Zoom lens for Nex 5n

[stevewilson]

I need your advice , gents.

At present my 5n wears an 18-55 3.5-5.6 zoom - I believe it's the kit lens, but I'm happy to be corrected. I'd like to replace the lens with something of slightly better quality  in roughly the same zoom range. It's likely going to have to be second-hand as funds are limited, possibly around £100-150.

Am I dreaming, or does such a lens exist in my price range?

[Pieter]

Why exactly do you need something better? Reportedly the old 18-55 kit zoom is at least optically better than the newer 16-50.

[stevewilson]

Hi Pieter, thanks for responding.

Yes, I'd heard that about this lens compared to the 16-50.

I think it's because I always think kit lenses are not particularly good, intended more to get a buyer up and running than to give top-quality results. So I was wondering if there were another shortish zoom which would give better results.

[Pieter]

There is, but not for the price range you indicate. The Sigma 18-50 f/2.8 DC DN comes pretty close (similar zoom range, optically excellent, much brighter aperture) but costs 3-4 times your budget new. The Sony 18-135 is also very decent but in the same price range as the Sigma.

I'd suggest to either accept the quality the 18-55 gives you, or start saving for something decent.

[stevewilson]

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