Name: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR
Brand: Nikon

Technical Specifications of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR

Overall score

8.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera lens.

When it matters: When you want to see which camera lenses attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Mount & Format

8.2

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Lens type

What it is: The optical category that indicates whether the lens is a prime, zoom, macro, fisheye, or another design.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a prime, zoom, macro, or specialty lens for the kind of subjects you shoot.

Importance: LOW

telephoto prime

Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which cameras the lens can be attached to.

When it matters: When camera compatibility and access to the right lens ecosystem are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Nikon F

Sensor format coverage

What it is: The largest sensor size the lens is designed to cover without severe vignetting.

When it matters: When you need the lens to fully cover your camera sensor without heavy corner darkening.

Importance: LOW

Full-frame

Filter thread size

What it is: The diameter of the front filter thread used for screw-in filters and compatible accessories.

When it matters: When you plan to use screw-in filters such as polarizers, ND filters, or protective glass.

Importance: LOW

77 mm

Teleconverter compatibility

What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.

When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.

Importance: HIGH

Optics & Aperture

8.5

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Minimum focal length

What it is: The shortest focal length the lens can provide, which determines its widest framing.

When it matters: When wide framing matters for landscapes, interiors, architecture, or travel shots.

Importance: LOW

300 mm

Maximum focal length

What it is: The longest focal length the lens can reach, which determines its telephoto reach.

When it matters: When you need more reach for wildlife, sports, stage events, or distant details.

Importance: LOW

300 mm

Optical zoom

What it is: The ratio between the longest and shortest focal lengths available in the lens zoom range.

When it matters: When you want one lens to cover a broader range of compositions without swapping glass.

Importance: LOW

Maximum angle of view

What it is: The widest scene the lens can capture at its shortest focal length.

When it matters: When you need to fit more of a room, skyline, or landscape into the frame.

Importance: LOW

8.2 °

Minimum angle of view

What it is: The narrowest scene the lens captures at its longest focal length.

When it matters: When you want tighter framing on faraway subjects without moving closer.

Importance: LOW

8.2 °

Focus & Controls

7.3

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Focus motor

What it is: The autofocus drive system responsible for moving lens elements into focus.

When it matters: When fast, quiet autofocus matters for video, wildlife, street shots, or moving subjects.

Importance: LOW

SWM

Minimum focus distance

What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.

When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Maximum reproduction ratio

What it is: The highest magnification the lens can achieve when focusing at its closest distance.

When it matters: When close-up magnification matters for macro work, textures, or small product details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Full-time manual focus

What it is: The ability to adjust focus manually without leaving autofocus mode.

When it matters: When you want to fine-tune focus instantly without switching out of autofocus.

Importance: HIGH

Internal focusing

What it is: A focusing design in which internal elements move while the outer barrel length stays unchanged.

When it matters: When you use polarizers, gimbals, or close-up setups that benefit from a lens that does not extend while focusing.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization

8.2

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Optical image stabilization

What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.

When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.

Importance: HIGH

Stabilization effectiveness (CIPA stops)

What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.

When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.

Importance: HIGH

Build & Handling

9.0

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.

When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.

Importance: HIGH

Lens length

What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.

When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.

Importance: HIGH

Lens diameter

What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.

When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Weather sealing (splashproof)

What it is: Protective sealing intended to resist splashes, dust, and light environmental exposure.

When it matters: When you often shoot outdoors in light rain, dust, or changing conditions.

Importance: HIGH

Metal mount

What it is: A lens mount made of metal rather than plastic for greater durability at the camera connection point.

When it matters: When durability matters because you change lenses often or use heavier gear for work.

Importance: HIGH

Lab Scores

9.0

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DxOMark overall score

What it is: The combined DxOMark lens rating based on lab-tested optical performance.

When it matters: When you want a quick lab-based summary of overall optical performance before comparing lenses in detail.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark sharpness score

What it is: The DxOMark subscore that reflects how much detail the lens can resolve across the frame.

