This incredible piece of optical engineering is the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens. It was built exclusively for professional photographers who demand great telephoto capabilities and outstanding picture quality. Because of its extensive zoom range, sophisticated autofocus technology, and built-in teleconverter, this lens is an excellent option for photographing sports, animals, and other things that are located at a distance.
Even the most particular photographers should have no trouble finding a use for the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens since it possesses such amazing capabilities and is built with such sturdy materials.
Key Specs
- Mount Type: Type E AF-S lens with built-in CPU and F mount (1.4x Teleconverter built-in)
- Focal Length Range: 180-400mm
- Zoom Ratio: 2.2x
- Maximum Aperture: f/4 (with built-in TC f/5.6)
- Minimum Aperture: f/32 (with built-in TC f/45)
- Format: FX/35mm
- VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization: Yes
- Diaphragm Blades: 9
- Lens Elements: 27
- Built-in Teleconverter Lens Elements: 8
- Lens Groups: 19
- Built-in Teleconverter Lens Groups: 5
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) Glass Elements: 8
- Fluorite Elements: 1
- Nano Crystal Coat: Yes
- Fluorine Coat: Yes
- Super Integrated Coating: Yes
- Autofocus: Yes
- AF-S (Silent Wave Motor): Yes
- Minimum Focus Distance: 6.6 ft. (2.0 m) from the focal plane
- Filter Size: 40.5mm
- Compatible with Nikon AF-S Teleconverters: Yes
- Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 5.0 in. (128.0 mm) x 14.2 in. (362.5 mm)
- Approx. Weight: 123.4 oz. (3,500 g)
Design and Build
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens exudes quality and longevity thanks to the design and construction of the lens. It is constructed out of a magnesium alloy that has been weather-sealed to give great protection against dust, moisture, and high temperatures. This guarantees that photographers may use the lens with complete confidence in a wide variety of weather circumstances without having to worry about how well it will work.
The lens barrel is not only well-balanced but also ergonomically built, which enables it to be comfortably handled and function without any hiccups. In addition, the presence of a tripod collar improves the camera’s stability and balance when it is mounted on a tripod or monopod during shooting. This feature is especially helpful when working with the lens at its extended focal lengths. In general, the sturdy construction of this lens instills trust in photographers, making it suited for usage in challenging professional settings.
Performance
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is capable of producing nothing short of extraordinary results in terms of its performance. Even in tough lighting circumstances, this lens maintains a consistent level of brightness across its entire zoom range by maintaining a maximum aperture of f/4. This allows for quicker shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible.
The lens has modern optics, such as elements made of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass and fluorite lens elements, which effectively eliminate chromatic aberrations and ensure that every photo is crisp, clear, and accurately reproduces color. The lens also has Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating, both of which successfully decrease flare and ghosting. This results in photos that have superb contrast and a wealth of detailed information. Because of the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, the focusing system of the lens is quick, precise, and responsive.
This enables photographers to track and shoot subjects that are moving quickly with accuracy. Additionally, the Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that is integrated into the camera compensates for camera shake by delivering up to four stops of picture stabilization. This is especially helpful when shooting handheld or in low-light environments. When it comes to its functionality, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens produces exceptional results that live up to the rigorous expectations of professional photographers.
Autofocus System
Innovative autofocus technology is incorporated into the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens. This system assures that the lens is capable of focusing quickly, accurately, and dependably. Because the lens utilizes Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, it is capable of providing a smooth and silent autofocus operation. As a result, the lens is well-suited for use in both photography and filmmaking. Because it makes use of an accurate internal focusing mechanism, the autofocus technology enables the lens to focus rapidly and softly without causing any change in its overall length.
This function is very helpful when photographing or shooting wild animals or any other subject that might be quickly spooked by rapid movement or noise. In addition, the lens has a number of different autofocus modes, such as Single-servo AF (AF-S) and Continuous-servo AF (AF-C), which provide photographers the ability to select the focusing approach that is most suited for the subject they are shooting and the conditions in which they are shooting it.
