10 Best Nikon Lenses 2025 in the United States

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.

The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens is a top-tier telephoto option that stands out for its impressive features. One of its major strengths is the built-in 1.4x teleconverter, which effectively extends the focal length to 560mm without sacrificing image quality or focus points. This makes it a fantastic choice for wildlife and sports photography, where capturing distant subjects sharply is crucial. The lens also boasts advanced Vibration Reduction (VR), providing up to 5.5 stops of stabilization, which dramatically helps with handheld shooting in challenging conditions.

Another notable feature is the Silky Swift VCM Autofocus system, which delivers fast and precise focusing with minimal noise. This is particularly beneficial for shooting in quiet environments or recording video, where sound can be an issue. The anti-glare performance is impressive too, thanks to Nikon's Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat, allowing you to shoot in bright conditions with reduced ghosting and flare.

The lens is quite heavy and large, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially those looking for a more portable option. Additionally, its high-end features come with a premium price tag, which might deter budget-conscious photographers. While the customizable controls enhance usability, they may require some time to master, especially for beginners. This lens is perfect for professionals or serious enthusiasts who require top-quality performance in telephoto photography, but those seeking a lightweight, budget-friendly option might want to consider alternatives.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens stands out as an exceptional super-telephoto option for Nikon Z mount cameras, offering a substantial 800mm focal length. This makes it ideal for wildlife and sports photography where capturing distant subjects is crucial. One of its defining features is the impressive Vibration Reduction (VR) system that provides up to 5.5 stops of stabilization when paired with the Nikon Z 9, ensuring sharper images even in challenging conditions.

Additionally, the lens is compatible with teleconverters (TC-1.4x and TC-2.0x), extending its reach to 1120mm and 1600mm without compromising resolution or autofocus performance. This added versatility can be very beneficial for photographers who need extra reach without additional gear. Despite its powerful capabilities, it remains relatively lightweight and compact for an 800mm lens, weighing in at just 5.25 pounds and measuring over 15 inches in length. The use of Nikon's Phase Fresnel element helps maintain high image quality while keeping the lens portable.

The lens also features ergonomic controls, including customizable function buttons and rings, making it user-friendly and adaptable to various shooting situations. However, one potential drawback is its f/6.3 aperture, which might not be ideal for low-light scenarios. Additionally, the high focal length might necessitate the use of a tripod or monopod for stability, especially for extended shooting sessions. In summary, the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S is a highly specialized lens that offers great performance and portability for photographers who require an extended reach.