Nikon launches 55-300mm F4.5-5.6 G ED VR lens (19/08/2010)

Nikon has launched an extended-range telephoto zoom for DX users: the AF-S DX Nikkor 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. Offering an 85-450mm-equivalent range and VR II image stabilisation technology, it's designed as an accompaniment to the 18-55mm kit lens. It includes a Silent Wave motor for quiet focusing, and will be available soon.

Nikon UK today announces a new super telephoto zoom lens – the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR. With a focal length ranging from 55mm to 300mm (equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm on DX format D-SLRs) it enables the user to really get up close and personal with distant subjects. 
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe BV, says: “The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a really useful and economical second lens alongside today’s standard 18-55mm kit lenses, enabling coverage of all subjects both near and far. The compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it an ideal choice for the compact D-SLR customer.”
Go further for less
The 5.5 times zoom ratio offers flexibility by drastically extending the telephoto reach. With 300mm (450mm equivalent on DX format cameras when compared to 35mm format) at the telephoto end, this lens leads the way in affordable and portable telephoto photography, ideal for family sport events and holidays. 
Hold Steady
Incorporating the latest VR II (second generation Vibration Reduction) technology, the lens delivers sharper images when the camera is hand-held. This is especially useful when using slower shutter speeds at longer focal lengths, or when shooting in low light.
Keep Quiet
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates Nikon’s SWM (Silent Wave Motor). This ensures that the autofocus is fast and quiet so you don’t miss that crucial moment, nor draw attention to yourself in more private settings.
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR incorporates high quality ED and new HRI (High Refractive Index) glass elements to help deliver crisp images, even under harsh lighting conditions. The lens has a weather sealed mount, which prevents moisture and dust infiltrating the lens or camera sensor.
Ready for adventure, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is an affordable and compact lens that will be a welcome addition to any camera bag. The lens is supplied with HB-57 lens hood to prevent flare in strong light and a lens pouch for safe storage and transportation. The lens will also be available in zoom kits with Nikon’s popular D-SLR range.

 

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300MM F/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens specifications

Focal length	55-300mm
35mm equivalent focal length	82.5mm to 450mm
Maximum aperture	f/4.5-5.6
Minimum aperture	f/22-29
Lens construction	• 17 elements in 11 groups • 2 ED glass elements • 1 HRI lens element
Angle of view (APS-C crop)	28°50' - 5°20'
Closest focus distance	140cm
Maximum reproduction ratio	0.28x
Aperture blades	9 (rounded)
Filter attachment size	58 mm
AF motor	Silent Wave Motor
Dimensions	76.5mm x 123mm (3.4 in x 3.3 in)
Weight	530g (18.7oz)