses.
Key specs
| Type | Standard zoom lens (DX format) |
|---|---|
| Focal length | 16-85mm (24-127.5mm equivalent on DX) |
| Maximum aperture | f/3.5-5.6 |
| Minimum aperture | f/22-36 |
| Lens construction | 17 elements in 11 groups (2 ED, 3 aspherical) |
| Vibration Reduction | Yes (VR II) |
| Autofocus | Silent Wave Motor (SWM) with full-time manual focus |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.38m (throughout zoom range) |
| Filter size | 67mm |
| Weight | approx. 485g |
Compatibility
Fits Nikon DX-format DSLRs and is also compatible with FX-format bodies in DX crop mode. Uses 67mm filters. Works with all Nikon F-mount cameras that support AF-S lenses (autofocus on all Nikon DSLRs, including entry-level bodies without a built-in focus motor).
Questions about this model
Is this lens suitable for full-frame Nikon cameras?
It is designed for DX (APS-C) format. On full-frame FX bodies it can be used in DX crop mode, but the image will be cropped.
Does the 16-85mm have image stabilisation?
Yes, it features Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR II) to reduce camera shake.
What is the equivalent focal length on a DX camera?
On a DX-format Nikon DSLR, the 16-85mm lens provides an equivalent field of view of approximately 24-127.5mm in 35mm terms.
