Nikon 70-200 f4 Review

The long anticipated Nikon 70-200mm f/4G is finally available. Unlike the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8, which had a history of lens designs, this f/4 version is brand new to Nikon's lineup and is the first lens to feature third generation VR technology, offering 5 stops of vibration compensation. The lens is designed for full frame FX cameras, but is compatible with DX, and CX sensors as well. Do not misjudge this lens simply as an affordable solution to its 2.8 counterpart. Instead, this lens is built tough for professionals who do not require a maximum aperture of f/2.8. It weighs substantially less and is physically more manageable to use.

[bencushwa]

I had a chance to test this lens last weekend with a D7200. It balanced perfectly on the smaller camera and I was really impressed with the VR, AF, and image quality. The f2.8 on the same body is much more front-heavy and I feel would have been harder to shoot handheld all day.

Another thing that gets overlooked in comparing the f2.8 and the f4 is that the f4 stops down further, so if you need a larger depth of field, or to block out more light on a bright day, you have more options there with the f/4.

[LiquidTurbo]

How come you stopped making videos man? They're great!

[Maritimodotcom]

Really good review of this lens Brian. As always in your videos a lot of detail and info about the product as well as an in depth discussion about performance. I've got the 70-300mm f4.5-5.6 VR which suits my needs for the moment, and has good VR performance. By the way, the written product reviews on your web site are a great source of information and comment ! For me it's one of a few GOTO place for any info on NIKON products. Many thanks for all the efforts.

[cebro]

That was a great comprehensive review and this lens . The focus breathing on the 70-200 2.8 being at 135 mm at close distance is another reason why this lens is a great choice 

[stevetompsett]

Great review Brian..very polished and well produced..some stumbling with the odd mistake can easily be forgiven considering the quality of the rest of the segment ...ive subscribed to you channel ever since i caught the review of the iso tested between the D600 to D4..great work mate and keep the videos coming ..

[briantobey]

Thanks for the feedback. This is really appreciated. I hope to make better reviews in the future.

[RobdoG]

This is my favorite video on YouTube by far. The way you describe the real attributes of a lens is great. The scripted reading is rad! Don't let these guys say anything

[briantobey]

Yes.. thanks for the advice. Your statement is true. This was a one shot go. I had difficulty in the bright lights. I will work on it for future videos.

[briantobey]

Thank you for the kind words. I hope to improve my review process. Thanks for watching.

[briantobey]

Thanks for the feedback.. Good tips for consideration for future reviews.

[briantobey]

Hey, the 70-300mm VR is an excellent lens. I have used it frequently and truly enjoy its handling and performance. However, I do find it a bit soft at 300mm, I prefer using it under 240mm. Thanks for commenting.

[SureshkumarVairamani]

Is it better to get the old built like take Nikon 80-200mm f2.8 or this new one with new VR system but two stops down?

[KK-olov]

So want to get this lens! Great review!

[Rubinmaster]

just bought this today cant wait to use it

[articoli]

Just bought mine Christmas Eve. I'll be shooting a New Years Eve outdoor concert with it, a 17-55 f2.8 Nikkor and an 11-16 f2.8 Tokina all on a D7000. Can't wait to see how the 70-200 performs on tight closeups. My take on the review? Well done, except, as others have said, for the frequent closeups which are distracting. Perhaps if the teleprompter was on top of the video camera they would work better. Otherwise, good job.

[SpeakerFeature]

Appreciate the feedback. We try to make a soundtrack for these long videos to give it a little pep (and cover the noise floor). We make them generic (copyright-free sounding..) in hopes they don't distract but I understand how 12 minutes of synth can get annoying. We'll make something less electronic for the next video so hopefully we can redeem ourselves :)

[haydennettleton]

Interesting review. 10 years later I just brought this lens used at a very good price (equivalent of approximately 400usd) overall very happy with it.

Sounds like my copy is a bit better than your test copy as it's absolutely tack sharp wide open at 200mm except at very close focus distance were it needs to be stopped down to F5.6 to achieve maximum sharpness.

[briantobey]

Thanks for your feedback. I will consider it for my next videos!

[towfiq]

could you please tell me that is this lens is good for sun starburst on photos?

[TheAccessFoundation]

is this good for sports? basketball and football?