When it matters: When fine detail matters for landscapes, product work, or high-resolution cameras.

Importance: HIGH

DxOMark transmission

What it is: The measured light transmission of the lens, expressed as T-stop rather than nominal f-number.

When it matters: When real light loss matters for exposure consistency in studio, cinema, or mixed-lens shoots.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark distortion

What it is: The DxOMark metric that measures how much the lens bends straight lines away from their true shape.

When it matters: When straight lines matter in architecture, interiors, copy work, or product photography.

Importance: MEDIUM

DxOMark vignetting

What it is: The DxOMark measurement of corner darkening relative to the center of the image.

When it matters: When even corner brightness matters for skies, studio backdrops, or clean product shots.

Importance: MEDIUM

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR vs the average camera lens

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR better than the average camera lens?

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Has optical image stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
What it is: A hardware system that shifts optical elements to counteract camera shake and reduce blur.
When it matters: When you want steadier handheld shots and less blur, especially in low light or at longer focal lengths.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
Teleconverter compatible
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
Supports Nikon TC-14E/TC-17E/TC-20E teleconverters.
What it is: Whether the lens can be used with compatible teleconverters to extend focal length.
When it matters: When you want to extend reach for wildlife or sports without changing to a different long lens.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
Has fluorine coating
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.
What it is: A protective coating on exposed elements that repels water, oil, and dirt for easier cleaning.
When it matters: When you shoot in rain, sea spray, or dusty places and want easier front-element cleaning.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
What it is: A marked scale that shows the approximate focus distance set on the lens.
When it matters: When you pre-focus manually for street, zone focusing, or repeatable tripod setups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
Has focus limiter switch
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
What it is: A control that restricts the focus range to improve autofocus speed and reduce hunting.
When it matters: When autofocus speed matters and you want to stop the lens from hunting through its full focus range.
Importance: LOW
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
0.5 stops stronger stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (4.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
What it is: The rated stabilizer benefit, measured in stops, under CIPA testing standards.
When it matters: When you are comparing stabilized lenses and want to know how much handheld shutter-speed advantage they offer.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (4.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.4.5 stops vs 4 stops
Teleconverter compatible
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
Has focus limiter switch
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
Has optical image stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
0.5 stops stronger stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (4.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
Has fluorine coating
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a fluorine coating, the average camera lens does not. 25.5% of camera lenses use a fluorine coating.

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR worse than the average camera lens?

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1.2 higher f-number at telephoto end
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
1.1 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1.4 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
324.6 g heavier
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is heavier than the average camera lens (850 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
55.5 mm longer lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is longer than the average camera lens (147.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
12 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is wider than the average camera lens (89 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR was released earlier than the average camera lens.
January 2015
1.2 higher f-number at telephoto end
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.
What it is: The widest aperture available at the long end of the zoom range, affecting light intake and background blur.
When it matters: When you shoot at the long end in low light or want stronger background blur for portraits and sports.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a dimmer maximum telephoto aperture than the average camera lens (f/4 vs f/2.8). The average lens has a maximum telephoto aperture of f/2.8.4 vs 2.8
324.6 g heavier
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is heavier than the average camera lens (850 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.
What it is: The total mass of the lens, affecting portability and handling balance on the camera body.
When it matters: When you carry a lens all day for travel, hiking, or event coverage and want to keep your kit manageable.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is heavier than the average camera lens (850 g vs 525.4 g). The average lens weighs 525.4 g.850 g vs 525.4 g
55.5 mm longer lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is longer than the average camera lens (147.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
What it is: The physical length of the lens body from mount to front edge.
When it matters: When bag space, balance, or front clearance matters in a compact travel or video setup.
Importance: HIGH
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is longer than the average camera lens (147.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.147.5 mm vs 92 mm
1.1 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1.4 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.
What it is: The shortest distance at which the lens can focus on a subject.
When it matters: When you like shooting details, food, flowers, or products from a very short distance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has a higher minimum focus distance than the average camera lens (1.4 m vs 0.3 m). The average lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.3 m.1.4 m vs 0.3 m
12 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is wider than the average camera lens (89 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
What it is: The widest outer diameter of the lens barrel.
When it matters: When grip comfort, filter size, or fit inside a tight camera bag matters to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is wider than the average camera lens (89 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.89 mm vs 77 mm
1 fewer low-dispersion elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
What it is: Optical elements designed to reduce color fringing by controlling how different wavelengths focus.
When it matters: When you want cleaner edges and less color fringing in high-contrast scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR has fewer low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (1 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.1 vs 2
73.6% more expensive
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is more expensive than the average camera lens (£920 vs £530).
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR is more expensive than the average camera lens (£920 vs £530).£920 vs £530
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR was released earlier than the average camera lens.
January 2015
What it is: The date when the lens model was first officially introduced.
When it matters: When you prefer a newer optical design with more modern autofocus, coatings, or stabilization features.
Importance: LOW
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR was released earlier than the average camera lens.2015 vs 2016

