Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR Lens — Specs, Reviews, Used Prices

Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500mm f/4G ED VR Lens

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Lens Overview — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500mm f/4G is a prime super telephoto lens built for the Nikon F mount, designed to cover full-frame DSLR cameras. With a fixed focal length of 500mm and a maximum aperture of f/4, this lens is aimed at photographers who demand reach and light-gathering performance in demanding shooting scenarios. Its prime design means there are no compromises in optical path complexity that come with zoom configurations, keeping image rendering consistent at all distances.

The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving shooters flexibility depending on the situation. Optical image stabilization is built in, helping to counteract camera shake during handheld use or when tracking moving subjects. A 52mm filter thread provides a convenient attachment point for accessory filters without requiring large, expensive front-mounted options.

Weighing in at 3,870g, this is a substantial piece of glass that reflects the engineering required to deliver f/4 performance at 500mm in a full-frame format. It mounts exclusively via the Nikon F bayonet, making it directly compatible with the broad range of Nikon F-mount DSLR bodies on the market.

Key Features — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

500mm f/4 Prime: A fixed 500mm focal length with a maximum f/4 aperture delivers strong light-gathering performance for distant subject photography.

ED Glass Elements: Extra-low dispersion glass minimizes chromatic aberration, producing sharp, color-accurate images across the full frame.

AF-S Silent Wave Motor: Nikon's Silent Wave Motor provides fast, near-silent autofocus well-suited to wildlife and sports shooting where noise is a concern.

Built-In VR Stabilization: Optical Vibration Reduction compensates for camera shake, allowing sharper handheld results at this extreme focal length.

Full-Frame Coverage: Designed to cover Nikon's full-frame DSLR sensor, making full use of the image circle on bodies like the D3 and D700 series.

Nikon F Mount: Mounts directly to the full range of Nikon F-mount DSLR bodies, with full electronic communication for metering and autofocus control.

Lens Specifications — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR full specifications
Spec	Detail
Use Cases	Wildlife, Sports, Birding
Lens Type	Super Telephoto
Format	Full Frame
Zoom/Prime	Prime
Focal Length	500mm
Maximum Aperture	f/4
Camera System	DSLR
Lens Mount	Nikon F
Autofocus	Yes
Focus Type	Auto, Manual
Image Stabilization	Optical
Filter Thread	52mm
Weight	3870g

Description — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500mm f/4G is a prime super telephoto lens with a fixed 500mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/4, built for the Nikon F mount and offering full-frame format coverage. It supports both autofocus and manual focus, making it adaptable across different shooting styles and subject types. Optical image stabilization is integrated into the lens, helping photographers manage the challenges of handholding or shooting from less-than-perfectly-stable platforms at extreme telephoto distances. A 52mm filter thread keeps accessory filter costs manageable compared to front-element filter systems on some competing super telephoto designs.

Weighing 3,870g, this lens demands respect in terms of physical support and handling, but that mass is the trade-off for delivering f/4 aperture at the 500mm focal length in a full-frame-compatible design. It is categorized as a DSLR lens, aligning with the Nikon F-mount ecosystem of camera bodies.

Pros — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

✓Maximum aperture of f/4 delivers strong light-gathering at the 500mm focal length
✓Built-in optical image stabilization helps manage camera shake at long focal lengths
✓Prime 500mm design offers a consistent, dedicated focal length for super telephoto work
✓Full-frame coverage suits the complete image circle of Nikon's largest sensor DSLR bodies
✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus for versatile subject-tracking control
✓52mm filter thread allows standard, affordable filter accessories

Cons — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

✗At 3,870g, this lens is very heavy and will require sturdy support for extended shooting sessions
✗Fixed 500mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility, requiring repositioning or cropping to adjust framing
✗Nikon F mount only — not compatible with mirrorless systems without an adapter
✗No weather sealing data is available in specifications, leaving protection against the elements unconfirmed

Reviews — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

Videos — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

Nikon 500mm PF f5.6 vs the f4 FL — Matt Granger

Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 500mm f/4G ED VR

What camera mount does this lens use?+

This lens uses the Nikon F mount. It is designed specifically for Nikon F-mount DSLR cameras and is not natively compatible with other systems.

Does this lens work on full-frame Nikon cameras?+

Yes. The lens format is listed as Full Frame, meaning it covers the full image circle required by Nikon's full-frame DSLR sensors. It will also physically mount on crop-sensor Nikon F-mount bodies.

What filter size does this lens accept?+

The lens has a 52mm filter thread. This allows you to use standard 52mm screw-in filters for effects or protection.

Does this lens include image stabilization?+

Yes. The specifications confirm optical image stabilization is built into the lens. This helps reduce the effect of camera shake, which is especially useful at 500mm focal lengths.

How heavy is this lens?+

The lens weighs 3,870g. This is a significant weight that should be factored into decisions about tripod or monopod use, as well as transport and handling during long shoots.

Is this lens a zoom or a prime?+

This is a prime lens with a fixed focal length of 500mm. There is no zoom capability, so framing adjustments must be made by moving the camera position or cropping in post.

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