Nikon AF-S 800mm F5.6 E FL ED VR Review

Nikon AF-S 800mm F5.6 E FL ED VR

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2013.
The lens belongs to the category telephoto prime lenses, a telephoto lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.

Product description from Nikon

At launch 2013 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 800mm F5.6 E FL ED VR:

"The longest lens in the NIKKOR lineup, delivering 800mm of exceptional full-frame super-telephoto power (1000mm with the included 1.25x teleconverter) and the latest advancements in optical design and lens technology. Suprisingly compact and lightweight with a magnesium-alloy barrel and dust- and moisture-resistant construction, this is the definitive long-reach lens for sports, news and wildlife photographers.

A marvel of optical design: the groundbreaking 800mm prime.

Introducing one of the most impressive feats of NIKKOR engineering yet—the remarkable full frame AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR. Offering sports, news and wildlife photographers the pinnacle of reach and performance, it combines advanced NIKKOR optics and lens technology within a dust- and water-resistant magnesium-alloy body. With Nikon´s exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) providing ultra-fast, ultra-quiet autofocusing, lightweight fluorite lens elements improving optical performance and handling, Vibration Reduction enabling faster handheld shooting* and an electromagnetic diaphragm for consistent exposures during high-speed bursts, the AF-S NIKKOR 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR sets a new standard for super-telephoto lenses. And with the included AF-S Teleconverter TC800-1.25E ED, you can increase overall focal length to a whopping 1000mm (1500mm equivalent on DX-format cameras). Conquer distance like never before.


Key Features

FX-format compatible, super-telephoto single-focal-length lens with a focal length of 800 mm (the longest among AF NIKKORs) and a maximum aperture of f/5.6

Fluorite (x2), ED glass (x2) and Nano Crystal Coat are employed, realizing high optical performance with minimal chromatic aberration

1.25x AF-S Teleconverter, AF-S TELECONVERTER TC800-1.25E ED that employs an ED glass element is supplied as a dedicated teleconverter (focal length is extended to 1000 mm with effective maximum aperture of f/7.1)

Electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism is incorporated for enhanced stability in auto exposure control during continuous shooting even when the teleconverter is used (Not compatible with the D2 series, D1 series, D200, D100, D90, D80, D70 series, D3000, D60, D50, D40 series, 35mm film cameras)

VR function that provides the effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.0 stops faster*
*Based on CIPA Standard"

Product description from Nikon at launch 2013

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 800 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.

Lens brightness and image stabilizer

The lens brightness and aperture value is f/5,6.

This lens is not considered to have a good aperture value and brightness. It is something to consider before you purchase the lens. To compensate for this you might, while photographing in less favorable light conditions, be forced to either use higher ISO settings (which generates more noise in the image), slower shutter speeds (which may give some motion blur) or flash lightning. Read more at the link below what lens brightness means to you as a photographer.

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

If you want to use filters on this lens the slot-in filters  (52 mm) would be the ones to use, which is very common at these larger telephoto lenses.

If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HK-38".

Tripod Mount

This lens is equipped with a tripod mount, which makes use of a tripod easier and more stable.

Images of Nikon AF-S 800mm F5.6 E FL 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.

  • Has a built-in image stabilizer
  • Long focal length with its 800 mm
  • Works on all sensor types
  • Has a built-in autofocus motor
  • A lens hood is included
  • A tripod mount is included
  • The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
  • Poor aperture value with its f/5,6
  • Heavy (4590 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 800mm F5.6 E FL ED VR.

Build Quality     
Image Quality     
Autofocus     
Sharpness     
Versatility     
Value     
Overall rating 3 of 5

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