Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4D ED-IF II

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4D ED-IF II is a super telephoto lens that has gained a reputation among wildlife and sports photographers for its outstanding performance and impressive build quality. With its long focal length and fast maximum aperture, this lens opens a world of possibilities for capturing distant subjects with speed and precision.

Build Quality and Handling

The build quality of the Nikkor 600mm f/4D is exceptional, featuring a robust and weather-sealed design that can withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting. The lens is primarily constructed from high-quality materials, giving it a professional feel. However, its size and weight—coming in at over 12 pounds—make it a hefty piece of equipment that requires solid support, often necessitating the use of a tripod or monopod. While some users may find it daunting to handle, the lens does come with a removable tripod collar, which adds flexibility for shooting.

Optical Performance

When it comes to optical performance, the AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4D excels in sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. It incorporates advanced lens elements, including Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass, which minimizes chromatic aberrations and enhances image quality across the frame. The lens produces stunning detail, even at wide open f/4, and maintains excellent sharpness throughout the aperture range. Additionally, the bokeh provided by this lens is beautifully smooth, making it an excellent choice for isolating subjects against busy backgrounds.

Autofocus and Low Light Capability

Equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), this lens offers fast and accurate autofocus performance, which is crucial when capturing fast-moving subjects. The AF system is particularly responsive, allowing photographers to track subjects with confidence. Furthermore, the f/4 aperture is wide enough to perform admirably in low light conditions, making it versatile for various lighting situations.

Compatibility

While designed primarily for Nikon F mount cameras, it is essential to note that this lens is optimized for use with full-frame sensors. When mounted on a DX format camera, the effective focal length becomes much longer due to the crop factor, which can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives you an equivalent focal length of 900mm—ideal for capturing distant wildlife. On the other hand, this may lead to diminished frame coverage in certain scenarios.

Price Point

One significant factor to consider is the price point of this lens. It sits at the high end of the market, making it a considerable investment. While many users may justify the cost based on the optical performance and build quality, some might find it hard to stomach the expense, especially if they are not regularly shooting in situations that necessitate such a powerful focal length.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather sealing.
• Outstanding optical performance and sharpness.
• Fast autofocus with Silent Wave Motor technology.
• Great low-light performance thanks to the f/4 aperture.
• Beautiful bokeh.

Cons

• Heavy and requires sturdy support.
• High price point.
• Effective focal length may be too long for some applications on DX cameras.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm f/4D ED-IF II is a stellar choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand the best in telephoto photography. Its combination of excellent image quality, robust build, and strong autofocus performance make it a must-have for anyone involved in wildlife or sports photography. That said, potential buyers should carefully consider their shooting needs, handling preferences, and budget before committing to this impressive, but pricey, lens.