Nikon Nikkor Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S
Announced October 11, 2023
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 600mm f/6.3 VR S is a remarkably lightweight and compact super-telephoto lens that delivers sharp, high-quality images for handheld shooting. While its f/6.3 aperture and four-meter minimum focus distance present some limitations, the lens provides an effective stabilization system and snappy autofocus performance.
Weighted from 12 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional portability and low weight for a 600mm prime
- High-level sharpness and image quality
- Highly effective vibration reduction and stabilization
- Fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus
- Durable, professional-grade construction
Cons
- High price point
- Limitations with teleconverters and fixed focal length
- Restricted minimum focusing distance
- Slow maximum aperture of f/6.3
- Lacks specific physical controls like an OLED display or VR switch
- Launch price $6,499.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 600mm f/6.3
- Mount & coverage Nikon Z Full-Frame
- Stabilization Optical IS, 5.5 stops (CIPA)
- Close focus (0.15x)
- Filter thread 95mm
- Autofocus motor Stepper motor
- Weight & size 1390g (3 lb 1 oz) · 106.5 x 278 mm (4.19 x 10.94 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 12 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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The Nikon Z 600mm f6.3 VR S is a telephoto prime lens which is relatively compact and comes at an unrivalled low weight of only 1.60kg.
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The Nikon Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S is a masterpiece for those seeking high-end optics, a very long focal length, and maximum portability. By sacrificing 1-1/3 stops of light compared to the f/4 lens, you cut the weight in half and the price into a quarter.
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The 600mm f/6.3 PF VR S sits right in a sweet spot, thus it's not difficult to recommend.
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I had no problems with this lens because it is a fantastic lens.
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We love that this 600mm lens uses a Phase Fresnel element in its optical path and a lot of crafty design work, making it a relative lightweight that’s easy to live with and a real joy to use.
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The Nikkor Z 600mm F6.3 VR S is a big telephoto lens you won't mind carrying thanks to its featherweight optical elements.
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The Nikkor Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S offers excellent image quality in a lens that’s similar in size and weight to a 70-200mm f/2.8, which is an impressive feat in itself and makes it a great lens for handheld shooting.
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[...] I'm having a great and successful time with the 600mm PF lens in the field. It has super fast autofocus, it's nice and sharp, and handles really well.
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This is one of the best combinations that money can buy at the moment for bird photography. It is so light, it is so accurate, it's so quick, the body is fantastic.
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Nikon’s latest super telephoto lens complements existing long lenses for mirrorless camera users, with a relatively affordable, lightweight and high-quality option for telephoto subjects.
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The Nikon Nikkor Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S, it's wonderful, I want it, I will have it.
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You want great optics, you're not concerned with the best value, you're just concerned with the best optics at the best weight, and if that's what you're looking for, this is a really, really great choice for you.
