What are the best budget lens options for Nikon DX DSLRs?

Question

Ive been looking to upgrade the kit lens on my D5300 before a family trip to Chicago in two weeks and my budget is super tight at under $250. Right now Im torn between the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G and the 50mm f/1.8G. Everyone says the 35mm is better for general use but I like the idea of the 50mm for more bokeh even if its tight indoors. I also found a used Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 on eBay for $225 that seems like it might be more versatile.

Budget: $250 max

Use: Street photography and some group shots

Timeline: Need it within 10 days

Which one would you go for if you could only buy one?

V-V-1 · Accepted Answer

Honestly, id stay away from that used Sigma. I had issues with one and the autofocus was super inconsistent on my D5300, which was really disappointing when I missed focus on half my vacation shots. Buying used glass on eBay right before a big trip is just asking for trouble if the focus motor ends up being wonky. Unfortunately, that 50mm is gonna be way too tight for a city like Chicago. On a DX sensor like yours, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G acts more like a 75mm lens because of the 1.5x crop factor. Youll be backing into traffic just to fit a building in the frame, and group shots indoors are basically impossible. I think the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is your only real choice if you want something reliable, tho even it has flaws. The purple fringing in high contrast areas like city skylines is not as good as expected, but it usually works every time you press the shutter. If you really need more range and want to stay safe, maybe just grab a Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR. Its basically a kit lens but the AF-P version is way faster than the older ones. Just check your firmware first since the D5300 needs an update for AF-P compatibility. Better to stay with native Nikon glass so you dont end up with a lens that wont communicate with your body right when you need it.

Lens Rumors

Forum

What are the best budget lens options for Nikon DX DSLRs?