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Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR Review | 54 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£320
Avg. price in US: ~$410
Lens mount: Nikon Z
Maximum focal length: 250 mm
Maximum aperture (telephoto end): 6.3
Optical image stabilization: yes
Maximum angle of view: 31.5 °

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR review. Compare 54 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among camera lenses and if it is worth buying.

7.3

Very good

6.8

Good

9.4

Exceptional

9.6
Low-light photography
Score components:
70.0%
9.4
Maximum aperture (telephoto end)
30.0%
10
Optical image stabilization
6.7
Travel
Score components:
30.0%
8.3
Lens length
25.0%
7.9
Lens diameter
25.0%
1.0
Weather sealing (splashproof)
20.0%
10
Optical image stabilization

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VRGo to product viewer dialog for this item. is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for DX-format mirrorless cameras, providing a 35mm equivalent focal length range of 75-375mm. Constructed with 16 elements in 12 groups, including one extra-low dispersion element and a Super Integrated Coating, its primary characteristics include a highly compact retractable design, a stepping autofocus motor, a customizable control ring, and built-in Vibration Reduction offering up to 5 stops of stabilization. The main pros of this lens are its exceptionally lightweight build of 405 grams, crisp optical sharpness across the zoom range, excellent value, and a short minimum focusing distance of 0.5 metres at the wide end. However, its main cons include a slow, variable maximum aperture that limits low-light performance and bokeh separation, a plastic lens mount, and a total lack of weather sealing.

Technical Specifications of Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR

Overall score

7.3

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Mount & Format

1.0

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Lens type

What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

telephoto zoom

Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.

When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Nikon Z

Sensor format coverage

What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.

When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

APS-C

Filter thread size

What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.

When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

62 mm

Teleconverter compatibility

What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.

When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

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Optics & Aperture

7.8

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Minimum focal length

What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.

When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

50 mm

Maximum focal length

What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.

When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

250 mm

Optical zoom

What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.

When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

5x

Maximum angle of view

What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.

When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

31.5 °

Minimum angle of view

What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.

When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

6.5 °

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Focus & Controls

5.6

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Focus motor

What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.

When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

STM

Minimum focus distance

What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.

When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum reproduction ratio

What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.

When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Full-time manual focus

What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.

When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

Internal focusing

What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.

When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

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Stabilization

8.5

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Optical image stabilization

What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.

When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)

What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.

When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

Build & Handling

5.7

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.

When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

Lens length

What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.

When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

Lens diameter

What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.

When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Weather sealing (splashproof)

What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.

When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

Metal mount

What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.

When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

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Lab Scores

9.0

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DxOMark overall score

What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.

When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

?

DxOMark sharpness score

What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.

When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

?

DxOMark transmission

What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.

When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

DxOMark distortion

What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.

When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

DxOMark vignetting

What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.

When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

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Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR vs the average camera lens

Why is Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR better than the average camera lens?

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Has optical image stabilization
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
Vibration Reduction.
What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.
When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
1 stops stronger stabilization
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.
When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.5 stops vs 4 stops
120.4 g lighter
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is lighter than the average camera lens (405 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is lighter than the average camera lens (405 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.405 g vs 525.4 g
16.7% higher user score
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera lens.
When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher user score than the average camera lens (9.44 vs 8.091).9.44 vs 8.09
6% better value for money
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a better value-for-money score than the average camera lens (7.79 vs 7.346).
What it is: An indicator that combines the camera lens's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a better value-for-money score than the average camera lens (7.79 vs 7.346).7.79 vs 7.35
Has optical image stabilization
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
1 stops stronger stabilization
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
120.4 g lighter
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is lighter than the average camera lens (405 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.

Build & Handling

Why is Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR worse than the average camera lens?

