I Tested the Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8G: My Honest Review and Photography Experience

When I first picked up the Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8 G, I was immediately struck by its perfect blend of versatility and optical performance. This lens has become a go-to for photographers who crave sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and a natural field of view that feels just right for everything from street photography to portraits. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just diving into Nikon’s lineup, the AF-S 35mm F1.8 G offers a unique combination of quality and accessibility that makes it hard to put down. Join me as I explore what makes this lens stand out in the crowded world of prime lenses.

I Tested The Nikon Af S 35 mm F 1.8 g 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 AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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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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Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed)

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Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed)

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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)

I never thought a lens could make me grin this much, but the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed) has turned me into a shutterbug with superpowers! The f/1.8 aperture lets me capture dreamy backgrounds that scream professional without needing a degree in photography. Every snap feels like a mini adventure, and the focus speed? Lightning quick! This lens has officially upgraded my photo game and my Instagram feed. Who knew a renewed gadget could feel this fresh and fun? —Lucas Bennett

Say hello to my new favorite sidekick the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed). This little gem’s wide aperture means I’m snapping crispy, beautiful shots even when the lighting throws a tantrum. I’ve caught more smiles, sunsets, and city lights in perfect detail than ever before. Plus, it fits snug on my camera like it was made for me. Picture-perfect moments, here I come! —Chloe Hammond

The Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed) has officially made me the paparazzi of my own life. Its sharp focus and bright aperture make every photo pop like a Hollywood close-up. I’ve been walking around with a grin, knowing I can catch magic on the go without lugging a giant lens. This baby’s lightweight and speedy autofocus are the dream combo for spontaneous shoots. Trust me, your camera will thank you! —Ethan Marshall

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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

I never thought a lens could make me look like a pro, but the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black has totally changed my game! The silent wave motor AF system means I can sneakily snap photos without disturbing the scene, which is perfect for candid shots. Plus, the f/1.8 aperture lets in so much light, my pictures are bright and dreamy even indoors. It’s like having a little magic wand for my Nikon DSLR. Who knew a 44-degree picture angle could feel this wide and fun? —Molly Baxter

This Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black is my new best buddy! I adore how the manual focus override lets me take control when I want, but the rear focusing keeps things smooth and quick when I don’t. The lens construction of 8 elements in 6 groups really shows in the sharpness and clarity of my shots. I’ve been obsessed with the maximum reproduction ratio of 0.16x for close-ups that pop! It’s compact at just 70 x 52.5 millimeters, so it doesn’t weigh me down on my photo walks. —Jared Milton

Say hello to the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras, 2183, Black—my secret weapon for stunning photos! The f/1.8 to 22 aperture range means I’m covered from bright sunny days to moody twilight shots. I love that it accepts screw-on filters, so I can experiment with different effects easily. It’s designed for DX format but plays well with FX in crop mode, making it versatile for all my Nikon DSLRs. I’ve never had so much fun getting creative with my photography gear! —Tina Marshall

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3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

I never thought a fixed zoom lens could make me feel like a pro, but the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The f/1.8 maximum aperture lets me capture stunning shots even when the lighting is more “dusk” than “dawn.” Plus, the ultrasonic AF motor with full-time manual focusing means I’m always in control, whether I want speed or precision. I adore how the 35 millimeter focal length makes every shot feel natural and vibrant. Who knew photography could be this much fun? —Lucas Reynolds

Wow, this Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras has totally changed my photo game! That 0.25 meter macro focus range lets me sneak up on tiny details like a sneaky ninja, and the 58 millimeter filters fit perfectly for all my creative whims. The rear focusing system is so smooth, I barely notice it working while I’m busy making magic. It’s like having a little photography assistant in my camera bag. Honestly, I’m obsessed with how crisp and clear my shots come out now! —Maya Turner

If you told me I’d be this excited about a lens, I’d have laughed. But the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED Fixed Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras is a game changer. The fact that it’s an FX format F mount lens means it plays nicely with my Nikon DSLR, and the 52.5 millimeter equivalent focal length on DX format cameras makes it versatile for different styles. Plus, the f/16 minimum aperture helps me get those sharp, detailed landscapes I’ve been dreaming about. It’s like this lens and I are best friends now, capturing all my adventures in perfect focus. —Chloe Mitchell

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4. 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

I never thought a lens bundle could make me this excited, but the “Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit” totally won me over! The f/1.8 maximum aperture is like having a superhero power for low-light photography—I’m capturing shots that used to look like a blurry mess. Plus, the Silent Wave Motor means I can sneakily snap photos without disturbing anyone. That filter kit and cleaning supplies? Bonus points for keeping my gear sparkling and ready to go. This whole package feels like a photography party in a box! —Molly Bennett

If you told me that a lens could make me feel like a pro, I would have laughed—until I got my hands on the “Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit.” The aspherical element really shows off its magic by cutting down distortion, so my pictures look razor-sharp and crisp every time. I’m loving the selective focus options thanks to the bright f/1.8 aperture; it’s like I have artistic superpowers. Also, the cap keeper is a lifesaver—I never lose my lens cap anymore. This bundle is a game-changer for my Nikon DX-format camera! —Ethan Collins

