Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
Announced August 4, 2015
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a sharp, far-reaching telezoom that provides excellent value for wildlife and sports photography. While the lens is notably heavy and requires a long zoom throw, it remains a highly capable and accessible option for those needing consistent performance at a fixed f/5.6 aperture.
Weighted from 26 reviewer scores
Pros
- Sharp optical performance across the zoom range
- Effective vibration reduction for handheld shooting
- Constant f/5.6 aperture throughout the focal range
- Quiet and accurate autofocus operation
- Affordable pricing relative to professional super-telephoto alternatives
Cons
- Heavy build that can be fatiguing for extended use
- Slow zoom ring rotation requiring multiple turns
- External zoom design that extends the barrel
- Unbalanced tripod collar design
- Large 95mm filter thread increases accessory costs
- Launch price $1,399.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 200-500mm f/5.6
- Mount & coverage Nikon F Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS
- Close focus (0.22x)
- Filter thread 95mm
- Autofocus motor Ring-type ultrasonic
- Weight & size 2300g (5 lb 1.1 oz) · 108 x 267.5 mm (4.25 x 10.53 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 26 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
-
With a price that puts it comfortably below the AF-S 80-400mm and is comparable to the Sigma 150-600mm “Sports” the AF-S 200-500mm is positioned quite well.
-
[T]he build quality of the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR is very good for its price and in my opinion slightly exceeds the quality of the Tamron and Sigma counterparts.
-
I must admit, I was a bit sceptical about this lens when I first heard about it, thinking there must have been one compromise too many to keep the lens at a competitive price point, but have to say I’ve been very pleasantly surprised.
-
Here’s the thing: the 200-500mm is better optically in all respects from 200-400mm than the latest 80-400mm.
-
We have a very compelling package here, a lens that is ideally geared up for the wildlife and sports photographer, in a fairly compact portable form that enables hand holding for extended periods of time.
-
If you prefer a wider focal range, faster focus acquisition and lower weight, the 80-400mm VR lens may suit you better; but if your priorities are a longer telephoto reach, superior optical quality and a lower price, the AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is the better choice.
-
It's affordable if you're looking for a mega zoom.
-
If you're after an own-brand super-tele zoom for your Nikon DSLR, the Nikon AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a high-performing lens which is, at least by Nikon's standards, reasonably priced for the focal range on offer.
-
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a long telezoom lens that nets sharp results, but there are better values available.
-
I must admit, I was a bit sceptical about this lens when I first heard about it, thinking there must have been one compromise too many to keep the lens at a competitive price point, but have to say I’ve been very pleasantly surprised.
-
A far-reaching super telezoom, the Nikkor AF-S 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR gives quality results at a reasonable price, but isn’t light in the hand.
-
Nikkor AF-S 200-500mm F/5.6E ED VR is optically excellent.
-
The Nikon 200-500mm is an excellent option for a super telephoto and at a reasonable price.
-
This inexpensive Nikon 200-500 has excellent optics and superb vibration reduction (VR). It's the best buy in Nikon ultratelephotos ever.
-
It’s the answer to your budget telephoto needs. Honestly, I really think I may buy one myself.
-
At the end of the day – go with the 200-500mm if you want a little bit faster aperture with good VR and you are O.K. with the extra weight and can’t afford the Nikon 80-400mm (or the 300mm f/4 with a teleconverter) or just really need the full 500mm.
-
I did find that the image quality was very good for 1000 pound lens, and as a budget option it's fantastic.
-
The Nikon 200-500 f/5.6E VR is a beautiful all-around lens. [...] If you are looking for the most versatile lens for wildlife and nature, the Nikon 200-500m f/5.6 E ED VR is for you!
-
Bottom line for the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR for me and my style of wildlife photography, now that I got it back from Nikon and it appears to be fixed, it is really sharp and looks really nice.
-
As a lens for most people, I think it's gonna be superb. If you pair it with something like a D500 or D7500, you've got a fantastic range of focal lengths from 300mm all the way out to 750mm.
-
I was genuinely surprised with the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR (B&H / Amazon). It performed much better than I anticipated with the $1,400 price tag!
-
The Nikon 200-500mm certainly delivers tremendous value and performs admirably on its typical long-lens assignments.
-
I recommend this lens because of its performance. No lens is perfect, but after using this the Nikon 200-500 for over two years, I’ve found it a good value both for its build quality and sharpness.
-
I'm glad that I made the investment. I have used it a ton.
-
The sharpness is great, so as the bokeh, and the image stabilizer does a fantastic job. After using this lens for several hours, we were happy having a fast working AF system with a reduced speed during live view.
-
Performance of this lens is excellent. Really this is a great lens for the price to give you this type of reach.
