Nikon AF-S Nikkor
Best professional telephoto zoom for sports, wildlife, and wedding photographers.
This is the gold standard for pros who need absolute reliability in the field. Its rugged build and razor-sharp optics make it an essential workhorse for weddings and sports, though you will certainly feel the heft of that glass during long, handheld shooting days.
$1996.95
at
Crutchfield
Who it's for
- Event photographers working in unpredictable outdoor environments
- Handheld photographers shooting in challenging low-light conditions
- Professionals demanding edge-to-edge sharpness for high-resolution prints
Who should skip it
- Travelers prioritizing a lightweight and compact camera kit
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking a more affordable standard zoom
- Photographers looking to minimize accessory costs and filter sizes
Performance breakdown
Optical Sharpness
Advanced glass elements deliver professional-grade clarity across the entire zoom range.
Autofocus Speed
Silent Wave Motor ensures near-instant, whisper-quiet focus tracking for fast subjects.
Build Durability
Magnesium-alloy construction handles harsh environments with impressive weather-resistant reliability.
Vibration Reduction
Four-stop stabilization keeps handheld telephoto shots crisp in challenging light.
Low Light Performance
Constant f/2.8 aperture excels in dim conditions and provides beautiful bokeh.
Handling Balance
Substantial weight requires the included tripod collar for comfortable, steady operation.
Key Specs
Type of Lens
Type E AF-S lens with a built-in CPU
Type of Mount
Nikon F-bayonet type
Focal Length
70-200mm (105-300mm with APS-C image sensor cameras)
Focal Length Scale
Graduated in millimeters: 70, 85, 105, 135, and 200mm
Filter Diameter
77mm screw type
Lens Construction
22 elements in 18 groups (including 6 ED lens elements, 1 fluorite element, 1 HRI element, and lens elements with Nano-Crystal or fluorine coatings)
Image Stabilization
Vibration Reduction (Normal and Sport) using Voice Coil Motors (VCMs)
Minimum Focus Distance
3.61' (1.1 meters) from focal plane
Focus Distance Indicator
Markings at 4', 5', 7', 10', 15', 30' and ∞ (1.1m, 1.5m, 2m, 3m, 5m, 10m, and ∞)
Focusing Method
Nikon Internal Focusing (IF) System with autofocus controlled by a Silent Wave Motor and separate focus ring for manual focus
What Reviewers Say
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Nikon AF-S Nikkor before you decide.