Nikon has expanded its Z-mount lens lineup with the introduction of the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR, the second super-zoom lens for Z-mount cameras after the Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR. This new lens boasts an impressive 14.3x zoom range, catering to a wide range of shooting scenarios, from sports to travel and wildlife videography.
Despite its remarkable capabilities, the lens stands out as the lightest in its class, weighing just 725g and measuring a mere 5.57 inches in length. This compact and lightweight design makes it a convenient choice for handheld shooting.
The NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 lens features a stepping motor for swift and silent autofocus performance. Its linear manual focus drive ensures smooth focusing, particularly beneficial for video recording. Additionally, at the wide-angle end, the lens achieves a minimum focus distance of less than 8 inches (0.2m). Notably, it incorporates VR (vibration reduction) image stabilization, providing an equivalent of a 5.0-stop increase in shutter speed.
Enhancing its usability, the lens comes equipped with a compact square lens hood and features thorough sealing on movable parts, making it dust and drip-resistant.
While some may note the limited wide-angle coverage starting at 28mm and the potential reduction in image quality at higher focal lengths due to the narrower aperture of f/8, these are necessary compromises to maintain its compactness and lightness. However, shooting outdoors during daylight poses no issues at f/8, and even at 400mm, users can achieve a shallow depth of field.
For photographers using a full-frame Z mount mirrorless camera, Nikon’s latest super zoom lens offers excellent value.
Compared to other lenses in its class, the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR provides a more affordable option to reach a 400mm focal length with a Z-mount lens. Its versatility and compact design make it an appealing choice for those seeking a single, all-purpose lens solution.
To get a first look at the lens, refer to the video posted by Nikon USA on their official YouTube channel.
To gain a deeper understanding of the functionality and features of the 28-400mm lens, you can refer to the detailed analysis, review, and comparison provided in this article by Cameralabs.
