10 Best Nikon Lenses For D850 2026 in the United States

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens is a solid choice for photographers using the Nikon D850. With a focal length range of 16-80mm, it covers everything from wide-angle landscapes to portrait shots, making it ideal for daily use, travel, and even video shooting. One of its standout features is the maximum aperture of f/2.8-4, which allows for good low-light performance and depth of field control. Plus, the lens incorporates 4 stops of Vibration Reduction, which is particularly helpful for handheld shooting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

The build quality is commendable, with nonstick protective fluorine coatings that resist water, dirt, and smudges, enhancing durability and ease of cleaning. Weighing only 1.1 pounds, it's also one of the lightest zoom lenses in its class, making it convenient for on-the-go photographers.

On the downside, the lens is designed for Nikon's DX format, which means it may not fully utilize the D850's full-frame capabilities. While it can still produce excellent images, users looking for a lens that maximizes the full-frame sensor may want to consider other options. Additionally, some users might find the price point a bit high compared to other similar lenses in the market.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, including the D850. With a focal length range of 80-400mm, it covers a wide range of telephoto needs, making it suitable for wildlife, sports, and even portrait photography. The aperture range of f/4.5-5.6 is decent, although it may not perform as well in low-light situations compared to lenses with larger apertures.

The Vibration Reduction (VR) feature helps to counteract camera shake, which is particularly useful when shooting at longer focal lengths or in lower light conditions without a tripod. The lens supports autofocus, which is essential for capturing moving subjects accurately and quickly. The autofocus is reliable, but it may not be the fastest compared to some high-end prime lenses.

In terms of build quality, this lens is robust and feels solid, but it lacks comprehensive weather sealing, so some caution is advised when using it in harsh weather conditions. It's also quite heavy, weighing approximately 3.5 pounds with the tripod collar, which might be a consideration for those planning to carry it for extended periods. The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a good choice for photographers who need a flexible telephoto zoom lens with reliable image stabilization, though it might not be the best option for low-light photography or those requiring the fastest autofocus speeds.

The Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM is a telephoto zoom lens designed to give Nikon DSLR users, such as those with the D850, a broad reach from 150mm up to 600mm. This focal range is great for wildlife, sports, or any situation where you need to capture distant subjects without cropping your photos later. The aperture varies from f/5 to f/6.3, which is typical for such long zoom lenses but means it won't perform as well in very low light compared to lenses with wider apertures. It features Optical Stabilization (OS), which helps reduce blur from camera shake, useful at long focal lengths where even slight movements can affect sharpness. Autofocus is fast and accurate thanks to the HSM motor, which is important for capturing moving subjects.

Build-wise, this lens includes dust- and splash-proof mounting and a water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element, adding durability and easier maintenance, especially outdoors. While the lens is relatively lightweight and compact for its class, at nearly 2kg it is still a significant piece of gear to carry around. The minimum focusing distance is about 2.8 meters, which is reasonable for a super-telephoto zoom.

It comes with useful extras like a lens hood, caps, and a bonus 64GB Sandisk memory card, adding value. This lens serves as an excellent choice for Nikon D850 owners needing a versatile and durable telephoto zoom, particularly for outdoor photography, though its narrower aperture and weight might be considerations depending on your shooting style.