Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F4 G ED VR Review
General information
This is a zoom lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2012.
The lens belongs to the category
telephoto zoom lenses, a telephoto lens where you have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Nikon
At launch 2012 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F4 G ED VR:
"Compact high-performance 2.9x FX-format telephoto zoom lens with an f/4 fixed aperture and Nikon´s third-generation Vibration Reduction (VR). Capture high performance stills and HD videos with a classic 70-200mm angle of view (105-300mm on DX-format cameras). An essential lens for low light or fast action sequences.
The essential telephoto zoom, more nimble than ever and with up to 5 stops of image stabilization.
Introducing the newest addition to Nikon´s compact high-performance f/4 fixed aperture zoom lenses, the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR. Inspired by today´s versatile HD-SLR shooters, it strikes an ideal balance between exceptional optics, advanced lens technologies—including our game-changing third generation of Vibration Reduction with up to 5 stops of image stabilization—and a remarkably compact, lightweight design. Whether you shoot with an FX- or DX-format camera, handheld or tripod-mounted, the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR delivers the serious telephoto zoom performance you´ve been seeking.
Take it anywhere
At just 30.0 oz and a mere 7.0-in. long, the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR is well balanced and comfortable, even on long outings. Its f/4 fixed maximum aperture excels in low light and lets you maintain a consistent exposure while zooming, especially useful when shooting HD videos. The 70-200mm focal length range (105-300mm on DX-format cameras) has been the choice of pros for years, but for greater reach, add any of Nikon´s teleconverters and achieve 1.4X, 1.7X or 2X magnification. The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR even focuses as close as 3.28-ft with a maximum magnification of 0.274x, so you can capture the smallest of subjects while maintaining a comfortable working distance.
Dazzling photos and HD videos
Optimized for capturing high-quality stills and HD videos on both FX- and DX-format cameras, the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR incorporates Nikon advancements in lens technology and optical design. It´s our first third generation Vibration Reduction lens, which enables hand-held shooting at shutter speeds up to an unheard of 5 stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Nano Crystal Coat (N) reduces ghosting and lens flare; three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements provide maximum sharpness and minimum chromatic aberration, even at f/4; and the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides ultra-fast, ultra-quiet autofocusing with seamless manual focus override.
Cover every possibility
Build an exceptional f/4 zoom system
The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR brings the telephoto zoom range to Nikon´s high-performance f/4 fixed aperture zoom lenses. Pair it with either the ultra-wide-angle to standard AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4F ED VR or the wide-angle to telephoto AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, and you´ll be able to cover an extremely broad focal length range with f/4 speed, superior image quality and a compact, lightweight lens system."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 70-200 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
A positive thing is that this lens has a versitale zoom range, where the difference between 'maximum zoomed out' to 'maximum zoomed in' increases the lens versatility since you as a photographer easily can compose your picture without moving yourself physically.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F4 G ED VR
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/4.
The lens is to considered fairly bright. This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues. Lenses with good aperture values and longer focal lengths, such as this lens, tend to be popular amongs sports and nature photographers.
A feature worth commenting, which is also related to lens brightness, is that the brightness and maximum aperture-value remains constant regardless of focal length used. This makes it easier for you as a photographer. No matter if you are have the focus ring and focal length at 70 mm or at 200 mm the aperture value can be f/4.
Inside the lens there is an image stabilizer, which helps to fend off possible movements and tremors. This is very positive and can be of great help in situations and conditions where the light is inadequate and not enough for decent shutter speeds.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 67 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HB-60".
Images of Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F4 G ED VR
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Things to consider before buying
Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.
- Constant maximum aperture value regardless of focal length
- Has a built-in image stabilizer
- An impressive focal range
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- Light weight (850 gr)
- The lens can be used with a tripod mount but this is not included and must be purchased separately
- The lens is not sealed against moisture and dust
- The price (more info)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F4 G ED VR.
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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