Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II Review

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is a high-performance telephoto lens that was created for both professional photographers and photography amateurs who expect great picture quality and shooting versatility from their equipment. This lens boasts a number of cutting-edge technologies and a rock-solid build, allowing it to give great performance in a variety of shooting conditions.

The 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is designed to provide outstanding results regardless of the subject matter you are photographing, be it portraiture, sporting events, or wildlife. Now that we have that out of the way let’s take a closer look at its most distinguishing qualities and analyze why they set it apart from its rivals.

Key Specs

• Mount Type: Nikon F-Bayonet
• Focal Length: 200mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Format: FX/35mm
• VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization: Yes
• Lens Elements: 13
• Lens Groups: 9
• Diaphragm Blades: 9
• Nano Crystal Coat: Yes
• ED Glass Elements: 3
• Super ED Glass Elements: 1
• Autofocus: Yes
• AF-S (Silent Wave Motor): Yes
• Internal Focusing: Yes
• Minimum Focus Distance: 6.2 ft.
• Focus Mode: Auto, Manual
• Filter Size: 52mm
• Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 4.9 in. (124 mm) x 8.0 in. (203 mm)
• Approx. Weight: 102.4 oz. (2,900 g)

Performance

When it comes to its overall performance, the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is outstanding. Because of its quick maximum aperture of f/2, which enables amazing low-light performance as well as gorgeous background blur, this camera is an excellent option for photographing both wildlife and sporting events. The lens features a silent wave motor (SWM) that enables quick and accurate focusing, guaranteeing that you will never miss an important moment in action.

In addition, the lens has Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which counteracts blur caused by camera motion. As a result, you’ll be able to take handheld photographs that are crisp even when using slower shutter speeds. The superb performance of the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens can be counted on in every situation, whether you’re trying to keep up with subjects that are moving quickly or shooting in difficult lighting circumstances.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system of the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is extremely sophisticated and was developed to fulfill the requirements that are placed on it by professional photographers. It makes use of Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which provides autofocus performance that is quick, accurate, and nearly silent. This is especially helpful when shooting animals or catching activity that is happening quickly since it guarantees that you can quickly lock focus on your subject without upsetting them.

This is particularly advantageous when photographing wildlife. You are able to make accurate changes even when the lens is functioning in the autofocus mode because the autofocus mechanism includes a full-time manual focus override. Because of this function, you will have a better degree of control and flexibility when shooting in difficult settings. The quick and precise autofocus technology of the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens guarantees that you will have no trouble obtaining the photographs that you want to take, regardless of whether you are photographing portraits, sports, or wildlife.

Vibration Reduction

The Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that is integrated into the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is one of the product’s most notable characteristics. This function mitigates the effects of camera shaking, enabling you to shoot handheld at shorter shutter speeds without sacrificing the quality of the images you capture. The VR system offers up to four stops of stabilization, which enables you to obtain sharp, blur-free photographs regardless of whether you are shooting in low-light conditions or using the lens to capture things that are at a considerable distance.

This comes in especially handy in circumstances in which the use of a tripod is either not possible or not permitted. Because the VR technology in the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is both very effective and dependable, it enables you to push the limits of your photography and investigate the creative possibilities available to you without the need to be concerned about undesirable camera shake.

Build Quality

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is designed to resist the rigorous use that is required in the photography industry. It has a sturdy structure and is made out of high-quality materials, which guarantees that it will last for a long time. Because it is composed of magnesium alloy, the lens barrel is strong and lightweight, making it simpler to hold for longer periods of time without generating fatigue. The lens is also weather-sealed, which protects it from dust and moisture and enables you to shoot with confidence even in harsh outdoor situations.

Additionally, the front element of the lens is coated with fluorine, which acts as a repellent for water, dust, and dirt. This makes it much simpler to clean and maintain the lens during its lifetime. The entire build quality of the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens instills trust and reassurance, which enables you to concentrate on producing amazing photographs without having to worry about the lens’s performance or dependability.

Handling and Ergonomics

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens prioritizes the photographer’s ease of use and comfort when developing and manufacturing the product. The lens is surprisingly well-balanced, which makes it easy to handle and use for lengthy periods of time. This is true despite the lens having a huge focal length and a fast aperture. The lens has a focus ring that is both smooth and sensitive, which enables accurate manual focusing changes to be made whenever they are required.