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

06/03/2015

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is a compact, 755g telephoto lens featuring a Phase-Fresnel element that provides excellent portability, robust weather sealing, and highly effective 4.5-stop Vibration Reduction. It delivers outstanding sharpness, minimal distortion, and low chromatic aberration, with fast autofocus performance suitable for handheld shooting. While the lens offers superb image quality and build, the review notes the Phase-Fresnel design can produce ring-like flare when shooting directly into bright, specular light sources, and a tripod collar is not included in the box. Overall, the lens is considered an impressive, high-performing upgrade for Nikon users seeking a lightweight telephoto option.

photographylife.com

09/11/2024

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm f/4E PF ED VR Review - Photography Life

The Photography Life review defines the Nikon 300mm f/4E PF ED VR as a revolutionary, lightweight (755g) telephoto lens featuring a Phase Fresnel element that makes it exceptionally portable for wildlife and sports photography. Key strengths include superb sharpness, wide-open performance at f/4, excellent 4-stop Vibration Reduction, and a close 1.4-meter minimum focusing distance. However, the review notes potential cons, including a susceptibility to ring-shaped flare around bright, direct light sources and reduced autofocus performance when paired with 1.7x or 2x teleconverters. Additionally, the lens exhibits minor vignetting at f/4, and the tripod collar is not included in the box.

shutterbug.com

05/11/2015

Summary of the review

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

The Shutterbug review praises the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR as a groundbreaking, travel-friendly telephoto lens, noting its Phase Fresnel design makes it 30% shorter and 1.5 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Key performance pros include extremely fast autofocus via the Silent Wave Motor and effective Vibration Reduction for handheld shooting. The review notes limitations, such as a risk of ring-shaped colored flare when shooting into bright light and reduced contrast, alongside limited compatibility for older cameras due to the electronic diaphragm.

dslrbodies.com

13/12/2025

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon 300mm f/4E AF-S VR is a highly portable prime telephoto lens that introduces a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element, allowing it to shed nearly half the weight and three inches of length compared to its predecessor. It delivers very good to excellent sharpness and acuity across the frame, achieving optimal resolution when stopped down to f/5.6 or f/8. Handling is a standout pro, as its remarkably lightweight profile enables effortless handholding and panning for extended sports or wildlife sessions without a monopod. Furthermore, the lens boasts exceptional correction of longitudinal and latitudinal chromatic aberrations, minimal linear distortion, and negligible vignetting. However, the compact design comes with notable drawbacks, primary among them being its susceptibility to ringed flare around bright point-light sources at night or heavily backlit subjects. Performance at its wide-open f/4 aperture also drops slightly in center sharpness compared to f/5.6. In terms of physical components, Nikon does not supply a tripod collar with the $2,000 lens, requiring an extra purchase if you do not already own the compatible 70-200mm f/4 collar. Additionally, because it is an...

