erpatterson78 Loc: Ohio

Hi everyone. I bought a Nikon 3100 starter kit like 5 years ago. I've been stuck with the 18-55mm lens it came with. I'm thinking of getting this lens. I know it has to be better than what I currently have. Anyone have this lens or advice as to why or why not I should not get it?

Thanks for looking and adding any input.

55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR DX AF-S ED Zoom-Nikkor Lens

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

The 55-300mm is probably the best overall choice to add to your kit because of its versatility, reach, and very reasonable pricing.

jfn007 Loc: Close to the middle of nowhere.

I use the Nikon 55-300mm and it is very good lens. I loved the purchase price. I like the Nikon 18-200mm more, but it costs more.

juicesqueezer Loc: Okeechobee, Florida

I'll second what both of this photographers just said! Great lens for your D3100.

erpatterson78 Loc: Ohio

Thanks everyone. Yes jfn007, the main reason I got that was the price, it was just to good to pass up on a refurbished :)

MarkD Loc: NYC

I have a 55-300 VR. It's very sharp, light weight (relatively), and a good value. The only problem is that it tends to focus a little slowly. If you need a lens that focuses quickly consider a refurbished or used Nikon 70-300 VR. It is a bigger heavier lens though.

JD750 Loc: SoCal

You will get a lot of strong opinions with that question. Feel free to follow any of them.

But you might get better answers if you were able to describe what "better" means to you. What characteristics don't you like about the 18-55 and what do you want to see improved? And it would help if you described how you use your current lens, what subjects do you like to shoot? And how do you plan to use the new one.

Also lenses can be rented and it is always informative to rent and try before buying.

erpatterson78 Loc: Ohio

I like taking pictures outdoors. I'm usually hiking or walking around when i take them. I've been in situations where I'm to far away from the subject to get a good picture of it. I do enjoy the quality I get when I'm fairly close as well. The URL below is a typical shoot i do. I tend to think though I've adapted to what the lens can do.

http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-329920-1.html

I think i'll be ok with the slower AF, i'm hoping to get the same quality shots i get now with the 18-55 but with the added distance now.

Ctrclckws

Just gave myself a lightweight kit with a refurbished d5300, 18-55mm and 55-300mm lenses. Total price <750 from Adorama.

The 55-300mm refurbished price was $200, so it's a nice compliment to the 18-55mm.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

CreativeLive has an excellent video on using the D5100 - D5300.

http://www.creativelive.com/courses/nikon-d5100-d5200-dslr-fast-start

Grand Loc: Lebanon, Pa

I have the same camera n lens, love it.

Ctrclckws

Thank you.

MtnMan Loc: ID

I agree. It comes with the kit for many D5xxx.

I made the mistake of giving mine to my daughter-in-law when I bought a 28-300 and full frame camera. I tried to get it back when I got a D5300 and she refused....calling me an Indian Giver. I wanted it back because it's quality compared well to the 28-300 and it was much smaller and lighter. She loves it on her D3100.

Jaackil Loc: Massachusetts

I bought my d3100 with the 18-55 and 55-300. I have been happy with both lenses I just upgraded my body to a d7100, the 55-300 has been on it more than any other lens I have I have rented the 70-200 2.8 and did not get significantly better results with it on the d3100 body. I know a ton of hogs are going to jump all over me saying the 70-200 is a much better lens, what I am saying the increase in results did not justify the additional expense in my mind. I am not saying the 55-300 is better or as good, it is not, but for the money I think it is a pretty good lens. I chose it over the 55-200 because it has a metal mount and the 55-200 has a plastic mount. As far as sharpness. It is pretty good. Mine is a little soft at 300 mm and wide open which is to be expected with any lens. My opinion is by comparison this lens quality far exceeds its cost. Might be one of Nikons best values for the money. If you are on the fence about the lens you can find them used in excellent condition for less than $150. Your Other option is to rent one and try it out and see if it meets your needs. (I should add, several have said the focus is a little slow, I shoot alot of Lacrosse outdoors and the focus speed has been fine. I have even used it indoors to shoot Ice hockey and focus speed has not been an issue.) Good Luck!

rocketride Loc: Upstate NY

What do you mean by 'better'? Neither lens is a replacement for the other. The only place there is any overlap in their use is at the one focal length they have in common-- 55mm.