I really hope that our comprehensive guide to Nikon D5100 lenses was able to assist you in making an informed choice and acquiring the top lenses available for the Nikon D5100 in 2021.
Check out this alternative if you are still unsure about the lens that will work best for you. I can’t stress how important it is that you do.
To further improve your understanding of photography and camera gear, be sure to read our other guides and tutorials, such as the Nikon D3000 lenses guide and the Nikon D3500 lens guide.
BEST ALL-IN-ONE LENS FOR EVERYDAY PHOTOGRAPHY
1. NIKON 18-300MM F/3.5-6.3G
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Maximum magnification of 032x
- Angle of view from 76 degree to 5 degree 20'. Focal length range: 18 300 millimeter, minimum focus distance: 16 feet (048 meter)
- Aperture range from f/35 to f/22
- Angle of view from 76 to 520'
You need an all-in-one lens if you are seeking a single lens that will perform exceptionally well in the vast majority of shooting scenarios, or if you simply do not have the time to switch between lenses in the midst of a shooting session.
The Nikon 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G is our pick as the best lens in its class since it has such a broad range of uses. As can be seen, the focal length range extends from 18mm all the way to 300mm, which is more than adequate for any and all kinds of photographic endeavors.
When I tested this lens with a Nikon D5100, I did not have any problems with its picture quality, despite the fact that you could find complaints about the image quality from some other people.
The image quality was quite high and other than some slight ghosting that may appear when the zoom level is increased to its maximum, there were no problems with the image quality at all. You have to be aware of the fact that this lens is not intended for a particular style of photography, but rather, it is a lens that performs well in a variety of different scenarios.
The build quality is outstanding, the focusing is quick and precise, and it is even lightweight, all of which are qualities that the vast majority of people overlook when searching for a new lens. I also discover that it functions really well, especially in low-light environments.
The ability to take breathtaking macro photographs was one facet of this versatile Nikon lens that pleasantly surprised me. On the other hand, I did notice a very slight lens creep; however, given that this lens has a lock, I don’t see this being a significant problem.
Alternatives:
2. Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3
Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 Contemporary DC Macro OS HSM Lens for Canon
- Maximum Aperture Range: f/3.5-6.3
- Focal Length : 18-300 mm, Minimum focusing distance -39cm/15.3 inch; Offers a maximum magnification ratio 1:2 and changeable angles of view enables zoom-macro photography
3. Nikon 18-200mm F/3.5-5.6G
AF-S DX Nkr 18-200mm F/3.5-5.6G ED VR II
- One-lens solution adept in a wide variety of situations
- Focal length range: 18 -200 millimeter, minimum focus distance: 1.6 feet.
- Two extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements; Three aspherical lens elements
- Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM), Nikon VR II (vibration reduction) image stabilization
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BEST PRIME LENS FOR PORTRAITS
4. NIKON 85MM F/1.8G
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
- M/a focus mode switch. Filter-attachment size is 67 millimeter (p=0.75 millimeter)
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Because prime lenses have a fixed focal length, they do not require any moving components; as a result, they are often more affordable than other types of lenses.
This is not the case with a Nikon 85mm f/1.8G, as the price of this lens is significantly more than average. However, taking into account the quality that this prime lens provides, the investment will prove to be worthwhile in the long run.
It is an excellent lens for amateur photographers who are just starting out, as well as for seasoned pros who want their cameras to produce photographs of the highest possible quality.
The Nikon 85mm f/1.8G is an excellent lens for photographing a wide variety of occasions, including weddings, family get-togethers, sporting events, and more. Among the several prime lenses that were tested, this particular lens emerged as the most beneficial for general photography.
It provides outstanding clarity, and when that is paired with fantastic bokeh, the result is breathtaking photographs that will make you glad you spent extra money on this masterpiece from Nikon.
Although there are prime lenses that are more costly, such as the 85mm 1.4 or the Nikon 85mm 1.4, and there are also prime lenses that are cheaper, such as the Nikon 50mm 1.8, this prime lens deserves to be considered the greatest prime lens for Nikon D5100 because of the value you get for the money.
I also noted that it provides good performance in low-light scenarios, which makes photography in less-than-ideal conditions more pleasant. This is a benefit to everyone who uses a camera.
