Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 G ED VR Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2007.
The lens belongs to the category telephoto prime lenses, a telephoto lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Nikon

At launch 2007 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 G ED VR:

"Incredibly fast f/2.8 super telephoto combined with Nikon’s VR image stabilization and Nano Crystal Coat delivers exceptional speed and optical performance.

Super-fast, telephoto lens, optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both the Nikon FX- (23.9 x 36mm) and DX-format image sensors.

New tripod detection mode reduces vibration that may occur due to shutter release when mounted on a tripod.

Exclusive Nano Crystal Coat and a meniscus protective glass element combine to further reduce ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity.

Rugged, reliable and lightweight, this lens features a magnesium die-cast barrel and professional-grade dust- and moisture-resistant construction.

Fully compatible with Nikon TC-14E II, TC-17E II and TC-20E II (III) Teleconverters

Nikon VR II (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization
Vibration Reduction, engineered specifically for each VR NIKKOR lens, enables handheld shooting at up to 4 shutter speeds slower than would otherwise be possible, assuring dramatically sharper still images and video capture.

Nikon´s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) enables ultra-high-speed autofocusing with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet operation.

Three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements control chromatic aberrations while enhancing color, sharpness and contrast, even at the widest aperture settings.

New A/M focus mode provides fast, secure switching between auto and manual focus operation."


Compatibility, autofocus and focal length

This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.

The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.

The lens has a focal length of 400 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.  This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.

Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.

Filter and Lens Hood

If you want to use filters on this lens the slot-in filters  (52 mm) would be the ones to use, which is very common at these larger telephoto lenses.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HK-33".

Tripod Mount

This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.

Images of Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 G ED VR

In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.

Things to consider before buying

Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.

  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Has a built-in image stabilizer
  • Long focal length with its 400 mm
  • Works on all sensor types
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • A tripod mount is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Heavy (4620 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 G ED VR.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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