Nikon 1 Nikkor VR 10-100 f4.0-5.6
The Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 lens is a superzoom option designed for the now-discontinued Nikon 1 mirrorless system, known for its extensive focal length range and relatively compact size for its capabilities. This specific version, without the "PD-zoom" designation, features a traditional mechanical zoom ring, making it primarily suited for still photography, though its silent autofocus motor is a boon for videography as well.
Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6
Size: 71mm x 61mm
Weight: 298g
Aperture: f4.5 - f16
Filter: 55mm
Mfd: 35cm at 10mm (wide), 65cm at 100mm (tele)
Price: €200 - €300 used
The Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 offers a 10x zoom ratio, providing a versatile 27-270mm equivalent focal length in 35mm format due to the Nikon 1 system's 2.7x crop factor sensor. This wide range makes it an immensely practical, all-in-one lens, ideal for travel and general carry-around photography, covering everything from sweeping landscapes to distant subjects.
The non-PD version is notably smaller and lighter than its PD-zoom counterpart, weighing approximately 298g (10.5 oz) versus the PD version's 515g (18.2 oz). Unlike the power-driven (PD) zoom which uses a rocker switch for smooth, motorized zooming for video, this standard version features a traditional, smooth-operating manual zoom ring. When zooming, the lens barrel does extend, unlike the constant-length PD-zoom version.
The lens is generally praised for producing pleasing images with enough detail for most users. It is not considered the absolute sharpest in the 1 Nikkor lineup (an edge often given to the 30-110mm lens), but its versatility often outweighs this slight difference in practical, real-world use.
The built-in optical image stabilization system works effectively to reduce blurry images and helps in low-light conditions, operating in two modes: "Normal" and "Active"
Images taken with the 10-100 f4.5-5.6 VR lens
The non-PD version of the 10-100mm lens is the definitive choice for Nikon 1 photographers who want a single-lens solution without the unwieldy bulk of the PD-Zoom version. While it sacrifices some of the professional video-oriented features, its practical advantages for travel and daily use are undeniable.
If you are primarily a photographer rather than a dedicated videographer, the choice is clear. The PD-Zoom was engineered for smooth, motorized video transitions and silent voice-coil AF, but it was criticized for defeating the purpose of a compact system. The non-PD version offers a similar 27-270mm reach in a package that is 24mm shorter and significantly lighter.
The Nikon 1 10-100mm f/4.5-5.6 VR (non-PD) is the "one lens to rule them all" for the CX format. While it does show some sharpness drop-off at the extreme 100mm telephoto end and exhibits typical superzoom distortions, its convenience and built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) make it the best travel companion for any Nikon 1 owner.