Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 E FL ED VR Review

"Professional FX-format 400 mm super telephoto lens. With fast f/2.8 maximum aperture and advanced optical formula, this lens is ideal for sports and news photographers who demand peak performance.

Crafted to deliver precision at any speed, this is the first NIKKOR super-telephoto to feature Nikon’s SPORT Vibration Reduction (VR) mode. Ideal when tracking fast action, SPORT mode delivers a stable viewfinder image with virtually no loss of the maximum frame rates that are possible when VR is turned off. Two fluorite lens elements enhance optical performance and help reduce weight for balanced handling. Fluorine coating actively repels water, dust, and dirt without compromising image quality.

Fast super-telephoto lens: offers 400 mm focal length and fast f/2.8 maximum aperture.

High optical performance: two fluorite and two ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements ensure minimal chromatic aberration. The lens boasts a drop-in filter holder and is supplied with an NC filter.

Nano Crystal Coat: reduces ghosting and flare for greater image clarity, even in backlit situations.

Electromagnetic diaphragm: enables consistent exposures during high-speed bursts.

Vibration Reduction (VR): with SPORT mode. VR minimises camera shake and lets you shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops slower.¹ SPORT VR mode delivers a stable viewfinder image when shooting high-speed movement, and allows a continuous shooting frame rate and release time lag similar to those that are possible when VR is turned off.

Tripod mount ring: bearings improve durability and ensure smooth switching between horizontal and vertical orientation.

Fluorine coating: actively repels water, dust, and dirt without compromising image quality. The coating is applied to the meniscus protective glass on the front element of the lens.

Robust and light: fluorite elements help reduce the weight of this super-telephoto lens to just 3800 g (approx.). The body boasts a professional-grade dust- and moisture-resistant construction.

Ergonomic tripod foot: faces the front of the lens for more comfortable transportation when the lens is attached to a monopod. An anti-theft security slot keeps the lens secure.

One-piece hood: the hood can be flipped and reversed, allowing it to remain attached to the lens during transportation.

Included case: the sturdy CT-405 trunk case comes with the lens for convenient, safe transportation.


Thrilling views of the world´s most thrilling moments.
AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens product photo
Lighter and more rugged than its acclaimed predecessor, the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR frees professionals and passionate shooters to capture the thrill of sports, action and wildlife with staggering clarity and precision, even when shooting handheld in challenging lighting conditions. A fast f/2.8 maximum aperture paired with Nikon VR technology delivers exciting new low-light capabilities and beautiful bokeh, while a specialized diaphragm maintains consistent exposure during high-speed shooting. Pro-grade dust- and moisture-sealing and a fluorine coated front meniscus glass element protect the lens´ superb NIKKOR optics on tough assignments while Nikon´s advanced lens technologies give you every advantage for catching the shots that matter.

The speed and reach to succeed
Fast f/2.8 400mm prime lens
When it comes to capturing sports or wildlife where the action is fast and the conditions are rarely favorable, lens speed can mean the difference between a great shot and a miss. At f/2.8, the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR gathers maximum light and renders beautiful bokeh. Nikon VR enhances that speed with up to 4 stops* of blur-free handheld shooting, including a new mode specifically for shooting Sports and Action, while a specialized electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism achieves remarkably consistent exposures when shooting at high frame rates. You might not be able to predict the spontaneous, but you certainly can prepare for it.

Built for rough conditions
Lightweight, rugged and reliable
Thanks to lightweight fluorite lens elements and a magnesium alloy die-cast lens barrel, the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR is nearly 2 lbs. lighter than its predecessor, AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8G ED VR. Anyone who has spent time in the field with a large super-telephoto lens knows every pound counts. And since wildlife and action often mean harsh conditions, it features professional grade dust- and moisture-resistant sealing and a fluorine coated meniscus protective glass element at the lens front. Wherever your assignments or passion take you, the AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR is ready.

Every advantage for landing the shot
Superb NIKKOR optics and Nikon lens technologies
The AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR is an advanced lens designed to draw peak potential from high-resolution Nikon D-SLRs. The lens´ ultra-fast, ultra-quiet Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides outstanding autofocus performance with seamless manual override (just spin the lens barrel). Two fluorite lens elements (FL) provide superior optical characteristics while minimizing overall weight, while two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements nearly eliminate chromatic aberration, even at f/2.8."