NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR - Review

The NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is one of the latest telephoto lenses released by Nikon, specifically designed for their Z series mirrorless cameras. This lens is an excellent choice for those who want to take their wildlife, bird, or sports photography to the next level, as it offers an impressive focal length range and advanced features.

One of the most significant benefits of this lens is its compatibility with both FX and DX format Nikon Z series cameras. On an FX format camera, such as the Z 7 or Z 7II, the lens offers a focal range of 100-400mm, ideal for capturing distant subjects in high detail. On a DX format camera, such as the Z 50 or Z fc, the same lens provides an even more extended focal range of 150-600mm, making it an excellent choice for photographing wildlife or other subjects from a distance.

Another crucial feature of the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is its Vibration Reduction technology, which can help photographers avoid blurry images due to camera shake. This lens achieves up to 5.5 stops of compensation, according to the CIPA Standard. When attached to a mirrorless camera equipped with a 35mm film size image sensor and when the zoom is set to the maximum telephoto position, this lens provides outstanding stability and sharpness. On full-frame Z series cameras like the Z 5, Z 6, Z 6II, Z 7, or Z 7II, the Vibration Reduction system stabilizes with 5-axis, while on DX-format cameras like the Z 50 or Z fc, it stabilizes with 2-axis optical VR.

The autofocus system in the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is another standout feature. It is equipped with two high-speed STM stepping motors that move in sync with each other in near silence, making it ideal for wildlife and sports photography. With this system, the lens maintains excellent edge-to-edge sharpness, resulting in no focus breathing or color bleeding.

For even more flexibility, the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is teleconverter compatible. It works flawlessly with the 1.4x and 2x Z series teleconverters. With the 1.4x converter, the lens's focal range is extended to 560mm, and with the 2x converter, it is extended to 800mm. Despite the extra reach, there is minimal loss of focus points and weight. This teleconverter compatibility makes the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S a great option for photographers looking for a lens that can provide them with more options on the field.

The build quality of the lens is fantastic, featuring a tough and durable construction. The body is made of high-quality materials and is weather-sealed, making it resistant to water and dust. This sealing makes the lens perfect for shooting in tough outdoor conditions, such as a rainy or dusty environment.

In terms of performance, the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is an excellent choice. The lens is incredibly sharp, and the images it produces are well-balanced with accurate colors and excellent contrast. The lens is also capable of producing beautiful bokeh when used at wider apertures, making it ideal for wildlife or portraits.

One of the few drawbacks of this lens is its size and weight. It is a relatively large lens, measuring over 200 mm in length, and weighs around 1.4 kg. This size and weight can make the lens challenging to handle, particularly during extended shoots. However, these concerns are minor when you consider the incredible range this lens offers and its outstanding image quality.

Overall, the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is an excellent choice for photographers who want a lens that performs well in extreme conditions and offers advanced features such as stable vibration reduction technology and speedy autofocus. The build quality is excellent, and the lens is a joy to use in the field. With the teleconverter compatibility, photographers have additional flexibility to capture their perfect shot. Despite its size and weight, it's one of the best telephoto lenses you can buy for your Nikon Z series camera.

NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR

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