Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
Announced October 28, 2021
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
The Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S delivers sharp, high-contrast imagery and reliable autofocus performance in a robust, weather-sealed package. While it offers impressive versatility and stabilization, the lens carries a high price tag and some ergonomic limitations regarding its weight and zoom design.
Weighted from 17 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast, accurate, and silent autofocus performance
- Excellent image quality with sharp results, beautiful bokeh, and effective flare control
- Highly effective image stabilization and balanced handling
- Sturdy build quality with effective weather sealing
- Useful close-focusing capabilities
Cons
- Lack of dedicated physical switches for VR and limited control options
- High price point
- Heavy physical design
- Variable aperture and performance limitations at specific focal lengths or distances
- External zoom design and tripod foot issues
- Launch price $2,699.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6
- Mount & coverage Nikon Z Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 75 cm (0.38x)
- Filter thread 77mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 1435g (3 lb 2.6 oz) · 98 x 222 mm (3.86 x 8.74 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 17 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 8.5/10
[T]he Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is a sharp and fast lens with few problems that can’t be fixed by firmware updates.
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The Nikon Z 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 VR S is a long telephoto zoom lens which finally allows full-frame Nikon Z cameras to reach beyond 200mm without relying on older F-mount lenses.
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I believe that you should pick the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 if versatility is your most important consideration. It’s a great performer with a huge zoom range.
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[T]he lens puts in a very pleasing performance and it’s easy to recommend it for those looking for a lens which offers a long focal length.
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I'm probably just a little biased there, but for those wanting the flexibility of its zoom range, it still comes recommended if you can stomach its rather high asking price.
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So what we have here is the new (Nikon) standard for a long telephoto zoom. The 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 definitely justifies its S-line marking, and I'd tend to argue that its price is therefore justified, as well.
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This is a pricey lens, but a superb one that delivers the goods and operates utterly slickly in every respect.
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[T]he Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is highly recommended for anybody that wants a superb all-in-one zoom for photographing subjects such as portraits, wildlife, sports or action.
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So was I happy with the results from this Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S? The answer is yes.
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The Z 100-400mm is a fabulous lens that combines rapid autofocus and highly effective 5.5-stop VR with superb image quality.
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The Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 VR S brings far-off subjects into close view, supports teleconverters, and works well for macro subjects. It's a big lens to carry, but you won't quibble with its results.
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For action photographers in particular, the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S fills a big gap in the Nikon Z lens line up. And it does not disappoint, with its excellent build quality, nifty controls and optical stabilization.
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All in all, this is the lens I know a lot of Nikon shooters will be very happy with. It's not cheap at around 2,700 US dollars and a lot more in most other countries, but it definitely backs up the price with stellar performance in the field.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is a relatively fast, ruggedly built and weather resistant super-zoom lens. Our image tests for this lens were sharp and autofocusing was fast and near silent.
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This 100-400mm VR is my favorite Nikon Z telephoto because it covers a much more useful zoom range than any other, it focuses super close and has superb optics in a package that handles very well.
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A 100-400mm lens is considered indispensable by many photographers for its versatility, and Nikon's 100-400mm mirrorless lens stands out for its exceptional sharpness, VR stability, and user-friendly operation.
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The Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is a fine lens—sharp, well balanced even when fully extended at 400mm, and versatile.
