What lens mount for Nikon D200?

The Nikon D200 uses the Nikon F-mount lens mount. This standard mount allows the D200 to accommodate a wide range of Nikkor lenses, from vintage manual focus optics to modern autofocus lenses.

Understanding the Nikon F-Mount

The Nikon F-mount is a crucial aspect of the D200's versatility and appeal. Introduced in 1959 with the Nikon F camera, it has remained largely unchanged physically over decades, providing exceptional backward and forward compatibility for photographers.

Key Characteristics and Compatibility

The D200's F-mount offers significant advantages due to its design:

• Broad Lens Compatibility: The F-mount's enduring design means that the D200 can utilize an expansive library of Nikkor lenses. This includes:
  • AI (Automatic Indexing) and AI-S lenses: These older manual focus lenses provide full metering capabilities when properly mounted on the D200.
  • Autofocus (AF) and AF-D lenses: Lenses with a built-in aperture ring and mechanical coupling for autofocus.
  • AF-S lenses: Newer lenses with an integrated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet and fast autofocus, which the D200 fully supports.
  • G-type lenses: Lenses without an aperture ring, where aperture control is purely electronic, fully compatible with the D200.
• Built-in Autofocus Motor: The D200 features an internal autofocus motor (often referred to as a "screw drive"), which allows it to autofocus with older AF and AF-D type lenses that do not have their own built-in motors. This greatly expands the range of autofocus lenses available without needing to purchase newer, often more expensive, AF-S lenses.
• Robust Construction: The F-mount is known for its durable metal construction, ensuring a secure and stable connection between the camera body and the lens.

Practical Implications for D200 Users

For photographers using a Nikon D200, the F-mount's extensive compatibility means:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Access to a vast market of used Nikon F-mount lenses, including many classic and high-quality optics, often at very affordable prices.
• Versatile Lens Selection: The ability to choose from a wide array of focal lengths, apertures, and specialized lenses (e.g., macro, tilt-shift) across different generations of Nikkor glass.
• Legacy System Integration: Existing collections of older Nikon lenses can continue to be used effectively, maximizing investment in photography gear.

Here's a quick overview of the D200's lens mount:

In conclusion, the Nikon D200's use of the established F-mount provides users with remarkable flexibility and access to a rich heritage of high-quality Nikkor lenses, making it a powerful and adaptable camera body.