jbradfordphoto.com

23/09/2022

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm f/4E PF Lens Review: Lightweight and Lovable

John Bradford characterizes the Nikon 300mm f/4E PF as an excellent, highly capable prime lens, praising its impressive sharpness, high contrast, and exceptionally small, lightweight footprint. Tested with a D780, the lens is lauded for delivering quiet, accurate, and quick autofocus, making it ideal for travel and wildlife photography. Conversely, the review notes a visible loss of contrast when shooting directly into the sun and finds the autofocus, while reliable, to be slower than Nikon's top-tier flagship glass. Furthermore, the lens lacks explicit, officially stated weather sealing, featuring only a rear flange gasket. Bradford Photo.

focus-review.com

17/05/2015

Summary of the review

Review Nikon AF-S 300 mm f/4E PF ED VR @ D7100

The Nikon AF-S 300 mm f/4E PF ED VR is an exceptionally compact and lightweight 300mm telephoto lens that weighs just 750 grams and measures 15 cm in length, which is nearly half the weight of its predecessor. Designed for full-frame FX sensors, it serves as an excellent option on DX-format cameras like the Nikon D7100, where it benefits from a crop factor to provide extended reach without losing corner performance or introducing cat's-eye bokeh. The integration of a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element enables this ultra-portable form factor, while built-in vibration reduction effectively minimizes motion blur, allowing sharp, handheld shots at shutter speeds as slow as 1/40 of a second. Additionally, it features an electromagnetic aperture for precise exposures during rapid bursts, a weather-sealed build, and a protective fluorine coating to repel dirt and water. Optically, the lens delivers stellar image quality, characterized by high contrast and outstanding sharpness across the entire frame, even when shooting wide open at f/4. Major optical pros include virtually non-existent chromatic aberration—thanks to the ED and PF glass elements—and excellent control over both...

kenrockwell.com

No date provided

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm f/4 PF VR Review & Sample Images by Ken Rockwell

The Nikon 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is described by Ken Rockwell as the world's smallest and lightest 300mm SLR lens, featuring a Phase Fresnel element that reduces weight by half compared to its predecessor, making it highly portable. The lens offers exceptional sharpness, fast autofocus, and instant manual focus override, making it a versatile tool for handheld wildlife and sports photography. While offering superior portability, the lens can occasionally produce unique "Fresnel flare" in extreme, direct backlighting. Additionally, the construction uses lighter materials, and the vibration reduction system can be sensitive to specific mirror-slap vibrations on certain cameras, despite generally excellent performance.

pistonclick.com

No date provided

Summary of the review

A review of the AF-S Nikon 300mm PF and the AF-S Nikkor 500mm PF

The PistonClick review evaluates the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR and AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR prime lenses for trackside motorsport photography at Silverstone and Cadwell Park. Both lenses utilize Phase Fresnel (PF) glass elements to compress their physical size and weight significantly compared to standard supertelephoto lenses. The reviewers emphasize that these lightweight primes serve as highly competent alternatives to the popular but heavy Nikkor 200-500mm superzoom, making them incredibly easy to handle all day without a monopod. The primary pros highlighted are the excellent image quality, tack-sharp results, fast autofocus speeds, and highly compact forms; the 300mm is notably shorter and lighter than a standard 70-200mm zoom lens. Both lenses integrate well with a 1.7x teleconverter to stretch focal lengths to 510mm and 850mm respectively. However, notable cons include their steep prices for amateur photographers (£1,999 for the 300mm and £3,699 for the 500mm). Additionally, adding the teleconverter to the 500mm lens causes the autofocus to hunt a bit. One reviewer even noted that the 500mm’s ultra-lightweight profile can fight against traditional muscle memory,...

