Effortlessly close the distance with the brand-new Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S, the very first super-telephoto lens for Nikon’s mirrorless Z range. This long “two-in-one” lens is equipped with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to seamlessly expand their range by switching to a 560mm focal length. Its focal length, reliability and accuracy make it perfectly suited to capturing fast-paced sporting events and documenting the behaviour of unpredictable wildlife.
- This lens’ built-in 1.4x teleconverter allows photographers to shoot at either 400mm or 560mm.
- It boasts enhanced autofocus, 5.5-stops of built-in stabilisation, and anti-reflection performance.
- The Z 400mm f/2.8 is designed to be highly portable and easy to handle for a super-telephoto lens.
- It includes many features like memory recall for increased functionality.
Read the full write-up below.
In a first for Nikkor Z lenses, the Z 400mm features an autofocus mechanism comprised of an optical ABS (absolute) encoder. This picks up the number of changes in the movement and speed of the focus lens group about 20x more precisely. It also features a Silky Swift VCM (Voice Coil Motor), enabling it to achieve higher speed and accuracy while operating in almost complete silence. These developments combine together to deliver enhanced AF performance, giving the photographer total control in high-speed shooting environments. Lastly, it also boasts in-lens Vibration Reduction of up to 5.5-stops when attached to a full-frame mirrorless camera, minimising camera shake even when shooting at the 560mm focal length.
The Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S claims the highest anti-reflection performance in Nikkor’s range. This is thanks to its newly developed top multilayer coating (Meso Amorphous Coat) on top of the standard ARNEO Coat. These coatings are effective at diffracting light, allowing the lens to suppress flaring and ghosting effects even in harsh lighting conditions.
The built-in teleconverter in the Nikkor Z 400mm lets photographers jump between the focal lengths of 400mm and 560mm without any hassle. The switch for activating the teleconverter is located on the side of the lens, allowing the shooter to toggle between the two available focal lengths while maintaining their position, posture and grip.
The Extra-low Dispersion (ED), super ED glass, fluorite lens, and the Short-wavelength Refractive (SR) lens elements work in combination to minimise chromatic aberration. This allows the Z 400mm f/2.8 to achieve consistently high resolution, excellent resolving and rendering, even at the edges of the frame. Combined with the wide maximum aperture of f/2.8, the 400mm’s images will always be bright and feature natural bokeh.
Weighing in at only 2,950g, the 400mm f/2.8 is reasonably portable for a super-telephoto lens. It has also been designed so its centre of gravity sits in the middle of the tripod collar, providing optimal weight balance, and delivering a more stable operation when shooting handheld or panning on a monopod. For greater durability, the lens is equipped with dust-and-drip resistance courtesy of its fluorine coat on the front-most element. It also features effective sealing thanks to the rubber gasket around the lens mount.
Finally, functionality is a top priority with the Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S. It features controls such as the Fn ring, a control ring, lens Fn buttons, and a memory set button. It is the first Nikkor Z lens to adapt the memory recall function; this feature allows you to store and return to a go-to pre-set focus position.
This lens pairs perfectly with a top-of-the-line Nikon mirrorless camera such as the Z9.
The Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S will be available for purchasing on Orms Direct.