Best Lenses for Nikon D500 in 2023
Looking for the best lenses for Nikon D500? Here is our full list of the top recommended F-mount lenses for Nikon D500 DSLR camera.
The Nikon D500 is currently one of the most expensive APS-C ILCs and among the best DSLRs on the market. Revolving an all-new 20.9-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor, the Nikon D500 is capable of super-fast 10 fps burst speed with full AF and AE. In addition, just like the D5, the Nikon D500 supports 4K UHD video recording at 30, 25, and 24 fps frame rates and Full HD/HD recording at up to 60 fps, along with the ability to save movie files to the in-camera memory cards or as an uncompressed file to an optional external recorder via HDMI out. In addition, the Nikon D500 gets 91% overall score and Gold Award from the experts at DPReview. With amazing imaging capability, robust build quality and lightning fast performance, the Nikon D500 is an ideal camera for advanced enthusiasts and pro photographers.
So, if you are the lucky owner of the Nikon D500 (Amazon, B&H, Adorama) or perhaps thinking about purchasing one soon, then you might also be wondering which are the best lenses to pair with the Nikon D500. In order to help you get a professional-like shot, here we looked at all the lenses from Nikon and other companies, and selected the best lenses for Nikon D500 DSLR camera based on good price, usefulness and high image quality, including leading prime and zoom options from wide-angle to telephoto for sports, wildlife, portraits, wedding, landscapes, travel, event, street, macro, videos and more. Just choose the one you need!
Best Lenses for Nikon D500
Full List of Recommended Nikon D500 Lenses: To help you decide on the best lens for your intended use, I have categorized the lenses into the following groups. You can click any of the below links to jump to the type of lens that interests you the most.
- Top 10 Lenses
- Kit Lens
- All-In-One Lenses
- Portrait Lenses
- Macro Lenses
- Standard Zoom Lenses
- Standard Prime Lenses
- Wide-angle Zoom Lenses
- Wide-angle Prime Lenses
- Sports & Wildlife Lenses
Nikon D500 Top 10 Lenses
Here are my top 10 recommended lenses for the Nikon D500.
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G Lens
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens
- Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens
- Tokina atx-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF Lens
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED Lens
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR Lens
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR Lens
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Lens
Nikon D500 Kit Lens
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR
From wide-angle landscapes, tight portraits or for those looking for an all-in-one tool for travel, this lens does it all. Designed as the DX workhorse, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR lens is a 24-120mm-equivalent zoom, well-suited for a broad range of shooting applications. Its bright f/2.8-4 maximum aperture range benefits working in low-light conditions as well as controlling depth of field for selective focus shooting. Equally impressive, the optical design features four extra-low dispersion elements and three aspherical elements, which help to control both chromatic and spherical aberrations for notable image clarity and sharpness. Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings are featured, too, and minimize flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color accuracy when shooting in bright and backlit conditions. To further enhance its low-light capability, the new NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4 lens also features Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology, which provides up to 4 stops of image stabilization, helping to create sharp images while shooting handheld or in challenging light. As an added benefit to landscape and wildlife photographers, this lens features VR with automatic tripod detection, to counteract vibration when mounted on a tripod. With a fast f/2.8-4 aperture, VR image stabilization and Nikon’s advanced lens technology, it covers wide-angle to portrait views with absolutely brilliant image quality. An ideal lens for documenting daily life, conveying a sense of place, blogging, low light, HD video and much more.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon D500 with 16-80mm Lens | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 All-In-One Lenses
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR
A compact and versatile choice for travel photography, as well as for general family photos.
Surprisingly compact and lightweight for a 16.7x zoom lens, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR lens (27-450mm equivalent range) is an ideal single-lens solution for photographing in a wide variety of situations, including wide-angle scenic landscapes and group photos, portraits with softly blurred backgrounds, super-telephoto close-ups and everything in between. Designed for DX-format cameras, this 27-450mm equivalent zoom features an advanced optical design comprising both aspherical and extra-low dispersion glasses, which help to reduce aberrations and distortions throughout the zoom range for notable clarity and sharpness. Optimized for shooting both stills and HD videos, it features specialized Vibration Reduction technology for tack-sharp photos and steady videos, even when your hands are a bit shaky. And it actually weighs less than the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II lens. Whether you’re looking for maximum versatility in a lens or you’re just the kind of photographer who finds inspiration all around, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR will help you capture more of life’s great views.
