Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 D IF-ED II Review

Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 D IF-ED II

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2001.
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 2001 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 D IF-ED II:

"Compact, high-performance supertelephoto

Three ED glass elements minimize chromatic aberrations

SWM for quiet high-speed autofocus

M/A mode for quick switch between autofocus and manual focus operation

Nine-blade rounded diaphragm achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements

Focuses down to 3.5m (3.4m in MF)

High performance super telephoto with Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Compact and super-light for its class.

Ideal for wildlife and sports photography

ED Glass elements

M/A mode allows rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation

Magnesium alloy employed to ensure lightweight, rugged body

Also available in Light grey "

Product description from Nikon at launch 2001

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 400 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/2,8.

This aperture value indicates that the lens is very bright.This aperture value indicates that the lens is very 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.

The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.

Filter and Lens Hood

If you want to use filters on this lens the slot-in filters  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-27".

Tripod Mount

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

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.

  • The lens brightness, f/2,8
  • Long focal length with its 400 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 not sealed against moisture and dust
  • Heavy (4800 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 400mm F2.8 D IF-ED II.

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

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