Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for professional and enthusiast photographers alike. Specifically crafted for Nikon F mounts, particularly in DX format, this lens offers impressive quality and performance across its focal range, making it an excellent choice for various photography styles including portraits, wildlife, and sports.

Build and Design

The lens boasts a robust build quality with a weather-sealed design, making it suitable for outdoor shooting conditions. At 1,430 grams (approximately 3.15 pounds), it strikes a reasonable balance between sturdiness and portability, though it is still heavier than some may prefer for extended handheld use. The lens features a sleek black finish and a retractable lens hood, enhancing both its aesthetics and functionality.

Image Quality

One of the standout features of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR is its optical performance. The lens includes Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and specialized coatings that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, flare, and ghosting. This results in sharp, contrast-rich images even at wide-open apertures. The lens maintains excellent image quality throughout its zoom range, with minimal distortion, making it an ideal choice for capturing fine details.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR delivers fast and accurate autofocus that's particularly useful for capturing moving subjects. The focus is swift and relatively quiet, allowing for discreet shooting in environments where noise could be a concern. Additionally, manual focus override is smooth, providing photographers with further control during critical shooting situations.

Vibration Reduction

The lens features Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which can compensate for camera shake, allowing for sharper images at slower shutter speeds. This is particularly advantageous when shooting in low-light conditions or at longer focal lengths, enabling photographers to capture clearer shots without resorting to a tripod.

Compatibility

While designed primarily for FX format, this lens is also well-suited for DX format cameras, effectively giving photographers a 105-300mm equivalent focal range. This versatility makes it a strong candidate for those who wish to maximize their reach while enjoying the benefits of F-mount cameras.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality with weather-sealing
• Impressive optical performance with minimal distortion
• Fast and accurate autofocus with SWM
• Effective Vibration Reduction for low-light shooting
• Great versatility for both portrait and wildlife photography

Cons

• Relatively heavy for handheld shooting over extended periods
• Higher price point compared to some competing lenses in the same category

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR is a high-performance telephoto lens that excels in a variety of shooting conditions. Its exceptional image quality, combined with fast autofocus and effective stabilization, makes it a worthwhile investment for both professional and eager amateur photographers. While it may be on the pricier side and slightly bulky, the benefits it offers far outweigh these drawbacks, solidifying its place as one of the top choices for Nikon F mount lenses.