Nikon has launched the most versatile zoom lens in the world for its full-frame cameras. With a massive 14.2x optical zoom that spans the 28-400mm focal length, Nikon’s most recent full-frame lens is also its most versatile yet. Except for digital zooms like Samsung’s 30-100x Space Zoom, that optical zoom range outperforms any other full-frame lens and smartphone available today.
From an optical standpoint, the Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR is probably not among the greatest Nikon Z lenses—it’s not really an “S” lens, as Nikon refers to their professional lenses—but it is the most adaptable and might be the only lens you need to bring when traveling.
The wide end of the 28-400mm is similar to the viewpoint of your phone’s primary camera, making it perfect for daily observations. However, its 14.2x optical zoom extends up to 400mm, much beyond any other available on the market. That is enough close to capturing details of landmarks you are unable to visit in person or wildlife shots.
It’s helpful that the 28-400mm has optical stabilization up to 5 stops, or 5.5 stops when used with a Nikon Z camera that includes Synchro VR, like the Nikon Z6 II, with the latest software (see below). This is because shooting at 400mm requires a steady hand.
The 28-400mm lens’s versatility extends beyond its zoom range; at the telephoto end, it offers superb close-focusing down to 1.2 meters and a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.35x, which is respectable for close-up photography.
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The 28-400mm lens weighs just 725g, which makes it a lightweight travel lens that should work well with Nikon’s DSLR-style mirrorless cameras, such as the Z5.
Additionally, it has rubber seals around the lens barrel and mounts to keep water and dust out of the camera and lens. Simple controls and a zoom ring with a zoom lock to keep it firmly in place when tucked away while on the go make up the design.
The Nikon Z 28-400mm is scheduled to be on sale in April 2024 for £1,299 (actual pricing for the US and Australia will be added as soon as it is available; roughly $1,640 / AU$2,510).
The Nikon 28-400mm goes one step further with its 14x optical zoom, however, there are a few full-frame lenses that offer approximately 10x optical zoom or more for the APS-C format. Although ultra-versatile zoom lenses don’t have the same level of detail as prime lenses, you can still enhance the appeal of the 28-400mm lens by reducing noise and adding sharpness with the greatest AI image editors available today. It might be the only Nikon lens you need if you don’t mind the compromises.