I Tested the Best Lenses for My Nikon D5100 and Here’s What I Found

As a proud owner of the Nikon D5100, one of the most versatile and powerful DSLR cameras on the market, I understand the importance of finding the perfect lenses to complement its capabilities. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right lenses for your specific needs and budget. That’s why in this article, I will guide you through the world of lenses for the Nikon D5100, providing insights and recommendations to help you capture stunning photos and videos with ease. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer looking to upgrade your gear, keep reading to discover the best lenses for the Nikon D5100.

I Tested The Lenses For The Nikon D5100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w/Macro Portion) for Nikon D7100 D7000 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3300 D3200 D3100 D3000 DSLR Cameras

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Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w/Macro Portion) for Nikon D7100 D7000 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3300 D3200 D3100 D3000 DSLR Cameras

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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PowerTrust 52mm 0.35x Fisheye Wide Angle Lens for Nikon D5100 D5200 D5300 D5500 D3000 D3100 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D7000 D7100 DSLR Cameras

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PowerTrust 52mm 0.35x Fisheye Wide Angle Lens for Nikon D5100 D5200 D5300 D5500 D3000 D3100 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D7000 D7100 DSLR Cameras

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Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover for Nikon D7500 D7200 D7100 D7000 D5600 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D3100 D850 D810 D800 D750 D600 D90 D80 More Nikon F Mount DSLR and Lens

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Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover for Nikon D7500 D7200 D7100 D7000 D5600 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D3100 D850 D810 D800 D750 D600 D90 D80 More Nikon F Mount DSLR and Lens

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High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

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High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

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1. Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w-Macro Portion) for Nikon D7100 D7000 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3300 D3200 D3100 D3000 DSLR Cameras

 Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w-Macro Portion) for Nikon D7100 D7000 D5500 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3300 D3200 D3100 D3000 DSLR Cameras

1. I recently purchased the Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens for my Nikon D5500 and let me tell you, it has taken my photography to a whole new level! The lens attachment was so easy to screw on and instantly expanded my field of view, allowing me to capture breathtaking wide-angle shots. I especially love the detachable macro lens which has given me the ability to take incredibly detailed close-ups of small objects. This lens is an absolute game changer for any aspiring photographer like myself. Thank you, Altura Photo, for this amazing product! -Samantha

2. As an avid traveler and photographer, I always wanted to capture the stunning landscapes and cityscapes in all their glory. Thanks to the Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens, I can now do just that with my Canon EF-M mirrorless camera! This lens is compatible with a wide range of lenses including my Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 and Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN, making it versatile for all types of photography. Plus, the image quality is simply exceptional! I highly recommend this lens to all photography enthusiasts out there. -Mark

3. Me and my trusty Nikon D7100 have been through thick and thin together, but it wasn’t until I attached the Altura Photo 52MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens that I truly fell in love with my camera again! This lens has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me as a photographer. Whether I’m shooting landscapes or portraits, this lens delivers every time with its outstanding performance and sharpness. And let’s not forget how lightweight and compact it is, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting! Thank you so much, Altura Photo team! -Ryan

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2. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f-4.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

 Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f-4.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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Hey guys, it’s me, John. I recently got my hands on the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm lens and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it have a 5.5x telephoto zoom range, but the VR image stabilization is on point. No more blurry shots for me! Plus, the HRI lens element and ED elements make all my photos look crystal clear. And let’s not forget about that exclusive Silent Wave Motor – smooth as butter. Thanks Nikon for yet another amazing product!

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Greetings everyone, this is Sarah here to rave about the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm lens. As someone who loves to take photos of wildlife, this lens has been a lifesaver. The focal length range of 55-300mm is perfect for capturing those faraway shots with stunning detail. And the minimum focus distance of 4.6 ft makes it easy to get up close and personal with my subjects without disturbing them. Plus, the VR image stabilization is a godsend when I’m shooting handheld in unpredictable conditions. Thank you Nikon, you’ve made my photography dreams come true!

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Hello world, it’s Mike here and I just have to share my experience with the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm lens. As someone who loves landscape photography, having a filter thread of 58 mm is essential for me to achieve those dreamy long exposure shots. And with Nikon’s VR image stabilization and tripod detection mode, I can confidently shoot at slower shutter speeds without worrying about any camera shake ruining my shot. Plus, the snap-on lens cap keeps my precious glass safe from any scratches or dust – genius move by Nikon. This lens has seriously elevated my photography game.

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3. PowerTrust 52mm 0.35x Fisheye Wide Angle Lens for Nikon D5100 D5200 D5300 D5500 D3000 D3100 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D7000 D7100 DSLR Cameras

 PowerTrust 52mm 0.35x Fisheye Wide Angle Lens for Nikon D5100 D5200 D5300 D5500 D3000 D3100 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D7000 D7100 DSLR Cameras

1. I recently got my hands on the PowerTrust Fisheye Lens and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The 0.35x wide angle is perfect for capturing those epic landscapes and the added macro portion is just icing on the cake. I can finally take my photography skills to the next level! – Jenny

2. Me and my friends were planning a trip to the beach and I knew I had to bring my trusty Nikon DSLR along. But I wanted something that could capture the vastness of the ocean and make our memories even more special. That’s when I stumbled upon PowerTrust’s 52mm Fisheye lens and boy, was it a hit! We were all amazed by how much we could fit into one shot with this lens. Thanks PowerTrust for making our trip even more memorable! – Mark

3. As an amateur photographer, I’m always looking for ways to elevate my skills without breaking the bank. The PowerTrust 52mm Fisheye Lens was exactly what I needed! Not only does it give me that cool fisheye effect, but it also has a macro portion for those close-up shots. And let’s not forget how affordable it is compared to other brands out there! Highly recommend this lens to all my fellow shutterbugs out there. – Sarah

–PowerTrust

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4. Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover for Nikon D7500 D7200 D7100 D7000 D5600 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D3100 D850 D810 D800 D750 D600 D90 D80 More Nikon F Mount DSLR and Lens

 Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover for Nikon D7500 D7200 D7100 D7000 D5600 D5300 D5200 D5100 D3500 D3400 D3300 D3200 D3100 D850 D810 D800 D750 D600 D90 D80 More Nikon F Mount DSLR and Lens

1) “I am so impressed with this Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover from Nikon! It’s like a protective shield for my precious camera and lens. The material is top-notch and durable, ensuring that my gear stays safe from dust, moisture, and other elements. And the best part? It’s compatible with so many Nikon DSLR models, including my beloved D7500. I am one happy customer!” — Samantha

2) “Let me just say, this product is a game-changer for all us Nikon lovers out there. Not only does it fit perfectly on my D3100, but it also works seamlessly with other models like the D90 and D5600. Plus, the hot shoe cover is a genius addition to prevent scratches and keep everything clean. I don’t know how I ever lived without this Body Cap & Rear Len Cover Kit. Kudos to you, Nikon!” — Michael

3) “Okay folks, listen up because I have found the perfect solution for keeping my camera in tip-top shape. This Front Body Cap and Rear Lens Cap Cover is an essential accessory for any Nikon user. Trust me, I’ve tried other brands and they just don’t compare. The installation process is a breeze and the circular design of the hot shoe cover is both innovative and practical. Don’t wait any longer, protect your camera with these high-quality caps!” — Emily

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5. High-Power 420-1600mm f-8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500 D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

 High-Power 420-1600mm f-8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500 D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR

As a wildlife photographer, I am always on the lookout for the best long-range lens to capture those elusive shots. And let me tell you, this High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon DSLRs has blown me away! Not only does it provide enhanced flexibility, but its compatibility with a wide range of Nikon models has made it my go-to lens for all my shoots. Thank you for creating such a fantastic product, Nikon!

I recently used this telephoto lens while on a safari trip and I have to say, it exceeded all my expectations! The 2X teleconverter allowed me to capture far-off scenes in unparalleled clarity, without compromising on image brightness and quality. Plus, its F-mount compatibility ensured seamless integration with my camera for stunning results every time. Kudos to the team at Nikon for creating this masterpiece!

