Nikon's retractable DX telephoto with improved optics and VR II stabilisation.
The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II was released as the second-generation version of Nikon's APS-C budget telephoto kit zoom, providing a 82-300mm full-frame equivalent range. The VR II designation indicates an updated Vibration Reduction mechanism over the original VR version. The AF-S Silent Wave Motor enables compatibility with Nikon bodies without an internal AF motor, including the D40 and all D3xxx/D5xxx-series bodies. At 335g it is a compact, lightweight telephoto addition to the standard DX kit.
The optical design uses 13 elements in 9 groups, including ED elements. Seven rounded aperture blades produce smooth out-of-focus rendering. The 52mm filter thread is the Nikon DX kit standard, consistent with the 18-55mm AF-S kit zoom for filter carry-over in a two-lens DX setup. At 335g the lens is compact for a 200mm telephoto zoom. Minimum focus distance of 1.1m. VR II provides handheld telephoto stability. AF-S SWM enables motorless body compatibility. Variable aperture from f/4 at 55mm to f/5.6 at 200mm.
The 55-200mm VR II is the standard telephoto kit complement to the 18-55mm AF-S kit zoom, extending the DX shooting range to 82-300mm equivalent and matching the 52mm filter thread for single-filter kit compatibility. VR II provides improved stability over the original VR version for handheld telephoto shots at the 200mm end. The compact 335g design minimises pack weight for a two-lens travel kit.
On the used market the AF-S DX 55-200mm VR II is very affordable as a standard DX telephoto kit zoom. Condition checks: VR engagement, AF-S motor response, zoom ring smoothness, and front element for marks. The 52mm filter thread is consistent with the 18-55mm DX kit zoom. Compatible with all Nikon F-mount DX and FX bodies; on FX the DX image circle activates crop mode.