Nikon AF-S 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 VR
Score: 72/100
Panasonic LUMIX 45-150mm
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Panasonic 45-150 mm f/4-5.6 is a ultra-compact telephoto zoom that delivers solid central sharpness, effective optical stabilization, and quiet autofocus, making it ideal for travel and video. Its plastic build, lack of weather sealing, and soft corners at full zoom keep it in the budget-friendly tier.
The Nikon AF-S DX 55-300 mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a budget-friendly telephoto zoom that delivers solid image quality and useful vibration reduction for DX-format shooters. Its plastic construction and slower AF make it less suitable for demanding professional use.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 55 mm | 45 mmbest |
300 mmbest | 150 mm | |
| ↓ lower better | 4.5 f | 4 fbest |
| ↓ lower better | 580 g | 318 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 123 mm | 102 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 140 cm | 90 cmbest |
0.28 xbest | 0.17 x | |
12 monthsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Mount & Compatibility(2) | ||
Mount Type | F-mount | Micro Four Thirds |
Autofocus Motor Type | SWM | Stepping Motor |
Optical(6) | ||
Focal Length (Min) (mm) | 55 mm | 45 mm |
Focal Length (Max) (mm) | 300 mm | 150 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f-number) (f) | 4.5 f | 4.0 f |
Minimum Focus Distance (cm) | 140 cm | 90 cm |
Maximum Magnification Ratio (x) | 0.28 x | 0.17 x |
Coating Type | Super Integrated Coating | Multi-coated |
Physical(3) | ||
Weight (g) | 580 g | 318 g |
Length (mm) | 123 mm | 102 mm |
Filter Thread Diameter (mm) | 58 mm | 52 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the lens for delivering sharp, high-contrast images across most of its range and for its effective VR II system, while noting the slower AF motor and lack of full-time manual focus.
Everyday users appreciate the lightweight build, long reach, and VR performance, but complain about sluggish low-light autofocus and the extending barrel that invites dust.
“"barely noticeable" - Adorama user review (4/5)”
“"worth every penny" - Adorama user review (4/5)”
“"sharp handheld shots even at 150 mm with slow shutter speeds" - Adorama user review (4/5)”
Professional reviewers praise the lens for its ultra-compact footprint, effective MEGA O.I.S., and solid central sharpness, while noting softened corners at the telephoto extreme and a basic build compared to higher-end alternatives.
Everyday users love the lens's portability, stabilization, and price-to-performance ratio, but complain about a stiff zoom ring, corner softness at full zoom, and the all-plastic construction.
