Early Nikon DX kit zoom without VR, the most basic 18-55mm in the lineup.
The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II was released in 2005 as the standard kit zoom for Nikon's entry and mid-range DX DSLRs, including the D50 and D70s. It added the AF-S Silent Wave Motor to the earlier non-ED AF-D version, enabling autofocus on bodies without a built-in AF drive motor — particularly the D40, which shipped with this lens. The ED designation indicates one Extra-low Dispersion element to reduce chromatic aberration. A VR version followed in 2007 with built-in Vibration Reduction.
The optical design uses 7 elements in 5 groups, including one ED element and two aspherical elements. The 52mm filter thread is consistent across Nikon's DX kit lens generations, enabling filter carry-over. At approximately 205g the lens adds negligible weight to entry-level DX bodies. A minimum focus distance of 0.28m enables informal close-up work at the wide end — closer than many comparable standard zooms. The AF-S Silent Wave Motor provides quiet autofocus independent of the camera body's AF drive motor, ensuring compatibility with D40, D40x, and D60 bodies. There is no Vibration Reduction. Variable aperture runs from f/3.5 at 18mm to f/5.6 at 55mm.
As the standard kit zoom for DX DSLRs the 18-55mm G ED II covers the most common shooting situations adequately — landscapes, indoor events, and everyday photography across the 27-82mm equivalent range. The close 0.28m minimum focus distance allows informal close subject photography that is practical for table-top and nature use. Optical quality is good at mid-apertures in the centre; corners at 18mm wide open show softening typical of kit zooms. The lens performs identically on all Nikon F-mount DSLR bodies.
On the used market the 18-55mm G ED II is one of the most abundant Nikon DX lenses available, often sold as part of a body kit at very low prices. Condition checks: AF motor response, zoom ring smoothness, and front element for scratches. The AF-P 18-55mm (2016) provides faster, near-silent stepping motor AF for video at a modest premium and is the recommended choice for video use. The VR version provides vibration reduction at the cost of slightly more weight. Non-VR kit zoom suitable for most general stills use cases.