Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm F5.6E ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm F5.6E ED VR is a powerful telephoto zoom lens that caters specifically to Nikon F (DX) mount users, making it an excellent choice for wildlife, sports, and even landscape photography. With its impressive focal length range and constant f/5.6 aperture, this lens provides versatility for various shooting situations while ensuring consistent brightness throughout the zoom range.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Nikon 200-500mm is superb. It features a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of outdoor photography, which is crucial for wildlife photographers who often find themselves in challenging environments. The lens incorporates weather sealing, providing some protection against dust and moisture, though it is always recommended to exercise caution when shooting in adverse conditions.

Additionally, its relatively compact size for a lens of this focal length is a notable advantage, making it more manageable during extended shooting sessions. The lens does come with a built-in tripod collar that allows for more stability during long exposures or when shooting at lower shutter speeds.

Image Quality

In terms of image quality, the Nikon 200-500mm delivers sharp and detailed images across the entire zoom range. The lens employs several special glass elements, including ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, to minimize chromatic aberration and ensure excellent contrast. Users will appreciate the effective control over lens flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The bokeh produced by the lens is also commendable, which is particularly valuable when isolating subjects at longer focal lengths. Overall, this lens's optical performance holds up well, even at the longer end of the zoom range, producing images that are rich in detail and clarity.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus on the Nikon 200-500mm is fast and reliable, thanks to Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology. It locks focus quickly, which is essential for capturing fast-moving subjects like birds in flight or athletes in action. However, it's worth noting that autofocus performance may slow down in low-light situations, which could be a limitation for some users.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather sealing.
• Impressive image sharpness and contrast across the focal range.
• Fast and reliable autofocus performance.
• Useful focal length range for various photography genres.

Cons

• Can be bulky and heavy for prolonged handheld use.
• Autofocus may struggle in low-light conditions.
• Limited maximum aperture of f/5.6, which may restrict low-light shooting options.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm F5.6E ED VR is a standout telephoto zoom lens for Nikon F (DX) mount users. Its robust construction, impressive image quality, and fast autofocus system make it a compelling choice for wildlife and sports photography. While it may not be the most portable option and has some limitations in very low-light situations, its strengths far outweigh its downsides. For anyone looking to invest in a versatile and high-performing lens, the 200-500mm is certainly worth considering.