This lens has a few small flaws, such as some corner softness at wide apertures, and even though the build quality is superb, it still has a kind of plasticky feel to it. Other than those flaws, though, it is an outstanding lens.
It is easy to see why the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G is considered to be one of the finest prime lenses for the Nikon D5100 when one takes into consideration all of the advantages that are associated with using this lens.
Alternatives:
5. Nikon 50mm f/1.8G
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G Lens
- Fast, upgraded f/1.8, compact FX format prime lens. The picture angle with 35 millimeter (135) format is 47 degree and the maximum reproduction ratio is 0.15X
- Focal length 50 millimeter, minimum focus distance 1.48 feet (0.45 meter)
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6. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black
- F mount lens/DX format. Picture angle with Nikon DX format 44 degree
- 52.5 millimeter (35-millimeter equivalent). Rear focusing; Manual focus override
- Aperture range: F/1.8 to 22; Dimensions(approx.) 70 x 52.5 millimeter
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7. Nikon 50mm f/1.4G
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- F1.4 maximum aperture; F16 minimum
- Ultrasonic type AF motor with full time manual focusing, 58mm filters
- Minimum focus Distance : 0.45m/17.72 Inches. Lens Hood: HB 47
- Nikon F mount for FX and DX DSLRs. Unparalleled autofocus performance.Mount Type: Nikon F Bayonet
BEST MACRO LENS FOR MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY
8. NIKON 40MM F/2.8G
Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Close-up Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Compact and lightweight DX-format close-up lens. Lens Construction (Elements/Groups) - 9 elements in 7 groups
- Maximum reproduction ratio is 1.0x. Focal length is 40 mm
- Sharp images from infinity to life-size (1x), autofocus to 64 inches
It is possible that the Nikon 40mm f/2.8G lens will be of interest to you if you are seeking for Nikon D5100 macro lenses that provide good photographs when it comes to macro photography and you are using a Nikon D5100.
When I put this macro lens through its paces in a variety of real-world scenarios, I discovered that it performs admirably in the vast majority of them.
One area of performance in which this lens falls short is in low-light settings; nonetheless, when you factor in the reasonable price of this device, you will immediately see that it provides an outstanding value.
Because it has such a long focal length, not only is it appropriate for macro photography but also for photography in other genres and genre subgenres as well. This makes it an excellent lens for novices.
You will also like the flexibility to approach your subject from a closer distance because this will enable you to take photographs that are even more striking in appearance.
Photographers who are interested in upgrading to a macro lens of higher quality but do not wish to spend an excessive amount of money will find this to be an excellent option.
Check out the Nikon 105mm lens if you’re interested in purchasing a more specialized macro lens. Indeed, it provides a greater level of performance.
Because the Nikon 40mm will provide sufficient quality for the majority of photographers, it has earned the position of number one on the list of the best macro lenses for the Nikon D5100.
Alternatives:
9. Tamron 90mm f/2.8
Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Di SP A/M 1:1 Macro Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras (Model 272EE)
- package height : 11.0 cm
- package length : 18.4 cm
- package width : 10.2 cm
- Product type : CAMERA LENSES
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10. Nikon 105mm f/2.8G
Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens
- Designed for close-up and macro photography; versatile enough for virtually any photographic situation
- Maximum Angle of View (FX-format): 23°20'.Features new VR II vibration reduction technology, Focal Length : 105 mm, Minimum Focus Distance : 1.03 feet ( 0314 m)
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BEST WIDE-ANGLE LENS FOR LANDSCAPES
11. NIKON 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G
Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 G DX AF-S ED Zoom-Nikkor Lens (Renewed)
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90-day warranty
- Ideal for landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, architecture and more.
The Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G is the wide-angle lens that is recommended for use by photographers whose major interests lie in the photographing of interiors, nature, or landscapes.
When you view the high-quality images that this wide-angle lens produces, you won’t want to use any other lens for any of your outdoor activities.
One of the features of the Nikon 10-24mm lens that I really appreciate is how distinctive the perspective is when used at 10mm. There is some distortion at the full end of the spectrum, but knowing that you will be able to rectify it in post-processing, it is not a problem for you.
