Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR Review

A strong telephoto lens, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens is ideal for photographers who expect great picture quality and performance from their equipment. This lens is an excellent addition to the equipment of any photographer due to the unique technology and cutting-edge features that it possesses.

This lens is capable of producing amazing images regardless of whether you are photographing gorgeous vistas, breathtaking sports activities, or wildlife in their natural settings. In this post, we will go into the specifics of the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens and discuss its most notable qualities and advantages.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 300mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/4
• Minimum Aperture: f/32
• Format: FX/35mm
• VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization: Yes
• Lens Elements: 16
• Lens Groups: 10
• Nano Crystal Coat: Yes
• ED Glass Elements: 1
• Phase Fresnel: 1
• Fluorine Coat: Yes
• Aspherical Elements: 1
• Autofocus: Yes
• AF-S (Silent Wave Motor): Yes
• Internal Focusing: Yes
• Minimum Focus Distance: 4.6 ft. (1.4m)
• Focus Mode: Manual, Manual/Auto, Auto/Manual
• Filter Size: 77mm
• Compatible with Nikon AF-S Teleconverters: Yes
• Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 3.5 in. (89 mm) x 5.8 in. (147.5 mm)
• Approx. Weight: 26.6 oz. (755 g)

Performance

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens absolutely shines when it comes to its performance. Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass components are used in its outstanding optical design, which helps to efficiently decrease chromatic aberrations and offer pictures that are crisp and have a high contrast level.

The lens also has a Nano Crystal Coat that eliminates ghosting and flare, guaranteeing that the image clarity is outstanding even when the lighting is difficult. This lens has an amazing low-light performance and gorgeous bokeh since it has a maximum aperture of f/4, which is rather wide.

Autofocus System

The autofocus technology of the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens is lightning-quick, pinpoint precise, and completely dependable. It makes use of Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology, which allows for an autofocus operation that is both nearly silent and very smooth.

This is especially helpful when photographing animals or sports, two areas in which a quiet operation is essential in order to avoid upsetting the subjects of the photographs. In addition, the lens has a manual override mode, which enables photographers to make accurate focus changes even when the autofocus is active.

Vibration Reduction

Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is included in the design of the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens, making it one of the lenses’ most notable characteristics. This helps to decrease camera shake and makes it possible to take crisper photos when handheld, particularly when shooting at slower shutter speeds or in tough lighting circumstances.

Even in low-light conditions, photographers are able to take clear, blur-free pictures thanks to the image stabilization provided by this lens’ integrated VR technology, which gives up to four stops of correction.

Build Quality

Durability was a primary consideration throughout the construction of the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens. It is simple to manipulate and transport because of its lightweight and compact form, and its solid build quality guarantees that it will last for a long time.

The lens has a structure that is resistant to both dust and moisture, making it suited for usage in a wide range of environmental situations. Additionally, the front lens element has a fluorine coating that allows it to reject water, dust, and grime, making it much simpler to clean and maintain the lens.

Handling and Ergonomics

The lens has an ergonomic shape that was developed with the ease of use of photographers in mind. Because of its ergonomic grip and strategically located focus ring, it enables control that is both accurate and easy to exercise.

Because of its small size and lightweight, the lens is extremely portable, which is especially beneficial for photographers who are required to travel light. Additionally, the lens has programmable function buttons that may be assigned to a variety of different settings. This allows for convenient access to functions that are used frequently.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization is significantly improved by the Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that is already incorporated into the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens. It does this by counteracting the effects of camera shaking and reducing blur, which ultimately produces images that are crisp and distinct. This function is very helpful when shooting handheld or in other circumstances when the use of a tripod is either impractical or not permitted.

Virtual Reality (VR) technology provides a variety of selectable settings, such as Normal and Sport, to accommodate a variety of shooting circumstances. Photographers now have the ability to securely snap action photos or monitor subjects that are moving quickly while keeping the steadiness of their images.

Shooting Experience

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens provides a shooting experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable. Because of the speed and precision with which its autofocus technology operates, you will be able to immediately lock onto the subject of your photograph and seize the critical moment.

Incredible image quality is produced by the lens because to its outstanding sharpness, contrast, and color reproduction. The depth of focus may be controlled well while maintaining good performance in low light thanks to the aperture setting of f/4. This lens produces amazing results, enabling you to capture the elegance and fine detail of whatever you’re capturing, be it landscapes, sports, or animals. It’s a versatile piece of photographic equipment.

Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens has an impressively high standard for the image quality it generates. Advanced optical technologies, such as Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and a Nano Crystal Coat, have been included in the lens in order to eliminate chromatic aberrations, ghosting, and flare efficiently. The end result is crisp images with a high resolution that are vivid in color, have outstanding contrast, and have very little distortion.

Even when shooting with the aperture wide open at f/4, the lens works quite well, offering superb edge-to-edge clarity. You can rely on this lens to generate breathtaking photographs that do an excellent job of showcasing every detail, regardless of whether you are photographing landscapes, sports, or animals.

