Nikon AF-S 600mm F4 E FL ED VR Review

General information

This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2015.
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 2015 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 600mm F4 E FL ED VR:

"Long reach with superior performance.
When you´re at the top of your game, you need gear that can keep up. The AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR makes no compromises when it comes to performance. This popular 600mm prime lens has been optimized for today´s high-resolution image sensors and fast shooting Nikon DSLRs, elevating your ability to quickly capture stunning images. A new magnesium alloy lens barrel design and the incorporation of fluorite elements makes it nearly 3 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Pair that with the latest in lens innovation and optical precision for the ideal lens choice for outdoor sports, action and nature photographers who need the reach a 600mm focal length will provide.

Tripod-compatible image stabilization
~4.0 stops of Vibration Reduction
Reduce blur caused by camera movement, even in low light. Nikon´s VR image stabilization counteracts camera shake and vibration up to ~4.0 stops*, a must-have feature when working handheld, on a monopod or even a tripod. A specialized Sports Mode is optimized for camera pans and fast-action sports, and the Tripod Mode eliminates the subtle ground vibrations that are constantly passing through a tripod or monopod.

Lens-to-camera precision
Superior AF tracking and exposure control
Track fast moving subjects—even those moving erratically, at random speeds or approaching the camera quickly—with tack-sharp AF precision. During high-speed continuous shooting, the electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism operates in sync with the camera shutter for fast automatic exposure control and consistency between shots, even when using a compatible teleconverter.

Ready for the field
Lightweight, durable and reliable
This is a lens built for tough assignments. A new magnesium alloy barrel and fluorite elements reduce the overall weight by nearly 3 pounds versus its predecessor**. The protective front meniscus is coated with Nikon´s nonstick Fluorine coat, which makes it easier to wipe off water, dirt and smudges. Ball bearings in the tripod collar ring ensure smooth transitions between horizontal and vertical shooting.

**AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4G ED VR

SPORT Vibration Reduction
For pros shooting fast and erratic moving sports subjects, using the SPORT VR mode will give you a more stable viewfinder image, handheld or when using a monopod, even if you’re panning. Track subjects easier when shooting in Continuous mode and as an added benefit with the D4S, the continuous shooting frame rates and release lag time are not affected while using VR. Even use SPORT VR when shooting HD video. The Tripod VR function even eliminates the vibrations that may transfer from the ground to the tripod in both Normal and SPORT VR modes.


Extreme reach. Stunning clarity. With an incredibly lightweight build and the latest lens technologies, this fast 600mm super-telephoto shifts the balance for wildlife and sports photographers.

Two fluorite elements enhance optical performance, and substantially reduce the weight of the lens to just 3810 g. The fast f/4 maximum aperture and advanced optics ensure outstanding precision. Nikon’s Vibration Reduction offers an impressive four-stop advantage, and SPORT VR mode excels at tracking fast action. An electromagnetic diaphragm ensures precise exposures during high-speed bursts. A fluorine coating repels water, dust, and dirt, enhancing durability.

Professional super-telephoto: 600mm focal length and fast f/4 maximum aperture.

Robust and light: fluorite elements help reduce the weight of this super-telephoto lens to just 3810 g (approx.). Lightweight, rugged and reliable, the body boasts a professional-grade dust- and moisture-resistant construction.

High optical performance: two fluorite elements, four extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements, and Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat ensure minimal chromatic aberration and ghosting.

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 achievable when VR is turned off.

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

Silent Wave Motor (SWM): ultra-fast, ultra-quiet autofocus performance with seamless manual override.

Focus limit switch: offers two positions: FULL and ∞ - 10 m.

Fluorine coating: actively repels water, dust, and dirt without compromising image quality. The coating is applied to the protective glass on the front element of the lens, where it also makes it easier to clean the glass without damaging the surface.

Minimum focus distance: 4.4 m

Tripod mount ring: new bearings improve durability, and ensure smooth switching between horizontal and vertical orientation. The mount is positioned close to the rear of the lens to ensure comfortable transportation, and allow the included one-piece hood to be reversed.

Short monopod collar included: for more stability when using a monopod.

Included CT-608 case: sturdy yet lightweight trunk case with fold-in handle that makes it easy to stack.

Material code
AF-S NIKKOR 600mm f/4E FL ED VR - JAA534DA


The world’s lightest* FX-format compatible, super-telephoto 600mm f/4 lens that employs two fluorite lens elements
* Among full-frame (35mm-format image sensor) digital SLR compatible, f/4, single-focal-length AF 600 mm lenses available on the market as of July 2, 2015. Statement based on Nikon research.

FX-format compatible, super-telephoto prime lens with 600 mm* focal length and f/4 maximum aperture.
* When attached to a DX-format digital SLR, the angle of view is equivalent to that of a lens with a focal length of 900 mm in FX/35mm format.

Employing two fluorite lens elements realizes an outstandingly light body, facilitating composition change even for quickly moving subjects and enabling easy transportation. Two fluorite lens elements and three ED glass elements plus Nano Crystal Coat are employed to achieve high optical performance with minimized chromatic aberration and ghost effect.

Vibration Reduction (VR) system provides an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.0 stops* faster in NORMAL mode.
* Based on CIPA Standard. When attached to an FX-format digital SLR camera.
VR performance immediately after the power is turned on in NORMAL mode has been improved, providing a more stable viewfinder image and enhanced blur-reduction effect on the resulting images. SPORT mode, especially effective when shooting sports, for example, in which subjects are radically moving, is adopted as a VR mode option. Even during high-speed continuous shooting, superior AF tracking is achieved, while exposure is stably controlled with the adoption of an electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism. Fluorine coat is applied to a meniscus protective glass at the lens front for enhanced durability and dust prevention.

Tripod collar ring utilizing bearings enables smooth switching between horizontal and vertical orientation even for moving subjects, while ensuring improved durability."


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 600 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/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.

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  (40,5 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-40".

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 600mm F4 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 600 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
  • Heavy (3810 gr)
  • The price (more info)

Our Review Ratings

Time to grade Nikon AF-S 600mm F4 E FL ED VR.

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

Best deals on Nikon AF-S 600mm F4 E FL ED VR

Make sure to check out our price information page for best offers on this lens.