On the other hand, 24 millimeters seems to me to be a very near approximation of a standard focal length, which confers upon it a greater degree of utility for use in ordinary photographic settings.
During my time testing the lens, I was pleasantly impressed by the high quality of the photographs it produced, and the build quality of the lens itself is of a very high standard. The reproduction of colors and contrast are both excellent, and when paired with the Nikon D5100, they provide for a very remarkable photographic experience.
When paired with the Nikon D5100, the Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G is a wonderful choice for a lens, and it comes highly recommended by me.
However, if you are searching for an alternative that is less expensive, I suggest the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 because it also produced amazing results and it is a little less expensive than the Nikon one.
If the Nikon and Sigma lenses mentioned earlier are out of your price range, the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 should be the next lens on your list of potential purchases. It does produce a good image quality; but, considering the relatively short focal length (11-16mm), it does not allow a great deal of versatility.
Alternatives:
12. Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G
13. Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8
Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM Lens for Canon, Black (210101)
- F1.8 maximum aperture
- F16 minimum
- Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time manual focusing, 72mm filter size
- Minimum focusing distance 28 cm/ 11.0 in. USB Dock compatible, MC-11 compatible.
- Available in Canon EF (EF-S), Sony Alpha (dot), Nikon f (DX) mounts
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BEST TELEPHOTO LENS FOR WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
14. NIKON 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6E
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- F-mount lens/DX formatfilter-attachment size: 58mm, (p = 075 mm) Maximum Reproduction Ratio: 0.22x. 105-450Mm (35mm equivalent) Aperture range: f/45-63 to F/32
- Nikon VR image stabilization. Access Lens settings in camera menu
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Finding the ideal telephoto lens for your needs can be a challenging endeavor because of the wide variety of focal length ranges available.
On the longer end of the range, there are lenses that are longer than 600 millimeters, and the most dedicated professionals typically utilize lenses of this length while capturing documentaries or television shows like BBC’s Planet Earth. If that’s the kind of thing you’re searching for, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 is an excellent option.
The Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E is a lens that comes highly recommended by me to the majority of photographers who are seeking a more standard telephoto lens.
It has a price that is not prohibitively expensive despite the impressive performance it provides. This Nikon telephoto lens has several perks, and as I was testing it, I discovered that even in low-light settings, it focuses pretty quickly. This is just one of its many advantages.
Although at first, I was under the impression that the focus was completely silent, after giving it a closer listen I realized that it did produce a clunky sound; nonetheless, this sound will not be enough to divert your attention.
The image quality of this lens was significantly superior to that of practically any other telephoto lens that I have tried in the past. This is something that I really appreciated about this lens. It creates extremely crisp photos with details that are distinct and colors that are accurate.
If it is something you are interested in, don’t think twice about purchasing the newest model available on Amazon.
The fact that this lens does not have a sufficient amount of reach is one of its drawbacks. As a result, if you are looking for something to use for wildlife photography, in particular for taking pictures of birds, I am afraid that this lens is not going to be the best option for you; instead, I recommend that you look into the lens that Sigma offers.
However, for images that are more usual, it provides a number of advantages, and its performance is great; thus, it very well may be the ideal telephoto lens for your Nikon D5100 camera.
Alternatives:
15. Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3
Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon
- 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM / C
- Minimum focusing distance : 280 cm/110.2 inches, focal length :150-600mm. Diaphragm blades: 9
- First hyper-telephoto zoom from the Contemporary line, Dust proof and splash proof mount95mm filter
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16. Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Compact super telephoto zoom lens for birding, wildlife, motorsports, events and more
- 500 millimeter of zoom power on fx format DSLR; 750 millimeter equivalent on dx format DSLRs, minimum focus distance: 7.2 feet ( 2.2 meter), focal length range: 200 500 millimeter
NIKON D5100 ULTIMATE GUIDE – WRAPPING UP
I really hope that our comprehensive guide to Nikon D5100 lenses was able to assist you in making an informed choice and acquiring the top lenses available for the Nikon D5100 in 2021.
Check out this alternative if you are still unsure about the lens that will work best for you. I can’t stress how important it is that you do.
To further improve your understanding of photography and camera gear, be sure to read our other guides and tutorials, such as the Nikon D3000 lenses guide and the Nikon D3500 lens guide.
