AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED

Data from NikonUSA comments from Rusty Dodson

Compact 3.8X zoom covers portrait to wide view (76 degrees at 18mm to 22 degrees 50 minutes at 70mm) Optimized DX lens design is compatible with every Nikon D-Series digital SLR cameras.

This is a very useful range. I personally don't care for DX lenses. I'm sure some of them are decent enough but they are not backwards compatible.

Three Nikon ED glass elements, plus aspheric element for low distortion and minimized chromatic aberration.

The lens does ok, especially at the wider end of it's range, but the image quality just barely makes the grade for landscape work. I still use it only because I can not yet afford the 16-35mm f2.8 or another equally impressive wide angle zoom.

Exclusive Silent Wave Motor for high-speed auto-focusing with accuracy and super-quiet operation.

I will vouch for that, this little lens is quick and quiet.

For the price one can purchase this lens for it is a very nice kit lens. The Nikkor 18-70mm f3.5-4.5 is likely to be the best kit lens sold with digital cameras. Having said that it is still a consumer kit lens and has some considerable limitations. The focal length is decent for portraits but at f4.5 it is just too slow and the bokeh effect is weak. Sharpness falls short at the longer end of it's range and colors tend to flatten as well. If you're serious about landscapes plan on upgrading.