Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm F3.5-4.5 G IF-ED Review

General information

This is a zoom lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2004.
The lens belongs to the category standard zoom lenses, a normal lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Nikon

At launch 2004 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm F3.5-4.5 G IF-ED :

"This 3.8x wide-angle zoom, designed exclusively for use with Nikon’s DX-format, is ideal for general photography including landscapes and portraits.

Compact 3.8x zoom covers portrait to wide view (76 degrees at 18mm to 22 degrees 50 minutes at 70mm).

3 Nikon Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements plus aspheric element for low distortion and minimized chromatic aberration.

Internal Focusing (IF) for smoother operation and great balance.

Optimized DX lens design is compatible with every Nikon D series digital SLR cameras.

Exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for high-speed, auto-focusing with accuracy and super-quiet operation.

M/A mode for instant switching from auto focus to manual Nikon D-Signal technology for enhanced flash and ambient exposure control."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is designed and meant for Nikon cameras with a smaller sensor (often referred to as 'APS-C') which means that the lens does not fit all camera models. By clicking on the link below you can make sure that the lens works with your camera model and you should do an additional check with your local dealer as well, before you buy the lens just to be sure.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 18-70 mm. Since the lens is designed to be used on a camera with smaller sensor ('APS-C') the focal length will be equivalent to 27-105 mm on your Nikon camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/3,5-4,5.

This lens is not considered to have a good aperture value and brightness. It is something to consider before you purchase the lens. To compensate for this you might, while photographing in less favorable light conditions, be forced to either use higher ISO settings (which generates more noise in the image), slower shutter speeds (which may give some motion blur) or flash lightning. Read more at the link below what lens brightness means to you as a photographer.

One thing to consider is that the lens has a variable brightness, which means that depending on how much you are zooming the lens will have a different maximum aperture value. At 18 mm the lens brightness is f/3,5 and at 70 mm the brightness is f/4,5. Through the link below you can read more about what this could mean for you as a photographer.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. 

Filter and Lens Hood

The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HB-32".

Images of Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm F3.5-4.5 G IF-ED

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The price (more info)
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • Light weight (420 gr)
  • Works only on cameras with APS-C sensor
  • No built-in image stabilizer
  • Poor aperture value with its f/4,5
  • A variable lens brightness at different focal lengths
  • The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm F3.5-4.5 G IF-ED .

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

Best deals on Nikon AF-S DX 18-70mm F3.5-4.5 G IF-ED

Make sure to check out our price information page for best offers on this lens.