Nikon 55-300mm Zoom Lens
Score: 78/100
Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3
Score: 71/100Rankings
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 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary delivers a lightweight super-telephoto zoom with strong stabilization and sharp optics for wildlife and sports. Its variable f/6.3 aperture at the long end and front-heavy balance can hinder low-light handheld work. Suited for enthusiasts needing long reach without a tripod.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 1.4 mbest | 2.8 m |
| ↓ lower better | 580 gbest | 1,930 g |
5.5best | 4 | |
9best | 9best | |
0.3best | 0.2 | |
17 | 20best | |
11 | 14best | |
58 mm | 95 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Compatibility(2) | ||
Lens Mount | Nikon F-Bayonet | Nikon |
Mount Compatibility | DX | Full Frame (FX), compatible with DX |
Features(2) | ||
Autofocus Type | AF-S | HSM |
Focus Type | Auto | Autofocus |
Optics(8) | ||
Focal Length (mm) | 55-300 mm | 150-600 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f‑stop) | 4.5-5.6 | 5-6.3 |
Minimum Focus Distance (m) | 1.4 m | 2.8 m |
Zoom Ratio | 5.5 | 4.0 |
Macro Ratio | 0.28 | 0.204 |
Number of Optical Elements | 17 | 20 |
Number of Optical Groups | 11 | 14 |
Coating | Super Integrated Coating | Water/Oil Repellent |
Build & Design(6) | ||
Weather Sealing | false | true |
Filter Thread Size (mm) | 58 mm | 95 mm |
Weight (g) | 580 g | 1930 g |
Length (mm) | 123 mm | 260 mm |
Maximum Diameter (mm) | 77 mm | 105 mm |
Construction Material | Polycarbonate | TSC |
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.
“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.”
Professional reviewers praise the Sigma Contemporary for its lightweight construction, strong optical stabilization, and sharpness that rivals more expensive lenses, making it a compelling handheld option for wildlife and sports. However, they note the variable f/6.3 aperture at the long end and occasional edge softness, and consider the plastic-heavy build less rugged than the Sports counterpart.
Everyday users consistently commend the lens's manageable weight, sharp images, fast AF, and effective stabilization, often saying it lets them shoot handheld without a tripod. Common complaints revolve around the slower f/6.3 aperture at 600 mm, some softness at the tele extreme, front-heavy balance when zoomed, and the overall bulk when accessories are added.
