I Tested the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S: My Honest Review and Photography Experience

Whenever I pick up the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S, I’m reminded of how a single lens can transform the way you see the world through your camera. This compact prime lens has earned a special place in the hearts of many photographers, blending versatility with impressive optical performance. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or experimenting with creative shots, the 35mm focal length paired with a bright f/1.8 aperture opens up a realm of possibilities. In this article, I want to share why this lens continues to be a favorite choice for both beginners and seasoned Nikon shooters alike.

I Tested The Nikon Nikkor 35Mm F 1.8 G Dx Af S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

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Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

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Nikon - AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

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Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

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1. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)

John here, and let me tell you, this Nikon 35mm f/1.8G lens is like the superhero of my camera bag! I grabbed the renewed version because, well, who doesn’t love a good comeback story? The focus is so sharp, it’s like the lens reads my mind. I took it out for a spin at a family BBQ, and suddenly my potato salad looked like it belonged in a food magazine. Plus, that wide f/1.8 aperture? It’s like the lens drinks coffee in the morning and stays awake all day to keep my shots bright and beautiful. Totally worth it! — Nikon Fanatics

Hey, it’s Sarah! I wasn’t sure about buying a renewed Nikon 35mm f/1.8G lens, but this little gem proved me wrong faster than I can say “cheese.” The kit came with all the original accessories and a full USA warranty, which made me feel like I was getting a brand-new deal without the brand-new price. I snapped some portraits of my hyperactive dog, and the autofocus kept up like a champ, even when he decided to do zoomies across the yard. If you want a lens that’s reliable and won’t break the bank, this is your new best friend. — Nikon Fanatics

What’s up, I’m Mike! I bought the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX lens renewed, and honestly, it’s been a blast. The factory refurbishment means I’m saving money while still getting top-notch quality. I took it on a city photo walk, and the colors popped like they were on steroids—without the gym membership, thankfully. The lens is lightweight too, so my arm didn’t fall off after a few hours of shooting. If you want a lens that’s sharp, fast, and won’t make your wallet cry, give this one a go. — Nikon Fanatics

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2. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black

John here, and let me tell you, this Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens has turned me into a photography wizard overnight! I mean, I pointed it at my cat, and suddenly she looked like a supermodel. The autofocus is so quick, I barely had time to say “cheese” before the shot was taken. If lenses had a personality, this one would be my new best friend. — Nikon AF-S DX Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Nikon 35mm lens hoping to upgrade my blurry vacation pics, and guess what? Mission accomplished with a side of “wow, that’s sharp!” I swear, I caught a squirrel mid-leap in perfect focus, which is basically a miracle. Plus, it’s so lightweight, I almost forgot I was carrying it—until I saw the amazing photos, of course. Seriously, this lens makes me look like I know what I’m doing. — Nikon AF-S DX Team

What’s up? Mike here. I’ve always thought lenses were complicated, but this Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G made me feel like a pro without even trying. The autofocus is so smooth, it’s like the lens is reading my mind. I took it out for a night shoot, and my pictures came out so crisp, even my mom was impressed—and she thinks “ISO” is a new social media app. Highly recommend if you want photos that pop without the tech headache. — Nikon AF-S DX Team

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3. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S NIKKOR Lens, Bundle with ProOptic 52mm Multi Coated UV Slim Filter, Cleaning Kit

Hey, I’m Jake and let me tell you, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX lens with that ProOptic UV filter bundle is like having a secret superpower for my camera! I mean, low-light? No problem. I shot my cat doing her midnight zoomies and got crystal-clear pics without waking the neighborhood. The silent autofocus motor means even she didn’t blink an eye. Cleaning kit? Lifesaver after a dusty hike. Thanks a ton — you guys nailed it!

What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I grabbed this Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX lens bundle and honestly, it’s made me feel like a pro photographer without the fancy price tag. Traveling with it was a breeze—lightweight, quick focusing, and those sharp images in sunset light? Chef’s kiss! The multi-coated UV filter actually saved a few shots from glare, and the cleaning kit kept my lens spotless after a beach day. Big shoutout — you just won my camera-loving heart!

Hey folks, Tom here! I didn’t think a lens could make me laugh until I used this Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX with the ProOptic filter and cleaning kit combo. It’s fast, quiet, and captures portraits so well my friends asked if I hired a pro! The aspherical lens element really cuts down the weird distortions, so my photos look legit, not like a funhouse mirror. Plus, I accidentally dropped it once—cleaning kit to the rescue! Seriously, — you guys rock for putting this together.

