Nikon Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
Announced October 10, 2019
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is a compact and lightweight standard zoom lens that delivers sharp, high-contrast imagery for travel and everyday use. While its modest aperture range limits low-light performance and background blur, it remains a reliable, cost-effective starter option for Z-mount cameras.
Weighted from 14 reviewer scores
Pros
- Sharp image quality and high contrast
- Compact and lightweight design
- Effective built-in vibration reduction
- Fast and quiet autofocus
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Slow maximum aperture range
- Plastic construction and lack of weather sealing
- Distortion and vignetting issues
- Missing accessories like lens hoods
- Lack of dedicated physical switches
- Launch price $299.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3
- Mount & coverage Nikon Z APS-C
- Stabilization Optical IS, 4.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 20 cm (0.2x)
- Filter thread 46mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 135g (4.8 oz) · 70 x 32 mm (2.76 x 1.26 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 14 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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It has excellent contrast and color, and handles ghosting and flare extremely well.
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There’s a lot to like about this lens. It can be used in a wide variety of situations and produces sharp results with attractive bokeh.
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It's a great place for Nikon to start with their APS-C Z-mount lenses and good enough value for money when bought as a kit with your camera, so it comes recommended.
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What are you reading a review for? If you have a Z50 you want this lens.
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We have here a compact, low price, high-performance lens that really sets the bar very high for "plastic fantastic" standard zooms.
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The Nikon Z DX 16-50mm F3.5-6.3 VR is an incredibly tiny, lightweight standard zoom that is perfect for general everyday shooting, especially if you pick it up with the Nikon Z fc or Z50 cameras where it's sold as an economical kit lens option.
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Much of the Nikon Z 50’s appeal is its petite form factor and the Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR (35mm equivalent) doesn’t hamper that in the slightest.
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The Nikon Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is one of the better starter zoom lenses we've seen, but you should definitely buy it along with a camera to save some money.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
When used on the compact Z50 camera body, its small size, light weight and versatile focal length range make this lens ideal for travel and street photography. It can also be used for family snapshots as well as landscapes, cityscapes and both individual and group portraiture.
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This is a solid choice as a starter lens. Paired with these cameras, it’s versatile and capable. Sure, it leaves plenty of room to explore other lenses to upgrade to later (especially faster), but as a start, it’s a reliable and safe choice.
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This is a great little lens and I have to say the VR in it is very very competent.
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[T]his is a fantastic lens optically, and it's tiny, works well and fast and is inexpensive. This is one of Nikon's Best Lenses.
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I think this lens is really good entry level lens, especially for people that have opted for the DX range. I think that'd be a really good option to go for instead of getting the kit.
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So yeah great lens, great value for money and excellent with your Z30, Z50 or zfc. So yeah I can highly recommend it.
