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Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR Lens

The Nikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR is a 85mm f/3.5 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $303.78 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR Lens

Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR Lens

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Lens OverviewNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

The Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR is a prime macro lens built for Nikon F mount cameras, specifically designed around the APS-C format. With a fixed focal length of 85mm and a maximum aperture of f/3.5, this lens is well-suited for close-up and macro photography work. It supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving shooters flexibility depending on the shooting situation.

Optical image stabilization is built in, which aids in capturing steady shots during handheld use — a particularly useful feature for macro work where camera shake can easily ruin an image. The lens accepts 52mm filters, which is a compact thread size that keeps accessory costs modest. At 355 grams, this is a relatively lightweight prime lens, making it easy to carry for extended shooting sessions.

The Nikon F mount ensures broad compatibility with Nikon's DSLR camera lineup. For photographers seeking a dedicated macro prime on a DX-format DSLR that balances autofocus capability, optical stabilization, and a manageable weight, this lens covers a well-defined niche in the lineup.

Key FeaturesNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

85mm Prime Focal Length: Fixed 85mm focal length on APS-C delivers a 127.5mm equivalent field of view, providing comfortable working distance between the lens and subject during macro shooting.

1:1 Macro Reproduction: Achieves true 1:1 life-size magnification, rendering subjects at their actual size on the sensor for detailed close-up photography.

Vibration Reduction (VR): Built-in optical stabilization compensates for camera shake, which is especially valuable during handheld macro work where movement is greatly amplified.

ED Glass Element: Extra-low Dispersion glass reduces chromatic aberration for sharper, more color-accurate results across the focus range.

AF-S Silent Wave Motor: Internal Silent Wave Motor delivers fast, quiet autofocus that is well-suited for both stills and video capture without drawing attention to focus noise.

APS-C DX Format Design: Optimized for Nikon's DX-format sensors, making it a dedicated and compact macro solution for crop-sensor DSLR shooters.

Lens SpecificationsNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

Nikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesMacro, Product, Creative Effects
Lens TypeMacro
FormatAPS-C
Zoom/PrimePrime
Focal Length85mm
Maximum Aperturef/3.5
Camera SystemDSLR
Lens MountNikon F
AutofocusYes
Focus TypeManual, Auto
Image StabilizationOptical
Filter Thread52mm

DescriptionNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

The Nikon AF-S Micro Nikkor 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR is a prime macro lens built on the Nikon F mount, tailored specifically for APS-C format DSLR cameras. Its fixed 85mm focal length positions it as a dedicated close-up tool, while a maximum aperture of f/3.5 provides adequate light gathering for typical macro and general photography scenarios. Built-in optical image stabilization helps counteract camera shake, a real advantage when shooting handheld at close focusing distances.

The lens offers both autofocus and manual focus modes, catering to photographers who want the speed of AF or the precision of manual control. A 52mm filter thread keeps the front element compact and accessory-friendly. Weighing in at just 355 grams, this lens is easy to carry on location or during extended shooting sessions.

It fits any camera body equipped with a Nikon F mount, making it a practical choice for photographers working within the Nikon DX DSLR ecosystem.

ProsNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

  • Optical image stabilization helps reduce camera shake during handheld macro shooting
  • Lightweight at just 355g, making it comfortable for extended use
  • Supports both autofocus and manual focus for flexible shooting control

ConsNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

  • Maximum aperture of f/3.5 is relatively modest compared to faster prime lenses in a similar focal length range
  • APS-C-only design limits use to DX-format bodies; not optimized for full-frame Nikon F cameras
  • No weather sealing information available in specifications

Resources & DownloadsNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked QuestionsNikon 85mm f/3.5 G ED DX VR

What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Nikon F mount. It is designed for APS-C format Nikon DSLR cameras.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens features optical image stabilization. This is especially beneficial for macro photography, where even minor camera movement can affect image sharpness.
Can I use autofocus with this lens?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus. This gives you the option to let the camera handle focusing automatically or to take direct control for more precise macro work.
What filter size does this lens accept?+
The lens has a 52mm filter thread, making it compatible with any 52mm circular filters such as polarizers or ND filters.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 355 grams, making it a relatively compact and light option for a dedicated macro prime.
Is this lens suitable for full-frame Nikon cameras?+
The lens is designed for the APS-C format and uses the Nikon F mount. While it will physically mount on full-frame Nikon F bodies, it is optimized for DX-format sensors.

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