Nikon VR 70-300mm OR Nikon DX VR 55-300mm

cammie

cammie

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Cammie
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Hi there,

I'm off travelling at the end of the year and really want to buy a telephoto lens to take with me. I'm on a budget and not keen on taking anything really expensive away. I may upgrade to Full frame (camera and lenses) in a couple of years, so my thinking was buy a Nikon VR 55-300 second hand for the trip and then I can sell it along with everything else when I upgrade.

I hear the DX lenses are lighter and smaller than the full frame lenses, which may be better for travelling.

Does anyone have any idea on the difference in quality?

Many thanks,
Cammmie
 
chrism_scotland said:
I can't speak for the 55-300 but I know the 70-300 VR is meant to be an excellent lens for the money, I'm likely to add one to my kit.
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Lol so you can't really speak for either then??

I like the 55-300. It's sharp & light. The only thing I am not as keen on is the focusing speed which isn't the fastest. Although it's much better in good light.

The 70-300 performs better at most with the exception of not being as sharp at 300mm wide open. But then it's also a bit more expensive.

I'd say in terms of IQ they are very similar so then the question lies with build quality and focusing... which is better on the 70-300 but at a much higher price...

If it were me I'd probably opt for the 55-300.

Edit: but then I have no intentions of get a FF anytime soon...
 
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I have the 55-300 and I think it's a bargain. Sharp enough throughout, an I don't find focus speed a problem, even for motorsport. The 70-300 is reputed to be better though, and I'm pretty sure I read it's good for full frame, so would be the better option if that's the way you're heading.
 
Another vote for the 55-300 here. I bought one a few months ago. Very pleased with it.
 
...the 70-300 is great, but I agree that wide open at 300mm the 55-300 is every bit as good. I've owned 2 70-300's and 2 300/4's, and the 55-300 is the one I kept. Light, sharp, cheap, replaceable. Maybe I have a good copy, maybe they're all that good,

The 300/4 was lovely but an extravagance and too bulky for casual use. The 70-300 isn't that much smaller. Focus is faster, sure, that's about it aside from the bulkier build.
 
Thanks so much guys for all of your help. I used to be a member of this site but forgot my details and had to re-register. I'd forgotten what a supportive forum it was. Thanks so much. Going to opt for the 55-300 second hand I think.
 
I think you've made a good choice, the 55-300 was my first buy; and for the price you pay is excellent value.
 
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