What is the best budget zoom lens for Nikon DSLRs?

Question

Im so sick of reading reviews and seeing five different versions of the same thing. I need something for my kids soccer game this Saturday on a strict $200 budget. Stuck between the Nikon 70-300mm AF-P and the cheaper Tamron but people say the AF-P wont work on older bodies? Which one is actually worth it for a D3400?

RoverVaf · Accepted Answer

Just catching up. @Reply #1 - good point! Is it the VR or non-VR version?D3400 supports Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR fine.AF-P is much faster than old Tamrons.

Larryinhex · Answer

Saw this and had to jump in because I actually went through this exact same struggle! Honestly, forget the Tamron for soccer. I remember shooting my nephews tournament years ago with a slower lens and it was a total disaster because the autofocus just couldnt keep up with the kids. You really want the speed of that AF-P motor for sports! People get confused about compatibility but your D3400 is perfectly fine with it. Its gonna work like a charm. Quick tips for the game:Keep your shutter speed at 1/500 or higher to freeze the action.Double check you are getting the VR version. I love my Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR because it is incredibly sharp and light. The non-VR version is cheaper but it is a trap... you will get blurry shots at the long end without that stabilization. Go for the VR and you will be so happy with the results!

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What is the best budget zoom lens for Nikon DSLRs?