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3.5 higher f-number at telephoto end
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/6.3 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
2 fewer aperture blades
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
2 fewer aspherical elements
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
0.2 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.5 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
Not weather-sealed
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
No metal mount
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
18 mm longer lens
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is longer than the average camera lens (110 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
Retracted length.
3.5 higher f-number at telephoto end
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/6.3 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
What it is: The widest aperture available at the long end of the zoom range, affecting light intake and background blur.
When it matters: When you shoot at the long end in low light or want stronger background blur for portraits and sports.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/6.3 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.6.3 vs 2.8
Not weather-sealed
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.
When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not support weather sealing, the average camera lens does. 50.3% of camera lenses support weather sealing.
2 fewer aperture blades
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.
What it is: The number of diaphragm blades that shape the aperture opening and influence blur rendering.
When it matters: When the look of out-of-focus highlights matters in portraits, close-ups, or cinematic video.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aperture blades than the average camera lens (7 vs 9). The average lens has 9 aperture blades.7 vs 9
No metal mount
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.
When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR does not use a metal lens mount, the average camera lens does. 93.1% of camera lenses use a metal lens mount.
2 fewer aspherical elements
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
What it is: Specially shaped lens elements used to reduce distortion and improve sharpness with fewer optical compromises.
When it matters: When edge sharpness and lower distortion matter in wide-angle, travel, or everyday shooting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.0 vs 2
18 mm longer lens
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is longer than the average camera lens (110 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
Retracted length.
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR is longer than the average camera lens (110 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.110 mm vs 92 mm
0.2 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.5 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (0.5 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.0.5 m vs 0.3 m
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
What it is: Optical elements designed to reduce color fringing by controlling how different wavelengths focus.
When it matters: When you want cleaner edges and less color fringing in high-contrast scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.1 vs 2

Optics & Aperture

Focus & Controls

Build & Handling

Graphic comparison of Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR?

Extremely lightweight and compact for a telephoto lens
Excellent center sharpness and overall image quality for the price
Fast, silent, and accurate stepping motor autofocus
Effective built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) up to 5 stops
Retractable design makes it highly portable for travel
Surprisingly good close-up performance for macro-style shots
Great value, especially when purchased as part of a camera kit

What customers dislike about Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50 250mm F 4 5 6 3 VR?

All-plastic construction, including the lens mount, feels 'cheap'
Variable aperture (f/4.5-6.3) limits performance in low-light conditions
Lacks weather sealing (no dust or splash protection)
Visible vignetting when shooting wide open
Does not include a lens hood in the standard box
Internal rattling or slight wobbling noted in the VR/barrel assembly
External zoom extends significantly, nearly doubling in length at 250mm

Expert reviews

digitalcameraworld.com

04/12/2019

Summary of the review

Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR review

The Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR is a lightweight, compact telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon's APS-C mirrorless cameras, offering a versatile 35mm equivalent focal range of 75-375mm. Built primarily from plastic to keep its weight down to a remarkably light 405 grams, it is highly portable but sacrifices the ruggedness of a metal chassis. The lens stands out for its fast, near-silent autofocus performance and an impressive in-lens optical Vibration Reduction (VR) system that provides up to 5 stops of stabilization compensation. Additionally, it features a unique, stepless control ring that allows photographers and videographers to smoothly adjust manual focus, exposure compensation, aperture, or ISO, though its small size makes it a bit fiddly to operate. In terms of image quality, the lens delivers impressive center-frame sharpness up to 135mm and f/8, outperforming its budget price point and legacy DSLR equivalents. Its main optical compromise is a slow variable maximum aperture of f/4.5-6.3, which restricts light gathering in darker environments, alongside a noticeable drop in corner sharpness at both the widest and longest ends of the focal range....

photographylife.com

05/02/2024

Summary of the review

Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Review

The Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR is a compact, lightweight budget telephoto lens that offers excellent value, featuring highly effective optical image stabilization and a fast, quiet autofocus system. It delivers great contrast, accurate colors, and pleasant bokeh while balancing well on compact camera bodies. However, the lens has a plastic construction with a plastic mount and no weather sealing. Performance compromises include heavy vignetting, reduced sharpness beyond 135mm, and limited low-light capabilities due to its narrow variable aperture.

