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10 Best Nikon Macro Lenses 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S | Professional macro prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,486
Focal Length
Magnification Ratio
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
371 reviews

Focal Length
This lens is perfect for those interested in macro photography, but it can also serve as a high-quality 105mm portrait lens.
Magnification Ratio
The lens is surprisingly lightweight for its capabilities, featuring an OLED panel that displays magnification ratio, focus distance, f-stop, and depth-of-field zone.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
While the autofocus may occasionally have issues, the overall performance and image quality make it a fantastic lens for macro photography enthusiasts.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
The build quality and edge-to-edge sharpness are superb, delivering everything you would expect from a Nikkor S lens and more.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is an impressive macro lens designed for Nikon's Z series mirrorless cameras, making it a great choice for anyone serious about macro photography. One of its standout features is the ability to achieve life-size 1:1 magnification, allowing photographers to capture extraordinary details in subjects like insects or flowers. This lens boasts advanced S-Line optics, ensuring sharpness and minimal distortion, which is crucial for macro work where precision matters.

With a bright maximum aperture of f/2.8, you can take stunning shots even in lower light conditions, while also utilizing a shallow depth of field to isolate your subjects against beautifully blurred backgrounds. The 105mm focal length provides a comfortable working distance, so you can photograph your subjects without scaring them away.

Another strength is the Vibration Reduction (VR) feature, which helps to reduce camera shake. This is especially beneficial when shooting handheld, as macro photography often requires steady hands. Additionally, the lens is weather-sealed, protecting it from moisture and dust, allowing for more versatile outdoor usage. The weight of the lens at 1.39 pounds might be a concern for some users, especially those who prefer lightweight gear for handheld shooting over extended periods. While this lens excels in macro photography, it can also be used effectively for portraits, though it may not be the most versatile option for a wider range of photography styles. The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is ideal for enthusiasts and professionals focused on macro and portrait photography, delivering outstanding image quality and usability.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,486
Focal Length
Magnification Ratio
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

Most important from
371 reviews

Focal Length
This lens is perfect for those interested in macro photography, but it can also serve as a high-quality 105mm portrait lens.
Magnification Ratio
The lens is surprisingly lightweight for its capabilities, featuring an OLED panel that displays magnification ratio, focus distance, f-stop, and depth-of-field zone.
Autofocus Speed and Accuracy
While the autofocus may occasionally have issues, the overall performance and image quality make it a fantastic lens for macro photography enthusiasts.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing
The build quality and edge-to-edge sharpness are superb, delivering everything you would expect from a Nikkor S lens and more.
#2

Laowa 24mm f/14 Macro Probe Lens for Nikon

Rating
9.8
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
11 reviews

Maximum Aperture
The lens is amazing but be prepared for how dark f/14 can be; bright lights are essential.
Magnification Ratio
This is the most amazing macro lens I've owned, offering incredible detail and close-up capabilities.

The Laowa 24mm f/14 Macro Probe Lens stands out in the macro lens category, particularly for photographers seeking unique perspectives and extreme close-ups. Its 24mm focal length allows you to capture intricate details, which is essential for macro work. The maximum aperture of f/14 offers decent light control, although it may not be the brightest option available, meaning you might need to use longer exposure times or higher ISO settings in dimmer conditions.

One of the standout features is its impressive magnification ratio, which allows for stunning close-up shots. This lens can capture subjects at a 2:1 magnification, making it ideal for photographing small subjects like insects or flowers. It lacks image stabilization, which might pose challenges when shooting in hand-held scenarios, especially at extreme close distances where even minor shakes can disrupt detail.

In terms of autofocus speed and accuracy, this lens primarily relies on manual focus, which can be a drawback for some users who prefer quick adjustments. Nevertheless, many macro photographers appreciate the control that manual focusing provides, especially for precision work. The build quality is robust, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, and it does have some weather sealing, which offers peace of mind when shooting in less-than-ideal conditions. Its weight of 5.35 pounds may be cumbersome for extended use, especially for those who prioritize portability.

This lens is a fantastic choice for dedicated macro photographers who want to achieve remarkable detail in their images. Those who favor ease of use, autofocus features, or a lighter lens might want to consider other options. If you’re serious about macro photography and appreciate the tangible benefits of manual focus, this lens could be a valuable addition to your kit.