pcmag.com

10/07/2015

Summary of the review

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

The PCMag review rates the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR as an Editors' Choice, highlighting its Phase Fresnel (PF) design which makes the lens exceptionally light and compact for a 300mm focal length. It offers outstanding image quality with impressive edge-to-edge sharpness, along with effective optical stabilization (VR) and a 1:4 macro magnification ratio. However, the lens carries a high price point compared to larger, heavier alternatives that offer similar reach. The review also notes limited backward compatibility with older Nikon camera bodies. For full details, read the review at PCMag.

cameralabs.com

22/02/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm f4E VR review - Cameralabs

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4.0E PF ED VR is a highly compact, lightweight full-frame prime lens that serves as a modern successor to the older 14-year-old 300mm f/4.0D. Tested on a 36MP Nikon D810 body, the lens delivers excellent, sharp image quality across the entire frame even when shot wide open at f/4.0. Thanks to its advanced optical design featuring a Phase Fresnel lens element, the lens is nearly 40% lighter and significantly shorter than its predecessor, measuring similar in size to a standard 24-70mm zoom lens. Additional strong points include a quiet, highly precise, and fast autofocus operation, a decent 1:4 maximum magnification ratio, and thorough weather sealing at the lens mount along with a dirt-repelling fluorine coating on the front element.

nikonrumors.com

15/03/2015

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens stands out as a highly portable telephoto option, weighing a mere 850 grams compared to the 3,000-gram weight of its f/2.8 counterpart. The reviewer notes its outstanding optical performance, highlighting that its sharpness is best wide open at f/4 and outperforms the heavy 300mm f/2.8 lens at that same aperture. Autofocus is smooth and fast, while the built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) effectively offers about three stops of stability in real-world use. When paired with a TC 1.4x II teleconverter at a 420mm focal length, it delivers excellent sharpness that edges out competing setups at f/5.6. Additionally, it can achieve a near 1:2 macro magnification when used alongside a teleconverter and a 12mm extension tube. Despite these performance benefits, the lens exhibits a few notable drawbacks. Optically, it shows an unusual sharpness pattern where image quality decreases slightly at f/5.6 before improving again at f/8 and f/11. Performance drops significantly when paired with a TC 2x III teleconverter to reach 600mm; at this length, the autofocus slows down and hunts in low...

dpreview.com

03/08/2016

Summary of the review

Gallery update: Nikon 300mm F4E PF ED VR - DPReview

The DPReview gallery update for the Nikon 300mm F4E PF ED VR highlights this lens as a highly portable, compact, and sharp prime that serves as an effective alternative to heavier telephotos. Its Phase Fresnel technology allows for a 1.5 lb lighter, 30% shorter design without sacrificing performance across fast-action, handheld scenarios like motorsports and tennis. While it is praised for excellent sharpness wide open and effective VR, the lens has a specific weakness with "PF flare" (rainbow artifacts) when shooting directly into bright, specular light. Additionally, the 300mm focal length may be too short for some wildlife applications, prompting the use of teleconverters, and early units required a firmware update to correct a VR-related blur issue at specific shutter speeds.

patrikoberlin.com

23/05/2016

Summary of the review

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

In his review on Patrik Oberlin Fotografie, photographer Patrik Oberlin highly praises the Nikon AF-S 300mm F/4E ED PF VR as the lightweight telephoto prime he had long been missing in his gear kit. Tested on a Nikon D810 body, the lens stands out primarily for its exceptionally small physical length of 14.7 cm and a weight of only 750 grams. Oberlin notes that this form factor completely solves his past struggles with heavy lenses—such as the 1.54 kg Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR—and large, optically compromised megazooms like the Tamron 150-600mm. The primary pros highlighted in the review are its excellent portability and top-tier image sharpness, making it an ideal choice for landscape photographers who want to minimize pack weight. He explicitly underscores that the lens delivers incredible image quality and remains remarkably strong when shooting into backlight. Conversely, the core con mentioned is a structural drawback shared by all fixed-focal prime lenses: a lack of focal flexibility. While megazooms are larger and heavier, they offer flexible framing that a prime lens cannot replicate. However, Oberlin considers this a worthy...

