A Guide to 9 Best Lenses For Nikon D3500 DSLR in 2025!

The Nikon D3500 is loved by photographers for its great performance that comes in a small package. This digital SLR camera has been rated as a very capable camera by photographers. However, it also has some quirks that may turn off users.

The good thing is that third-party lenses can address the shortcomings of this Nikon DSLR camera. There are a variety of lenses that can extend the capabilities of this Nikon camera, which means that you have some options when choosing the best lenses for Nikon D3500. These lenses are each designed to cater to a particular need of a photographer. Some are made for landscape photography while others are for close-up and macro shots.

We went ahead and picked out our favorite options for the best lenses for Nikon d3500 DSLR across a few different categories. Each lens on this list is one to consider if you are looking for a lens facelift this year.

Here are my top 9 Lenses For Nikon D3500 DSLR in 2025

Best Zoom Lenses for Nikon D3500

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR – The best all-around lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 18-140 mm (27-210 mm equivalent)
Weight: 490 g (17.3 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.8 x 9.7 cm (3.1 x 3.8 in)
Filter Diameter: 67 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.45 m (1.48 ft)

Why buy the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens?

• Versatile and powerful zoom range
• Strong construction and comfortable handling
• Excellent image quality across the entire zoom spectrum
• Effective Vibration Reduction system for steady shots
• A preferred choice among Nikon enthusiasts for its versatility and reliability

Discover a lens that lets your photographic journey soar: the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens. This lens goes beyond the ordinary, providing a broad focal length range that caters to a wide spectrum of photographic situations, from breathtaking landscapes to striking portraits.

The strength of this lens lies in its remarkable versatility. Its zoom range allows you to adapt to changing scenarios on the fly, be it a sweeping panoramic vista or a beautiful close-up shot. With this lens, you’re always ready for whatever photographic opportunity arises.

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens promises to enhance your Nikon D3500’s capabilities, helping you to take your photography to the next level. Its robust construction and high-quality performance truly connect you to your craft, and the vibrant Nikon community offers a sense of shared passion and inspiration.

What you’ll love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

• Wide Zoom Range without Compromise: This lens delivers a fantastic zoom range while maintaining exceptional image quality throughout. It caters to a multitude of photographic situations, from landscape to portrait, without any loss in image quality.
• Highly Adaptable: With its broad focal length, the lens provides flexibility and convenience. Its decent aperture range also allows for reasonably good performance in low-light conditions.
• Excellent Vibration Reduction: The built-in Vibration Reduction system helps achieve sharp and clear images, even in challenging conditions or when shooting handheld.

What you won’t love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens

• It’s a considerable investment: Although worth every penny for the features it offers, the lens costs around $500. It’s a worthy investment for those intending to use its vast capabilities, but for others, it might be a bit steep.
• Not the lightest: Despite its impressive range, this lens is on the heavier side. It can add noticeable weight to your camera bag, which could be an issue for photographers always on the move.

Short Summary

If you are seeking a flexible, high-quality, and adaptable lens, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens is the way to go. It’s not flawless, but its wide zoom range, image stability, and overall sharpness outperform many others.

If budget is a concern, look elsewhere. But if you aim to take your photography to new heights with the Nikon D3500, this lens is an excellent choice.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens – Best Wide-Angle Lens for Travel & Landscape for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 10-24 mm (15-36 mm equivalent)
Weight: 460 g (16.2 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 8.2 x 8.7 cm (3.2 x 3.4 in)
Filter Diameter: 77 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.24 m (0.79 ft)

Why should you consider the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens?

• Extraordinary wide-angle lens performance
• Robust construction – a delight to handle
• Incredible sharpness across its zoom range
• Effective image stabilization for consistently crisp images
• Favoured by professionals – promotes your artistic vision

Unveiling one of the most adaptable, precise, and striking lenses for the Nikon D3500: The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens.

This is not merely a lens – it’s an instrument that opens up a world of creativity, showcasing unmatched wide-angle capabilities, astounding sharpness, and robust image stabilization ensuring crystal clear images under various lighting conditions.