The compatibility of the lens with Nikon’s sophisticated focus tracking technologies, such as 3D-Tracking and Group Area AF, which enable greater subject identification and tracking accuracy, contributes further to the performance of the focusing capabilities of the camera. The autofocus technology of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is, in general, dependable, adaptable, and capable of producing great results in a wide range of shooting situations.
Vibration Reduction
An incorporated Vibration Reduction (VR) system is included in the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens. This technology efficiently compensates for camera shake and enables photographers to obtain crisp images even while shooting handheld or in low-light circumstances.
The VR technology that was used to develop this lens is extremely cutting-edge, and it offers up to four stops of image stabilization. This significantly increases the number of scenarios in which handheld photography may be used without lowering the image quality. Virtual Reality (VR) technology guarantees that photographs remain stable and crisp, allowing photographers to get outstanding results regardless of whether they are photographing fast-paced sports action or wildlife in their natural settings. The lens’s VR system may be switched between many different settings, including Normal mode and Sport mode.
While the Normal mode is ideal for general handheld photography, the Sport mode is intended for tracking fast-moving subjects and panning images. The Normal mode is suitable for general handheld shooting. Because of its adaptability, the VR system may be used in a variety of shooting circumstances, allowing photographers to fully use the capabilities of their lenses. Vibration Reduction technology, which is included in the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens, enables photographers to confidently create sharp and blur-free pictures, freeing them from the limits of camera shaking and allowing them to express their creative potential fully.
Build Quality
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens has an amazing build quality and was intended to endure the rigorous use that is associated with professional photography. It has a weather-sealed magnesium alloy shell that provides exceptional protection against dust, moisture, and high temperatures. The lens has a sturdy construction with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. Because of its longevity, the lens can be relied on by photographers even while operating in severe environmental circumstances.
As a result, it is an excellent choice for photographers who enjoy taking pictures in demanding environments. The structure of the lens is well-balanced and ergonomically constructed, which provides a pleasant grip as well as simple access to the main functions. Additionally, the presence of a tripod collar improves the camera’s stability and balance while shooting with a tripod or monopod. This reduces the pressure that is placed on the camera mount and enables panning and tracking images to be taken with greater ease.
Additionally, a fluorine coating has been applied to the front and back lens components of the lens. This coating acts as a barrier against moisture, dust, and grime, making the lens much simpler to clean and maintain. In general, the construction quality of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is of the highest grade, which ensures that the lens will continue to work reliably and effectively even after extensive use in professional photographic settings.
Handling and Ergonomics
The superb handling and ergonomics of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens, which is meant to provide photographers with a comfortable shooting experience, are two of the design principles that guided the development of the lens. Even while shooting handheld for lengthy periods of time, the lens’s safe and steady handling is ensured by its well-balanced construction, which enables the lens to be used. When filming fast-paced action, having controls that are strategically positioned and simple to reach ensures that modifications may be made in a way that is both rapid and intuitive.
The lens has programmable function buttons that can be assigned to a variety of settings. This enables photographers to tailor their shooting experience and have easy access to features that they use regularly. In addition, the presence of a smooth and sensitive focus ring makes it possible to exercise exact manual control over the focus whenever it is needed. It is possible to remove the tripod collar, which allows for greater versatility in shooting methods and makes the lens more compact and portable when it is necessary to do so.
The handling and ergonomics of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens, in general, contribute to a smooth and pleasurable experience during shooting, enabling photographers to focus uninhibitedly on their creative vision without any distractions.
Image Stabilization
A sophisticated Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is integrated into the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens, which contributes significantly to the lens’s exceptional image stabilization capabilities. Even while shooting handheld or in conditions with poor light, photographers are able to create shots that are clear and free of a blur thanks to a technique called virtual reality (VR), which compensates for camera shake.