zsystemuser.com

No Date

Summary of the review

Nikon 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 DX Lens Review

The Nikon 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR DX is an exceptionally compact and lightweight telephoto zoom lens (weighing just 14.3 ounces) designed with a collapsing travel mechanism. Optically, the lens delivers surprisingly strong center sharpness across the zoom range, particularly when shot wide open, and reaches its peak performance around 70mm. Its built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) system provides 5 stops of stabilization, while linear distortion and vignetting are corrected highly effectively either in-camera or through raw data profiles. Focus speed is quick and reliable, making the lens a highly recommended, high-value bargain for Nikon Z50 and Z7 users seeking a portable telephoto option. However, the lens does come with notable compromises to achieve its low price point. On the downside, the build is completely plastic—including the lens mount—and it lacks an overhanging drip protector ring or a rubber weather-sealing gasket. It is also a slow lens, dropping to f/6.3 at the telephoto end, and it does not ship with a lens hood. In terms of handling, the zoom ring rotation spans less than 90 degrees and operates roughly, creating loud mechanical noise...

kenrockwell.com

01/02/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z 50-250mm VR Review

The Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR is described by Ken Rockwell as a brilliant, optically flawless telephoto zoom for Z-series DX cameras, offering a 75-375mm equivalent range in a compact, 412g collapsible design. It delivers exceptional sharpness, best-in-class vibration reduction, and fast autofocus with virtually zero distortion, making it an ideal lightweight companion for cameras like the Z50. Ken Rockwell While offering stellar optics, the lens features a slow, variable maximum aperture, limiting low-light performance, along with a plastic build and a lack of weather sealing. Despite these consumer-grade compromises, the lens is highly recommended for its performance-per-dollar ratio, particularly as part of a kit.

ephotozine.com

23/12/2019

Summary of the review

Nikon Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Sample Photos

The Nikon Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR is a lightweight 5x telephoto zoom lens (75-375mm equivalent) offering excellent sharpness, particularly at the wide end, and built-in Vibration Reduction to combat camera shake on APS-C Z-mount bodies. Its compact, collapsible design makes it highly portable, with the review highlighting its impressive performance relative to its budget-friendly, consumer-focused nature. While offering strong value, the lens has drawbacks, including noticeably softer image quality and visible vignetting when shooting at the maximum 250mm focal length. Additionally, the build incorporates a plastic mount and construction, prioritizing weight savings over a premium, robust feel, with vignetting requiring correction in post-processing.

digitalkamera.de

20/12/2019

Summary of the review

Review: Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR as an exceptionally sharp, compact telephoto zoom for DX cameras, boasting excellent resolution that rivals prime lenses at medium focal lengths. The lens shines with minimal optical flaws, effectively correcting distortion and vignetting, while providing a lightweight, retractable design. Conversely, the budget construction features a plastic build and mount, lacks weather sealing, and the aperture (f/4.5-6.3) is slow, limiting low-light performance. Additionally, the zoom ring is slightly stiff, and the lens requires camera menu adjustments due to the absence of physical AF/MF/VR switches.

zielfoto.com

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm F/4.5-6.3 VR - Target Photo

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lens is a highly versatile and lightweight telezoom lens designed for Nikon's APS-C mirrorless cameras, receiving an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from community users. Reviewers frequently praise its impressive sharpness and overall image quality for the price, making it an excellent everyday option for landscape, nature, and casual zoo photography. Its compact form factor and low weight make it an easy choice to pack for walks when users want to avoid hauling heavy professional gear. Additionally, the built-in image stabilization is highly rated, allowing photographers to capture sharp, blur-free shots at slow shutter speeds between 1/50 and 1/100 of a second, even when fully extended to 250mm. Despite its outstanding price-to-performance ratio, users highlighted several notable drawbacks. A primary complaint is the plastic build quality, specifically the inclusion of a plastic lens mount (bajonett) rather than a sturdier metal one. Furthermore, the lens does not include a lens hood, forcing buyers to purchase one separately. From a performance standpoint, the maximum aperture of f/4.5-6.3 means the lens is...