This lens’s universal acclaim is attributed to its capacity to enable your artistic vision. With its amazing wide-angle zoom, you can encapsulate everything from sweeping landscapes to fine architectural features with impeccable clarity.

Imagine photographing an awe-inspiring sunset over a vast landscape, snapping a detailed city skyline, then zooming in for a close-up shot of an elegant architectural detail, all with this single lens, eliminating the need for multiple equipment swaps. No other lens offers such a level of versatility and creative liberty.

Its premium build and superior performance immerse you in your craft, spurring you to new heights of creativity. The Nikon community, filled with like-minded enthusiasts, provides a forum for mutual encouragement and inspiration.

What you’ll love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens

• Wide Field without Distortion: The lens delivers stunning wide-angle shots without any distortion. Images are consistently sharp, vibrant, and well balanced. It’s a lens that effortlessly manages both landscape and indoor photography, delivering exceptional results consistently.
• Superb Versatility: With a wide range of focal lengths for capturing sweeping vistas or focusing on detailed subjects, this lens truly shines. Its excellent low-light performance owing to its maximum aperture range further enhances its versatility.
• Outstanding Image Stabilization: The integrated image stabilization system ensures sharp and vivid images even in challenging lighting or when shooting handheld. This feature enables you to capture pro-grade photos, regardless of your level of photography expertise.

What you might not love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens

• It’s pricey: The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens carries a hefty price tag of approximately $900. However, if you’re planning to fully exploit its vast range of features, it’s definitely worth the investment. But if you’re not planning on using it to its full potential, it may not be the right fit for you.
• It’s bulky: Despite its fantastic quality and versatility, the lens is relatively heavy and large, adding significant weight to your gear bag. This could be a deciding factor for photographers constantly on the go.

In a nutshell

If you’re on the hunt for the most adaptable, high-grade, and inspiring lens your money can buy, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens is the one. It may not be flawless, but it surpasses other lenses in terms of range, stability, sharpness, and well, just about everything else.

If you’re on a budget, continue exploring. But if you’re aiming to get the best out of your photography while having a blast, choose the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens.

Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD – Best Alternative Wide-Angle Lens for Travel & Landscape for Nikon d3500

Focal Length: 10-24 mm (15-36 mm equivalent)
Weight: 440 g (15.5 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 8.4 x 8.5 cm (3.3 x 3.35 in)
Filter Diameter: 77 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.24 m (0.78 ft)

Why buy the Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD?

• Highly adaptable with wide angle capabilities
• Robust construction – a pleasure to handle
• Remarkable sharpness across the zoom range
• Efficient image stabilization for clear, steady shots
• Highly recommended among photography enthusiasts – fosters a unique sense of creativity

Introducing the pinnacle of versatility, precision, and wonder for the Nikon D3500: The Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD.

It’s not just a lens – it’s a gateway to your creative expression, boasting unparalleled wide-angle views, exceptional sharpness, and superior image stabilization that provides clear and steady photos in diverse lighting conditions.

The popularity of this lens stems from its ability to unleash your creativity. Its stunning wide-angle zoom lets you capture everything from broad landscapes to intricate architectural nuances with striking clarity.

Imagine photographing a breath-taking sunset over a vast landscape, shooting an intricate cityscape, then zooming in for a close-up of a captivating architectural detail – all with a single lens, eliminating the need for changing equipment. No other lens offers such versatility and creative potential.

Its superior build and performance immerse you in your photography, helping you elevate your creativity. Witnessing your art materialize right before your eyes propels you to strive for more. The supportive community of Tamron users also provides a sense of camaraderie and mutual inspiration.

What you’ll love about the Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD

• Expansive View without Distortion: This lens lets you capture stunning wide-angle photos without distortion. The images produced are consistently sharp, vibrant, and well-contrasted. It’s a lens that can seamlessly manage both landscape and indoor photography, delivering excellent results every time.
• Remarkably Versatile: This lens offers great variation in terms of focal length, from capturing wide vistas to focusing on detailed subjects. The lens’ versatility doesn’t stop there; it’s also perfect for low-light photography due to its maximum aperture range.
• Superior Image Stabilization: Its built-in image stabilization system ensures sharp and clear photos even in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld. This feature lets you capture professional-grade photos, regardless of your photography skills.

