Nikon 55-300mm Zoom Lens
Score: 78/100
Sigma 105mm F2.8
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Nikon 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR provides a broad 5.5× zoom and solid VR II for DX-format cameras. Zoom creep and slower AF can hinder fast-action shooting, and edge softness remains at the long end. Best suited for entry-level DX users seeking affordable telephoto versatility.
The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro is a full-frame medium-telephoto macro lens offering true 1:1 reproduction and optical stabilization. Its plasticky construction and diffraction at small apertures limit its premium appeal. Ideal for macro shooters seeking value and handheld capability.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 105 mmbest | |
— | 2.8best | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.4 m | 0.312 mbest |
| ↓ lower better | 580 gbest | 725 g |
5.5best | 1 | |
9best | 9best | |
0.3 | 1best | |
17best | 16 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Lens Mount | Nikon F-Bayonet | Nikon F |
Mount Compatibility | DX | Nikon DSLR |
Features(1) | ||
Autofocus Type | AF-S | HSM |
Optics(7) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 55-300 mm | 105 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f‑stop) | 4.5-5.6 | 2.8 |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 1.4 m | 0.312 m |
Zoom Ratio | 5.5 | 1 |
Macro Ratio | 0.28 | 1 |
Number of Optical Elements | 17 | 16 |
Coating | Super Integrated Coating | SLD |
Build & Design(6) | ||
Weather Sealing | false | true |
Filter Thread Size (mm) | 58 mm | 62 mm |
Weight (g) | 580 g | 725 g |
Length (mm) | 123 mm | 127 mm |
Maximum Diameter (mm) | 77 mm | 78.3 mm |
Construction Material | Polycarbonate | Metal mount, plastic |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Nikon 55-300mm for its generous reach, quiet Silent Wave Motor, and effective VR II stabilization, noting that the ED and HRI elements keep chromatic aberration low. However, they criticize the soft corner performance at 300mm, slower autofocus compared to higher-end telephotos, and diffraction limits when stopping down beyond f/16.
Everyday users love the lens for its lightweight, travel-friendly design, solid VR performance, and ability to get close-up shots of insects, but they repeatedly mention zoom creep, slower AF for action, and noticeable softness in the telephoto corners as recurring pain points.
Professional reviewers commend the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 macro for its excellent sharpness from wide open to f/11, effective optical stabilization, and true 1:1 reproduction, positioning it as a strong value proposition. However, they note its plasticky construction, diffraction-limited performance past f/8, and occasional low contrast or chromatic aberration when stopped down, which keep it a step behind premium Nikon and Canon counterparts in build quality and extreme stopped-down performance.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the lens's sharpness, reliable stabilization for handheld macro, quiet autofocus, and attractive bokeh, seeing it as a cost-effective macro solution. Common frustrations revolve around the plasticky feel, occasional focus hunting, and softness when stopping down beyond f/8, though most find these issues acceptable for the price.
“Users praise sharp distant shots for sports/wildlife, effective VR for handheld telephoto, compact size/weight for travel, and close focus for insects (e.g., 3-inch field at 300mm).”
“Common complaints include zoom creep/wiggle, slow AF for action, soft 300mm corners, filter rotation, and VR less effective on tripod without sensing.”