lesnumeriques.com

Octobre 2019

Summary of the review

Nikon Nikkor Z DX 50–250mm f/4.5–6.3 VR: Features and News

The Nikon Nikkor Z DX 50–250mm f/4.5–6.3 VR is widely praised as an exceptional consumer-grade telephoto zoom lens that dramatically outperforms its entry-level price point. Reviewers highlight its excellent image quality, showcasing impressive sharpness, great contrast, and vibrant color rendition across the zoom range. A core strength is its integrated Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which delivers up to 5 stops of optical stabilization. This is crucial for crisp handheld shooting, especially since Nikon’s APS-C (DX) format cameras lack in-body image stabilization. Additionally, its stepping motor autofocus is fast, accurate, and nearly silent, making it equally adept at capturing both stills and video. Its compact, collapsible design ensures it is highly portable, making it a favorite choice for travel, portrait, and amateur wildlife photography. YouTube · Despite its stellar performance, the lens has distinct drawbacks tied to its budget orientation. The most prominent con is its all-plastic build quality, which includes a plastic lens mount and filter threads that give it a cheap feel and lower long-term durability. Its slow variable maximum aperture (f/4.5–6.3) limits low-light performance, requiring users to pump...

nikonpassion.com

11/03/2026

Summary of the review

Nikon Z50II Review: Testing with the NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR zoom lens

The Nikon Z50II is a highly capable APS-C mirrorless camera that offers premium performance in a lightweight, 550-gram body. Powered by the Expeed 7 processor, it inherits high-end flagship features including an exceptionally fast and stable autofocus system, impressive burst shooting speeds up to 30 frames per second, and a vastly upgraded 10-bit video suite featuring N-Log/HLG capabilities and direct USB webcam streaming. It retains excellent image dynamics and low-light performance, producing clean JPEG and RAW files up to ISO 6,400. Furthermore, its larger OLED electronic viewfinder, multi-angle touchscreen, and seamless compatibility with both native Z-mount lenses and legacy F-mount reflex glass (via the FTZ adapter) make it a stellar, cost-effective entry point for amateur and passionate photographers looking to upgrade. However, the camera makes notable compromises to achieve its sub-1,000 euro price point. Its most significant flaw is the total lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS), making users entirely reliant on stabilized lenses. While the body size has slightly increased to provide a deeper, more comfortable grip, battery life remains poor. The new processor drains the EN-EL25a battery quickly,...

phototrend.fr

26/06/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z 50 Review: The First APS-C Mirrorless Camera with Z-Mount (Including the DX 50-250mm Zoom Lens)

The Nikon Z 50 is a compact and lightweight 20.9-megapixel APS-C mirrorless camera designed for everyday photography, travel, and content creators looking to upgrade from a smartphone. Modeled after its full-frame siblings, the Z 6 and Z 7, it features a deeply recessed grip for comfortable handling and inherits a similar, user-friendly control layout with extensive custom menu options. Performance-wise, the camera utilizes an Expeed 6 processor, delivering excellent image and video quality, smooth high-ISO handling up to ISO 51,200, and a surprisingly fast burst rate of 11 frames per second with autofocus tracking. Its video capabilities are equally robust, offering uncropped 4K video recording at 30p and an effective electronic vibration reduction system for stable handheld shooting. However, the review highlights several prominent drawbacks, most notably the lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS), meaning users must rely on stabilized lenses. The native Z-mount DX lens ecosystem is criticized for being too young, offering only two relatively slow kit zooms at launch, which makes using the FTZ F-to-Z mount adapter almost mandatory for more versatile setups. For videographers, the omissions...

lesnumeriques.com

12/12/2019

Summary of the review

Nikon Z50 Review: A High-Performing APS-C Mirrorless Camera (Including Field Test of the Nikkor Z DX 50–250mm)

