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#7073629 - 05/17/13 05:55 AM Noob Inquiry v. Nikon
x Moderator Offline
Post Master Supreme


Registered: 04/10/02
Posts: 10664
Loc: Atlanta, GA
I just picked up a Nikon D3100 2-lens kit, for some reason (still trying to figure it out; I was looking at a 55-200 for my NEX-C3 and figured instead of spending $350, why not spend $100 more and get that zoom range plus an entire new camera to boot), and after playing with it for an hour I can already tell the 18-55 (non-VR) has got to go.

What is the best choice to replace it? I know the gear on this forum tends to be pro-level stuff but that isn't happening for me (both for budget and willingness to spend reasons; it's a hobby, not a career, so $500+ lenses are out), so I'm torn between the 18-70 (cheap, seems to be well liked, but old, no VR, limited tele range), 18-105 (cheap, nice range, but cheaply built and dubious image quality?), and 18-200 first gen (great range, VR, but more expensive than the others). I can't think of anything else. Leaning towards the 18-105, since it can be had for ~$225-250 on eBay and seems like a good compromise, but I figured I would consult with the photo brains on here before pulling the trigger. I already picked up a 50/1.8 so I want something a little better to complement it (and the non-VR 55-200, which I'm fine with because I'm not getting a good telephoto for cheap).

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#7074171 - 05/17/13 11:11 AM Re: Noob Inquiry v. Nikon [Re: x]
flyEX #1 Offline
Man in the Box
Post Master Supreme


Registered: 01/05/00
Posts: 26631
Loc: Down in a Hole
I would go with the 35mm f/1.8 instead of a kit lens.

The 70-300mm is an awesome telephoto, and not expensive either by any means. Those were the only two lenses I frequently used with my D90. Wish I had kept them to this day.

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#7074179 - 05/17/13 11:16 AM Re: Noob Inquiry v. Nikon [Re: flyEX #1]
GSParker
Unregistered



You have a couple of good options out there:
Nikon 16-85
Nikon 18-70
Nikon 18-105
Tamron 17-50 (w/BIM)

I really like the 16-85 and the range it offers. Used may be a little expensive but you could probably sell both of your lenses, pick this one up and have a great walk-around kit.

The Tamron 17-50 without built in motor goes for about $240-300 used (sold mine for $250 or so). You need the one with the built-in motor and I don't know what that goes for used but I loved the lens before I sold it and went full frame.

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