How Good Is the Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S Lens?

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S pairs nicely with the Z 9 mirrorless camera to provide sports and wildlife photographers a heck of a combo for capturing fast action in just about any environment. Nonetheless, 400mm f/2.8 lenses are some of the most superlative options out there. So, can Nikon's attempt keep up with other manufacturers? This excellent video review takes a look at what you can expect. 

Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this great video review. takes a look at the new Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens. A professional-level lens, the 400mm f/2.8 comes with a nice range of options, including:

  • Built-In 1.4x Teleconverter:
    • Integrated within the lens for optimal imaging performance and maintains weather-sealing.
    • Transforms the 400mm f/2.8 lens to an effective 560mm f/4 lens when in use.
  • S-Line Optics:
    • Two ED and one Super ED glass elements, plus two fluorite elements minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing.
    • Incorporates an SR element for accurate color rendering and compact lens design.
  • Anti-Glare Coatings:
    • Meso Amorphous Coat improves beyond Nano Crystal Coat in anti-reflective performance.
    • ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coats for enhanced glare suppression in various lighting conditions.
  • Silky Swift VCM Autofocus:
    • Voice Coil Motor for high-speed, precise, and smooth focusing.
    • Optical ABS encoder from robotics for enhanced AF performance.
    • Quiet operation, reduced focus breathing, full-time manual override, and internal focusing design.
    • Minimum focusing distance of 8.2 feet, maximum magnification of 0.17x (0.23x with teleconverter).
  • Vibration Reduction:
    • Image stabilization reduces camera shake by about 5.5 stops.
    • Synchro VR combines in-body and optical VR for better results.
  • Professional Durability and Intuitive Handling:
    • Lightweight design (6.5 lb), 20% lighter than its F-mount counterpart.
    • Centered gravity for smooth panning and rotating tripod mount for easy orientation changes.
    • Advanced weather-sealing, magnesium alloy construction, fluorine-coated front and rear elements.
    • Compatible with Z-Teleconverter TC 1.4x and TC 2x.
    • Ergonomic control layout, Memory Set button, customizable L-Fn buttons, focus limiter switch, programmable Control Ring.
    • Kensington lock support and uses 46mm drop-in filters with included holder.

Check out the video above for Frost's full thoughts on the lens. 

Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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