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 is a Cleveland-based photographer and meteorologist. He teaches music and enjoys time with horses and his rescue dogs.

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