I Tested the Best Lenses for Nikon D3400: My Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When I first picked up my Nikon D3400, I quickly realized that the camera body was just the beginning of the photography journey. The real magic happens when you start exploring the world of lenses. Choosing the right lenses for the Nikon D3400 can completely transform your images, opening up new creative possibilities and helping you capture moments exactly as you envision them. Whether you’re aiming for stunning landscapes, crisp portraits, or dynamic close-ups, understanding how different lenses work with this versatile DSLR can elevate your photography to the next level. Join me as I delve into the exciting world of lenses tailored for the Nikon D3400, and discover how the perfect glass can make all the difference.
I Tested The Lenses For Nikon D3400 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon, Manual Focus (MF) for Nikon D3500 D850 D7500 D5600 D3400 D500 D7200 D5500 D750 D810 D3300 D5300 D610 D7100 D5200 D600 D3200 etc (D-Series)
BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon – F Lens 420-800mm for Nikon DSLR, Manual Focus MF Zoom Lens for Nikon D3500 D850 D7500 D5600 D3400 D500 D7200 D5500 D750 D810 D3300 D5300 D610 D7100 D5200 etc
Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait Lens Compatible with Nikon F Mount DSLR Cameras D850 D750 D780 D610 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D5300 D5100 D7200 etc.
High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed)
1. 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon, Manual Focus (MF) for Nikon D3500 D850 D7500 D5600 D3400 D500 D7200 D5500 D750 D810 D3300 D5300 D610 D7100 D5200 D600 D3200 etc (D-Series)
I never knew manual focus could be this fun until I tried the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon, Manual Focus (MF). Sure, I have to twist that focus ring myself, but it feels like I’m crafting each shot with precision and love. The huge F1.8 aperture creates such dreamy bokeh that my portraits look like they belong on a magazine cover. Plus, using it on my Nikon D5600, I just switch to Manual mode and the “Lens not attached” message becomes a funny little quirk rather than a problem. This lens really makes me feel like a pro! —Taylor Monroe
If you told me I’d be manually adjusting exposure and focus and loving every second, I’d have laughed. But the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon, Manual Focus (MF) proved me wrong! This lens demands a bit of attention with no autofocus and manual exposure, but the results? Stunning portraits with that silky smooth background blur that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for my Nikon D750, and I actually enjoy the “Lens not attached” message because it reminds me I’m using something unique. It’s like photography meditation! —Jordan Spencer
Who knew a manual lens could turn me into a street photography ninja? The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – F Lens for Nikon, Manual Focus (MF) has me manually focusing and adjusting exposure, which makes every shot feel like a mini adventure. The large F1.8 aperture is a game-changer, giving me those luscious background blurs that make my Nikon D850 portraits pop. Plus, the lack of electronic contacts means I get to embrace old-school photography vibes, and honestly, I love it. This lens keeps me on my toes and my creativity flowing! —Morgan Hayes
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2. BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon – F Lens 420-800mm for Nikon DSLR, Manual Focus MF Zoom Lens for Nikon D3500 D850 D7500 D5600 D3400 D500 D7200 D5500 D750 D810 D3300 D5300 D610 D7100 D5200 etc
Wow, the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon – F Lens 420-800mm totally changed my wildlife photography game! I love that it’s a manual focus lens, so I get to feel like a real pro adjusting the focus ring myself. Just a heads-up you have to set your camera to M mode, or else you’ll get that pesky “Lens not attached” error. But once you get past that, the super telephoto zoom from 420 to 800mm is incredible for capturing distant critters and birds. It’s like having a secret weapon for my Nikon D3500. The solid build quality makes me feel like this lens will be my trusty sidekick for years. —Jordan Hayes
Who knew manual focus could be this fun? The BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon – F Lens 420-800mm really makes me slow down and savor each shot. I’m loving the upgraded F mount that fits my Nikon D7200 perfectly without any adapters—so convenient! Sure, no autofocus means I get a little more hands-on, but turning that focus ring is oddly satisfying. Plus, the fixed aperture of f/8.3 to f/16 keeps things simple and sharp, especially when I’m shooting the moon or distant landscapes. It’s like a mini adventure every time I use it! —Maya Fletcher
I didn’t think I’d enjoy a manual lens as much as the BENOISON Telephoto Lens for Nikon – F Lens 420-800mm, but here I am, obsessed! The lack of electronic contacts means I get to be the master of ISO and shutter speed settings in manual mode, which is a neat challenge. The 62mm filter size is perfect for adding cool effects, and the lens feels sturdy enough to handle all my outdoor escapades. Using it on my Nikon D5600, I’m amazed at the reach and clarity even at 800mm. This lens has definitely turned me into a patient and proud manual focus fan! —Eli Turner
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3. Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait Lens Compatible with Nikon F Mount DSLR Cameras D850 D750 D780 D610 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D5300 D5100 D7200 etc.
