When looking for the best lenses for Nikon D7100, it is essential to consider its type, maximum aperture, and focal length. With these in mind, I’ve handpicked my favorite products below. So keep on reading if you want to learn more about these factors and why they matter.
In my opinion, the Nikon D7100 is one of the best enthusiast-level DSLRs on the market. I love how it offers impressive image quality and autofocus performance in a lightweight body.
However, if you want to get the most out of these features, I suggest investing in the right lens.
Fortunately, I already did the hard work for you.
After researching various articles and user reviews, I determined the five best lenses for the Nikon D7100. I will walk you through each product’s pros and cons, features, and specifications to help you decide which lens is best for your needs.
I also shared our opinion about the Nikon D7100 and whether it is still worth buying or not today.
And if you are curious about which type of lenses you should invest in, you can read more about them below.
Without any further ado, let us get right into it!
Is The Nikon D7100 Still a Good Camera?
You can skip this section and jump into our top picks if you already own a Nikon D7100.
But if you are planning to buy a Nikon D7100, feel free to read below to know if this particular camera is still worth purchasing today.
The Nikon D7100 is a mid-range crop-sensor camera released in 2013. It is not a new camera by any means but it is still worth considering today.
It features a 24.1-megapixel DX-format image sensor to offer high-definition photos and 1080p videos. It can shoot up to ISO 6400 for low-light situations and capture six frames per second continuously in burst mode. Together with the EXPEED 3 processor, this DSLR delivers fast and responsive performance.
Furthermore, the D7100 uses 51 focus points to achieve fast and smooth autofocus. 15 of these points are cross-type sensors to help recognize both vertical and horizontal contrast variations across the frame.
In terms of build and ergonomics, it boasts a durable magnesium alloy body that can resist moisture and dust. It fits comfortably in hand and feels like a high-end Nikon camera yet still lightweight enough for traveling.
Finally, this DSLR is available at a relatively affordable price, especially considering its impressive list of specs.
All these features make the Nikon D7100 a solid choice for hobbyists and enthusiasts who are looking to upgrade from entry-level cameras. We highly recommend it to users who want to achieve high-quality results at a lower price.
But if you want 4K video, a larger buffer, and other advanced features, it is best to consider another camera.
Types of Lenses for the Nikon D7100
When shopping for the best lens for the Nikon D7100, you will encounter different types of lenses. Choosing between them will depend on your needs and the kind of photography that you do.
Camera lenses are categorized into either of the two.
Prime Lenses
Primes feature a fixed focal length, meaning they have fewer moveable glass elements. That makes them more compact and lightweight, ideal for travel. They also deliver sharper images. However, they are less flexible because of the fixed focal length.
Zoom Lenses
Zoom lenses, on the other hand, have a variable focal length that gives you versatility. They do not offer the highest image quality, though. Another downside is that they are usually larger and heavier than prime lenses.
Both primes and zooms can be further categorized into the following types, depending on their focal length.
Telephoto Lenses
Telephoto lenses have a focal length of more than 85mm that greatly magnifies the subject. They can help you capture distant subjects, making them suitable for action, sports, and wildlife photographers. However, they result in a narrower field of view. Plus, they are usually heavy and expensive.
Wide-Angle Lenses
Wide-angle lenses are the opposites of telephoto lenses. They offer a broad perspective that allows you to fit more elements in the frame, ideal for capturing landscapes, streets, and group photos. They usually provide a distorted appearance, though.
Standard Lenses
Standard lenses fall somewhere in the middle of the previous lenses, with a 35mm to 85mm focal length. They offer a natural perspective similar to how the naked human eye sees objects, perfect for portraiture and general photography.
Macro Lenses
Macro lenses are specialized camera lenses that capture images at extremely close range. They are suitable for close-up and macro photography, where capturing accurate details is of utmost importance.
A Quick Comparison of the Best Lens for Nikon D7100
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Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-up  |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
5 Best Lenses for Nikon D7100
Below are our top recommendations for the best lenses for Nikon D7100. Each includes an autofocus system to help you achieve sharp and in-focus photos.
1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR – Best All-in-One Lens for Nikon D7100
If you are looking for an all-around lens that delivers high-quality results, it’s worth checking out the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR.
It features multiple focal lengths ranging from 18 to 300mm, which is equivalent to 27 to 450mm in the Nikon D7100, to offer versatility. It enables you to capture more of the scene in front of you at its wide-angle focal lengths, ideal for architecture, landscapes, and group photos. But it can also offer a tight frame to take photos of distant subjects, such as action, sports, and wildlife.
