10 Best Nikon Lenses For D850 2025 in the United States

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon DSLR cameras, including the D850. With a focal length range of 80-400mm, it covers a wide range of telephoto needs, making it suitable for wildlife, sports, and even portrait photography. The aperture range of f/4.5-5.6 is decent, although it may not perform as well in low-light situations compared to lenses with larger apertures.

The Vibration Reduction (VR) feature helps to counteract camera shake, which is particularly useful when shooting at longer focal lengths or in lower light conditions without a tripod. The lens supports autofocus, which is essential for capturing moving subjects accurately and quickly. The autofocus is reliable, but it may not be the fastest compared to some high-end prime lenses.

In terms of build quality, this lens is robust and feels solid, but it lacks comprehensive weather sealing, so some caution is advised when using it in harsh weather conditions. It's also quite heavy, weighing approximately 3.5 pounds with the tripod collar, which might be a consideration for those planning to carry it for extended periods. The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR is a good choice for photographers who need a flexible telephoto zoom lens with reliable image stabilization, though it might not be the best option for low-light photography or those requiring the fastest autofocus speeds.

The Nikon 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED Autofocus VR Zoom Nikkor Lens is a versatile telephoto zoom lens that offers a broad focal length range of 80-400mm, making it well-suited for wildlife, sports, and distant subject photography. The maximum aperture of f/4.5-5.6 is decent, though not the fastest, which might affect performance in low-light conditions. However, the inclusion of Vibration Reduction (VR) technology helps counteract camera shake, providing the equivalent of a shutter speed three stops faster, which is beneficial for handheld shooting and panning shots.

This feature is particularly useful when shooting at the longer end of the zoom range where camera shake is more pronounced. The lens incorporates three ED glass elements, which enhance optical performance by reducing chromatic aberration and ensuring sharper images. Additionally, the nine-blade rounded diaphragm helps produce pleasing bokeh, giving a natural blur to out-of-focus elements in the background.

The lens is relatively old, having been first available in 2002, and it has been discontinued by the manufacturer. This means that some of the newer technological advancements and improvements might be absent. It also weighs nearly three pounds, which could become cumbersome during long shooting sessions. Nevertheless, if you are using a Nikon D850 and looking for a budget-friendly telephoto zoom lens with good image stabilization and respectable optical quality, this lens could be a viable option.

The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens is an excellent choice for photographers who need a powerful telephoto lens for wildlife, birding, and sports photography. With a focal length range of 200-500mm, it gives you significant zoom capabilities, making it perfect for capturing distant subjects in detail. The fast f/5.6 constant aperture is particularly beneficial for achieving beautiful background blur while also performing well in lower light conditions. This feature can help you'll get clearer images during early dawn or late afternoon shoots.

One of the standout features of this lens is its vibration reduction (VR) technology, which provides 4.5 stops of stabilization. This is especially useful when shooting handheld at high zoom levels, making your images sharper and reducing the risk of motion blur. The lens is also compatible with optional teleconverters, allowing further extension of its reach if needed.

On the flip side, the lens is relatively heavy at approximately 81.2 ounces (about 5.1 pounds), which may be cumbersome for some users, especially during extended shooting sessions. Its size may also require the use of a sturdier tripod for optimal support. Additionally, while the autofocus is generally reliable, some users might find it a bit slow in low light or complex scenes compared to other high-end lenses. Build quality is solid, and while it features weather sealing, it's advisable to take precautions in extreme conditions, especially since high-end outdoor photography can expose gear to the elements. Lastly, the lens is designed primarily for full-frame (FX format) cameras like the D850, making it less appealing for those with crop-sensor (DX format) systems, as the effective focal length becomes significantly longer.

For anyone looking to capture stunning wildlife or sports shots with a Nikon D850, this lens offers excellent performance but consider its weight and handling requirements before making a decision.