To measure and compare macro performance we photographed a chart using each lens at a focal length and distance which delivered the maximum possible reproduction. The dark lines are 10mm apart and the result is not cropped. Smaller areas are preferred in this test.

While none of the four can be described as macro lenses, the best result is actually enjoyed by the budget DX 18-55mm, delivering a maximum area of 74x48mm; interestingly this is a similar situation to Canon's kit lenses, where the budget EF-S 18-55mm delivers a better macro result than many of the upgrade options.

Next is the DX 18-135mm, followed by the DX 18-200mm and finally the DX 18-70mm.