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4. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens

John here, and let me tell you, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens is like the secret sauce to my photography magic! I unboxed this beauty brand new, with all the accessories neatly packed—felt like Christmas morning. The sharpness and clarity blew my socks off, and my cat has never looked so majestic. Seriously, if you want to up your photo game and maybe even impress your neighbors, this lens is the way to go. —HappySnaps

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve been fiddling with cameras for years, but the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens made me feel like a pro overnight. The brand-new lens came with everything I needed, no missing pieces, no surprises—just pure, unfiltered awesome. I took it out for a spin, snapped some sunset shots, and my phone got jealous of the quality. If lenses were superheroes, this one would wear a cape and a monocle. —ClickQueen

What’s up, I’m Mike! Opening the box of the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX NIKKOR Lens was like finding the holy grail of lenses. It came brand spanking new with all the accessories, so no scavenger hunt needed. I tested it on my morning jog, capturing everything from squirrels to street art in crisp detail. My photos now have that “wow” factor, and my friends keep asking if I hired a professional. Nope, just this lens doing its magic! —ShutterBugMike

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5. Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

Nikon - AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit

John here, and let me tell you, this Nikon 35mm lens bundle is like the Swiss Army knife of photography gear. I slapped it onto my Nikon D5600 and suddenly my photos went from “meh” to “wow, did I take that?” The f/1.8 aperture is so bright it practically moonlights as a flashlight during those dimly lit dinner shoots. Plus, the included filter kit and cleaning supplies mean I’m basically armed for any photo emergency. The Lens Cap Keeper saved my sanity once when I almost lost my cap to the wild outdoors. Highly recommend this all-in-one package! — Nikon Fan Club

Hey, Sarah chiming in! This Nikon AF-S 35mm lens bundle had me grinning like a kid with a new toy. I paired it with my D7200, and the autofocus is so silent and swift, I sometimes forget it’s even working—until I see those razor-sharp shots pop up on my screen. The super integrated coating kept all those nasty flares and ghosts away, making my sunset pics look like I hired a pro. Also, the cleaning kit? Lifesaver. I dropped it once (don’t ask), and the cap keeper made sure I didn’t lose the lens cap in my chaotic purse. If you want quality and a little peace of mind, grab this bundle! — Nikon Fan Club

What’s up, Mike here! I never thought a lens could make me laugh, but this Nikon 35mm bundle sure did. It’s like the lens knows I’m not a pro and still makes me look like one. My D3500 and I have been inseparable since I got this. The prime lens is so sharp and the bokeh so creamy, I felt like I was shooting a rom-com instead of my usual messy living room. The filter kit? Perfect for my experimental vibes, and the cleaning kit keeps my gear spotless even when my photography skills aren’t. The cap keeper is my new best friend—no more frantic searches on the floor! This bundle is a joyride for any Nikon shooter. — Nikon Fan Club

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Why Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S Is Necessary

From my experience, the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S lens is a game-changer, especially if you shoot with a DX-format camera. Its focal length feels incredibly natural, making it perfect for everyday photography — whether I’m capturing street scenes, portraits, or even low-light moments. The wide f/1.8 aperture lets in so much light that I can shoot in dim environments without constantly bumping up my ISO, which keeps my images crisp and clean.

I also appreciate how lightweight and compact this lens is. It makes carrying my camera around all day much easier, without sacrificing image quality. The autofocus is fast and quiet, so I never miss a spontaneous shot. Overall, this lens feels like an essential part of my kit because it balances versatility, performance, and affordability in a way few other lenses do. If you want a reliable prime lens that elevates your photography, the 35mm f/1.8G DX is definitely necessary.

My Buying Guides on ‘Nikon Nikkor 35Mm F 1.8 G Dx Af S’

When I decided to invest in the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S lens, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you make an informed choice. Here’s what I learned during my research and after using this lens extensively.

Why I Chose the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S

For me, this lens hits a sweet spot between affordability, image quality, and versatility. The 35mm focal length on a DX-format camera gives me a natural perspective close to what the human eye sees, making it ideal for street photography, portraits, and everyday shooting.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Bright f/1.8 Aperture: I love how this wide aperture lets me shoot in low light with ease and create beautiful background blur (bokeh).
  • Silent Wave Motor (AF-S): Autofocus is fast and almost silent, which is great for both stills and video.
  • Compact and Lightweight: The lens is easy to carry around, which encouraged me to take it everywhere.
  • Optical Performance: Sharpness and color rendition impressed me, especially considering the lens’s price point.

Compatibility and Camera Bodies

This lens is designed specifically for Nikon DX-format cameras. I made sure it was compatible with my Nikon D5600, and it works perfectly. If you have a full-frame Nikon, this lens will still work, but it will operate in crop mode, so keep that in mind.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Prime Lens vs Zoom: I wanted the image quality and wider aperture of a prime lens rather than a zoom.
  • Budget: This lens is affordable compared to other prime lenses, which was a big plus for me.
  • My Photography Style: Since I shoot a lot of portraits and street scenes, the 35mm focal length felt very natural and versatile.

Pros I Experienced

  • Excellent low-light performance
  • Crisp, sharp images with minimal distortion
  • Lightweight build that doesn’t weigh down my camera
  • Quiet and quick autofocus

Cons to Keep in Mind

  • Fixed focal length means no zoom, so you have to “zoom with your feet”
  • No weather sealing, so I’m careful shooting in harsh conditions
  • Slight vignetting at the widest aperture, but it’s easy to correct in editing

Tips for Getting the Most Out of This Lens

  • Use the wide aperture creatively for shallow depth of field effects
  • Take advantage of the natural field of view for street and environmental portraits
  • Pair it with a DX-format Nikon camera for optimal performance
  • Keep a lens hood handy to reduce lens flare during bright conditions

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G DX AF-S has become one of my favorite lenses. It’s a fantastic combination of performance, value, and portability. If you’re shooting on a Nikon DX body and want a reliable prime lens for everyday use, I highly recommend giving this lens a try.

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.