(Image credit: Nikon)
Nikon Introduces the Nikkor Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR Lens
Nikon has finally unveiled the long-awaited super-telephoto zoom lens for mirrorless cameras, bringing joy to wildlife photographers and enthusiasts. Surprising everyone with its versatility, Nikon presents the Nikkor Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens, surpassing expectations set by its previous 200-600mm roadmap.
Expanding the Lineup: The Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8
In addition to the 180-600mm lens, Nikon also announces the launch of the Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8, completing the trinity of f/2.8 zoom lenses that sets it apart from the pro-level S-Line counterparts in terms of weight and affordability.
Unleashing the Full Potential of Nikon Mirrorless Cameras
Designed exclusively for full-frame Nikon mirrorless cameras, the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens stands as one of the most versatile telephoto zoom lenses available. As for the 70-180mm lens, it shares a captivating price point, making it a favorite among Nikon mirrorless fans who seek exceptional performance.
Pricing and Availability
The Nikkor Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens is priced at £1,799 and is set to hit the shelves in August 2023. At this time, pricing details for the US and Australia markets are yet to be disclosed. Nikon also offers two teleconverters compatible with the lens: the Nikon Z 1.4x teleconverter and the Nikon Z 2x teleconverter, priced at $549.95 / £579 / AU$1,099 and $599.95 / £629 / AU$1,199, respectively. These extend the lens’s maximum reach to an impressive 840mm and 1200mm.
The Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8 lens, a lightweight and travel-friendly alternative to the pro-level Z 70-200mm f/2.8, will be available for £1,299. The sales for the 70-180mm lens will commence on July 20, 2023. Just like the 180-600mm lens, it is compatible with Nikon’s teleconverters, offering even more versatility to photographers.
Exploring the Key Features
Let’s take a closer look at the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens. Despite its significant capabilities, it weighs just 4.4lbs / 1,995g (without the removable tripod foot). This weight allows most photographers to use it handheld for short periods, adding to its flexibility. Transitioning between wide and telephoto extremes is effortlessly accomplished with a mere 70-degree rotation of the zoom ring. This quick response enables swift adjustments for capturing subjects at varying distances, making it ideal for sports photography or capturing wildlife moments. Additionally, the lens barrel includes a function button, easily accessible while operating the zoom. The button can be assigned functions like AF-ON for activating subject tracking autofocus.
(Image credit: Nikon)
One of the lens’s notable features is its internal zoom mechanism, eliminating the need for the barrel to extend during focal length adjustments. Nikon ensures exceptionally fast autofocus performance with the integration of their high-speed stepping motor (STM). When paired with the upcoming Nikon Z8 camera, renowned for its outstanding subject tracking autofocus, this lens becomes a formidable combination for wildlife and sports photography.
Photographers will appreciate the 5.5EV of optical vibration reduction, ensuring sharp and steady telephoto images and videos. The inclusion of ‘Sport Mode’ further stabilizes the viewfinder image, enhancing the overall shooting experience. The minimum focus distance is 1.3m at 180mm and 2.4m at 600mm, delivering impressive maximum magnification capabilities, allowing photographers to capture various subjects in sharp and clear detail.
Who Will Benefit from This Lens?
As an enthusiast wildlife and sports photographer myself, I have long been searching for a lens that surpasses the capabilities of my current setup. However, I find professional lenses, which are bulky and expensive, to be excessive for my needs.
The Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens seems to be the perfect solution for enthusiasts like me, offering an extended reach of 600mm that greatly benefits wildlife photography. Although image quality may slightly diminish towards the 600mm range, it is not significant enough to deter me from considering this lens for my wishlist. The 180-600mm lens has captured my full attention, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share my experiences with it in an upcoming review.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras?
- Yes, the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens is specifically designed to work seamlessly with full-frame Nikon mirrorless cameras.
2. Can the lens reach beyond its native focal length range?
- Absolutely! Nikon offers two teleconverters, the Nikon Z 1.4x teleconverter and the Nikon Z 2x teleconverter, which can extend the maximum reach of the 180-600mm lens to 840mm and 1200mm, respectively.
3. Does the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens have weather-sealing features?
- While the lens boasts an impressive array of features, it is important to note that it does not offer the same level of weather-sealing found in Nikon’s more premium lenses.
4. What is the weight of the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens?
- The lens weighs approximately 4.4lbs / 1,995g without its removable tripod foot attached, making it reasonably lightweight and portable.
5. What is the minimum focus distance of the lens?
- At 180mm, the minimum focus distance is 1.3m, while at 600mm, it is 2.4m. This allows photographers to achieve impressive magnification capabilities and capture subjects in sharp focus.
6. When will the Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8 lens be available?
- The Nikkor Z 70-180mm f/2.8 lens is scheduled to be available for purchase starting from July 20, 2023.
In Conclusion
Nikon’s recent launch of the Nikkor Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens has created a buzz among photographers, especially wildlife enthusiasts. With its impressive focal length range and versatile features, this lens presents an affordable option for Nikon mirrorless fans seeking exceptional performance. While it may lack some of the advanced weather-sealing capabilities of its premium counterparts, the Nikkor Z 180-600mm lens proves to be a valuable addition to any photographer’s gear. With its imminent release, photographers can look forward to capturing stunning wildlife and sports moments with ease and precision.