mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

I am looking to get a lens under $800.00 that would eliminate having to continually change my two kit lenses. I have done extensive research on the internet, and I am a little confused. At the risk of sounding totally ignorant, is the Nikkor 18-200 as described in the title more expensive because it is superior glass compared to the kit lenses (18-55 & 55-200 - both VR), or is it the same quality glass with the convenience of having versatile zoom range of 18-200. Does the 18-200 feature sharper quality, etc.? Also, I thought I had made up my mind to buy the Tamron 18-270, but I've read a lot of reviews stating that the focus is soft at the 270mm range? I can get the Tamron at $549.00, after a $100 rebate. I need to stay within $700.00. Thank you!

NoSocks Loc: quonochontaug, rhode island

i used my 18-200 on my nikon d-80 extensively and found it to be sharp and well built. much better build on the 18-200 than on the kit lenses which tend to be soft from what i have read (never had one). i now am shooting with a 28-300 on a d600 and find it to be awesome. i have heard that the super zooms can be a little soft at the extremities, but i haven't found that to be the case. check for an 18-200 refurb that will keep you within budget. good luck.

mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

Thank you for sharing your experience!

ringo Loc: australia

I use a nikon 18-200 as my walk around and travel lens and love it.

Teacher Loc: Alabama

I have used both the old 18-270 Tamron and the newer PZD version on my D90. I got better IQ from the older version. The lens is a great walk around lens. I don't think there will be much difference between in IQ between the Nikon and the Tamron lens, but I would probably go with the Nikon lens if I was using a Nikon camera. I sold both my lenses because I use a tripod for most of my shooting and wanted better IQ.

FutureLook Loc: Florida, USA

I recently sold my 18-200 to purchase the newest 18-300 which is now coupled with my D7000. Took many pictures with the 18-200 coupled with several DX cameras that I previously owned with very pleasing results. Now that the 18-300 is out, you can pick up a decent VRII version for approximately $450. Try not to pay more than that. There are many VRI versions out there in good shape that you can pick up perhaps for a little less. The only difference between the two versions is that the VRII has a lock to avoid the lens to extend by itself. There were many 18-200 VRI owners complaining that the lens would creep and extend when carried on their shoulders. This can be solved with a simple rubber band. This is why the 18-200, 18-300 and the 28-300 VRII now have a lock to avoid the lens to extend. Good luck with your search!

mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

Thank you for sharing your experience. What do you think about the 18-300 as compared to the 18-200?

mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

Thank you, Teacher! I've been thinking about checking into the older Tamron.

mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

Thank you so much ~

photopop44 Loc: Roun Drock, Texas

I bought the Tamron as a one size fits all with a D7000, a big upgrade for me. I expected more crispness than I got from the package but the store took some test photos and assured me all was well. I have taken some nice photos at 270 and some other mid extension shots around f9 with a monopod that made me ask "What distance is in focus?" I primarily take landscapes but a cheer leader daughter has gotten a lot of attention this football season. As "Daylight Savings" sun became "Friday Night Lights" I wish I had purchased something several stops faster which would be well out of your budget. I guess my conclusion is, I always want more than what I have, expecting happiness from stuff, but end up with what I pay for.

mgstrawn Loc: Atlanta, GA

You're right about always wanting more than you have! Thanks for sharing your experience!