Nikon Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM Lens
The Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM is a 300mm f/2.8 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM Lens
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Lens Overview — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
Key Features — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
300mm f/2.8 Prime: A fixed 300mm focal length with a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture delivers consistent optical performance and strong subject isolation across the working range.
ED Glass Elements: Extra-low dispersion glass minimizes chromatic aberration and color fringing, producing sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum aperture.
SWM Silent Wave Motor: Nikon's Silent Wave Motor drives autofocus quickly and quietly, making it well suited for wildlife, sports, and any situation where noise is a concern.
Nikon F Mount: Compatible with a wide range of Nikon full-frame and APS-C DSLR bodies, offering broad usability across Nikon's camera lineup.
Auto/Manual Focus: Supports both autofocus and full-time manual focus override, giving photographers flexibility to switch modes without changing settings on the camera.
Full-Frame Coverage: Image circle covers a full 35mm sensor, delivering edge-to-edge sharpness on full-frame bodies with no vignetting penalty.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Sports, Wildlife, Birding |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 300mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 52mm |
Description — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM is a prime telephoto lens built for the Nikon F mount, covering a full-frame image circle and designed for DSLR camera systems. With a 300mm fixed focal length and a f/2.8 maximum aperture, this lens is engineered for photographers who require a fast, dedicated telephoto option. The f/2.8 aperture provides meaningful advantages in controlling depth of field and working in lower ambient light conditions.
Focus options include both autofocus and manual focus, offering operational flexibility across different shooting scenarios. A 52mm filter thread at the front of the lens allows for straightforward accessory filter integration. The lens tips the scales at 2,900g, a weight that reflects the optical construction necessary to achieve this aperture at this focal length.
Notably, no image stabilization is present in this lens, which is worth factoring into any handheld shooting plans. Overall, this is a purpose-built, full-frame telephoto prime for serious Nikon F mount users.
Pros — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
- ✓Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture enables strong subject isolation and low-light capability
- ✓Fixed 300mm focal length on a full-frame format delivers a dedicated telephoto perspective
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus modes for flexible operation
Cons — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
- ✗At 2,900g, the lens is very heavy and will require support or a sturdy tripod/monopod for extended use
- ✗No image stabilization, which can be a disadvantage when shooting handheld at this focal length and weight
- ✗Fixed 300mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility, requiring the photographer to reposition for different compositions
Videos — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
Nikon AF-S 70-300mm G ED VR lens review with samples — Christopher Frost
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 300mm f/2.8 D ED SWM
What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Nikon F mount, making it compatible with Nikon's full-frame and APS-C DSLR camera bodies. It is designed for DSLR camera systems.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No. The specifications confirm that image stabilization is listed as 'None' on this lens. Photographers should account for this when shooting handheld, especially given the 300mm focal length.
What filter size does this lens accept?+
The lens features a 52mm front filter thread, allowing use of standard 52mm screw-in filters such as polarizers or ND filters.
How heavy is this lens, and does that affect usability?+
The lens weighs 2,900g, which is substantial. Most photographers using this lens will want to pair it with a monopod or tripod with an appropriate head to reduce fatigue during extended shoots.
Is this a zoom or a prime lens?+
This is a prime lens with a fixed focal length of 300mm. It does not offer any zoom capability, but delivers a consistent f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout its use.
Does this lens support autofocus?+
Yes. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, as indicated in the specifications. This gives photographers the flexibility to switch modes based on their shooting situation.