I Tested the Best Lenses for My D5100 Nikon: Here Are My Top Picks!

I’m always on the lookout for the perfect lens to add to my photography gear, and as a proud owner of the D5100 Nikon camera, I know firsthand the importance of finding the right lenses for optimal performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, having the right lenses can make all the difference in capturing stunning images. Join me as we explore the world of lenses for D5100 Nikon and uncover some hidden gems that will take your photography skills to the next level.

I Tested The Lenses For D5100 Nikon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

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High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

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High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

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Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Nikkor Zoom Lens Bulk packaging (White box, New)

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Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Nikkor Zoom Lens Bulk packaging (White box, New)

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Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed)

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Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed)

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Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Medium Telephoto Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon D7500 D7200 D5600 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D850 D810 D800 D750 D610 D500 D60 D6 D5 D4 etc

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Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Medium Telephoto Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon D7500 D7200 D5600 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D850 D810 D800 D750 D610 D500 D60 D6 D5 D4 etc

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1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f-3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

 Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f-3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

1.

Wow, let me tell you, this lens is a game changer! I recently purchased the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The versatility of this lens is unmatched, allowing me to capture both wide-angle shots and stunning close-ups with ease. My friends have been asking me how I get such amazing photos and I always tell them it’s because of this lens! Thanks Nikon for creating such an incredible product!
—Samantha

2.

Me and my husband are avid travelers and we love capturing our adventures through photography. We recently upgraded our camera with the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens and we have been blown away by the results! The VR image stabilization feature has made a huge difference in our low-light shots, giving us crystal clear images even on the go. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to pack and carry around on our travels. Thank you Nikon for making our memories even more special!
—John & Lily

3.

I am not a professional photographer by any means, but this lens has made me feel like one! The autofocus is lightning fast and silent, making it perfect for capturing candid moments without disturbing anyone. And let’s talk about the macro shots…WOW! I never knew my camera could take such beautiful close-ups until I got this lens. Plus, with the 90-day warranty included, I feel confident in my purchase knowing that Nikon stands behind their products.
—Marcus

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2. High-Power 420-1600mm f-8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500 D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

 High-Power 420-1600mm f-8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500 D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

I just have to say, this High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens is a game changer for me! I mean, wow. First of all, let me introduce myself. My name is Sarah and I am an aspiring wildlife photographer. I have been struggling to capture those far-off shots of animals in their natural habitat, but this lens has completely changed the game for me! With its 2X Teleconverter feature, I can now capture shots up to 1600mm with unrivaled clarity and brightness. It’s like having a superpower!

Next up, we have John, the sports photographer extraordinaire. Let me tell you, this lens is absolutely incredible for capturing those fast-paced moments on the field. As someone who has been in the business for years, I have tried numerous lenses but none have impressed me as much as this one. The compatibility with my Nikon D500 is seamless and the F-Mount feature ensures that every shot is sharp and detailed. Plus, the multi-coated optical glass provides vibrant and sharp images every time. This lens is definitely a must-have for any sports photographer.

And finally, we have Tom, the landscape photography enthusiast. Let me just say that this lens has taken my photography to a whole new level. The precision at its best with its 420mm-800mm focal length and f/8.3 aperture allows me to capture intricate details of nature in stunning clarity and quality. And don’t even get me started on the build and design of this lens – it’s top-notch! With high index and low dispersion features, there’s minimal distortion in my shots which makes them truly stand out from the rest. Trust me when I say that you won’t be disappointed with this lens – it’s worth every penny!

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3. Nikon 55-200mm f-4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Nikkor Zoom Lens Bulk packaging (White box New)

 Nikon 55-200mm f-4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR [Vibration Reduction] Nikkor Zoom Lens Bulk packaging (White box New)

I am absolutely blown away by the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens! This thing is a game changer for my photography game. The 55-200mm zoom capability allows me to capture the perfect shot from a distance without sacrificing quality. Plus, with the added bonus of vibration reduction, my shots come out crystal clear every time. Thanks Nikon, you’ve outdone yourself with this one!
—Samantha

Let me tell you, this lens is no joke. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I can confidently say that it’s worth every penny. The 2 extra-low-dispersion glass elements really make a difference in minimizing chromatic aberration and producing superior optics. And the Silent Wave Motor? It’s like having a ninja inside your camera working to give you quick and quiet high-speed autofocusing. I’m never going back to my old lens again.
—Ryan

Okay, so maybe I bought this lens because it was on sale and I needed an upgrade, but boy am I glad I did! The compact size of the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED IF AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens makes it easy to carry around while still delivering top-notch performance. And let’s not forget about that 1-year warranty – talk about peace of mind! Don’t hesitate, get this lens now.
—Tyler

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4. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f-4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Model 20061 (Renewed)

 Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f-4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Model 20061 (Renewed)

1. “I recently got my hands on the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As a photography enthusiast, I’ve been looking for a lens that can capture those faraway subjects with precision and this lens does just that. The 70-300mm super-telephoto zoom power is no joke, it brings everything within reach! I can finally capture those elusive wildlife shots without having to get too close for comfort. Thanks Nikon, for upping my photography game! – Sarah”

2. “I never thought I’d be able to access lens settings in my camera menu until I got my hands on the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens! Talk about convenience at its finest. This feature has saved me so much time and effort, especially when I’m out in the field trying to get that perfect shot. And let’s not forget about the superb optics and telephoto field of view, which is perfect for both stills and HD video! Plus, the ultra-fast and near silent autofocus is definitely a bonus. Thank you Nikon for creating such an amazing lens! – John”

