Nikon's updated DX superzoom with improved VR II stabilisation and zoom lock.
The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED VR II was released in 2009 as an update to the original 18-200mm VR (2005), adding Active VR mode for shooting from moving vehicles or with significant body movement, alongside the existing Normal VR mode. The optical formula is unchanged — both the original and VR II share 16 elements in 12 groups. The updated VR algorithm represents the primary practical improvement. At 565g it is slightly heavier than the original's 560g.
The optical design uses 16 elements in 12 groups, including two ED elements and three aspherical elements. Seven circular aperture blades produce acceptable out-of-focus rendering. The 72mm filter thread is consistent with the original VR version and with other Nikon DX mid-range zooms. At 565g the lens is manageable for travel use. Minimum focus distance of 0.5m. VR II provides Normal mode for standard handheld use and Active mode for shooting from moving platforms. AF-S SWM ensures compatibility with D40/D40x and later motorless bodies.
The VR II's Active mode is the practical improvement over the original: for photography from vehicles, boats, or with pronounced body movement, Active mode compensates for larger and less predictable stabilisation demands than Normal mode handles. For standard handheld photography the performance difference between the original and VR II is modest. The 27-300mm equivalent superzoom range covers the full practical travel and event spectrum without a lens change.
On the used market the VR II commands a small premium over the original. Condition checks: VR engagement (test both Normal and Active modes), AF-S motor response at both zoom extremes, zoom ring smoothness — superzoom designs accumulate wear at the full zoom range over time — and front element for marks. Compatible with all Nikon F-mount DX and FX DSLR bodies; on FX a DX crop is recommended at wide focal lengths.