Nikon 18-70 vs 18-135 lens

[clues]

I decided to make the plunge into DSLR's and am now the proud new owner of a D80. When I purchased the camera, the standard kit lens (19-135) was not in the box and the salesman convinced me to take a 18-70 instead. I liked the idea of the extra range in the 18-135 and have the option of exchanging the 18-70 for a few bucks extra, but I am unsure of which way to go. Can anybody enlighten me on the comparative performance of each lens?

[cincyimages]

I can't tell you about the 18-70mm lens but I have enjoyed the 18-135mm lens very much. This set was taken with the 18-135mm: http://www.pbase.com/cincyimages/chicago2

[LR Max]

Go with the 18-135 Also, the 18-135 is more expensive, so if he did not alter the price then there is some serious problems here. I do believe there is a 50~75 dollar price difference. It is a very nice lense and is their newest. It is quite awesome.

I was at the local camera shop and I compared the two. The 18-135 has less barrel distortion, a faster autofocus, and obviously more range. A very nice lense. Obviously, the 18-135 is newer technology and this kinda stuff is always advancing.

Do what you have to do to get that 18-135. Also the resell value is pretty high right now. So even if you don't like it, you will be able to get most of your 400 bucks back outta it.

[clues]

Thanks for your feedback. I tend to concur with your comments on buying the most up to date equipment (which is why I bought the D80 rather than the D70). I can pick up the 18-135 for AUD 60 more. So worth it on that basis. My only hesitation is that I have seen some unfavourable reviews for this lense and don't want to give up what is considered a good lens with 18-70.

[LR Max]

If your local camera shop has them in stock, then go test out both of them and see which one produces a better picture. Take 2 sets of photos and then go home and view them on your computer.

Try to keep the tests for both lenses similar, obviously. As well as look through the entire focal range.