Meanwhile, the maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 to f/6.3, depending on the zoom range you use. It is not the brightest lens on the market, and it will require you to shoot in settings with adequate light to get high-quality results. But it can still create a narrow depth of field to make the subject stand out from the background.
Furthermore, this zoom lens comes with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and Internal Focusing (IF). These technologies offer fast and quiet autofocus performance as well as manual focus control.
There is even a built-in Vibration Reduction system. This optical stabilizer offers up to four stops of blur-free images when shooting handheld or at slower shutter speeds.
On top of all these benefits, the NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G is budget-friendly and relatively lightweight for its focal range.
Most customer reviews for this versatile lens were positive. However, some users said it was not as sharp, especially when using longer focal lengths. A few also reported that zooming in or out with the lens is not smooth.
The pros far outweigh the cons, though.
For this reason, we highly recommend the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR for everyday photography. It is among the best all-in-one lenses for the Nikon D7100.
Pros:
- Versatile focal range suitable for different kinds of photography
- Fast and quiet autofocus performance
- Vibration Reduction (VR) technology corrects camera shake
- Relatively lightweight lens
Cons:
- Maximum aperture is not bright enough for low-light conditions
- Soft focus when shooting at the shortest and longest focal range
Alternatives:
2. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G – Best Standard Lens for Nikon D7100
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is another excellent lens for everyday photography.
It features a fixed focal length of 50mm (75mm equivalent to the Nikon D7100) to offer a natural perspective without distortion.
This prime lens also has a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which offers two significant benefits. First, it allows more light into the camera’s sensor to deliver impressive image quality, even when you are shooting in low-light situations. Second, it creates a shallow depth of field that isolates the subject from the background. This prime lens is suitable for capturing portraits and other general objects.
Moreover, a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides accurate and near-silent autofocus. This technology makes it easier to track the subject across the frame to ensure sharp images.
Finally, the NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G uses a plastic mount to keep the camera lens lightweight and compact for travel. But unlike other plastic lenses, this one feels tough and scratch-resistant.
All these features make the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G one of the best standard lenses for the Nikon D7100. We highly suggest getting one for portraiture and general photography.
But before buying this camera lens, it is essential to know that it lacks Vibration Reduction technology. A few users also reported that it produces slight chromatic aberration in high-contrast settings.
Pros:
- 50mm focal length offers natural field of view without distortion
- Impressive low-light performance
- Distinct background blur for portraiture
- Accurate and quiet autofocus
- Compact and lightweight lens
Cons:
- Lack of Vibration Reduction (VR) to reduce camera shake
- A few users noticed chromatic aberration when shooting in high-contrast conditions
Alternatives:
3. Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM – Best Telephoto Lens for Nikon D7100
Those who want to capture subjects from a distance must invest in a quality telephoto lens like the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM.
It offers an extended reach of 150-600mm (225-750mm equivalent in the Nikon D7100) that magnifies the subjects and brings them closer. It is suitable for action, sports, and wildlife photography, which often requires you to take photos from afar.
This super-telephoto zoom lens also has a variable maximum aperture of f/5-6.3 that changes depending on the focal length used. It is not the best in low-light situations, but it can still provide a tighter frame and distinct background blur. These help the subject stand out from the background.
There is even a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) technology for an optimized and quiet autofocus performance.
What’s more, a built-in Optical Stabilizer (OS) can minimize camera shake when shooting handheld or at slower shutter speeds. It allows improved panning both vertically and horizontally, perfect for tracking moving subjects.
On top of all these benefits, this telephoto zoom lens features a dustproof and splashproof body. It can withstand rigors of professional use and outdoor conditions.
There are some downsides to this product, though. First, it can be extremely bulky and heavy. Autofocus performance can also be slow in low-light situations, resulting in blurry photos.
But for its price, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM is pretty hard to beat. It is one of the best telephoto lenses for the Nikon D7100.
Pros:
- Long telephoto reach enables you to capture distant subjects
- Quiet and accurate autofocus
- Optical Stabilizer (OS) corrects camera shake
- Dustproof and splashproof lens
- Value for money
Cons:
- Maximum aperture is not bright enough for low-light situations
- Bulky and heavy lens
- Slow autofocus may not be ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects
Alternatives:
4. Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 Art DC HSM – Best Wide-Angle Lens for Nikon D7100
If you are into architecture or landscape photography, consider getting the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 Art DC HSM.