Teleconverter Compatibility

Because it is compatible with teleconverters, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens gives photographers the ability to extend their reach when it is necessary to do so. When combined with the AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E III, the lens’s focal length may be increased to 420 millimeters (1.4x) or 600 millimeters (2x), enabling an even larger magnification of subjects that are further away.

Even when using teleconverters, the lens keeps its high standard of picture quality and focusing performance, making it a flexible choice for photographers who work in situations that call for longer focal lengths.

Comparison with Competitors

In the realm of telephoto lenses, which is home to a great deal of competition, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens stands out thanks to its remarkable performance, in addition to its small size and lightweight construction. It delivers a winning mix of winning features, including excellent image quality, quick focusing, and efficient image stabilization.

This lens contains a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element, which has the ability to lower both its size and its weight while maintaining the same level of optical performance as its rivals’ lenses. This gives it a distinct edge over those lenses. In addition, the VR technology that is built into this lens delivers up to four stops of image stabilization, which gives it an advantage over other lenses when it comes to the ability to shoot handheld.

Specifications

Mount Type	Nikon F-Bayonet
Focal Length	300mm
Maximum Aperture	f/4
Minimum Aperture	f/32
Format	FX/35mm
Maximum Angle of View (DX-format)	5°20′
Maximum Angle of View (FX-format)	8°10′
Maximum Reproduction Ratio	0.24x
Lens Elements	16
Lens Groups	10
VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization	Yes
Diaphragm Blades	9
Nano Crystal Coat	Yes
ED Glass Elements	1
Phase Fresnel	1
Fluorine Coat	Yes
Aspherical Elements	1
Super Integrated Coating	Yes
Autofocus	Yes
AF-S (Silent Wave Motor)	Yes
Internal Focusing	Yes
Minimum Focus Distance	4.6 ft. (1.4m)
Focus Mode	Manual, Manual/Auto, Auto/Manual
Filter Size	77mm
Accepts Filter Type	Screw-on
Compatible with Nikon AF-S Teleconverters	Yes (refer to the product manual for details)
Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length)	3.5 in. (89 mm) x 5.8 in. (147.5 mm)
Approx. Weight	26.6 oz. (755 g)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Outstanding visual quality, including exceptional sharpness and color reproduction throughout.
• A design that is both compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport.
• Innovative autofocus technology that utilizes a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to provide rapid and precise focusing.
• Integrated technology for Vibration Reduction (VR), which provides efficient image stabilization.
• Construction that has been weather-sealed to increase its durability.
• Suitable for use with teleconverters, which allow for a greater range.

Cons:

• The price is rather pricey in comparison to that of other telephoto lenses operating in the same range.
• Because of its limited maximum aperture of f/4, the camera might not be ideal for photographing in low light.
• It needs to make a separate purchase for the lens hood since it is not included in the package.
• The manual focus ring has a tendency to be a little touchy, so it must be handled with care.

Price and Availability

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens comes at a premium price point, which is reflective of the sophisticated features it possesses as well as its great performance. It is offered in stores and online businesses that are authorized to sell Nikon products.

However, because of how popular it is and how much demand there is for it, the supply could be inconsistent. Before making a purchase, it is a good idea to verify with local merchants or online platforms to make sure that the item is still available.

Conclusion

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens is a remarkable telephoto lens that provides excellent picture quality, sophisticated autofocus capabilities, and efficient image stabilization. It is available only from Nikon. Because of its small size and low weight, it is extremely portable, making it an excellent choice for photographers who are constantly on the road. The lens’ Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass components and Nano Crystal Coat allow it to produce images with a high level of contrast that is both crisp and clear.

Even under adverse shooting situations, photographers are able to create photos that are clear and free of blur because of a feature called Vibration Reduction (VR) technology that is incorporated right into their cameras. Even while the lens has a higher price point in comparison to its competitors, the performance and adaptability of the lens make it a worthwhile investment for both professional photographers and photography amateurs who seek top-notch quality and performance in a telephoto lens.

Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR FAQs

Q. Is the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens compatible with teleconverters?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens is compatible with Nikon AF-S teleconverters. This allows you to extend the focal length of the lens for even greater reach, providing more flexibility when capturing distant subjects.
Q. Does the lens have image stabilization?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens features Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization. This technology helps to minimize camera shake, allowing for sharper handheld shots, especially in low-light conditions or when shooting at slower shutter speeds.
Q. What is the weight of the lens?
A. The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens weighs approximately 26.6 ounces (755 grams), making it relatively lightweight and portable. This is particularly beneficial for photographers who need to carry the lens for extended periods or travel frequently.
Q. Does the lens have weather sealing?
A. Yes, the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens has a dust- and moisture-resistant construction. This makes it suitable for shooting in various weather conditions, providing added durability and peace of mind when working outdoors.
Q. What is the minimum focus distance of the lens?
A. The minimum focus distance of the Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens is 4.6 feet (1.4 meters). This allows you to get closer to your subject, capturing fine details even when shooting from a distance.