What you won’t love about the Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD

• It’s not cheap: It’s worth every penny, but it’ll cost you quite a few. The Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD is priced at around $500. If you’re planning to make full use of its wide range of features, it’s worth the investment. If you don’t intend to leverage its capabilities, it might not be the best choice for you.
• Bulky: Although the lens provides excellent quality and versatility, it’s relatively heavy and large. It may add significant weight to your camera bag, which can be a factor for photographers on the move.

Short Summary

If you’re on the hunt for the most versatile, high-quality, and creative lens money can buy, the Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD is it. It may not be perfect, but it offers more range, more stability, more sharpness, and more creativity than many lenses.

If you’re looking to save money, keep reading. But if you want to get the best out of your photography while enjoying it, go for the Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR – Best Budget Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 55-300mm (82-450mm equivalent)
Weight: 580 g (20.46 oz)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.67 x 12.32 cm (3.02 x 4.85 in)
Filter Diameter: 58 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 1.4 m (4.6 ft)

Why Choose the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens?

• Extraordinary telephoto capabilities
• Robust build quality – feels sturdy and reliable
• Sharpness is maintained across the entire zoom range
• Equipped with image stabilization for clear, steady shots
• Popular among photographers for its versatility and telephoto reach

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is not just a lens – it’s your gateway to discovering the nuances of the far-off world. It is an indispensable tool for photographers who wish to explore telephoto photography with the Nikon D3500.

Its exceptional zoom capacity gives you the liberty to explore and capture subjects from afar, creating an intimate connection with scenes that are otherwise out of reach. From shooting vivid wildlife pictures to capturing the moon’s craters, this lens has the potential to reveal a world unseen.

Think of capturing a flight of birds or a far-off mountain peak bathed in the glow of sunset without needing to leave your spot. With this lens, you can truly appreciate the beauty that lies in the distance.

Its robust build quality and stellar performance truly immerse you in your photography, making you want to strive for more. The vibrant community of Nikon users adds to this journey, providing a sense of camaraderie and mutual learning.

What You’ll Love About the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

• Impressive Telephoto Reach: This lens empowers you with an impressive telephoto reach, enabling you to capture subjects at a distance with a clear focus and sharp details. Be it for wildlife or sports photography; this lens won’t disappoint.
• Highly Versatile: Despite its telephoto nature, this lens offers a good range of focal lengths, making it suitable for capturing a variety of subjects and scenes, from portraits to landscapes.
• Superb Image Stabilization: The lens comes with built-in image stabilization to ensure sharp and clear photos even at high zoom levels, adding confidence to handheld shooting.

What You Won’t Love About the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR

• Pricey: This lens is an investment. Priced at around $400, it’s a significant outlay, but if you make full use of its features, it’s worth every penny.
• Weighty: Its performance comes at the cost of size and weight. This lens is noticeably heavier and larger than others, potentially making it less convenient for travel or prolonged handheld shooting.

In Conclusion

If you’re in search of a lens that offers an impressive telephoto reach and stellar image quality, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR should be on your list. It’s a considerable investment, but its performance and versatility justify the price.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider alternatives. But if you want to discover the wonders of telephoto photography with your Nikon D3500, you can’t go wrong with this lens.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR – The Ultimate All-in-one Zoom Lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 18-300 mm (27-450 mm equivalent)
Weight: 830 g (29.3 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 8.3 x 12 cm (3.3 x 4.7 in)
Filter Diameter: 77 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.45 m (1.48 ft)

Why choose the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR?

• Immense zoom range for diverse photography needs
• Reliable construction – a sturdy addition to your camera kit
• Outstanding clarity across the entire zoom spectrum
• Image stabilization for sharp and crisp photos
• Highly recommended by photography enthusiasts – fuels your creativity

Meet your one-stop lens solution for the Nikon D3500: The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR. This lens is a true photographic powerhouse, offering a remarkable zoom range, crystal clear sharpness, and robust image stabilization to deliver clear and steady photos under any light conditions.

