10 Best Nikon Macro Lens 2025 in the United States

The Samyang 100mm F2.8 ED UMC Full Frame Telephoto Macro Lens is a solid choice for Nikon DSLR users looking for a dedicated macro lens. It offers a focal length of 100mm with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which is great for low light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field. The lens boasts a magnification ratio fitting for capturing detailed close-ups, and a minimum focusing distance of just 1.0 ft, allowing for impressive macro photography.

However, it lacks built-in image stabilization, which might be a drawback for users who shoot handheld or in low light environments without a tripod. The autofocus is manual, meaning users need to adjust focus manually, which might be challenging for fast-paced shooting conditions or for users who prefer the convenience of autofocus. On the build quality front, it is well-constructed with Ultra Multi-Coated (UMC) glass, enhancing image quality by reducing glare and ghosting.

It is compatible with full frame cameras, providing a 24.8-degree angle of view, and with APS-C cameras where it offers a narrower 16.4-degree view. Despite its lack of weather sealing, which could limit its use in harsh conditions, its robust build and optical performance make it a reliable lens for both amateur and professional macro photographers.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is a high-quality macro lens designed for Nikon's Z series mirrorless cameras, making it a great choice for those interested in close-up photography. Its 105mm focal length provides a comfortable working distance, which helps you capture small subjects like insects without getting too close and disturbing them. The lens offers a life-size 1:1 magnification ratio, so you can reveal fine details that are invisible to the naked eye. The bright f/2.8 aperture is beneficial for shooting in various lighting conditions and allows you to create a pleasing background blur, which helps your subject stand out.

This lens also features Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which stabilizes your shots to minimize blur from hand movements—especially helpful when shooting handheld macro photos or videos. Autofocus is included, making it easier to achieve sharp focus quickly, although with macro lenses some manual focus adjustment is often preferred for precision. The lens is built to professional standards with weather sealing on all moving parts, protecting it from moisture and dust, which makes it a dependable option for shooting outdoors in different conditions. Additionally, its versatility extends beyond macro work, as the 105mm length and sharp optics make it suitable for portrait photography, providing flattering subject isolation.

Weighing around 1.4 pounds and compactly sized, it balances portability with solid construction. The main drawback is that it requires a single AA battery for stabilization, which might be inconvenient for some users. For those seeking a sharp, reliable macro lens with excellent image quality and stabilization, this Nikon lens is a fitting choice.

The AstrHori 25mm F2.8 Ultra Macro Lens is designed specifically for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras, making it a good fit for photographers interested in ultra macro photography. One of its biggest strengths is its impressive magnification range of 2X to 5X, which allows for detailed close-up shots of tiny subjects, an essential feature in macro photography. The lens also boasts an optical design that includes high-refractive index and ED elements, which contribute to high-definition image quality, revealing intricate details that are often missed with the naked eye.

Another advantage is its large maximum aperture of f/2.8. This can be beneficial in various lighting conditions and helps in achieving appealing bokeh effects. Additionally, the lens's short focus design increases the depth of field, meaning photographers can capture more in focus without the need for extensive post-processing work, saving time and effort.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The lens is fully manual, lacking an autofocus mechanism, which might be challenging for users who prefer the convenience of automatic focus. This could deter beginners who are not accustomed to manual focusing. Also, while the lens is compatible with full-frame cameras, it might not be versatile for those looking for a more general-purpose lens, as it is specifically tailored for macro photography. Build quality is decent, but it's important to note that there may not be extensive weather sealing, potentially limiting outdoor use in less-than-ideal conditions.