Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S
Announced February 22, 2022
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
Exceptional
The Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a professional-grade super-telephoto lens that features an integrated 1.4x teleconverter, allowing photographers to switch between 400mm and 560mm focal lengths instantly. While its high price and specialized nature limit its appeal for generalist shooters, it delivers exceptional sharpness and handling for sports and wildlife professionals.
Weighted from 11 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent sharpness and image quality across the frame
- Integrated 1.4x teleconverter for instant focal length switching
- Improved weight and balance compared to previous generations
- Fast, silent, and accurate autofocus performance
- Effective optical image stabilization
Cons
- Physical handling and control limitations
- Tripod collar and foot design issues
- Lacks Arca-Swiss compatibility on the tripod foot
- Significant focus breathing during operation
- High cost and specialized utility
- Launch price $13,999.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 400mm f/2.8
- Mount & coverage Nikon Z Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus 2.5 m (0.23x)
- Filter thread 46mm
- Autofocus motor Silky Swift VCM
- Weight & size 2950g · 156 x 380 mm (6.14 x 14.96 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 11 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 7.5/10
The Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a wonderfully light lens with serious optical power contained within it, but as a pre-production lens in my hands, it inspires hope that Nikon will have it further refined when it ships.
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Nikon's Z 400mm f2.8 TC VR S is an excellent super-telephoto with one extremely compelling feature over rival systems: It has a built-in 1.4x teleconverter which changes it into a 560mm f4.0 lens at the flick of a switch.
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The Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a professional-caliber supertelephoto lens with Nikon’s most advanced features and specifications. It is one of their flagship mirrorless lenses, meant for the most demanding wildlife and sports photography needs.
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The lens comes highly recommended without a moment's hesitation.
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The 400mm f/2.8 S TC VR is the first of the Z-mount exotics.
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The Nikon Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S for a pro is a must-have for sports shooters, no questions asked, but those guys make money and the newspapers make money and they're going to buy these lenses and furnish them with the people that are still shooting with Nikon.
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With its built-in 1.4x tele-converter, it’s like two lenses in one – a 400mm f/2.8 and a 560mm f/4. It delivers spectacular overall performance and stunning image quality in both configurations, has all the handling extras you could wish for, and is built to last a lifetime.
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The more I shoot with this lens, the more I want it. It's truly phenomenal.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
While the Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens won’t suit generalist photographers, it will definitely meet the needs of its target market: professional sports photographers. And the high price of this lens should not be a disincentive given the competent performance of this lens.
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[A]nybody looking at these images can tell if you have the resources and you love to shoot wildlife and birds, I think once you've had this, you'll have a really hard time getting rid of it.
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I think it does really good with this setup.