The beauty of this lens is its inherent versatility. It presents an extensive zoom range, allowing you to capture everything from wide-angle shots to super-telephoto images with an astonishing level of detail.

Imagine photographing an entire landscape at dawn, shifting to a bustling city scene during the day, then zooming in to capture a distant wildlife subject at dusk, all without changing your lens. This level of versatility is unprecedented and truly enables creative freedom.

Built to facilitate your artistic vision, this lens will motivate you to push your creativity beyond previous boundaries. The Nikon user community fosters a sense of unity and shared inspiration, enhancing your photography journey.

What you’ll adore about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

• Extensive Zoom Range: Capture everything from grand vistas to distant subjects. Its impressive zoom range, sharpness, and contrast make it an excellent all-rounder for travel photography and everyday shooting.
• Highly Adaptable: From close-ups to wide shots, this lens can handle it all. Additionally, its maximum aperture range makes it suitable for low-light photography.
• Effective Image Stabilization: Its in-built image stabilization mechanism ensures sharp photos, even in low-light scenarios or when shooting handheld, enabling you to produce professional-level photos regardless of your skill level.

What you might not appreciate about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

• Pricey: Priced around $1000, it’s quite an investment. But if you plan to use its full range of features, it’s definitely worth the investment. If not, there might be more affordable alternatives.
• Sizeable: Given its exceptional capabilities, it’s slightly larger and heavier than other lenses. This might increase your camera bag’s weight, which could be a consideration for photographers who are frequently on the move.

Short Summary

If you’re seeking an all-encompassing, high-quality lens that can accommodate all your photography needs, look no further than the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR. It isn’t perfect, but its wide range, clarity, and image stability outshine other lenses.

If you’re looking to save some money, continue exploring. But if you’re keen to elevate your photography skills and enjoy the process, this lens is definitely the one to get.

Best Prime Lenses for Nikon D3500

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G – The Perfect Prime for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent on DX format)
Weight: 280g (9.9 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.3 x 5.4 cm (2.9 x 2.1 in)
Filter Diameter: 58mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.45m (1.48 ft)

Why buy the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G?

• Stellar performance in low-light conditions
• Exquisite build with a professional feel
• Unbeatable sharpness and bokeh
• Compact and lightweight – perfect for on-the-go shooting
• A favorite among portrait photographers

Introducing the must-have prime lens for Nikon D3500 users: The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G. This is more than just a lens; it’s an invitation to discover the world through the eyes of an artist.

Its large f/1.4 aperture offers remarkable performance in low light, making it ideal for indoor photography, nighttime landscapes, and portraits with gorgeous background blur. The sharpness is extraordinary, and the bokeh rendered by this lens is creamy and dreamy.

This lens is perfect for photographers who want to focus on the subject and create dramatic effects with shallow depth of field. It’s an essential tool for portrait photographers looking to bring emotions to life.

What you’ll love about the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G

• Superb Low Light Performance: With an aperture of f/1.4, this lens excels in low light. You can shoot indoors or in dim lighting without a flash and still get amazingly clear and detailed photos.
• Delightful Bokeh: The large aperture also means you can achieve a very shallow depth of field, perfect for portraits where you want your subject to stand out against a beautifully blurred background.
• Compact and Lightweight: Unlike many high-performance lenses, this one is pleasantly compact and lightweight. It’s perfect for travel, and you’ll hardly notice it in your camera bag.

What you won’t love about the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G

• It’s a Prime Lens: This means that it doesn’t zoom. If you’re used to zoom lenses, you may find it limiting. However, its performance and quality are so impressive that it’s definitely worth adapting your shooting style.
• Somewhat Pricey for a Prime Lens: Though less expensive than many zoom lenses, it is still a bit costly for a prime lens. However, the image quality and performance justify the investment.

