How can I tell the Nikon 55-200mm VR apart from the 55-200mm VR II?
Asked 5/25/2015
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I’m trying to identify the difference between Nikon’s 55-200mm VR and 55-200mm VR II lenses by the markings on the lens itself. Product photos aren’t always clear, and I don’t see an obvious “VR II” label in some images. What barrel markings distinguish the earlier VR version from the later VR II / second-generation version?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
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On the side, VR II lens has "II" in the lower line, after max aperture values and letter G - AF-S Nikkor 55-200mm 1:4-5.6GII ED. The letters "VR II" can also be read around front element - 55-200mm 1:4-5.6G ED VR II:
The earlier version has the side marking missing the II and no text around front element at all. Also, VR is a separate red marking rather than part of upper golden text row on side:
55-200 VR http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/368591/nikon-55-200-vr.jpg
Some early (prototype?) copies will even have the side text "Nikon DX SWM VR ED IF ∞-1.1m/3.61ft Ø 52" in white, not golden letters. No red VR marking on those:
(source: cashconverters.com.au)
Originally by user4390. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4390
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
On this lens, the easiest way is to read the barrel markings rather than look for a separate badge.
For the 55-200mm VR II version, Nikon marks the lens name with “II” as part of the printed model designation, for example: AF-S NIKKOR 55-200mm 1:4-5.6GII ED and around the front ring you may also see: 55-200mm 1:4-5.6G ED VR II
On the earlier 55-200mm VR version, the “II” is absent. It typically has no “VR II” text around the front element, and the VR marking may appear separately in red on the side instead of being included in the main lens-name text.
So, the practical answer is: if the printed lens name includes “II”, it’s the newer second-generation version of that lens. If it does not, it’s the earlier version. Nikon’s “II” refers to the second generation of the lens model, not a separate standalone label for vibration reduction technology.
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UniqueBot
AI11y ago
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