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II
Spanning wide to tele, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II lens is an ideal all-around lens characterized by an advanced optical design, compact profile, and image stabilization. With 27-300mm equivalent range on a Nikon F-mount DX-format camera, it offers excellent versatility for various scenes that include portraits and landscapes. Three aspherical elements and two extra-low dispersion elements are used to control both spherical and chromatic aberrations, in order to produce high sharpness and clarity, and a Super Integrated Coating works to minimize flare for high contrast and color accuracy. Supporting the optics is VR II image stabilization, which compensates for up to 3.5 stops of camera shake to help realize sharp imagery when shooting handheld. A Silent Wave Motor is also used to provide fast and precise autofocus performance, along with full-time manual focus override. The biggest shortcoming of the 18-200mm VR II is that it doesn’t quite have the reach for certain types of telephoto photography. But for travel and use as all-in-one walk-around lens, Nikon 18-200mm is really a nice choice.
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
Great lens for portraits, travel, walk-around, close-ups landscapes and distant objects.
If you’re looking for an outstanding grab-and-go lens for nearly every situation, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a great choice. Its versatile 7.8x zoom range (27-210mm equivalent) lets you shoot everything from wide-angle family portraits to telephoto close-ups on the sports field. 4 stops of VR image stabliization means sharper handheld photos and video, especially when shooting in low light or at maximum focal length. In addition to VR image stabilization, it uses ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, which virtually eliminates reflections and lens flare for better contrast and Aspherical (AS) lens elements for minimizing aberration and improving image integrity and color. Nikon’s remarkable Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides ultra-fast, ultra-quiet autofocusing, a major advantage when recording video. Great lens for portraits, travel, walk-around, close-ups landscapes and distant objects.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Portrait Lenses
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
Providing a 75mm equivalent focal length on a DX-format camera, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens is ideal for portraits, travel, event, environmental and general photography in a wide variety of conditions, with superb optical formula with an ultra-fast f/1.4 maximum aperture. Brilliant for portrait photography, general use (focuses as close as 1.5 feet) and video recording, this high quality lens produces tack sharp images and conquers low light environments with ease. Characterized by its fast f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens is adept in difficult lighting conditions and also excels at isolating subjects using selective focus and shallow depth of field techniques. Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating (SIC) enhances light transmission efficiency and offers superior color consistency and reduced flare, while the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G’s Aspherical Lens Element (AS) virtually eliminates coma and other types of aberrations, even when shooting at the widest available aperture. Pair that with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast, accurate and quiet autofocus, and you can be sure all of your portraits will be tack sharp. If you are looking for an ultra-fast prime lens that gives you a standard angle of view, superior color reproduction and smooth, natural background blur (bokeh), this is the lens for you.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G
With a 75mm equivalent focal length on a DX-format camera, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G lens is well-suited for a wide variety of subjects, including everything from landscape to portraiture. The f/1.8 design suits working in difficult lighting conditions and also enables controlling the focus position for using shallow depth of field techniques. One aspherical element is featured in the optical design to minimize spherical aberrations and distortion for high sharpness and accurate rendering. A Super Integrated Coating also suppresses flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color accuracy. Additionally, the Silent Wave Motor affords fast, quiet, and precise autofocus performance as well as full-time manual focus override. Whether you’re shooting portraits, food or nature (indoors or outdoors), the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G renders a beautiful, natural background blur (Bokeh) at its wider aperture settings.