The Nikon Z50 is a compact APS-C mirrorless camera featuring a 20.9-megapixel sensor designed as an affordable, everyday entry-point into Nikon's Z-mount ecosystem. It excels in user ergonomics by providing a substantial physical grip, dual control dials, highly customizable buttons, and a quality 2.36 million-dot electronic viewfinder. Performance-wise, the camera delivers snappy autofocus speeds with effective face and eye tracking, solid dynamic range, and uncropped 4K UHD video recording at up to 30 fps. Additionally, it features weather sealing against dust and moisture, and exhibits well-controlled rolling shutter effects, particularly when shooting in Full HD at up to 120 fps. However, the Z50 suffers from notable omissions that reflect its entry-level positioning, most critically the total lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Its physical build feels cheap in certain areas, featuring overly rigid buttons, an awkwardly positioned front command dial, and a memory card slot placed underneath the body that is restricted to slower UHS-I speeds. The rear touchscreen tilts downward for selfies, making it entirely unusable when mounted on a tripod or accessory rig. For advanced shooters, the camera...

digitalcamaralens.com

22/03/2020

Summary of the review

NIKKOR Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 DX VR - Digital Camera Lens

The Nikkor Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 DX VR is a lightweight, budget-friendly telephoto zoom lens engineered specifically for Nikon's APS-C (DX) format mirrorless system, making it a common companion for cameras like the Nikon Z50. Weighing a mere 405 grams and measuring 110mm in length, its standout structural feature is a highly practical, retractable barrel design that maximizes portability for travel and entry-level users. Optically, the lens consists of 16 elements in 12 groups, features a 7-blade diaphragm, and integrates a built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) system. It provides a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.5 and can focus as close as 50 to 100 cm depending on the focal length. The primary pros highlighted in the review focus on its exceptional transportability, smooth operational handling, and integrated image stabilization. The lens has well-adjusted external mechanisms, a smooth 70-degree zoom ring rotation, an internal front-group focusing system that prevents the front filter element from rotating, and electric manual focusing controls. On the flip side, the major cons stem from its aggressive cost-saving construction. The chassis, exterior shell, and even the lens bayonet mount...

xatakafoto.com

23/01/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z50 Review: A Great Little Mirrorless Camera with Enviable Ergonomics

The Nikon Z50 is a compact APS-C mirrorless camera featuring a 20.9 MP CMOS sensor, an EXPEED 6 processor, and a hybrid 209-point autofocus system with intelligent eye detection. Designed to emulate the larger Z6 body in a scaled-down format, its standout feature is a prominent, highly ergonomic grip that provides excellent handling and comfort despite its small chassis. The camera delivers impressive high-ISO performance with minimal noise up to 12,800 ISO, strong dynamic range, and fast autofocus execution in family or everyday shooting scenarios. It is well-regarded for its overall user-friendliness, a crisp 2.36 MP OLED electronic viewfinder, and a responsive 1.04-million-dot tilting touchscreen menu system. However, the review highlights several drawbacks, most notably the complete absence of in-body image stabilization (IBIS), requiring users to rely entirely on stabilized lenses to compensate. Battery life is another major pain point, limiting users to a relatively low 300 shots per charge, which depletes quickly when utilizing burst modes or frequent screen playback. Additionally, the camera lacks weather sealing, places the memory card and battery behind the exact same access flap, and...

osservatoriodigitale.it

01/03/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z50 Review: The Dedicated NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm and 50-250mm Lenses

The Nikon Z50 is highlighted as an impressive, cost-effective APS-C mirrorless camera designed for advanced amateurs who want full-frame functionality without the hefty price tag. Weighing under 400 grams, it features a highly portable yet durable magnesium alloy body with an exceptionally comfortable plastic-coated grip. Standout pros include its formidable autofocus system featuring 209 phase-detection points, fast 11 fps burst shooting, uncropped 4K UHD video recording at 30p, and a totally silent electronic shutter mode perfect for quiet environments like theaters. Additionally, its high-quality electronic viewfinder and intuitive smartphone-like touch controls—including zoom options built directly onto the edge of the tilting LCD screen—make it incredibly user-friendly. On the downside, the camera exhibits notable limitations in low-light autofocusing, heavily caused by the slow apertures of the dedicated kit lenses (the 16-50mm and 50-250mm). The initial native DX-format lens lineup is quite sparse, though this is mitigated if you buy the FTZ lens adapter to utilize older F-mount glass. Reviewers also point out minor physical design complaints, such as the absence of a focus-point joystick (relying on a 4-way pad instead) and...