Rating
9.8
Maximum Aperture
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
11 reviews

Maximum Aperture
The lens is amazing but be prepared for how dark f/14 can be; bright lights are essential.
Magnification Ratio
This is the most amazing macro lens I've owned, offering incredible detail and close-up capabilities.
#3

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 | Compact macro prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model

Rating
9.7
Focal Length
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
55 reviews

Focal Length
While it's a good lens, the more expensive 105mm macro offers better performance and more working distance for macro work.
Magnification Ratio
Ideal for up-close pictures of items, making it amazing for detailed shots.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 is a compact macro lens designed specifically for Nikon's Z series mirrorless cameras. One of its standout features is the 1:1 magnification ratio, allowing photographers to capture intricate details in life size, which is ideal for macro photography. The maximum aperture of f/2.8 offers versatility in different lighting conditions and helps create a pleasing background blur, making your subjects pop. The 50mm focal length provides a natural perspective, making it suitable not just for macro shots, but also for everyday photography like food or portrait shots.

The lens is lightweight and compact, which is a significant plus for those who want to carry it around without feeling burdened. Its front-focusing mechanism helps minimize the size, making it convenient to keep on your camera at all times. This feature is especially appealing for hobbyists and casual photographers looking for a reliable lens that excels in various situations.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the autofocus is generally fast and accurate, some users may find it slightly less responsive in low-light conditions compared to higher-end models. Additionally, while the build quality is good, it may not have the extensive weather sealing found in more premium lenses, which could be a concern for photographers shooting in challenging environmental conditions. The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 is a fantastic choice for those interested in macro photography as well as versatile everyday shooting. Its strengths lie in its compact design, impressive magnification, and bright aperture, although some may want to consider its autofocus performance and build quality in harsher environments. It’s a solid option for enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

Rating
9.7
Focal Length
Magnification Ratio

Most important from
55 reviews

Focal Length
While it's a good lens, the more expensive 105mm macro offers better performance and more working distance for macro work.
Magnification Ratio
Ideal for up-close pictures of items, making it amazing for detailed shots.

Buying Guide for the Best Nikon Macro Lenses

Choosing the right macro lens for your Nikon camera can significantly enhance your close-up photography, allowing you to capture intricate details with stunning clarity. When selecting a macro lens, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact your photography experience. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
Focal LengthFocal length determines how close you can get to your subject while maintaining focus. Macro lenses typically range from 40mm to 200mm. Shorter focal lengths (40mm-60mm) are great for general close-up photography and are more affordable, but you need to get very close to your subject, which might scare away insects or cast shadows. Mid-range focal lengths (90mm-105mm) offer a good balance, allowing you to maintain some distance while capturing detailed shots. Longer focal lengths (150mm-200mm) are ideal for photographing skittish subjects like insects, as they allow you to shoot from a greater distance, but they tend to be heavier and more expensive. Choose a focal length based on the type of subjects you plan to photograph and your comfort with getting close to them.
Maximum ApertureThe maximum aperture of a lens, indicated by the f-number (e.g., f/2.8), determines how much light the lens can gather and affects depth of field. A larger maximum aperture (smaller f-number) allows more light to enter, which is beneficial for shooting in low light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out against a blurred background. Common maximum apertures for macro lenses are f/2.8 and f/3.5. If you often shoot in dim environments or want to create a strong background blur, opt for a lens with a larger maximum aperture. However, if you primarily shoot in well-lit conditions, a smaller maximum aperture may suffice.
Magnification RatioThe magnification ratio indicates how much the lens can enlarge the subject. A 1:1 ratio means the subject is projected onto the camera sensor at life-size, which is ideal for true macro photography. Some lenses offer higher magnification ratios (e.g., 1.4:1 or 2:1), allowing for even greater detail. If you need to capture extremely fine details, look for lenses with higher magnification ratios. For general macro photography, a 1:1 ratio is usually sufficient.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce camera shake, which is especially useful when shooting handheld at close distances where even slight movements can blur the image. Some macro lenses come with built-in image stabilization, which can be a significant advantage if you often shoot without a tripod. If you plan to do a lot of handheld shooting or work in low light conditions, consider a lens with image stabilization. However, if you primarily use a tripod, this feature may be less critical.
Autofocus Speed and AccuracyAutofocus speed and accuracy are important for capturing sharp images, especially when photographing moving subjects like insects. Some macro lenses have faster and more accurate autofocus systems than others. If you frequently shoot moving subjects, look for a lens with a reputation for quick and reliable autofocus. For static subjects, autofocus speed may be less of a concern, and you might even prefer to use manual focus for precise control.
Build Quality and Weather SealingBuild quality and weather sealing are important considerations if you plan to use your lens in challenging environments. A well-built lens with weather sealing can withstand dust, moisture, and rough handling, making it more durable and reliable in various conditions. If you often shoot outdoors or in harsh environments, investing in a lens with robust build quality and weather sealing is advisable. For indoor or controlled environments, these features may be less critical.

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