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
With a large 1.4 aperture and a 75mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras, the Sigma 50mm 1.4 prime lens is a pro level performer for shooting everything including portrait photography, landscape photography, studio photography and street photography. It has been redesigned and re-engineered with SLD glass and has been optimized for rich peripheral brightness, with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups. It has 13 elements in eight groups, compared to the previous eight elements in six groups, and it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6. A Hyper Sonic AF Motor, along with an optimized AF algorithm, produces quiet, smooth, and fast autofocus performance that benefits this lens’ use in a wide variety of situations. This AF motor also permits full-time manual focusing control for refined precision by simply turning the focus ring at any time. All in all, the Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is a pro-level performer and is ideal for many types of videography and photography, including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G
Providing a 127.5mm equivalent focal length, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G features Nikon’s Internal Focus (IF) system providing fast and quiet AF and produces sharp and clear images at all apertures. Its fast maximum aperture is ideal for taking stills or D-Movie HD videos under ideal lighting, in low light, head and shoulder portraiture, weddings or concerts. This design finds balance between a lightweight, compact form factor while also being fast enough to effectively control depth of field and suit working in low light. Additionally, the Silent Wave Motor affords fast and accurate autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override. High image quality and a good investment for DX and FX, razor-sharp, perfectly compact and a beautiful bokeh to boot.
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
With its enlarged diameter, 127.5mm equivalent focal length, and unparalleled focus, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens provides a shallow depth of field to create that attractive blur effect (bokeh) while keeping your subject looking crisp and sharp. Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture is well-suited for working in low-light conditions and also provides greater control over the focus position when using shallow depth of field techniques. It also uses two SLD elements, one anomalous partial dispersion/high-refractive index element, and one aspherical element that minimize aberrations and ensures a crisp, clear image. This Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art lens achieved an impressive 93% overall score and Gold Award from the experts at DPReview, and it is suggested for professional photographers and discerning photography enthusiasts for portrait photography, low-light photography, night photography, landscape photography, photojournalism, events, and wedding photography.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Macro Lenses
Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G
Great value! Excelling at close distances, the AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is a 60mm-equivalent macro prime offering a 1:1 life-size maximum magnification along with a 6.4″ minimum focusing distance, and it is ideal for shooting general close-ups, delicate flowers, detailed collectables, copy photography, portraits, landscapes and more. Benefitting both close-up shooting as well as working at greater distances, the optical design uses a Close Range Correction system that maintains consistent image quality and sharpness throughout the focusing range. And the AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is compact, lightweight and versatile enough for everyday photography, including flattering people shots and breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, complementing the imaging capabilities, a Silent Wave Motor affords fast and precise autofocus performance, along with full-time manual focus override, to benefit both stills and video applications. It costs just $276.95 – great value for a true micro lens!
Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
This Nikon 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED VR is the world’s first macro lens featuring Nikon’s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Vibration Reduction (VR) designed for close-up and macro photography, and it can also be used with DX models where it provides a 157.5mm equivalent focal length. Ideal for macro shooting, this lens offers a life-size 1:1 maximum magnification along with a minimum focusing distance of 1′ to suit working with close-up subjects. Bright f/2.8 maximum aperture suits working in a variety of lighting conditions and also offers increased control over depth of field for isolating subjects and using selective focus techniques. A Silent Wave Motor AF system produces fast, near-silent focusing performance that suits both stills shooting and movie recording, which can instantly be manually overridden by simply turning the manual focus ring. The VR system offers a three shutter speed stop equivalence enabling the use of slower shutter speeds while still maintaining image sharpness, even in low light. So, a must-have for standard portraits and everyday use, the AF-S NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G is a VR (Vibration Reduction) lens that will absolutely surprise you.
Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED
Designed for FX-format F-mount cameras, the Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED can also be used with DX models where it provides a 90mm equivalent focal length. Ideal for macro shooting, this lens offers a life-size 1:1 maximum magnification along with a minimum focusing distance of 7.3″ to suit working with close-up subjects. Contributing to clear and accurate rendering, the lens design incorporates two aspherical elements and one extra-low dispersion element to reduce aberrations and distortions for improved sharpness and color accuracy. Both a Nano Crystal Coat and a Super Integrated Coating have been applied to individual elements to suppress internal reflections, flare, and ghosting for improved contrast and color accuracy when working in strong lighting conditions. Additionally, complementing the imaging capabilities, a Silent Wave Motor affords fast and precise autofocus performance, along with full-time manual focus override, to benefit both stills and video applications.
Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR
A macro telephoto designed for DX, the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR is a 127.5mm-equivalent prime optimized for close-up shooting. Offering a life-size 1:1 maximum magnification and an 11.3″ minimum focusing distance, this lens is especially adept for working with nearby subjects. Equipped with Nikon’s second generation Vibration Reduction system, it delivers steady images to both the sensor and viewfinder, enabling more flexible hand-held shooting. The 1:1 reproduction ratio enables life-size close-ups of extremely fine textures and details. The smooth autofocus delivered by the Silent Wave Motor combines with the internal focus system to make it ideal for getting really close to subjects.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S Micro NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8G ED | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Standard Zoom Lenses
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED Lens
The world’s first constant f/2.8 3.2x zoom lens developed exclusively for use with Nikon DX Format.
Designed as a DX workhorse, the Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED is a 25.5-82.5mm-equivalent zoom characterized by its bright maximum aperture and sophisticated optical design. The fast f/2.8 constant maximum aperture benefits working in difficult lighting conditions and also enables greater control over depth of field when working with selective focus techniques. 3.2x zoom covers from a wide angle of 79½ to a narrow angle of 28½ 50′ (equivalent to 25.5mm to 85.5mm for 35mm format) and is ideal for walk-around, architecture, landscape, groups shots and portraits. The optical design incorporates three aspherical elements and three extra-low dispersion elements, which help to greatly reduce spherical and chromatic aberrations throughout the zoom range. A Super Integrated Coating also minimizes surface reflections, flare, and ghosting for improved contrast and color accuracy. Complementing the optics, this lens also sports a Silent Wave Motor for fast and accurate autofocus along with full-time manual focus control. So, this Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens is ideal for architecture, landscapes, cityscapes, travel, group shots, portrait work and everyday photography.
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens
Impressively bright constant f/1.8 lens that is ideal for landscapes, portraits, still life, snap shots, casual, and close-ups.
Distinguished by a uniquely fast and versatile design, the Nikon F-mount Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM is a 27mm-52.5mm-equivalent Art-series zoom, covering wide-angle to normal focal lengths that is ideal for landscapes, portraits, still life, snap shots, casual, and close-ups. Separating itself from the pack, this zoom features an exceedingly bright f/1.8 constant maximum aperture, which suits its use in difficult lighting conditions and offers impressive depth of field control throughout the zoom range. The optical design incorporates a series of SLD and aspherical elements, which help to achieve high clarity and sharpness by suppressing various aberrations, color fringing, and distortion. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied, too, which controls lens flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color accuracy. Balancing the optical merits, this Sigma 18-35mm also sports an advanced Hyper Sonic Motor, along with an internal focusing design, to promote fast, quiet, and precise autofocus performance. Its new Global Vision design works with its compatibility with the Sigma USB dock for further customization. Simply put, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens is a new benchmark in photographic history and a must have for every camera bag.
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
Updating the staple DX-format standard zoom, the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR offers a 27-82.5mm equivalent focal length range as well as an especially sleek form factor. Two aspherical elements are featured in the optical design, which help to control spherical aberrations and distortion in order to realize high sharpness and accurate rendering. A Super Integrated Coating is also used to minimize flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy. Suiting both photo and video applications, the AF-P designation indicates the use of a pulse stepping motor that offers notably quiet, fast, and precise autofocus performance. Additionally, Vibration Reduction image stabilization compensates for up to four stops of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. A budget option for walkaround and everyday shooting.
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
Covering a frequently used range of focal lengths, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR from Nikon is a wide-angle to mid-telephoto, 27-157.5mm-equivalent zoom designed for DX-format cameras. Benefitting image quality, aspherical and extra-low dispersion glass elements are used to reduce spherical and chromatic aberrations throughout the zoom range in order to produce high sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy. A Super Integrated Coating has also been applied to reduce flare and ghosting for improved contrast when working in harsh lighting conditions. Beyond the optical attributes, the lens is also characterized by its 3.5 stop-effective Vibration Reduction system, which minimizes the appearance of camera shake to help achieve sharper handheld imagery. Additionally, a Silent Wave Motor affords fast and near-silent autofocus performance and full-time manual focus override.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Standard Prime Lenses
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
A perfect lens for low-light conditions, travel, environmental portrait, street and general photography.
