Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR is an impressive super-telephoto zoom lens that caters directly to Nikon DX-format cameras. With its versatile focal length, it opens up a world of photography opportunities, from wildlife to sports and even some portrait work. In this lens review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and what you can expect in terms of image quality.

Build and Design

The lens is constructed with a durable, lightweight plastic body, which contributes to its portability, making it an excellent option for photographers who need to travel light but still want the reach of a 300mm focal length. It also incorporates weather sealing, which is a standout feature for photographers who often find themselves shooting in challenging weather conditions. The zoom mechanism feels smooth and responsive, allowing for quick adjustments when composing shots in dynamic environments.

Optical Performance

One of the most impressive aspects of the Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm is its optical design. With a total of 18 elements in 12 groups, including ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements, this lens delivers stunning sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy across the entire zoom range. Even at wider apertures, images remain crisp, with minimal chromatic aberration noticeable.

The Vibration Reduction (VR) feature is another significant advantage, helping to counteract camera shake, especially useful when shooting at longer focal lengths. Overall, you can expect tack-sharp images and vibrant colors, making it ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system in the AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm is fast and quiet, thanks to the Pulse Motor technology. This feature is particularly beneficial for shooting video as it minimizes autofocus noise. However, in low-light conditions, some users have reported slight hesitation in the autofocus performance. While this is not uncommon with similar lenses, it’s undoubtedly something to consider if you frequently shoot in dim conditions.

Compatibility and Use

This lens is specifically designed for DX-format cameras, translating to a focal length equivalent of 105-450mm in full-frame terms. This makes it a fantastic choice for wildlife and sports photographers who often require extended reach. Additionally, its relatively affordable price point makes it accessible to both amateur and professional photographers.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical clarity and colors.
• Compact and lightweight build.
• Effective Vibration Reduction (VR) for better low-light and telephoto performance.
• Fast and quiet autofocus system.

Cons

• Autofocus may struggle slightly in low-light environments.
• Plastic construction may not feel as premium as metal-bodied lenses.

Verdict

The Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm F4.5-5.6E ED VR shines as a versatile lens, delivering exceptional image quality and a user-friendly design. Its lightweight build and effective stabilization make it a great choice for outdoor photography and spontaneous shoots. While there are minor drawbacks, namely in the low-light autofocus performance, the positives far outweigh these. For Nikon DX-format users looking for an outstanding super-telephoto zoom lens, this offering is undoubtedly worth considering.