Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm F4E FL ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm F4E FL ED VR is a premier super-telephoto lens designed for Nikon's F mount and is particularly favored by wildlife and sports photographers seeking to capture distant subjects with exceptional clarity and detail. This lens features a robust build quality and a range of advanced optical technologies that enhance its performance, making it a staple for professionals in the field.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things you'll notice about the Nikon 600mm F4E is its substantial size and weight. Weighing in at around 3.85 kg (8.5 lbs), this lens is not for the faint-hearted. However, it is constructed with a magnesium alloy body that is both durable and relatively lightweight for its class, making it easier to handle during extended shooting sessions. The lens also boasts weather sealing, allowing it to withstand challenging shooting conditions, which is a significant advantage for outdoor photographers.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Nikon 600mm F4E FL ED VR is nothing short of impressive. It incorporates fluorite and extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images. The maximum aperture of F4 allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to achieve beautiful subject isolation with creamy bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography, wildlife shots, and even sports.

Autofocus and Image Stabilization

The lens features Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and near-silent autofocus, which is particularly beneficial when photographing sensitive wildlife. The autofocus system is quick and accurate, making it a reliable option for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Vibration Reduction (VR) technology helps to reduce the effects of camera shake, allowing for sharper images at slower shutter speeds, a crucial factor when shooting handheld in less-than-ideal conditions.

Compatibility

While primarily designed for full-frame DSLRs, the lens is also compatible with Nikon's DX-format cameras. However, users should be aware that using this lens on a DX body results in a 1.5x crop factor, effectively extending the focal length to 900mm. This can be advantageous for those needing extra reach but may require a compensatory adjustment in overall composition and handling.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather sealing.
• Outstanding optical performance with minimal aberrations.
• Fast and accurate autofocus thanks to SWM.
• Effective Vibration Reduction for sharp handheld shots.
• Versatile use in both wildlife and sports photography.

Cons

• Heavy and may be cumbersome to carry for long durations.
• Expensive and may not be within reach for casual photographers.
• The 1.5x crop factor on DX cameras may limit creative composition.

Verdict

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 600mm F4E FL ED VR is undeniably one of the finest super-telephoto lenses available for Nikon F mount users. While it comes with a hefty price tag and significant weight, its exceptional optical quality and advanced features make it a worthy investment for serious wildlife and sports photographers. If you have the physical stamina to handle it and the budget to match, this lens is a powerful tool for capturing stunning imagery in a variety of conditions.