With a compact, lightweight design, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G provides the high reproduction capability and picture quality at an affordable price. Nearly as versatile as a prime lens can be, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is a 52.5mm-equivalent lens for DX-format cameras, and is characterized by its sleek form factor, normal field of view, and bright f/1.8 maximum aperture. The fast design of the lens suits working in difficult lighting conditions and also enables improved control over depth of field for isolating subjects and working with selective focus techniques. The optical design incorporates one aspherical element, which helps to control distortion and spherical aberrations in order to produce notable sharpness and clarity. A Super Integrated Coating has also been applied to individual elements and controls lens flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy when working in bright and backlit conditions. Complementing the optics is a Silent Wave Motor, which enables fast, near-silent autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override, to benefit both stills and video recording.
Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Great lens for landscapes, portraits, still-life, close-up and casual snaps.
Offering a 52.5mm equivalent focal length on DX models with a large f/1.4 aperture, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is an ideal lens for landscapes, portraits, still-life, close-up and casual snaps. Impressively bright f/1.4 maximum aperture is well-suited for working in low-light conditions and also provides greater control over the focus position when using shallow depth of field techniques. The lens is equipped with technology including a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), floating internal focusing system, SLD and FLD Glass elements. The HSM ensures quiet, high speed, accurate autofocusing while the floating focusing system allows for superior optical performance with subjects at a closer shooting distance. The SLD glass elements along with the FLD glass elements, which are equal to fluorite, help correct both axial and chromatic aberration. Additionally, a rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality.
Nikon D500 Wide-angle Zoom Lenses
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED
Rugged, lightweight and versatile. Ideal for landscape, travel, architectural, and interior subjects.
Pairing an ultra-wide range with a constant f/4 maximum aperture, the Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED is a versatile 18-36mm-equivalent DX-format zoom suitable for landscape, architectural, and interior subjects. Three aspherical elements and two extra-low dispersion elements are featured in the optical design, which help to reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations in order to produce high clarity and color accuracy. The lens produces a smaller image circle (the size of the image projected onto the sensor), enabling a smaller lens diameter and optimal image quality from center to edge to corner. Its rounded diaphragm makes out of focus elements appear more natural, and its Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass ensures superior sharpness and color performance. Ideal for shooting large building exteriors, narrow interiors and vast natural landscapes, this f/4 fixed-aperture zoom lens delivers consistent exposure, tack-sharp images and vibrant colors. Optimized for DX-format cameras, the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED is a popular choice for travel, architecture and landscape photography and establishing shots when recording HD video.
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
Ideal for landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, architecture and more.
Covering ultra-wide to wide-angle, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED is a 15-36mm-equivalent DX-format lens well-suited for landscape, cityscape, interior, and architectural photography. The lens images are sharp and it captures excellent color and contrast. The optical design uses three aspherical elements and two extra-low dispersion elements to control aberrations and distortions in order to realize a high degree of sharpness and clarity. With the widest end of 10mm covering a 109° angle of view (nearly fisheye), the AF-S DX NIKKOR 10–24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED delivers dramatic perspectives for a creative edge. It’s ideal for shooting photos and HD video of landscapes, cityscapes, interiors, architecture and more. It’s also versatile enough to focus on subjects as close as 0.8-ft. A Super Integrated Coating also suppresses flare and ghosting to increase overall contrast and color rendering when working in backlit and harsh lighting conditions. Additionally, a Silent Wave Motor enables fast, near-silent autofocus performance, along with full-time manual focus override, to benefit both stills and video applications.
Tokina atx-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF
Great value for an ultra-wide prime lens!
Completely re-designed for an improved user experience and better image quality, the Tokina atx-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF for Nikon F-mount provides a 16.5-24mm equivalent focal length range and it is a versatile ultra-wide zoom well-suited for landscape, architecture, and interior shooting. Bright constant f/2.8 maximum aperture affords consistent brightness throughout the zoom range and offers improved control over depth of field. The optical design incorporates a series of aspherical and low dispersion elements, which suppress a variety of aberrations for improved sharpness and clarity. Individual elements are also multi-coated to resist flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy when working in bright or backlit conditions. Complementing the optics, this lens features a One-Touch Focus Clutch Mechanism for fast changing between AF and MF settings, and an internal focusing design is used for responsive focusing performance. Perfect for architectural, landscape, astrophotographers, and cinematographers.