af13.de

18/06/2017

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is a remarkably compact and lightweight telephoto lens designed for sports and wildlife photographers, weighing only 755 grams and measuring 14.7 centimeters in length. Built with a robust polycarbonate body and weather sealing at the metal mount, the lens features a highly accurate and quiet ultrasonic autofocus motor that tracks fast-moving animals effortlessly. In terms of image quality, it achieves maximum sharpness in the center right from its wide-open aperture of f/4, with stopping down only needed to improve the corners. Furthermore, its performance pairs exceptionally well with the TC-14E III 1.4x teleconverter, creating an effective 420mm f/5.6 setup that maintains excellent sharpness, precise autofocus tracking, and minimal distortion. Additional advantages include an outstanding electromagnetic iris mechanism for highly consistent exposures and a reliable VR Sport mode that delivers a very stable viewfinder image when panning. Despite these strengths, the review notes a few notable drawbacks. Under specific lighting angles, the interaction between the Phase Fresnel (PF) lens and the camera's viewfinder prisma/focusing screen can occasionally produce colorful light patterns in...

zielfoto.com

25/11/2024

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F/4E PF ED VR - Zielfoto (User Review/Rating)

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is a highly acclaimed telephoto lens, achieving a community score of 4.8 out of 5 stars with 100% of surveyed users stating they would purchase it again. Reviewers extensively praise its exceptionally compact and lightweight design, comparing its physical footprint to a standard 24-70mm lens, making it a perfect choice for travel, landscape, portrait, and wildlife photography. Key strengths highlighted in the user experiences include its "tack-sharp" image quality, fast and reliable autofocus performance (even when adapting to mirrorless bodies via the Nikon FTZ adapter), highly effective image stabilization for handheld shooting, and excellent value for money. Additionally, its 77mm filter thread is a practical bonus for photographers who already share that size with other standard zoom lenses. Despite the overwhelming praise, reviewers noted a few specific limitations and technical quirks. A primary optical drawback is the inherent behavior of the Phase Fresnel (PF) lens technology, which requires careful attention due to its distinct rendering characteristics in out-of-focus background elements (bokeh). In terms of autofocus, while the lens performs brilliantly for...

lesnumeriques.com

30/04/2015

Summary of the review

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

The Les Numériques review highly recommends the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300 mm f/4 E PF ED VR, praising its revolutionary integration of a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element. This technology makes the lens spectacularly compact and lightweight—measuring under 15 cm and weighing just over 750 g—which is 7.5 cm shorter and 550 g lighter than its predecessor. Tested on a 36 MP full-frame Nikon D810, the lens delivered remarkable optical quality with excellent image homogeneity from the center to the extreme edges. Furthermore, its built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) stabilization system was exceptionally effective, providing a handheld advantage of 4 to 5 stops of light, making it a highly mobile option for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography. However, the reviewer identified a few specific drawbacks to keep in mind before choosing this model. Optically, the sharpness (piqué) is slightly less crisp when shooting wide open at f/4 compared to smaller apertures, with optimal performance peaking around f/11. The lens also suffers from pronounced, "intrusive" vignetting at f/4 and f/5.6, though this issue disappears once stopped down further. Lastly, while the lens...