Short Summary

If you’re on the lookout for an unbeatable prime lens that excels in portraiture and low-light photography, look no further than the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm F1.4G. It’s compact, offers spectacular image quality, and the bokeh is to die for.

If budget is a constraint, there might be more affordable options. But if you want a lens that ensures your subjects pop and your photos tell a story, this is the lens you need in your kit.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G – Best Budget Lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 35 mm (52.5 mm equivalent)
Weight: 200 g (7.1 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.0 x 5.25 cm (2.76 x 2.07 in)
Filter Diameter: 52 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.3 m (0.98 ft)

Why buy the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G?

• Superior performance with prime lens benefits
• Lightweight yet durable construction
• Outstanding sharpness and clarity
• Large aperture for excellent low-light performance
• A favorite among photographers for its versatile focal length

Enter the realm of unrivaled clarity and simplicity with the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G.

This lens is more than just a tool – it’s the key to unlocking your photographic potential, with its incredible sharpness, large aperture for excellent low-light performance, and focal length that is perfect for a wide range of photography styles.

The appeal of this lens lies in its simplicity and precision. With its prime lens benefits, you can capture everything from detailed portraits to scenic landscapes with outstanding clarity.

Imagine snapping a candid portrait at a party, capturing a beautiful sunset, or shooting a busy city street – all with a single lens, without the need to swap equipment. No other lens offers such precision and ease of use.

The compact and lightweight design of this lens makes it an ideal travel companion. And the supportive community of Nikon users offers a sense of shared passion and continuous inspiration.

What you’ll love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G

• Prime Perfection: This lens delivers sharp, vibrant photos with minimal distortion. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor photography, delivering consistently impressive results.
• Prime Versatility: The 35mm focal length is extremely versatile, suitable for portraits, street photography, and landscapes. The large f/1.8 aperture also makes it ideal for low-light photography.
• Compact and Lightweight: Its compact size and light weight make it an excellent choice for photographers on the move. It’s a top-quality lens that doesn’t add extra bulk to your camera bag.

What you won’t love about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G

• No Zoom: As a prime lens, it lacks the zoom capability. If you require a versatile zoom range, this might not be the right lens for you.
• Manual Focus Ring: The manual focus ring can feel a bit loose, which might take some getting used to if you prefer manual focusing.

Short Summary

If you’re searching for a high-quality, simple, and precise lens, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is the one. It might lack the zoom flexibility of some other lenses, but it makes up for it with its exceptional sharpness, clarity, and versatility.

If you’re trying to stick to a budget, there are cheaper options available. But if you’re seeking to truly unlock your photographic potential and enjoy your craft, don’t hesitate to get the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G.

Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR -Best Macro & Close-Up Lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 85 mm (127.5 mm equivalent)
Weight: 355 g (12.52 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.3 x 9.9 cm (2.87 x 3.9 in)
Filter Diameter: 52 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.286 m (0.94 ft)

Why buy the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR?

• Razor-sharp and vivid imagery
• Compact and lightweight design
• Superior performance in low-light conditions
• Includes VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization
• A favourite for portrait and close-up photography

Meet the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR, a lens that offers precision, clarity, and artistic flexibility for Nikon D3500 users.

This lens isn’t just an optical tool, it’s a passport to a world of creativity. It boasts sharpness that captures every detail, coupled with VR image stabilization for perfectly clear and steady shots under varying light conditions.

The true beauty of this lens lies in its ability to produce beautiful bokeh and draw the viewer’s attention to the subject. It is exceptional for portrait photography and also thrives in the realm of close-up shots, letting you capture the minute details of your subject with precision and depth.

Imagine photographing a charismatic portrait, capturing every line, every contour, every feature in clear detail, then using the same lens to take a close-up shot of a dew-covered rose or a captivating piece of jewelry.

All this, with just one lens, no need to switch gear, making this lens an amazing addition to your toolkit.

Moreover, the Nikon community stands by this lens for its ability to bring out the artistic best, encouraging a constant drive for creativity and mastery.

