Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens
The Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is a 500mm f/5.6 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $1,924.4 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR Lens
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Lens Overview — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Key Features — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Phase Fresnel (PF) Element: A single Phase Fresnel element dramatically reduces the lens's size and weight compared to traditional super telephoto designs of the same focal length.
1,460g Compact Build: At just 1,460g, this 500mm prime is light enough for extended handheld shooting in the field, an unusual advantage at this focal length.
500mm f/5.6 Prime: A fixed 500mm focal length delivers optimized optical performance for wildlife, sports, and aviation photography without the compromises of a zoom.
Vibration Reduction (VR): Built-in optical image stabilization compensates for camera shake at long handheld focal lengths, improving keeper rates in challenging conditions.
ED Glass Elements: Extra-low Dispersion glass elements minimize chromatic aberration, producing sharp, color-accurate images across the frame.
Electromagnetic Diaphragm: The E-type electromagnetic aperture mechanism ensures precise, consistent exposure control during high-speed continuous shooting.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Birding, Sports, Travel |
| Lens Type | Super Telephoto |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 500mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Filter Thread | 95mm |
Description — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is a 500mm super telephoto prime lens built around the Nikon F mount, offering full-frame coverage for DSLR shooters. With a maximum aperture of f/5.6, this prime delivers a fixed focal length optimized for subjects at long distances. The lens weighs 1,460g, which is a meaningful advantage for photographers who spend extended time shooting in the field.
Optical image stabilization is integrated into the design, addressing the challenge of camera shake that becomes pronounced at 500mm focal lengths. Focus operation supports both auto and manual modes, giving shooters the flexibility to switch based on the subject. The 95mm filter thread allows for the attachment of standard circular filters.
As a super telephoto prime intended for DSLR camera systems, it is a purposeful tool for photographers committed to working at this specific focal length with the Nikon F mount ecosystem.
Pros — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
- ✓Relatively lightweight at 1,460g for a 500mm super telephoto prime
- ✓Full-frame coverage on Nikon F mount cameras means no image circle compromise
- ✓Optical image stabilization helps control camera shake at 500mm
Cons — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/5.6 is relatively modest for a super telephoto prime, which can limit performance in lower light
- ✗95mm filter size may make certain filter types more expensive or harder to source
- ✗Fixed 500mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility — you commit to this reach entirely
Reviews — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Videos — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Nikon 500 PF Review — Steve Perry
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Nikon F mount, making it compatible with Nikon DSLR cameras. It is designed as a full-frame lens but will also physically mount on Nikon APS-C DSLR bodies.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens features optical image stabilization. This is particularly useful at 500mm, where even minor camera movement can affect sharpness.
What filter size does this lens accept?+
The lens has a 95mm filter thread. This is a less common filter size, so buyers should confirm filter compatibility and availability before purchasing.
Is this a zoom or a prime lens?+
This is a prime lens with a fixed focal length of 500mm. There is no zoom capability — the focal length is fixed at 500mm.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 1,460g. For a super telephoto prime at 500mm, this is a relatively manageable weight, though buyers should factor this into decisions about handheld versus tripod shooting.
Does this lens support autofocus?+
Yes, it supports both autofocus and manual focus. Autofocus can be engaged for fast-moving subjects, while manual focus remains available when precise control is needed.