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 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.