What To Know
- The longer focal length of the 500mm lens allows you to get closer to distant subjects, while the wider aperture of the 400mm lens lets in more light, making it better suited for low-light conditions.
- The 500mm lens has a longer focal length and slightly better image quality, making it a better choice for photographers who need to capture distant subjects or want the ultimate in image quality.
- The 400mm lens is more compact, affordable, and has a wider aperture, while the 500mm lens has a longer focal length and slightly better image quality.
Nature and wildlife photographers often rely on super-telephoto lenses to capture stunning images of distant subjects. Two popular options in this category are the Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S and the Nikon Z 500mm f/5.6 PF VR. Both lenses offer impressive reach and image quality, but they also have some key differences. In this article, we’ll compare the Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses in terms of their focal length, aperture, weight, image quality, autofocus performance, and price to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Focal Length and Aperture:
The Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S has a focal length of 400mm and a maximum aperture of f/4.5. The Nikon Z 500mm f/5.6 PF VR, on the other hand, has a focal length of 500mm and a maximum aperture of f/5.6. The longer focal length of the 500mm lens allows you to get closer to distant subjects, while the wider aperture of the 400mm lens lets in more light, making it better suited for low-light conditions.
Weight and Portability:
The Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S weighs approximately 2.3 pounds (1050 grams), while the Nikon Z 500mm f/5.6 PF VR weighs approximately 3.1 pounds (1405 grams). The 400mm lens is more compact and easier to carry around, making it a better choice for photographers who need to travel light or hike long distances with their gear.
Image Quality:
Both the Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses produce excellent image quality. They deliver sharp, detailed images with accurate colors and minimal distortion. However, the 500mm lens has a slight edge in terms of sharpness and contrast, especially at longer distances.
Autofocus Performance:
The Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses both feature fast and accurate autofocus systems. They use Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology to achieve quick and quiet focusing. However, the 400mm lens has a slightly faster autofocus speed, making it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Price:
The Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is priced at around $2,799, while the Nikon Z 500mm f/5.6 PF VR is priced at around $3,899. The 400mm lens is more affordable, making it a better choice for photographers on a budget.
Which Lens Should You Choose?
The Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses are both excellent choices for nature and wildlife photography. The 400mm lens is more compact, affordable, and has a wider aperture, making it a good choice for photographers who need to travel light or shoot in low-light conditions. The 500mm lens has a longer focal length and slightly better image quality, making it a better choice for photographers who need to capture distant subjects or want the ultimate in image quality.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Factors to Consider
In addition to the factors discussed above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing between the Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses:
- Compatibility: Make sure that the lens you choose is compatible with your Nikon Z-mount camera.
- Accessories: Consider whether you need any additional accessories, such as a teleconverter or tripod, to use the lens effectively.
- Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the best lens for you is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences.
Wrapping Up: The Final Verdict
The Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses are both outstanding super-telephoto lenses that can produce stunning images. The 400mm lens is more compact, affordable, and has a wider aperture, while the 500mm lens has a longer focal length and slightly better image quality. Ultimately, the best lens for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Popular Questions
Q: Which lens is better for low-light photography, the Nikon Z 400mm or 500mm?
A: The Nikon Z 400mm lens has a wider aperture of f/4.5 compared to the 500mm lens’s f/5.6 aperture. This means that the 400mm lens can let in more light, making it better suited for low-light conditions.
Q: Which lens is better for wildlife photography, the Nikon Z 400mm or 500mm?
A: Both the Nikon Z 400mm and 500mm lenses are excellent choices for wildlife photography. However, the 500mm lens has a longer focal length, which allows you to get closer to distant subjects.
Q: Which lens is better for sports photography, the Nikon Z 400mm or 500mm?
A: The Nikon Z 400mm lens has a faster autofocus speed compared to the 500mm lens. This makes it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as athletes in sports photography.