This is especially helpful when using the lens at longer focal lengths, which is when the camera shake is more noticeable because of the larger focal lengths. The VR technology included in this lens provides image stabilization of up to four stops, dramatically increasing the handheld shooting range and enabling photographers to produce images that are detailed and well-defined. When photographing animals, sporting events, or any other subject that requires a long telephoto reach, the image stabilization of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens assures stability and sharpness, which enhances the overall quality of the photographs that are produced.
This lens is available in a kit that includes a teleconverter and an extension tube. The lens helps photographers to push the frontiers of handheld photography by reducing the influence of camera wobble, which in turn opens up new creative possibilities and produces amazing images.
Shooting Experience
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens offers a genuinely remarkable photography experience when used in conjunction with it. This lens offers a variety of features and capabilities that improve the shooting process and allow optimal control over the photos that are recorded. It was designed to satisfy the expectations of professional photographers so it can offer these features and functionalities. The superior autofocus mechanism of the lens, which is equipped with Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, provides a focusing performance that is quick, accurate, and silent.
This enables photographers to track and shoot subjects that are moving quickly with pinpoint accuracy. Photographers are able to make rapid adjustments on the go thanks to the lens’s programmable function buttons, which enable simple access to commonly used settings and allow for further customization. The ring of focus, which is both smooth and quick, enables perfect manual focus adjustment, which provides photographers with the ability to fine-tune their focus however they see fit. The range of focal lengths may be extended thanks to the presence of a built-in teleconverter, which also increases the camera’s overall reach without lowering the image quality. Even while shooting handheld, photographs will come out clear and crisp thanks to the image stabilization technology built into the lens.
This system compensates for a camera shake. The lens is built to withstand demanding shooting circumstances thanks to its weather-sealed design and long-lasting build quality. As a result, it is well-suited for photographing animals and other subjects in the great outdoors. The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens offers great performance and adaptability, making it possible to take spectacular photographs in a variety of photography subgenres. As a result, the shooting experience with this lens is a true joy.
Image Quality
Outstanding results are produced by the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens when it comes to the evaluation of the picture quality. Every single image will have remarkable sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy because to the lens’ incorporation of cutting-edge optical technology and high-quality glass components. Chromatic aberrations are successfully reduced because to the incorporation of elements made of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass as well as fluorite lens elements, which also helps to reduce color fringing and keep resolution and contrast at a high level.
Even in adverse lighting settings, the lens incorporates Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and Super Integrated Coating, both of which effectively decrease ghosting and flare produced by reflections, resulting in photos with superb contrast and rich details. Because the maximum aperture remains fixed at f/4 across the whole zoom range, the camera maintains a consistent level of brightness throughout the entire zoom range. This enables faster shutter rates and more precise control over the amount of depth of field.
The lens has a nine-blade rounded diaphragm, which results in out-of-focus areas that are silky smooth and aesthetically pleasant. This contributes to the lens’ ability to generate lovely bokeh. The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens offers photographs with extraordinary clarity, outstanding detail, and brilliant colors that surpass the highest requirements of professional photographers. This lens may be used to capture wildlife in their native habitats as well as fast-paced sports action.
Teleconverter Compatibility
The focal length range of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens may be extended and more reach can be achieved with the help of the built-in 1.4x teleconverter that is included with the lens. This teleconverter does not degrade the image quality. This teleconverter essentially raises the maximum focal length of the lens from 400mm to 560mm, which enables photographers to come closer to objects that are further away and capture more detail in their images.
Even while the teleconverter is being used, the lens’s autofocus capabilities are preserved thanks to the built-in teleconverter, which guarantees a focusing performance that is both quick and accurate. When the teleconverter is attached to the lens, the maximum aperture of the lens remains unchanged at f/4. This ensures that the image will always have the same amount of brightness and enables quicker shutter speeds. The ability of photographers to take advantage of increased flexibility and adaptability in their photography thanks to the compatibility of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens with teleconverters.