The shooting experience is further improved thanks to the addition of customizable function buttons that are located on the barrel of the lens. These buttons provide easy access to settings that are used frequently. Additionally, the lens has a tripod collar that can be removed, which enables a smooth transition between handheld and tripod photography. You are able to put all of your attention into capturing your creative vision because the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens has been thoughtfully designed and incorporates ergonomic characteristics. This ensures that the lens feels natural and intuitive in your hands.

Image Stabilization

The image stabilization technology included in the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is quite powerful, which is a characteristic that is absolutely necessary for telephoto lenses that have big focal lengths. The Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that is integrated into the camera helps to correct for blur caused by camera shake, which enables handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds without compromising image quality. The image stabilization provided by the VR technology in the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens may reach up to four stops, which is very helpful when shooting in low-light environments or when employing longer focal lengths.

The image stabilization not only makes your photos sharper as a whole, but it also lessens the possibility that they will be blurry as a result of the shake created by the camera. This function is especially helpful in circumstances in which the use of a tripod would be impossible, as well as while photographing subjects that are moving quickly. Whether you are photographing sports, animals, or events, the image stabilization of the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens assures that you will be able to capture dependably clear and blur-free photographs no matter what subject you are capturing.

Shooting Experience

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens provides a genuinely remarkable shooting experience when used in conjunction with it. It is a flexible and dependable equipment that can be used for a variety of types of photography due to the combination of its quick maximum aperture, sophisticated autofocus mechanism, and efficient image stabilization. The lens produces amazing results no matter what type of photography you’re using it for, be it documenting fast-paced sports action, capturing intimate moments with animals, or taking portraits with exquisite backdrop separation.

Not only does the fast aperture of f/2 allow for exceptional low-light performance, but it also lets you produce amazing bokeh, which isolates your subjects and adds a feeling of depth to your photographs. You’ll have no trouble capturing photographs that are crisp, thanks to the autofocus system, which is driven by Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM). It enables quick and accurate focusing, which makes it possible.

The image stabilization further improves the shooting experience by offering a solid platform for handheld photography. This paves the way for you to experiment with a variety of shooting angles and viewpoints without negatively impacting the quality of the images. The whole experience of shooting with the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is one that is engaging and satisfying, allowing you to realize your creative potential and produce remarkable photographs fully.

Image Quality

When it comes to picture quality, the results that are produced by the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens are exceptional. The lens has an advanced optical design that incorporates Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat to decrease chromatic aberrations, flare, and ghosting. As a consequence, the pictures produced by the lens are crisp, contrast-rich, and have great color reproduction.

The high maximum aperture of f/2 enables fine control over the depth of focus, which enables you to make photographs that have a strong impact by isolating objects against gorgeous backgrounds and creating a beautiful blur. Because of its sophisticated optical structure, the lens can create images that are consistently crisp across the frame, even when the aperture is set to its widest setting.

The 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens guarantees that your photographs are crisp, detailed, and aesthetically appealing no matter what type of photography you’re doing—whether you’re shooting wide-open portraiture, photographing animals in motion, or photographing fast-moving sports.

Teleconverter Compatibility

The versatility and range of the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens may be expanded with Nikon’s teleconverters, which are compatible with the lens. You are able to efficiently expand the focal length of the lens by connecting a teleconverter, such as the Nikon TC-14E III or TC-20E III. This allows you to go closer to things that are further away without affecting the picture quality of the photograph.

The focal length can be extended to a maximum of 280 mm with the 1.4x teleconverter, while it can be extended to a maximum of 400 mm with the 2x teleconverter. Because of its compatibility, the lens is a good option for photographers interested in wildlife and sports who want larger focal lengths in order to capture scenes that are further away. When utilizing teleconverters, it is essential to be aware that there is a tiny loss in maximum aperture and a potential decrease in focusing efficiency, particularly with the 2x teleconverter.

This is something that should be taken into consideration. However, the picture quality and general performance of the 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens remain exceptional even when teleconverters are used. This enables you to produce remarkable results in telephoto shooting settings.

Comparison with Competitors

In contrast to other lenses in its class, the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II is distinguished by its remarkable optical performance, rapid maximum aperture, and dependable autofocus technology. The Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM lens, which is its closest competitor, has a focal length and maximum aperture that are comparable to those of this lens, but it does not perform quite as well in terms of image stabilization and autofocus performance.

