Nikon AF Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED VR is a versatile telephoto zoom lens that caters to both wildlife and sports photography enthusiasts. This lens provides a great focal length range that enables photographers to capture distant subjects while maintaining good image quality. Now, let’s delve deeper into its features, performance, and usability.

Build Quality and Design

The lens has a robust construction that feels solid in hand, typical of Nikon’s high-quality design standards. Weighing around 1,540 grams, it's relatively hefty but still manageable for handheld shooting. The lens barrel is made from a mix of plastic and metal which contributes to its durability while keeping the weight at a reasonable level for its class. The inclusion of weather sealing is a significant advantage for outdoor shooters, making it a reliable companion in various weather conditions.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of this lens is its optical performance. With a maximum aperture of f/4.5-5.6, it provides decent light-gathering capabilities, which is essential for shooting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The lens incorporates Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements that contribute to sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration. The images produced are sharp across most of the zoom range, especially at the lower end. However, there is some softening noticeable at 400mm, which is expected for a lens of this focal length and price range.

Autofocus and Image Stabilization

The lens is equipped with Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which aids in capturing sharp images even at slower shutter speeds. Users will find the benefits of VR especially useful for handheld shooting, allowing for a steadier shot. The autofocus system is generally accurate and quick, but there may be slight hunting in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects. It’s robust and can handle most scenarios, but it may not keep up with the fastest of subjects in sports photography.

Usability and Handling

The lens features a rotating zoom mechanism, which can take a bit of getting used to if you come from a traditional push-pull zoom design. The focus ring is smooth and allows for precise manual adjustments when necessary. The lens does not have a dedicated tripod collar, which may be a drawback for those who frequently use a tripod at longer focal lengths. Nevertheless, it’s primarily designed for handheld use, making it a solid performer in dynamic shooting environments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and weather sealing for outdoor use.
• Good optical performance with sharp images and minimal aberrations.
• Effective image stabilization (VR) for improved handheld shooting.
• Versatile focal length range suitable for wildlife and sports photography.

Cons

• Hefty weight can make it cumbersome for extended use.
• Autofocus may struggle in low lighting or with rapidly moving subjects.
• Slight softening at maximum zoom (400mm).
• Lack of a tripod collar may deter some users.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF Nikkor 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED VR is a powerful telephoto lens that excels in various shooting situations, particularly in wildlife and sports photography. With solid optical performance, effective stabilization, and durable construction, this lens is a worthy investment for Nikon F (DX) mount users looking to extend their reach. While it has its limitations, particularly in weight and some autofocus challenges, the overall value and performance make it a strong contender in its category.