igizmo.it

12/12/2019

Summary of the review

Nikon Z 50 Review: A Week of Shooting in Belgrade

The Nikon Z 50 is a versatile, consumer-focused mirrorless camera equipped with a 20.9 MP DX-format (APS-C) sensor and an expansive Z-mount system. In a week-long test conducted in Belgrade, the camera demonstrated superb low-light capabilities, maintaining exceptional image quality and deep blacks even at high sensitivities up to ISO 3,600, and remaining usable up to ISO 12,800. Its lightweight, compact body features an ergonomic, pronounced grip suitable for all hand sizes. Key strengths include an efficient image stabilization system (VR) that allows for sharp, handheld shooting at shutter speeds as slow as 1/6 second, a latency-free 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, and a highly responsive 209-point hybrid autofocus system supporting face and eye tracking. Additionally, it features an interactive quick-access "i Menu" and strong video capabilities, shooting in both 4K Ultra HD at 30p and Full HD slow-motion up to 120p. Despite its high praise, the reviewer highlighted several functional design limitations. A major downside is the placement of the three touch-sensitive buttons to the right of the rear screen, which are easily triggered accidentally by the user’s nose when...

saggiamente.com

01/02/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z50 Review: The first DX mirrorless deserves fair respect

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside saggiamente.com File has been removed 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

nikonland.it

30/08/2022

Summary of the review

Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR - The bare minimum (for most)

The Nikonland review highlights the Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR as a highly capable, budget-friendly telezoom option that delivers surprisingly excellent optical performance despite its underwhelming physical design. On the positive side (pros), the reviewer praises its remarkable sharpness, high contrast, and clean background bokeh, even when shooting under challenging low-light conditions like midnight jazz concerts. Additionally, it weighs under 400 grams, features built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) to compensate for un-stabilized crop-sensor bodies, and doubles as an impressive tool for close-up photography—achieving stunning textures and detail when paired with external close-up lenses. Conversely, the review openly details several aesthetic and structural flaws (cons), bluntly labeling the lens as "ugly" and looking very cheap. The entire body is constructed from polycarbonate, leaving visible seams on the outer shell, and features a plastic lens mount that looks lower in quality than basic Z-mount lens caps. From a usability standpoint, the author dislikes the collapsible lock system required to retract the barrel. Performance is also restricted by its narrow f/6.3 maximum aperture at the telephoto end, which can cause user frustration, alongside...

photofacts.nl

01/11/2019

Summary of the review

Review: Nikon Z 50 (including test results for the 50-250mm kit lens)

Summary The Nikon Z 50 is a compact and lightweight 20.7-megapixel mirrorless camera featuring an APS-C (DX-format) sensor paired with Nikon’s larger, full-frame compatible Z-mount. Geared toward hobbyists and content creators, it delivers spectacular image quality straight out of the camera, featuring excellent color rendition, 4K video recording across the full sensor width, and a fast 11 frames-per-second continuous shooting speed with full autofocus capabilities. Reviewer Michelle Peeters highlights its deep, secure grip for comfortable one-hand operation, a 180-degree tilting touchscreen optimized for selfies and vlogging, and a sharp 2.36-million-dot electronic zoeker (EVF) that exhibits minimal lag. The camera also earns praise for its competitive pricing compared to rivals like the Sony A6400 and Fujifilm X-T30. However, the Z 50 comes with several notable limitations, most significantly the lack of In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), meaning users must rely entirely on stabilized lenses (Vibration Reduction) to counter camera shake. While low-light performance is generally good up to ISO 51,200, noise is predictably more visible compared to full-frame alternatives. Physical and hardware compromises include a legacy Micro-B USB connector instead of modern...

focus-review.com

20/05/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR DX Review

in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside You sent: 1 tab and said: 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside Review: Nikon Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR DX - Focus Review 2 paragraphs summary of this review in english language, be very specific, mention pros and cons inside

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