I chose this for my full frame D600 for general use, because the 24-120mm f4 is bigger, heavier and twice as expensive, and according to several tests not much better - and soft above 85mm.

Very convenient focal range; compact and very sharp except corners

Not perfect for full frame cameras; despite being kit lens for D600

I also own a D700 and overall, the at high ISO are better on the D600 which is good (sharper and less noisy at hight iso like 6400). On the other hand, I got difficulty controlling the exposure. Somehow the camera seems to slightly overexpose when compared to D700.

I purchased this lens nearly 5 years ago, and have used it with both the D40x and D5000 bodies. It has worked very well with a circular polarizer for predominantly landscape photography applications.

Very useful zoom range from wide angle @ 16mm (equivalent to 24 mm in a full-frame sensor / 35 mm film camera) to mild telephoto @ 85 mm (equivalent to 127.5 mm in full-frame sensor / 35 mm film camera).

- Heavy Lens - My lens has been back to Nikon for repair once - Not really a fair criticism (just FYI); because of the minimum focal length specs of my camera body for use with flash; BUT: Size of lens (diameter of barrel) can block part of flash lighting

I had the 28-300mm lens for my D600. I purchased this 24-85mm for indoor. Both lens had good pictures

[...]This is an awesome camera, got mine a few days ago and cant be more impressed. When taking into consideration the intended customer and the price point, there isn't a better camera on the market today, so if this camera meets your needs, buy one without reservation. [...

There appears to be a move towards increasing the number of camera models with full frame (ie 24x36mm) sensors. Sony, for one, has even released a fixed mirror DSLR model with a full frame sensor.

no vari-angle screen

Good amazing lens , for landscapes and portraits

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR is an affordable walkabout lens for Nikon full-frame users who don't want to pay the substantial price premium for Nikon's more pro-level zooms.

This full-frame VR II lens has a stunning optical performance. How highly did it score on test?

Announced in June 2012, the AF-S Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR updates an existing lens that was released in 2002. Although larger and heavier, it retains the SWM (Silent Wave Motor) autofocus drive of its predecessor but adds VR II stabilisation, giving photographers seeking an FX-format...

You want a capable general-purpose zoom lens for a Nikon camera body; You require detailed images with accurate colour reproduction; You want fast and quiet autofocusing; You want effective built-in image stabilisation.

For macro photography and extreme close-ups; As a copying lens; If you're concerned about size and weight