This wide-angle zoom lens has a focal length of 18 to 35mm, which is equivalent to 27 to 52mm in the Nikon D7100. It offers a wide field of view that enables you to fit more elements into the frame.
It also features a large maximum aperture of f/1.8. It creates a narrow depth of field for a distinct background blur. At the same time, it enables more light to hit the camera’s sensor, ideal for low-light wide-angle shots.
Furthermore, it offers smooth and near-silent autofocusing, owing to the Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM).
This Sigma lens even incorporates a Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass to reduce barrel distortion and aberrations when shooting at the shortest focal length.
Despite these features, some users still noticed comatic aberrations on the corners of their images. Several also said that autofocus could be slow and inconsistent. Fortunately, this wide-angle lens includes Sigma software so that you can update the firmware and adjust parameters like focus.
To sum up, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 Art DC HSM is one of the best wide-angle zoom lenses for the Nikon D7100.
Pros:
- Versatile wide-angle zoom lens allows you to shoot more of the scene in front of you
- Shallow depth of field
- Great in low-light conditions
- Smooth and near-silent autofocus
- Lens include software for upgrading the firmware
Cons:
- Comatic aberration is visible on the corners of the images
- Autofocus performance can be inconsistent
Alternatives:
5. Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G – Best Macro Lens for Nikon D7100
The Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is an excellent choice for taking photos of small subjects.
It has a close focusing distance of 0.53 ft and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1. This lens can reproduce the subject at its same size in the camera’s sensor. Thus, it is ideal for close-up or macro photography where you want to ensure the accuracy of the image.
The fixed focal length of 40mm (equivalent to 60mm in the Nikon D7100) produces a natural perspective, ideal for portraiture.
This macro lens also features a bright maximum aperture of f/2.8. It isolates the subject to make it stand out, even when shooting in low-light conditions.
Moreover, there is a built-in Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to offer accurate and quiet autofocus as well as full-time manual focusing.
Finally, the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is a relatively compact, lightweight, and affordable lens. All these features make it one of the best macro lenses for the Nikon D7100.
However, before buying this lens, it is important to note that it does not have optical stabilization. Some users also said the autofocus is too slow to capture insects and other fast-moving subjects.
Pros:
- Close focusing distance and 1:1 reproduction ratio are suitable for close-up photography
- Reliable low-light performance
- Distinct background blur brings attention to the subject
- Silent autofocus and full-time manual focus control
- Compact and lightweight lens
Cons:
- Lack of Vibration Reduction optical image stabilizer
- Slow AF system is not ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects
Alternatives:
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lens mount fits the Nikon D7100?
The Nikon D7100 accepts an F-type lens mount, like most Nikon DSLRs. It can also fit other mounts, like the Canon EF or the Sony E, via an adapter. However, these mounts are usually not compatible with all camera features, such as autofocus.
So if you want to ensure optimal performance, it is best to buy and use Nikon F lenses on the D7100.
Can you use FX lenses on the Nikon D7100?
Yes, you can mount FX-format (full-frame) lenses on the Nikon D7100 despite being an APS-C camera. You can also use DX-format or crop-sensor-specific lenses on this DSLR.
Both have their own pros and cons. And choosing between the two will ultimately depend on your needs and preferences.
FX-format lenses are compatible with full-frame cameras. So if you ever decide to upgrade, you can save money in the long term by buying this lens type. However, it usually has a more expensive upfront cost and can be heavy.
Meanwhile, DX-format lenses are more compact and lightweight, ideal for travel. But they produce heavy vignetting when mounted on a full-frame camera.
What is the crop factor of the Nikon D7100?
The Nikon D7100 has an APS-C DX-format sensor, resulting in a crop factor of 1.5x. So if you are using a 50mm lens, you can expect a longer focal length equivalent to 75mm.
Always keep this crop factor in mind when looking for the best lens for the Nikon D7100.
Conclusion
That sums up our list of the best lenses for the Nikon D7100! We highly recommend each product as it can help you capture high-quality images.
But if you can only invest in a single lens, we suggest getting the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR. Although it is not the brightest and fastest glass on the market, it offers sheer versatility that is hard to beat. It also features built-in autofocus and Vibration Reduction optical stabilizer. Thus, it is suitable for all kinds of photography, from landscape to wildlife and even portraits.