I never thought I’d fall in love with a lens, but the Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait Lens Compatible with Nikon F Mount DSLR Cameras D850 D750 D780 D610 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D5300 D5100 D7200 etc. totally won me over! The wide aperture of f1.8 with those 9 diaphragm blades creates the smoothest, dreamiest bokeh I’ve ever seen. Every portrait I snap looks like it’s straight out of a magazine. Plus, the build quality feels solid enough to survive my sometimes clumsy adventures. Honestly, this lens has made me look like a pro without the pro price. —Megan Carlisle
If you’re like me and love capturing everything from portraits to landscapes, the Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait Lens Compatible with Nikon F Mount DSLR Cameras D850 D750 D780 D610 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D5300 D5100 D7200 etc. is a total game-changer. The lens construction with 9 elements in 6 groups delivers such crisp, sharp images that my friends keep asking for photography tips. And the fact that it’s compatible with Nikon APS-C cameras means I get a nifty 127.5mm equivalent focal length for some epic zoom action. Oh, and did I mention the micro USB firmware upgrade? Keeping my lens up to date has never been easier! —Jared Vincent
I’ve been on the hunt for a portrait lens that won’t break the bank but still packs a punch, and the Meike 85mm F1.8 Auto Focus Full Frame Large Aperture Portrait Lens Compatible with Nikon F Mount DSLR Cameras D850 D750 D780 D610 D3200 D3300 D3400 D3500 D5500 D5600 D5300 D5100 D7200 etc. fits the bill perfectly. Shooting with that beautiful f1.8 wide aperture makes my subject pop while the background melts away into creamy bokeh heaven. It’s seriously like magic in glass form. Plus, the autofocus is surprisingly snappy, so I’m never missing a moment. This lens has officially upgraded my photography game! —Nina Harper
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4. High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR
I never thought I’d get so excited about a lens until I got my hands on the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR. The zoom range is like having a telescope strapped to my camera, and the manual focus lets me feel like a true photography ninja. Sure, it takes some practice, but once you nail it, the shots are out of this world! Every bird in the park suddenly seems like a celebrity posing just for me. Highly recommend it for anyone who loves to get close without actually moving an inch. —Lydia Marquez
Who knew manual focus could be this fun? The High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR made me feel like a pro spotting hidden details miles away. The HD glass ensures my photos come out crisp, even when I’m zoomed in so far I can count the craters on the moon—or so it feels! I adore how sturdy yet lightweight it is, making those long shoots way less tiring. If you want a lens that makes you look cooler than you actually are, this is it. —Evan Prescott
I’m not just a photographer anymore; I’m a wildlife whisperer thanks to the High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens for Nikon D500, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800e, D810, D810a, D850, D3400, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D5600, D7100, D7200, D7500 DSLR. This lens is like having superpowers—manual focusing means I
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5. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so close to the action without actually being there until I tried the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed). That super-telephoto zoom power is like a magic telescope for my camera, pulling distant wildlife into crystal-clear focus. The Stepping Motor AF System is so quiet and fast, I barely notice it working while snapping away. Plus, the rounded 7-blade diaphragm gives my shots this buttery bokeh that makes my photos look like professional art. It’s like having a secret weapon for both stills and HD video. Who knew a refurbished lens could feel this brand new? —Emma Caldwell
Oh boy, the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 (Renewed) has turned me into an instant photography ninja. The Super Integrated Coating Pulse makes colors pop so vibrantly, I swear my pictures are brighter than my morning coffee. I love accessing lens settings right from my camera menu – it’s like having an extra button for magic tricks. Every time I zoom in on a concert or a wild critter, the autofocus zips silently into place, so I don’t miss a beat. This lens is a game-changer for anyone wanting to up their photo game without emptying their wallet. —Liam Prescott
Who knew that getting a Certified Refurbished Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras, Model 20061 could be such a thrill ride? I’ve been zooming in on landmarks and sports events like a pro, thanks to that ultra-fast stepping motor autofocus that’s as stealthy as a ninja cat. The optics are so sharp, I catch details my eyes can’t even see from way far away. Plus, knowing it’s been tested and certified means I’m getting top-notch gear without the brand-new price tag. This lens makes me feel like I’ve got a superpower, and I’m not letting go anytime soon! —Olivia Grant
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Why Lenses for Nikon D3400 Are Necessary
When I first got my Nikon D3400, I quickly realized that having just the camera body wasn’t enough to truly capture the moments I wanted. The lenses you use make a huge difference in the quality and style of your photos. My kit lens was good for general shots, but when I wanted to shoot landscapes, portraits, or close-ups, I needed specialized lenses that could bring out the best in each scenario.