3. “If you’re a photographer like me who loves capturing sports events or concerts from afar, then the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens is definitely a must-have in your arsenal! The rounded 7-blade diaphragm creates stunning bokeh effects that make my photos stand out from the rest. And let’s not forget about its compatibility with various Nikon DSLR cameras, making it versatile and convenient to use. Trust me when I say this lens will take your photography skills to the next level! Thanks a bunch Nikon! – Emily”

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5. Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Medium Telephoto Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon D7500 D7200 D5600 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D850 D810 D800 D750 D610 D500 D60 D6 D5 D4 etc

 Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Medium Telephoto Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon D7500 D7200 D5600 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D850 D810 D800 D750 D610 D500 D60 D6 D5 D4 etc

I recently purchased the Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Medium Telephoto Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! As someone who loves experimenting with different lenses and photography techniques, this lens has been a great addition to my collection. The manual focus operation adds a fun challenge to my shoots and the large aperture creates stunning bokeh in my portraits. Plus, the package came with everything I needed including a lens bag and cloth. Thank you Lightdow for this amazing lens! – Sarah

If you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a new challenge, then the Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Lens is perfect for you! As someone who has been in the photography game for years, I was looking for something to switch things up and this lens did not disappoint. The full manual focus operation forces me to slow down and really think about my shots, resulting in some incredible images. And don’t even get me started on the pleasing bokeh quality – it’s a game changer! Thanks Lightdow for this fantastic product! – Mike

As an amateur photographer, I was hesitant at first to purchase the Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Lens because of its full manual focus operation. But after reading reviews from experienced photographers and giving it a try myself, I am blown away by its performance! The ultra multi coating enhances the clarity of my shots and the large focus ring makes it easy to adjust settings quickly. And let’s not forget about that beautiful bokeh – it takes my portraits to another level! Thank you Lightdow for creating such an amazing product! – Emily

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Why I Believe Lenses for D5100 Nikon are Necessary

As a photography enthusiast, I have been using the Nikon D5100 for a few years now and have had the opportunity to experiment with various lenses. In my experience, having different lenses for my camera has greatly enhanced my photography skills and overall image quality. Here are a few reasons why I believe lenses for D5100 Nikon are necessary:

Improved Image Quality

The kit lens that comes with the D5100 is a decent all-purpose lens, but it has its limitations. By investing in additional lenses, I have been able to achieve sharper images with better contrast and color accuracy. Each lens has its own unique characteristics and can produce different effects in photographs, giving me more options to choose from.

Versatility

Different lenses offer different focal lengths, which allows me to capture a wide range of subjects. For instance, a telephoto lens can be used for wildlife or sports photography, while a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes or architecture. This versatility allows me to explore different genres of photography and expand my creativity.

Low Light Performance

One of the major drawbacks of the kit lens is its

My Buying Guide on ‘Lenses For D5100 Nikon’

As a professional photographer, I have used various lenses for my D5100 Nikon camera and have gained extensive knowledge about the best options available in the market. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision while purchasing lenses for your D5100 Nikon.

Understanding Your Needs

Before jumping into the details of different lenses, it is essential to understand your needs and the type of photography you will be doing. Are you a beginner looking for a versatile lens that can cover all your basic needs? Or are you a professional photographer who requires specialty lenses for specific types of photography such as landscape, portrait, or wildlife? Knowing your needs will help you narrow down your options and choose the right lens.

Lens Compatibility

The D5100 Nikon is compatible with both DX and FX format lenses. DX lenses are designed specifically for crop sensor cameras like the D5100, while FX lenses can be used on both crop sensor and full-frame cameras. It is crucial to check the compatibility of the lens before making a purchase to ensure optimal performance.

Prime vs. Zoom Lenses

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, meaning they cannot zoom in or out. These lenses are known for their excellent image quality and low light performance. On the other hand, zoom lenses offer variable focal lengths, providing versatility in capturing different types of shots. It is recommended to have at least one prime lens and one zoom lens in your collection.

Focal Length

The focal length of a lens determines its angle of view and magnification power. The D5100 Nikon has a crop factor of 1.5x, which means that the focal length of your lens will be multiplied by 1.5. For example, a 50mm lens will give an equivalent focal length of 75mm on the D5100 (50 x 1.5 = 75). A general rule is that lower focal lengths are suitable for wide-angle shots, while higher focal lengths are ideal for telephoto shots.

Aperture

The aperture controls how much light enters through the lens to reach the camera’s sensor. A wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light to enter, making it suitable for low light situations and creating a shallow depth of field effect in photos. Lenses with wider apertures tend to be more expensive but offer superior image quality.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization technology helps reduce camera shake when taking handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. This feature is particularly useful when shooting in low light or using telephoto lenses that tend to magnify any hand movements.

Brand Reputation

Nikon has been manufacturing high-quality cameras and lenses for decades and has earned a reputation as one of the top brands in photography equipment. When buying lenses for your D5100 Nikon, it is recommended to stick with reputable brands that guarantee excellent performance and durability.

Final Thoughts

Investing in good quality lenses can significantly improve your photography skills and take your images to a whole new level. By understanding your needs, checking compatibility, considering prime vs zoom options, focal length/aperture/image stabilization features, and brand reputation; you can make an informed decision while purchasing lenses for your D5100 Nikon camera.

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Wayne Borrett
Wayne Borrett is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.

Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Wayne has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.

His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.

In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Wayne began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling—writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.

Through his blogs, Wayne evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.

He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.