Nikon has introduced two compact, lightweight, affordable lenses for use with digital SLRs. The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED is a 3x standard-zoom Nikkor, offering an 18-55mm focal-length range, with a picture angle equivalent to a 27-82.5mm lens in 35mm format. The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED has a 3.6x 55-200mm focal range and a zoom performance of 55-200mm, providing a picture angle equivalent to an 82.5-300mm lens in 35mm format.

The 18-55mm lens features one ED glass element and one hybrid aspherical lens for high resolution and contrast, while minimizing chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion. With the 18-55mm, focusing is possible as close as 11 inches from subjects through the entire focal range. Optics on the 55-200mm lens incorporate two ED glass elements, and the lens can focus as close as 3.1 feet.

Both lenses employ newly developed compact Silent Wave Motors for smooth, quiet auto-focus performance. Seven-blade, rounded diaphragm openings achieve a natural blur for out-of-focus elements.

The 18-55mm lens measures 2.7 x 2.9 inches and weighs approximately 6.8 ounces, while the 55-200mm is 2.7 by 3.1 inches and weighs approximately 9 ounces.

The estimated street price for the 18-55mm zoom lens is $179; the 55-200mm zoom lens is $249.