Editor's Choice 2007: Imaging Essentials

EDITOR'S CHOICE SLR Lenses

Best Buy: Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor

This update of a very affordable zoom for Nikon D-SLRs adds something useful its predecessor lacked: Vibration Reduction (VR). We think VR makes the new lens (the equivalent, in 35mm, of about 80-300mm) much more versatile. Its maximum aperture gets as small as f/5.6 when you set longer focal lengths, forcing you to use slower shutter speeds that might cause blur if VR weren't constantly compensating. Nikon may be stretching the definition of its pro-level ED glass, but this lens's image quality is excellent -- better at maximum aperture, where you're most likely to be shooting, than it is when stopped down. All-plastic construction keeps the price low, giving you lots of lens for the money. About $250.

Read more on the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor. Next product: Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM.