What do the various Nikkor letters mean?
March 15th, 2010
  • Help a newbie here....I understand some of the designations such as AF, VR, etc. but what do all of the designations such as G, D, I, ED, IF, S mean on the Nikkor lenses? (I get the part about "Expect to pay more" when you see some of them....)


  • Hi tahmail,

    Welcome to the forum. Please see below :)

    E - Bargain priced lenses that have a slightly lower build quality than standard Nikkors.

    D - Lens is capable of communicating focus distance to the camera - this assists with 3D matrix metering and flash photography.

    G - Lenses with no aperture ring - must be set by te camera.

    DX - Specifically designed for digital cameras with a smaller than 35mm size sensore. Smaller lighter lenses but you won't be able to use them (effectivly) on old 35mm cameras or future full frame cameras.

    VR - Vibration Reduction - Nikon's opticle image stabilised lenses.

    ED - Lens has elements made of extra low dispersion glass.

    Micro - Nikon's term for "Macro"

    IF - Internal focusing - the physical length of the lens doesn't change when focusing.

    DC - DeFocus control.


  • mmmm... Alphabet soup is so tasty!







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