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR
A versatile wide-angle zoom for Nikon DX-format DSLRs, the AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR is a 15-30mm-equivalent lens well-suited to landscapes, cityscapes, architecture, and interior shooting. Despite its wide field of view, Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization is featured to help minimize the appearance of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. The lens also features a pulse stepping motor AF system, which benefits both video and photo applications due to its fast, quiet, and smooth focusing performance. In regard to its optical design, three aspherical elements are used to control spherical aberrations and distortion throughout the zoom range for improved sharpness and clarity. Additionally, a Super Integrated Coating has been applied to control lens flare and ghosting when working in strong lighting conditions.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED | Amazon | B&H |
Tokina atx-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF | Amazon | B&H |
Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Tokina 14-20mm f/2.0 AT-X Pro DX | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Wide-angle Prime Lenses
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED
30mm equivalent focal length. An ideal lens for expansive landscapes and architecture, wedding parties, an entire band on stage, crowd shots and much more.
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED is a compact, lightweight full frame lens that combines the wide-angle perspective of a 30mm focal length on DX-format DSLR cameras, the low-light capabilities and shallow depth of field of an f/1.8 maximum aperture, and the superb optical characteristics of an advanced NIKKOR prime lens – It is an ideal lens for expansive landscapes and architecture, wedding parties, an entire band on stage, crowd shots and much more. The fast f/1.8 maximum aperture excels in difficult lighting conditions and also offers increased control over depth of field. The optical design incorporates both aspherical and extra-low dispersion element to minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations for greater sharpness and clarity. Balancing the optical attributes, the lens is also characterized by a Silent Wave Motor that produces fast, smooth, and quiet autofocus capabilities, along with the ability to manually override focus at any time for more selective control.
Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Great for seascape, cityscape, and astrophotography, as well as for photos in low light, indoor photography, portraits, and event and wedding photography.
The wide focal length (30mm equivalent on DX models) and consistent image quality make this Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens especially suitable for landscape, interior, architectural, and astrophotography applications, while the fast f/1.4 maximum aperture deems it ideal for natural and low-light shooting. Comprised of 15 elements in 11 groups, the lens design includes two “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) elements, five Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements, and two aspherical elements to significantly reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations, as well as limit distortion for clean, sharp, and evenly illuminated imagery. A Super Multi-Layer Coating has also been applied to minimize surface reflections, flare, and ghosting for increased contrast and color accuracy. The combination of advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimizes spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, producing outstanding image quality. With class leading performance, this lens is ideal for landscape photography, videography, astrophotography, lowlight or indoor photography and event photography.
Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
With class leading performance and a 36mm equivalent focal length on DX-format sensor, this Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens is ideal for wedding photography, landscape photography, videography, astrophotography, low-light or indoor photography and event photography. Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture is well-suited for working in low-light conditions and also provides greater control over the focus position when using shallow depth of field techniques. The combination of three “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) elements and four Special Low Dispersion elements help to achieve a marked reduction in chromatic aberrations, while a pair of aspherical elements, with one positioned in the rear of the lens, minimize a variety of additional distortions and aberrations. The 15-element-in-11-group optical design is poised to deliver consistent peripheral brightness and sharpness, even when working at the bright f/1.4 maximum aperture. All in all, the Sigma 24mm /1.4 lens is ideal for capturing a variety of photography subjects, including cityscapes, mountain ranges, astrophotography and weddings and is great for videography work as well.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 20mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art | Amazon | B&H |
Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 IF ED UMC | Amazon | B&H |
Rokinon 12mm f/2.8 Fisheye | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon D500 Sports & Wildlife Lenses
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
An ideal lens for shooting birds, wildlife, motor sports, athletes, performers, landmarks and other faraway subjects.