When shooting handheld or in low-light circumstances, having a lens that features Nikon’s well-known Vibration Reduction (VR) technology may be quite helpful. This technology can provide up to four stops of stabilization for the image. The autofocus system of the Nikon lens is driven by something called a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which provides a performance that is quick, accurate, and nearly silent. This allows for fine focusing to be achieved even in difficult circumstances.

In addition, the Nikon lens is well-known for its sturdy build quality and weather-sealing, both of which provide longevity as well as protection from the effects of the environment. Overall, the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens exceeds its competition in numerous critical respects, making it an excellent option for both professional photographers and photography amateurs who want uncompromising picture quality and shooting performance.

Specifications

Mount Type	Nikon F-Bayonet
Focal Length	200mm
Maximum Aperture	f/2
Minimum Aperture	f/22
Format	FX/35mm
Maximum Angle of View (DX-format)	8°
Maximum Angle of View (FX-format)	12°20′
Maximum Reproduction Ratio	0.12x
Lens Elements	13
Lens Groups	9
VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization	Yes
Diaphragm Blades	9
Nano Crystal Coat	Yes
ED Glass Elements	3
Super ED Glass Elements	1
Autofocus	Yes
AF-S (Silent Wave Motor)	Yes
Internal Focusing	Yes
Minimum Focus Distance	6.2 ft.
Focus Mode	Auto, Manual
Filter Size	52mm
Accepts Filter Type	Screw-on
Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length)	4.9 in. (124 mm) x 8.0 in. (203 mm)
Approx. Weight	102.4 oz. (2,900 g)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Image quality is second to none, including exceptional sharpness, contrast, and color fidelity.
• Exceptional performance in low light thanks to a maximum aperture of just f/2, which is also rather fast.
• dependable autofocus mechanism that delivers lightning-fast and pinpoint performance.
• Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is efficient and offers up to four different levels of stability.
• Durability and protection from the elements are ensured by the sturdy construction and weather-sealing of the product.
• It is compatible with Nikon teleconverters, which increases its flexibility as well as its reach.

Cons:

• Due to its high price point, only serious photographers should consider making the purchase.
• Large and substantial build, which might make handheld photography for longer periods of time more difficult.
• There is a possibility of a decrease in the performance of the focusing system when teleconverters are used, notably the 2x teleconverters.
• Because of its fixed focal length, the zoom capabilities are severely restricted.

Price and Availability

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is a high-quality professional lens that comes with a hefty price tag. According to the most up-to-date information that we have, the cost is around $6,000 USD. However, the price may change based on the location as well as any ongoing deals or discounts that are currently being offered.

This lens is readily available for purchase at a variety of authorized Nikon dealers as well as internet marketplaces. It is possible that there will be restricted supply or backorders from time to time because of how popular it is and how specialized it is. It is important to verify with reliable dealers to obtain the most up-to-date information on pricing and availability.

Conclusion

The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is a top-of-the-line telephoto lens that was created for photographers who want high picture quality, rapid performance, and varied shooting capabilities. This lens excels in a variety of shooting circumstances, including portraiture, event coverage, as well as photographing sports and wildlife. Its quick maximum aperture, powerful autofocus technology, and good image stabilization all contribute to the lens’s versatility. Since of its durable construction and weather-sealing, it is an excellent choice for usage in professional settings since it offers both protection and longevity.

The lens comes with a hefty price tag, yet, it produces exceptional results that make the purchase worthwhile for photographers who take their craft seriously. Because of its amazing optical performance, dependable autofocus, and compatibility with teleconverters, the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens is an excellent option for photographers who are looking for the highest possible picture quality and the greatest shooting versatility possible.

Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II FAQs

Q. Is the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens compatible with teleconverters?
A. Yes, the lens is compatible with Nikon teleconverters, such as the TC-14E III and TC-20E III, which effectively increase the focal length of the lens.
Q. Can the lens be used for handheld photography?
A. Yes, the lens features Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization, allowing for handheld shooting with reduced camera shake and improved image sharpness.
Q. What is the minimum focus distance of the Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens?
A. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 6.2 feet, which allows for close-up photography with a moderate amount of magnification.
Q. Is the lens weather-sealed?
A. Yes, the lens has a robust build quality and features weather-sealing, providing durability and protection against dust and moisture.
Q. What is the filter size for the lens?
A. The Nikon AF-S 200mm f/2G ED VR II lens has a filter size of 52mm, allowing for the attachment of various filters for creative effects or lens protection.