What you’ll love about the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR

• Crisp Detail and Beautiful Bokeh: This lens delivers stunningly sharp images with beautiful background blur or bokeh. Its fast F3.5 aperture makes it an excellent performer in low-light situations.
• Compact and Convenient: The lens is lightweight and portable, making it convenient for both in-studio and outdoor photography.
• Image Stabilization: It comes with VR image stabilization, ensuring clear and sharp images even when shooting handheld or in challenging lighting conditions.

What you won’t love about the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR

• Pricey: This prime lens will cost you around $560. It’s a fantastic lens for those who will make the most of its capabilities, but for casual shooters, it might be a steep investment.
• Fixed Focal Length: While a prime lens excels at providing top-notch image quality, it lacks the versatility of a zoom lens.

Short Summary

If you’re searching for a lens that can deliver exceptional portraits, incredible close-ups, and has a knack for capturing beautiful details, then the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm F3.5G ED VR is your best bet. It’s not without its limitations, but for the image quality it offers, it’s hard to beat.

If you’re looking to save a bit of money, you may want to look elsewhere. But, if you’re ready to level up your photography and truly bring your subjects to life, there’s no better choice than this remarkable lens.

Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD -Best Alternative Macro Lens for Nikon D3500

Focal Length: 90mm
Weight: 610 g (21.5 oz.)
Size (Diameter x Length): 7.9 x 11.7 cm (3.1 x 4.6 in)
Filter Diameter: 62 mm
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.3 m (0.98 ft)

Why buy the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD?

• Outstanding macro capabilities
• Premium build quality – comfortable and solid in your hand
• Superb sharpness and clarity
• Effective image stabilization for sharper photos
• An ideal choice for photographers – breathes new life into your shots

Unveiling the ultimate precision tool for your Nikon D3500: The Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD. This lens is not just an accessory, it’s a catalyst for your creativity, offering impeccable macro capabilities, extraordinary sharpness, and efficient image stabilization that delivers crisp and clear photos in varying light situations.

The popularity of this lens is rooted in its ability to bring your vision to life. With its impressive macro capabilities, you can dive into the world of close-up photography, capturing details invisible to the naked eye with stunning clarity.

Imagine capturing the intricate details of a blooming flower, or documenting the minute features of an insect. All this can be done with a single lens, eliminating the need for continuous equipment swaps. No other lens offers such capability and creative freedom.

Its superior performance and build quality transport you deeper into your photography, encouraging you to elevate your creativity. The strong community of Tamron users provides a sense of community and shared inspiration.

What you’ll love about the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD

• True Macro Capabilities: This lens provides you with real 1:1 magnification, enabling you to capture the finest details of your subject. The resulting images are consistently sharp, with vibrant colors and contrast.
• Unbeatable Versatility: From macro to portrait photography, this lens performs brilliantly, providing a range of creative possibilities. The lens’ large aperture is also perfect for low-light scenarios and achieving beautiful bokeh.
• Effective Image Stabilization: Its built-in image stabilization system guarantees sharp and clear images even when shooting handheld or in low-light environments.

What you won’t love about the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD

• It’s a substantial investment: While the lens delivers excellent value for its price tag of about $650, it’s still quite an investment. It’s absolutely worth it if you plan to make full use of its capabilities, but if you are not much into macro or portrait photography, it might not be the right investment for you.
• Weight: Although this lens provides stellar image quality and flexibility, it is relatively heavy. This added weight can be a consideration for photographers constantly on the move.

Short Summary

If you’re on the hunt for an exceptional, versatile, and high-performing lens, the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD fits the bill. It might not be perfect, but it offers outstanding macro capabilities, unrivaled sharpness, and efficient image stabilization.

If budget is a concern, keep browsing. But if you’re ready to take your photography to the next level and explore the mesmerizing world of macro photography, the Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO 1:1 VC USD is your best bet.

Different Lens Types Explained

With so many different lens types available, it can be difficult to keep track of the differences between them. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of lenses available for your Nikon D3500.