Compact, lightweight and very affordable, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a compact super-telephoto zoom lens (300-750mm equivalent focal length range on DX sensors) that is ideal for bringing distant subjects closer, including birds, sports, wildlife and motorsports. For those photogs looking to get versatility and reach into their kit without spending a fortune, as many super telephotos require, this is the right lens. Three extra-low dispersion elements greatly reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations in order to produce greater clarity and color accuracy. A fast f/5.6 constant aperture gives your shots beautifully out-of-focus backgrounds across the entire zoom range. Turn fast-moving action into dazzling photo sequences—the electromagnetic diaphragm operates in sync for the fastest subjects and shutter speeds while Vibration Reduction image stabilization keeps your shots sharp and steady. A silent Wave Motor AF system produces fast, near-silent focusing performance that suits both stills shooting and movie recording which can instantly be manually overridden by simply turning the manual focus ring. Further contributing to photographing in fast-paced situations and difficult lighting, VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by up to 4.5 shutter speed stops. And in the rare cases when additional reach is needed, you can increase the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR’s zoom power with an optional Nikon 1.4x, 1.7x or 2x teleconverter.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR
The ultimate medium to super-telephoto zoom lens! 120-600mm equivalent focal length on DX models
If you’re looking for a compact, versatile telephoto zoom lens that handles portraiture as well as it handles long-distance wildlife and action photography, look no further than the AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. With the broadest focal length range in the super-telephoto zoom line-up (120-600mm equivalent focal length on DX models), it reduces the number of lenses you need to carry into the field, and expands your handheld shooting capabilities, thanks to Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. The AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR covers the broadest focal length range of any NIKKOR super-telephoto zoom lens. At 80mm, its an ideal medium-telephoto portrait lens. Create stunning portraits with a medium telephoto perspective and softly blurred backgrounds. At 400mm, its a powerful super-telephoto lens suited to wildlife and action photography, with or without a tripod. For dazzling close-ups with macro detail, get as close as 5.7 feet from your subject and zoom in to 400mm – you’ll be amazed by the results! In addition, a Silent Wave Motor AF system produces fast, near-silent focusing performance that suits both stills shooting and movie recording, which can instantly be manually overridden by simply turning the manual focus ring. Further contributing to photographing in fast-paced situations and difficult lighting, Vibration Reduction image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by up to four shutter speed stops.
Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2
Well-suited for portraits, events, photojournalism, wildlife and sports photography.
A popular telephoto zoom for a variety of shooting applications, this Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Lens is characterized by its bright f/2.8 constant maximum aperture, as well as sophisticated optical and physical designs. In regard to optics, an improved layout contains one XLD element and five LD elements to suppress color fringing and chromatic aberrations for notable clarity and color accuracy, and both BBAR and eBAND coatings have been applied to reduce flare and ghosting. Complementing the optical assets, this 70-200mm f/2.8 also features an advanced Vibration Compensation (VC) system that compensates for up to five stops of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. A ring-type Ultrasonic Silent Drive autofocus motor is also featured for responsive and accurate performance, and also affords full-time manual focus override for fine-tuned control. Additionally, the lens is also dust- and moisture-resistant for working in trying environmental conditions, and it is paired with a rotating, removable tripod foot with an Arca-type compatible base for seamless shooting atop a tripod or monopod. Delivering stellar image quality and performance, the Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 lens is well-suited for portraits, events, photojournalism, wildlife and sports photography.
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II
Long reach in a sleek form factor, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II is an 82.5-300mm-equivalent telephoto zoom for DX-format cameras. Well-suited to landscapes, sports, and portraiture, this lens’s optical design incorporates one extra-low dispersion element for clear, accurate rendering and reduced color fringing. Its versatile zoom range goes from 55mm, which is great for portraits and group shots, up to 200mm telephoto for catching close-ups on the sports field, school events and more. Suitable for both photo and stills applications, the Silent Wave Motor delivers fast and quiet autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus control. Additionally, Nikon Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization provides 4.0 stops of blur free handheld shooting, assuring dramatically sharper still images, steadier HD videos and enhanced low-light performance.
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
An evolution of the tested DX telephoto zoom, the AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR is a 105-450mm-equivalent lens featuring an updated focusing mechanism along with a compact form factor that is ideal for capturing sports, wildlife, concerts, landmarks and any faraway subjects. One extra-low dispersion element is used in the optical design to greatly reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations throughout the zoom range in order to maintain image clarity. Suiting both photo and video applications, the AF-P designation indicates the use of a pulse stepping motor that offers notably quiet, fast, and precise autofocus performance. Additionally, Vibration Reduction image stabilization compensates for up to four stops of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting.
Lens | Buy Now |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Tamron SP 70-200mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-P 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II | Amazon | B&H |
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR | Amazon | B&H |
Don’t own the Nikon D500 yet? Just get it at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
Read more: Best Memory Cards for Nikon D500.