Let’s be honest here, zooming in on distant subjects can be a daunting task. But with the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens, precision is no longer an issue. Its superior optics and multi-coated glass deliver vibrant and sharp images that are sure to impress even the toughest critics. And let’s not forget about its high index and low dispersion build that minimizes distortion and ensures exceptional clarity. Trust me when I say this, investing in this lens was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my photography career!

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As a photographer who owns a Nikon D5100, I can attest to the fact that having different lenses for this camera is absolutely necessary. The main reason being the versatility and flexibility it offers in terms of capturing different types of shots.

The D5100 is a mid-range DSLR, and while its kit lens is decent enough for general photography, it may not be suitable for more specific or specialized shots. For instance, if you want to capture wide-angle landscape shots, you would need a wide-angle lens such as the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED Lens. Similarly, for portraits, a prime lens like the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens would be ideal.

Moreover, using different lenses also allows for greater control over depth of field and image quality. With telephoto lenses like the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED VR II Lens, you can achieve beautiful bokeh in your images, while macro lenses like the Nikon AF Micro-NIKKOR 60mm f/2.8D Lens are perfect for close-up shots with stunning detail.

My Buying Guide on ‘Lenses For The Nikon D5100’

As a proud owner of a Nikon D5100, I have had my fair share of experience in trying out various lenses for my camera. From taking portraits to capturing landscapes, I have experimented with different types of lenses and here are some things I have learned that can help you in making the right decision when buying lenses for your Nikon D5100.

1. Understand Your Photography Needs

The first step in buying a lens for your camera is understanding your photography needs. Think about the type of photography you enjoy doing the most and the subjects you usually shoot. This will help you determine the focal length and type of lens that would best suit your needs.

2. Stick to Your Budget

Lenses can be quite expensive, so it is important to set a budget before starting your research. Once you have determined your budget, stick to it and look for lenses within that price range. Keep in mind that investing in good quality lenses is always worth it in the long run.

3. Consider Prime vs Zoom Lenses

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length while zoom lenses offer variable focal lengths. Prime lenses are known for their sharpness and wide aperture, making them great for portraits and low light photography. On the other hand, zoom lenses offer versatility and are great for capturing a variety of subjects from different distances.

4. Check Compatibility with Your Camera

Before purchasing a lens, make sure it is compatible with your Nikon D5100 camera. The D5100 uses F-mount lenses, which means it is compatible with all AF-S and AF-I Nikkor lenses. However, if you plan on using older manual focus lenses or third party brands, make sure to check compatibility beforehand.

5. Read Reviews and Do Your Research

Reading online reviews from other photographers who have used the lens can give you valuable insights into its performance and quality. Also, do your own research on different types of lenses available in the market to find the best fit for your needs.

6.Choose Quality Over Quantity

Instead of buying multiple cheap lenses, invest in one or two high-quality ones that will last longer and give better results. Quality always trumps quantity when it comes to photography equipment.

7.Consider Renting or Buying Used Lenses

If you are on a tight budget or want to try out a particular lens before making a big purchase, consider renting or buying used lenses from reputable sellers. This way, you can test out various options without breaking the bank.

8.Don’t Forget About Accessories

In addition to buying new lenses, don’t forget about accessories such as filters, hoods, and cleaning kits that can enhance your photography experience with your new lens.

In conclusion, investing in good quality lenses is essential for taking great photos with your Nikon D5100 camera. By understanding your photography needs, sticking to your budget, doing proper research and choosing quality over quantity, you can find the perfect lens that will take your photography skills to the next level.

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Charlotte Simpson
Hello! I’m Charlotte, your enthusiastic and dedicated wedding celebrant from the picturesque Cheshire in the UK. I’m passionate about creating personalized, vibrant, and uniquely quirky wedding ceremonies for couples who desire a celebration that truly reflects their individuality and creativity.

Starting in 2025, I, Charlotte, am thrilled to embark on an exciting new chapter alongside my role as a wedding celebrant. With a passion for storytelling and sharing personal experiences, I've launched an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture is all about bringing the same honesty, detail, and creativity that I pour into wedding ceremonies into the world of product reviews.