Nikon AF-S FX TC-14E III - Review

Nikon AF-S FX TC-14E III (1.4x) Teleconverter Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras: A Review

Are you looking for a way to extend the reach of your Nikon AF-S lenses? If so, the Nikon AF-S FX TC-14E III (1.4x) Teleconverter Lens with Auto Focus might be just what you need. This teleconverter extends the range of compatible lenses by 40%, with only a one-stop loss in exposure. But does it live up to its promises? Let's take a closer look.

First off, it's important to note that this teleconverter is only compatible with select Nikon models. Specifically, it's designed to work with both FX and DX format AF-S NIKKOR lenses. If you don't have one of these lenses, this product won't be of any use to you.

Assuming you do have a compatible lens, however, the AF-S FX TC-14E III can make a big difference. Turn the AF-S NIKKOR 70–200mm f/2.8G ED VR into a 98–280mm f/4 lens or the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR into a 560mm f/4 lens. This extra reach can be invaluable for wildlife, sports, or any other situation where you need to get closer to the action.

But does the AF-S FX TC-14E III maintain the optical quality of NIKKOR lenses? That was my first concern when I heard about this product. After all, adding an extra piece of glass to any lens can potentially degrade image quality. However, Nikon's advanced design manages to minimize this effect. Users report that the resulting images are still sharp and clear, with good contrast and color reproduction.

Additionally, the AF-S FX TC-14E III fully supports exposure metering and VR image stabilization capabilities. This is important because some teleconverters don't play nicely with a camera's exposure metering system, or can interfere with VR (vibration reduction) or IS (image stabilization) functions. With this teleconverter, you shouldn't have to worry about any of those issues.

Another nice feature of the AF-S FX TC-14E III is its durable, weather-resistant barrel. It's designed to support use in harsh conditions, so you won't have to worry about your equipment getting damaged by rain, dust, or other environmental factors. The front and rear elements are also coated with fluorine, which helps to repel water, dust, and dirt. This makes it easy to clean the lens and keep it in good condition.

So, what do users think of the AF-S FX TC-14E III? At the time of writing, it has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on 260 customer reviews. Many users praise its image quality, ease of use, and compatibility with various AF-S NIKKOR lenses. Some users also say that the autofocus performance is unaffected by the addition of the teleconverter, which is a big plus.

However, there are some negative reviews as well. A few users report that the focus accuracy decreases with the teleconverter, especially in low light. Others note that the autofocus can become slower and noisier. These are concerns to keep in mind, especially if you shoot in challenging lighting conditions or need to capture fast-moving subjects.

In terms of pricing, the AF-S FX TC-14E III is definitely an investment. As of this writing, it's listed at around $500 online. However, if you need the extra reach that a teleconverter provides, it can be a worthwhile purchase. Just keep in mind that it's not a magic solution—you'll still need to know how to use your camera and lens to get the best results.

Overall, I would recommend the Nikon AF-S FX TC-14E III (1.4x) Teleconverter Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras to photographers looking to extend the reach of their AF-S NIKKOR lenses. It's a well-designed product that delivers on its promises, with good image quality, compatibility, and durability. Just be aware of the limitations and potential downsides, and you should be able to make an informed decision.

Nikon AF-S FX TC-14E III

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