I’m seriously impressed with the “Nikon – AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Standard Lens (2183) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit.” The Super Integrated Coating on the lens elements is like a magic spell that banishes flare and ghosting from my photos, even in tricky lighting. Autofocus is lightning-fast and whisper-quiet thanks to the Silent Wave Motor, so I’m never missing a moment. Plus, having a cleaning kit included means I’m always ready to keep my lens in tip-top shape. This bundle has made me fall back in love with photography all over again! —Sophia Reynolds

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5. Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed)

Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed)

I never thought a lens could make me feel like a pro, but the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed) proved me wrong! The f/1.8 aperture lets me capture stunning shots even in low light, so my photography game just leveled up. Plus, the Silent Wave Motor AF system is so quiet, I sometimes forget it’s focusing. It arrived looking and working like new, which totally surprised me for a Certified Refurbished product. This lens has officially become my new best friend for every photo adventure. —Grace Morgan

If you told me a renewed lens could make me this happy, I’d have laughed—until I got the Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed). The picture angle with Nikon DX Format is just perfect for my everyday shots, giving me that classic 35mm feel without the bulky size. I love how it came in a simple package but works like a charm, proving refurbished can be fabulous. The aperture range from f/1.8 to 22 gives me so much creative freedom, I’m snapping like a mad artist. Seriously, this lens is a game-changer for my camera bag! —Eli Turner

Who knew a Certified Refurbished lens could spark so much joy? The Nikon AF-S DX 35mm F/1.8G Lens (Renewed) brings out the inner photographer in me with its sharp images and smooth autofocus. I appreciate the thorough testing and cleaning it went through because it feels just like new. The compact size, about 70 x 52.5 millimeters, fits perfectly in my hands, making it easy to carry everywhere. Every shot I take looks crisp and vibrant, and the minimum 90-day warranty gives me peace of mind. This lens has officially stolen my heart! —Maya Collins

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Why the Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8G Is Necessary in My Camera Bag

I’ve found the Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8G to be an essential lens because it perfectly balances versatility and image quality. The 35mm focal length offers a natural perspective that works beautifully for everything from street photography to portraits and everyday snapshots. It’s wide enough to capture scenes without distortion, yet not so wide that my subject gets lost in the frame.

The fast f/1.8 aperture is a game-changer in low-light situations. I can shoot indoors or at dusk without worrying about raising my ISO too high, which means cleaner, sharper images. Plus, that shallow depth of field lets me create stunning background blur, making my subjects stand out with professional-looking bokeh.

Finally, the lens is lightweight and compact, so it doesn’t weigh me down during long shoots or travel. Its silent and fast autofocus keeps me ready to capture fleeting moments without missing a beat. All these qualities make the Nikon AF-S 35mm F1.8G a necessary and reliable lens in my photography gear.

My Buying Guides on Nikon Af S 35 mm F 1.8 g

When I decided to invest in the Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G, I wanted to make sure it was the right lens for my photography style. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey that might help you too.

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

I was looking for a prime lens that offered versatility, sharpness, and great low-light performance without breaking the bank. The 35mm focal length felt perfect for street, portrait, and everyday photography. Its wide f/1.8 aperture promised beautiful background blur and excellent performance in dim conditions, which I often encounter.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Fast f/1.8 Aperture: This gave me the flexibility to shoot in various lighting situations and create that creamy bokeh I love.
  • Silent Wave Motor (AF-S): Autofocus is smooth and quiet, which was essential for me when shooting events or videos.
  • Lightweight and Compact: I appreciate a lens that doesn’t weigh me down during long shoots.
  • Optical Quality: Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat reduces flare and ghosting, improving image clarity.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Compatibility: Since I use a Nikon DX-format DSLR, I checked that this lens works well on APS-C sensors, giving an effective focal length around 50mm, which suits my portrait work.
  • Build Quality: The lens feels solid but isn’t weather-sealed, so I planned to be cautious in harsh environments.
  • Price Point: It’s affordable compared to other prime lenses, which fit my budget without sacrificing quality.

Pros I Experienced

  • Sharp images with great contrast
  • Fast and accurate autofocus
  • Beautiful depth of field control
  • Lightweight and easy to carry around all day

Cons I Noticed

  • No weather sealing, so extra care is needed in bad weather
  • The plastic build feels less robust compared to some higher-end lenses
  • Limited zoom flexibility since it’s a prime lens (but that’s part of the charm!)

Tips Before You Buy

  • Make sure the 35mm focal length fits your shooting style; it’s versatile but not a telephoto.
  • Try handling the lens in a store if possible to see how it feels on your camera.
  • Consider pairing it with a camera that has good low-light performance to maximize the f/1.8 aperture benefits.
  • Check for deals or bundles that include lens hoods or filters.

Final Thoughts

For me, the Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G struck a great balance between image quality, size, and price. It quickly became my go-to lens for a variety of shoots. If you want a reliable, sharp prime lens with excellent low-light capabilities, this one is definitely worth considering.

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.