This allows photographers to adjust their shooting style to a variety of shooting scenarios and subject distances. It doesn’t matter if you’re photographing animals, sports, or any other far-off topic; the lens’s compatibility with teleconverters expands its reach and makes it easier for photographers to take remarkable pictures of their subjects.
Comparison with Competitors
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens stands out as a leading contender in the field of telephoto zoom lenses due to its expansive focal range, fast aperture, and excellent image quality. Its unique built-in 1.4x teleconverter offers it an advantage over other lenses in the same category, delivering more reach and adaptability without losing picture quality. This advantage is provided by the lens’s ability to maintain its image quality.
Because of its unique characteristic, it stands out among similar products on the market and is a useful instrument for photographers who need a variable focal length range. In addition, the lens maintains a maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the entirety of its zoom range. This guarantees that the brightness of the image remains constant, which in turn enables faster shutter speeds and improved control over the amount of depth of field. When it comes to picture quality, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens shines because to its sophisticated optical technologies.
These technologies include elements made of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass, fluorite lens elements, and coatings developed by Nikon. The end result is an image that is exceptionally sharp, clear, and accurate in color. The autofocus system of the lens, which is equipped with Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, offers quick and precise focusing, which enables photographers to take clear pictures of subjects that are moving quickly. As a whole, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens delivers a winning mix of features, performance, and picture quality, which positions it as a top choice for professional photographers.
Specifications
| Mount Type | Type E AF-S lens with built-in CPU and F mount |
| Focal Length Range | 180 – 400mm |
| With built-in TC | 252-560 mm |
| Zoom Ratio | 2.2x |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
| With built-in TC | f/5.6 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/32 |
| With built-in TC | f/45 |
| Format | FX/35mm |
| Maximum Angle of View (DX-format) | 9° |
| Minimum Angle of View (DX-format) | 4° |
| Maximum Angle of View (DX-format) with built-in Teleconverter | 6°20′ |
| Minimum Angle of View (DX-format) with built-in Teleconverter | 2°50′ |
| Maximum Angle of View (FX-format) | 13°40′ |
| Minimum Angle of View (FX-format) | 6°10′ |
| Minimum Angle of View (FX format) with built-in Teleconverter | 9°50′ |
| Minimum Angle of View (FX-format) with built-in Teleconverter | 4°30′ |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 0.25x (at 400 mm) |
| 0.36x (at 560 mm) | |
| Lens Elements | 27 |
| Built-in Teleconverter Lens Elements | 8 |
| Lens Groups | 19 |
| Built-in Teleconverter Lens Groups | 5 |
| VR (Vibration Reduction) | Yes |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Nano Crystal Coat | Yes |
| ED Glass Elements | 8 |
| Fluorite Elements | 1 |
| Fluorine Coat | Yes |
| Super Integrated Coating | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| AF-S (Silent Wave Motor) | Yes |
| Internal Focusing | Yes |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 6.6 ft. (2.0 m) from focal plane |
| Focus Mode | Manual |
| Manual/Auto | |
| Auto/Manual | |
| Filter Size | 40.5mm |
| Accepts Filter Type | Drop-in filter |
| Compatible with Nikon AF-S Teleconverters | Yes (refer to the product manual for details) |
| Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | 5.0 in. (128.0 mm) x 14.2 in. (362.5 mm) |
| Distance from camera lens mount flange | Based on CIPA Guidelines |
| Approx. Weight | 123.4 oz. (3,500 g) |
| Distance from camera lens mount flange | Based on CIPA Guidelines |
Pros and Cons
There are a number of significant benefits offered by the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens. These benefits combine to make this lens an ideal option for professional photographers. Its built-in 1.4x teleconverter, which increases the focal length range and gives more reach without sacrificing image quality, is one of its primary advantages and one of its most advantageous features. This function broadens the lens’s applicability and gives photographers the ability to adapt to a variety of shooting scenarios and subject distances.
Because the lens’ maximum aperture remains fixed at f/4 across the entirety of its zoom range, it maintains a consistent level of brightness throughout the entire zoom range. This allows for faster shutter speeds and more precise control over the amount of depth of field. The use of cutting-edge optical technology such as Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements, fluorite lens elements, and coatings developed by Nikon contribute to a picture that is of superior quality in terms of its excellent sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy.
Because of the autofocus system’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, the lens is capable of delivering rapid and precise focusing, which makes it excellent for photographing subjects that are moving quickly. Even in difficult shooting situations, the lens’s sturdy build quality, weather sealing, and ergonomic design assure its endurance, dependability, and pleasant handling.
Nevertheless, there are a few things to keep in mind, so keep that in mind. It’s possible that the size and weight of the lens will be a problem for certain photographers, particularly those who need their equipment to be more portable and less cumbersome. In addition, the price of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens may be more compared to that of other rivals; hence, purchasing this lens represents a considerable financial commitment for photographers.
Price and Availability
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is a high-end telephoto zoom lens that is designed to meet the demands of professional photographers who want great picture quality and performance. As a consequence of this, it is sold at a premium price, which is commensurate with the sophisticated features and capacities that it possesses.
The precise cost of the lens may change based on a variety of circumstances, including the buyer’s location, applicable taxes, and the existence of any current deals or discounts. It is advised that you verify with authorized Nikon merchants or visit the official website of Nikon in order to obtain the most current and up-to-date information on prices.
Because of the potential for varying availability of the lens, it is best to make inquiries regarding the lens’ stock status with either your neighborhood camera shop or an online vendor. Even though it has a premium price point, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is a remarkable instrument that provides professional photographers with superb picture quality, adaptability, and performance.
Conclusion
The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is a fantastic telephoto zoom lens that combines remarkable build quality, innovative features, and amazing image quality. The lens was designed and manufactured by Nikon. The lens offers greater reach and adaptability thanks to its built-in 1.4x teleconverter, making it a handy tool for easily photographing faraway scenes.
The fact that the maximum aperture remains fixed at f/4 throughout the entirety of the zoom range not only guarantees a steady level of brightness but also enables faster shutter speeds and more precise manipulation of the depth of focus. The lens has sophisticated optical technology as elements made of Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass and fluorite lens elements, which together give remarkable sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy.
Additionally, coatings developed by Nikon successfully prevent ghosting and flare. Because the focusing technology of the lens is quick, precise, and sensitive, it is an excellent choice for photographing fast-moving action. Vibration Reduction (VR) is an in-built mechanism that corrects for camera shake by delivering up to four stops of picture stabilization. This results in photographs that are crisp and devoid of blur. Because of the lens’s weather sealing, strong build quality, and ergonomic design, it is excellent for use in a variety of tough shooting settings.
Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR FAQs
Q. Is the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens compatible with teleconverters?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is compatible with Nikon AF-S teleconverters. This allows you to extend the focal length and reach of the lens even further, providing increased versatility in capturing distant subjects.
Q. Does the lens have image stabilization?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens features Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization. This technology compensates for camera shake, allowing you to achieve sharper and blur-free images, especially when shooting handheld or in challenging conditions.
Q. What is the maximum aperture of the lens?
A. The Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens has a maximum aperture of f/4. When the built-in 1.4x teleconverter is engaged, the maximum aperture becomes f/5.6. This constant maximum aperture ensures consistent brightness throughout the zoom range, allowing for faster shutter speeds and better control over depth of field.
Q. What is the minimum focus distance of the lens?
A. The minimum focus distance of the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is 6.6 ft. (2.0 m) from the focal plane. This allows you to get relatively close to your subjects and capture fine details even when shooting from a distance.
Q. Is the lens weather-sealed?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR lens is built with weather sealing. This provides protection against dust and moisture, allowing you to confidently use the lens in various environmental conditions without worrying about damage to the internal components.