Nikon DX lens vs. Nikon FX Lens

When you see the terms DX or FX on a lens, this refers to the sensor size of your camera. FX cameras feature an image sensor that’s approximately 36mm x 24mm, which is known as a full-frame format. DX cameras have an image sensor that’s 24mm x 16mm.

These lenses can be used interchangeably. But, they are each optimized for their own formats. An FX lens on a DX camera will magnify your image by about 1.5X. A DX lens on an FX camera will automatically crop your images to match the sensor size of your camera.

Because the D3500 is a DX camera, it can accept both DX and FX lenses (FX stands for full frame) so you don’t have to worry about a lens not fitting.

Nikon has a great resource to help you learn more about these different lenses.

Prime lens vs. Zoom Lens

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means that the focal length of the lens is also the perspective. You’ll need to move in or out to decrease or increase the perspective of your shot. With zoom lenses, the perspective can be adjusted according to the range of zoom.

Wide Angle Lenses

Wide-angle lenses provide a much greater depth of field than other types of lenses. With wide-angle lenses, the lower the focal length number, the more you’ll be able to fit into the frame. These lenses are usually very versatile, lightweight, and affordable.

This lens type tends to distort portions of an image (especially faces), and that will need to be fixed in post-processing.

Standard Lenses

Standard lenses exist in the space between wide-angle and telephoto lenses. These lenses feature a depth of field that’s roughly the same as the human eye, so photos captured with a standard lens tend to feel and look “normal”.

These lenses are ideal for many types of photography, including portraits, street photography, and landscapes.

Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses are designed for photographing subjects at far distances, which makes them ideal for sports, wildlife, or astronomy photography. Telephoto lenses can be fixed or zoomed. These lenses provide a narrow depth of field which allows you to photograph your subject in stark relief of the background.

Telephoto lenses are usually the territory of advanced photographers because they’re prohibitively expensive, so most beginner and novice photographers steer clear of them.

Macro Lenses

The opposite of a telephoto lens, macro lenses are designed for extreme close-ups. These lenses allow you to produce a true 1:1 image of incredibly small subjects or fine details. These lenses are ideal for nature and product photography, or any time you need to capture incredibly fine details.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nikon D3500 Lenses

Best zoom lenses for Nikon d3500

• Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Zoom Lens
• Nikon 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Zoom Lens
• Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Wide Angle Zoom Lens
• Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 Wide Angle Lens
• Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED Zoom Lens
• Nikon AF-S DX Micro 85mm f/3.5G ED Fixed Zoom Lens

Best portrait lenses for Nikon d3500

• Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens
• Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens
• Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens with Auto Focus
• Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm

Best cheap lenses for Nikon d3500

• Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens
• Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G Lens

Best macro lens for Nikon d3500

Our preferred macro lens for Nikon is the Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/3.5G ED Vibration Reduction Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus. It’s a prime lens designed for close-up photography. it’s great for macro and close-up as it offers life-size 1:1 maximum magnification and an 11.3″ minimum focusing distance. It also comes with Silent Wave Motor. It has a great image stabilization technology that helps in minimizing the appearance of camera shake by three stops.

Which lens is best for Nikon d3500?

We have looked at a lot of lenses and considered all their greatness, but there can only be one winner. The clear winner is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35 mm f/1.8G Lens with Autofocus for Nikon DSLR Cameras.

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35 mm is a standard lens that works with DX and FX models. It is compact and lightweight for traveling photographers. Compared with other lenses, the 35 mm focal length allows you to get more of the subject in your picture than one with a higher focal length.

Not to mention that the functions of this lens are fantastic for an incredibly low price. This one packs a punch without requiring you to be a genius of photography.

If you want more options outside the Nikon brand, the Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM ELD SLD Aspherical Super Wide Angle Lens is a great pick, especially for those who like to do landscape, architectural, and interior photography. The Tamron 10-24mm F/3.5-4.5 Di-II VC HLD Wide Angle Zoom Lens also makes some good points especially if you are looking for a lens with an improved and very capable optical design. By using any of these lenses, you’ll have one of the best lenses for Nikon D3500 on hand whenever you need it.