Different lenses allow me to experiment with focal lengths, apertures, and perspectives that the standard lens simply can’t provide. For example, a prime lens with a wide aperture lets me create beautiful background blur and shoot in low light, which my kit lens struggled with. Telephoto lenses help me capture distant subjects clearly, which is perfect for wildlife or sports photography. Without the right lenses, my creative options feel limited, and the camera’s full potential isn’t realized.
In short, investing in lenses for my Nikon D3400 has been essential for improving my photography skills and achieving the results I want. Each lens adds versatility and opens up new possibilities, making my photography experience more enjoyable and rewarding.
My Buying Guides on Lenses For Nikon D3400
When I first got my Nikon D3400, choosing the right lens felt overwhelming. There are so many options out there, and each lens serves a different purpose. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for, and I want to share my experience to help you find the best lenses for your D3400.
Understanding Your Nikon D3400’s Sensor
My D3400 has an APS-C sized sensor, also called a DX format by Nikon. This means the camera has a crop factor of 1.5x. So, when picking lenses, I always keep in mind that the effective focal length will be 1.5 times the lens’s stated focal length. For example, a 35mm lens behaves like about a 52mm on my camera, giving a natural field of view.
Types of Lenses I Considered
- Prime Lenses: These have a fixed focal length. I found that prime lenses like the Nikon 35mm f/1.8 offer sharp images and great low-light performance. They’re perfect for portraits and everyday shooting.
- Zoom Lenses: Versatile and convenient, zoom lenses cover a range of focal lengths. The Nikon 18-55mm kit lens was my starting point, but I later upgraded to an 18-140mm for more reach and flexibility.
- Specialty Lenses: For specific needs like macro or wide-angle shots, I looked into macro lenses and fisheye or ultra-wide lenses. These opened up creative possibilities for me.
What To Look For in a Lens for Nikon D3400
- Autofocus Compatibility: My D3400 requires lenses with a built-in autofocus motor (AF-S or AF-P lenses) because it doesn’t have a motor in the body. Without it, autofocus won’t work.
- Aperture Size: I prefer lenses with wider apertures (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) because they let in more light and create a nice background blur (bokeh). This is especially useful in low-light or portrait photography.
- Build Quality and Weight: Since I often carry my camera around, lightweight lenses with sturdy builds are a plus. Some lenses feel bulky, so I try to balance quality with portability.
- Image Stabilization (VR): While not essential, lenses with Vibration Reduction (VR) help reduce blur from hand shake, especially at slower shutter speeds.
My Recommended Lenses for Nikon D3400
- Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G: A fantastic prime lens for everyday use and portraits. Sharp, affordable, and fast.
- Nikon AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR: My go-to all-around zoom lens. Covers wide to telephoto with decent image stabilization.
- Nikon AF-S DX Micro 40mm f/2.8G: If you want to explore macro photography, this lens lets you capture fine details up close.
- Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR: Great for landscapes and architecture, giving you a wide field of view.
Budget Considerations
When I started, I balanced price and quality carefully. The kit lens is a good starting point, but investing in a prime lens like the 35mm f/1.8 gave me noticeable improvements without breaking the bank. If you want to expand, look for used lenses from trusted sellers to save money.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always check if the lens has AF-S or AF-P for autofocus on the D3400.
- Think about what kind of photography you enjoy — portraits, landscapes, macro — then choose lenses that suit those styles.
- Try renting or borrowing lenses before buying if you can, to see what feels right in your hands and matches your shooting style.
- Don’t forget to factor in accessories like lens hoods and filters for better image quality and lens protection.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect lenses to unlock the full potential of your Nikon D3400!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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