3 replies to this topic

[Obxwildflower]

Hi,

I'm about to buy the D500 and the newer AF-P DX 70-300mm lens. I currently have the D5100 with the 18-55 lens that came with it (plus the older AF-S 70-300 which is not performing well, in my opinion). They are offering a bundle deal with the 16-80 mm lens and the camera, and from what I read, that seems like a good lens, though still a hefty added price. I was wondering if anyone had any experience and/or recommendations as to whether it's worth the extra cost ($500) to have the 16-80 over the 18-55. I primarily take photos of the grandkids or wildlife, espcially birds (yes, a monster zoom may be in my future), occasional landscapes and such. Sadly, money is always an issue, I've saved a long time for a new camera. I'm not a pro, but definitely and enthusiast. Thanks in advance for any help  

[TBonz]

I have heard good things about the lens, but have not had the opportunity to try out the 16-80.  I expect it should perform as well as your 18-55 and give you a broader range.  If I didn't already have my 24-70 f2.8, I expect I would have picked up the 16-80.

[Jerry_]

The 16-80 is a fine lens and getting it together with a camerabody typically makes a good deal - so this would be the moment to get it.

The lens will be superior to the 18-55 kit lens (not only in zoomrange, but also in image quality) and thereby be a nice lens for taking pictures of your grandkids, as well as a general allrounder. (My most used lens is the FX equivalent (24-120/4)

You hardly can’t do something wrong by getting this lens a this moment, provided it does not interfer with other acquisition projects that you have.

[bluzman]

The added cost of $500 sounds like a good deal. As a stand alone item, it's available for over $1,050. An alternative that merits consideration if you were to buy just the D500 body is Sigma's 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary. I find it to be an excellent general purpose, "walking around" lens for my D7500. It's available for just over $400.