Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR review

The tiny Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR for the new Nikon Z 50 is as flat as a pancake... but for all the right reasons

5 Star Rating
Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR review
(Image: © Digital Camera World/Future)

Digital Camera World Verdict

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. It’s tiny, it’s featherweight and it’s sure to prove popular with travel and street photographers alike. Its ability to focus down to 0.2m is mighty impressive and although its plastic build may lack that premium feel, the addition of a silent control ring is a welcome mod con. What the Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lacks in speed, it makes up for in price, versatility and downright dinky charm.

Pros

  • +

    Super-compact size

  • +

    Impressive minimum focus distance

  • +

    Customizable control ring

Cons

  • -

    Max aperture only f/6.3 at full zoom

  • -

    Plastic build may disappoint some

  • -

    Narrow focus ring could prove fiddly

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The Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is the kit lens for Nikon's new Z 50 APS-C mirrorless camera, and its own way it's as exciting as the camera itself.

More than a year since Nikon introduced the world to its Z system, the Japan-based imaging giant has finally unveiled its very first Z-mount APS-C mirrorless camera. Dubbed the Nikon Z 50, this diminutive device is priced pretty keenly, especially with this Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 kit lens. Already it looks set to be one of the best Nikon cameras for hobbyists, if not one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market.

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Mike Harris
Technique Editor

Mike is Deputy Editor for N-Photo: The Nikon Magazine, and brings with him over 10 years experience writing both freelance and for some of the biggest specialist publications. Prior to joining N-Photo Mike was the production editor for the content marketing team of Wex Photo Video, the UK’s largest online specialist photographic retailer, where he sharpened his skills in both the stills and videography spheres.  


While he’s an avid motorsport photographer, his skills extend to every genre of photography – making him one of Digital Camera World’s top tutors for techniques on cameras, lenses, tripods, filters and other imaging equipment, as well as sharing his expertise on shooting everything from portraits and landscapes to abstracts and architecture to wildlife and, yes, fast things going around race tracks.