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Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

The Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S is a 400mm f/4.5 lens designed for Nikon Z mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

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Lens Overview — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is a prime super-telephoto lens built for the Nikon Z mirrorless system, designed to cover full-frame sensors. At a fixed focal length of 400mm and a maximum aperture of f/4.5, it sits in a compelling category for sports, wildlife, and action photographers who need serious reach without the bulk typically associated with super-telephoto glass. One of the most immediately striking qualities of this lens is its weight: at just 1,160g, it is notably light for a 400mm prime, making it a practical choice for photographers who spend long hours in the field or travel frequently with their kit.

The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving shooters flexibility depending on the shooting situation. Optical image stabilization is built in, helping to counteract camera shake when shooting handheld at this focal length. The filter thread measures 95mm, which is worth factoring into your accessory budget.

Nikon Z mount compatibility means it integrates natively with the full range of Z-system mirrorless bodies, taking full advantage of the mount's communication and performance capabilities.

Key Features — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

400mm f/4.5 Prime: A fixed 400mm focal length with f/4.5 maximum aperture delivers substantial reach and light-gathering capability for sports, wildlife, and action shooting.

Lightweight Super-Telephoto: At 1,245g, this lens is unusually light for a 400mm prime, reducing fatigue during long sessions in the field or when traveling.

Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in VR helps counteract camera shake at long focal lengths, expanding handheld shooting viability in lower light or from unstable positions.

Nikon Z Mount: Native Z-mount design ensures full electronic communication with Nikon Z mirrorless bodies, including autofocus performance and lens correction profiles.

Full-Frame Coverage: Designed to cover full-frame sensors, so there are no crop factor concerns when used on Nikon Z full-frame bodies like the Z9 or Z8.

Fast, Quiet Autofocus: Multi-focus drive system delivers rapid, near-silent autofocus well-suited to tracking fast-moving subjects in sports and wildlife scenarios.

Lens Specifications — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesWildlife, Sports, Birding, Adventure
Lens TypePrime
FormatFull Frame
Zoom/PrimePrime
Focal Length400mm
Maximum Aperturef/4.5
Camera SystemMirrorless
Lens MountNikon Z
AutofocusYes
Focus TypeAuto, Manual
Image StabilizationOptical
Filter Thread95mm

Description — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is a prime super-telephoto lens with a 400mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/4.5, designed specifically for the Nikon Z mirrorless mount. Built to cover full-frame sensors, it delivers the reach demanded by wildlife and sports photographers without the extreme size and weight penalties of many super-telephoto lenses in this class. Tipping the scales at just 1,160g, this lens is a practical option for photographers who prioritize mobility.

Optical image stabilization is included to help manage camera shake during handheld use at this focal length. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, offering flexibility across shooting scenarios. A 95mm filter thread is present for those who use front-mounted filters, though accessories at this diameter carry a premium.

As a Nikon Z native mount lens, it is purpose-built for the Z mirrorless ecosystem.

Pros — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

  • ✓Lightweight at 1,160g for a 400mm prime, easing fatigue during extended handheld use
  • ✓Maximum aperture of f/4.5 provides solid light-gathering capability for a super-telephoto prime
  • ✓Optical image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting handheld

Cons — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

  • ✗95mm filter thread is a large and less common size, making compatible filters more expensive and harder to source
  • ✗Fixed 400mm focal length offers no zoom flexibility, requiring lens changes for different framing needs
  • ✗Maximum aperture of f/4.5, while respectable, is slightly slower than competing super-telephoto primes at f/4.0

Videos — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

OFFICIAL Nikon 400mm f4.5 Hands-On PREVIEW: A HOME RUN!!! — Jared Polin

Resources & Downloads — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S

What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Nikon Z mount, making it compatible with Nikon Z-system mirrorless cameras. It is not a native fit for older Nikon F-mount DSLR bodies.
Does this lens cover full-frame sensors?+
Yes, the lens is specified as full-frame format, meaning it provides complete image circle coverage for Nikon Z full-frame mirrorless bodies.
Does the lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens features optical image stabilization, which helps reduce the effects of camera shake during handheld shooting at this long focal length.
How heavy is the Nikon 400mm f/4.5 VR S?+
The lens weighs 1,160g, which is relatively light for a 400mm prime super-telephoto lens and makes it more manageable for travel and extended field use.
What filter size does this lens require?+
The lens has a 95mm filter thread. This is a large diameter, so photographers should verify they have or budget for 95mm-compatible filters.
Can I use autofocus with this lens?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving photographers the option to switch between the two depending on the shooting scenario.

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