Nikon NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6 VR
Score: 74/100
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 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II is a lightweight, retractable telephoto zoom aimed at APS-C users. It offers solid optical performance, VR, and a silent AF motor, though its plastic construction and lack of weather sealing limit rugged use.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 55 mm | 45 mmbest |
200 mmbest | 150 mm | |
| ↓ lower better | 4 fbest | 4 fbest |
| ↓ lower better | 335 g | 318 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | 100 mmbest | 102 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 110 cm | 90 cmbest |
0.23 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 | Nikon F | Micro Four Thirds |
Autofocus Motor Type | Silent Wave Motor | Stepping Motor |
Optical(6) | ||
Focal Length (Min) (mm) | 55 mm | 45 mm |
Focal Length (Max) (mm) | 200 mm | 150 mm |
Maximum Aperture (f-number) (f) | 4 f | 4.0 f |
Minimum Focus Distance (cm) | 110 cm | 90 cm |
Maximum Magnification Ratio (x) | 0.23 x | 0.17 x |
Coating Type | Super Spectra | Multi-coated |
Physical(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 335 g | 318 g |
Length (mm) | 100 mm | 102 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the lens for its portability, solid optical performance and the addition of VR, while noting the plastic mount and lack of a built-in hood as drawbacks.
Everyday users love the lightweight travel companion and effective VR, but complain about the missing hood, cheap plastic feel, and reduced sharpness at 200 mm wide open.
“Perfect travel companion”
“Great for beginners”
“"barely noticeable" - 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.
