10 Best Nikon Lenses 2025 in the United States

The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S is a super-telephoto lens designed for Nikon Z-mount cameras, perfect for wildlife, sports, or any distant subject photography. Its standout feature is the built-in 1.4x teleconverter, which extends the reach to 840mm without losing autofocus capability or needing extra gear—great for getting closer to the action. The lens has a bright f/4 aperture, though when the teleconverter is active, it changes to f/5.6, which is still quite good for low-light situations but not as bright as some prime lenses.

This lens includes advanced vibration reduction (VR) that can stabilize your shots by up to 5 stops, and even more when paired with certain Nikon cameras, helping to reduce blur from hand shake. Autofocus is fast, precise, and very quiet thanks to its Silky Swift VCM system, which is ideal for both stills and video, especially in quiet environments. The lens is thoughtfully designed with ergonomic controls and customizable buttons so you can adjust settings without taking your eye away from the viewfinder, enhancing usability in fast-paced shooting.

Weighing 7.19 pounds, it’s lighter than its F-mount predecessor by about half a pound, which helps when carrying it for long periods, though it’s still a substantial piece of equipment. The lens is clearly aimed at advanced photographers who need high-quality, long-distance zoom with professional features. Given its size, weight, and price, it may be more than casual users need. For those seeking a powerful telephoto lens with a built-in teleconverter and excellent stabilization for sharp images at long range, this lens is a solid choice.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED is a premium telephoto lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras with full-frame (FX) mounts. Its fixed 400mm focal length and wide f/2.8 aperture make it ideal for capturing distant subjects with excellent sharpness and beautiful background blur, which is especially useful for wildlife, sports, and action photography. The lens includes Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, helping to reduce camera shake and deliver steadier shots, which is valuable when shooting handheld or in challenging conditions. Autofocus is fast and reliable, ensuring you can quickly lock onto moving subjects.

One notable aspect is its relatively heavy weight (over 8 pounds) and large size, which might make it less comfortable for casual use or long handheld shoots, so a monopod or tripod is recommended, and a monopod collar is included for easier support. This lens does not require batteries for operation, relying on the camera for power.

As a high-end lens with a premium build and impressive optics, it suits serious photographers who need superior telephoto performance rather than casual users, given its size, weight, and price. It is well-regarded with excellent customer reviews, reflecting its quality and performance.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR is a professional-grade super-telephoto zoom lens that stands out for its impressive versatility and image quality. With a focal length ranging from 180 to 400 mm, plus the built-in 1.4x teleconverter, photographers can reach up to 560 mm, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and sports photography where capturing distant subjects is essential. Its advanced optical design, featuring 8 ED glass elements and a Fluorite element, ensures high-resolution images with minimal distortion and impressive color accuracy, while the Nano Crystal Coat helps reduce ghosting and flare under challenging lighting conditions.

Autofocus performance is another strong point, especially when paired with Nikon's 153-point AF system, allowing for quick subject acquisition and reliable tracking. The lens is also built with durability in mind, boasting a lightweight construction despite its size, advanced weather sealing, and a nonstick Fluorine coating, which makes it more resistant to dirt and moisture.

Potential buyers should be aware of a few drawbacks. Weighing 7.11 pounds, this lens is relatively heavy, which may make it cumbersome for prolonged use without a sturdy tripod or support. Additionally, while the price reflects its professional quality, it might not be suitable for casual photographers or those on a tight budget. The learning curve associated with using such a sophisticated lens can also be steep for beginners.