shots.fr

02/02/2015

Summary of the review

Review of the new Nikkor 300 mm f/4 in concert photography

This concert photography field test provides a highly favorable review of the Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens after testing it alongside a Nikon D3s camera at a live venue called La Carène. The primary highlight of the review centers on the lens's revolutionary compactness and light weight—comparable to a Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 zoom—which completely removes the need for a heavy tripod or monopod during fast-paced concert shooting. In terms of performance, the reviewer praises the lens for delivering remarkably crisp, detailed, and punchy images even when pushed to a slow shutter speed of 1/30s or 1/50s at ISO 3200. Additional key advantages noted are its exceptionally short minimum focusing distance of 1.2 meters (nearly half that of the 300mm f/2.8 alternative), its highly effective Vibration Reduction (VR) system with a dedicated "Sport" mode, and its relatively affordable pricing under €2,000. Despite the overwhelming praise, the review highlights a few inherent limitations and trade-offs. The maximum aperture of f/4 means losing one full stop of light compared to a premium f/2.8 super-telephoto lens, though modern cameras with excellent high-ISO...

dxomark.fr

06/01/2015

Summary of the review

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

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is a full-frame telephoto prime lens designed for the Nikon F FX mount, carrying an indicative launch price of $2,000 USD. The primary standout feature highlighted in the specifications is its groundbreaking Phase Fresnel (PF) optical technology, which consists of 16 lens elements in 10 groups. This specific engineering choice delivers massive pros regarding physical handling, making the lens exceptionally compact and lightweight at a length of 147.5 mm and a weight of just 755 grams. Additional built-in strengths include an integrated optical Vibration Reduction (VR) stabilization system for smoother handheld shooting, a highly responsive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus system, an electromagnetic circular diaphragm with 9 blades for precise exposure, and a sturdy non-extending barrel. Conversely, the technical overview also exposes notable cons and trade-offs that buyers should consider. For instance, despite being an expensive, high-end telephoto prime lens optimized for wildlife and action photography, it completely lacks an included tripod mount/collar. It is also built with a fixed, moderately bright f/4 maximum aperture rather than a faster f/2.8 opening....

nikonistas.com

26/05/2016

Summary of the review

Testing the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR at the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix

This review highlights a professional photographer's experience testing the compact AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR lens during the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, paired with a Nikon D500 body and a TC-14E III teleconverter. The most significant advantage of this lens is its Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element, which dramatically reduces body size and weight without compromising final image quality. Additional performance pros include an advanced VR SPORT mode that stabilizes the viewfinder image during high-speed action, a Fluorine coating that actively repels dust and water, and a Nanocrystal coating that effectively minimizes ghosting and flare. When combined with the high-ISO capabilities of the D500, the setup delivered sharp, high-quality sports action shots even when heavily cropped during post-processing. However, the review notes a few key drawbacks, primarily centered around aperture limitations and peer skepticism. Opting for a maximum aperture of f/4 instead of a traditional f/2.8 sports lens is considered a risk for some professionals who fear losing light and background separation. Furthermore, using the 1.4x teleconverter incurs a con of losing an extra stop of light,...

nikonland.it

20/09/2017

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm F4E VR PF: the featherweight (review)

The Nikon 300mm f/4E VR PF is a highly innovative, compact telephoto lens that introduces a Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element and an electromagnetic diaphragm system to Nikon's mid-range lineup. In real-world testing—spanning over 8,000 shots across portraiture, beach photography, and motorsports—the lens delivers outstanding, edge-to-edge optical sharpness even when shooting wide open at f/4. Its standout features are its ultra-lightweight design (weighing around 700 grams) and a highly effective Vibration Reduction (VR) system that includes Sport mode and allows for steady handheld shooting at otherwise impossible shutter speeds. The autofocus is exceptionally rapid and accurate, making it highly versatile for fast-moving subjects when paired with bodies like the D7200, D810, or V3, even when combined with a TC-20E III teleconverter to reach extreme focal equivalents up to 1200mm or 1620mm. However, the reviewer highlights several critical compromises that prevent the lens from fully matching professional-grade build standards. The exterior construction is composed entirely of cheap, easily scratchable plastic reminiscent of budget f/1.8 lenses, causing the lens to lack structural resilience and be prone to tipping over in the wind...

nikonland.it

30/12/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm F4E VR PF: a month in the spotlight

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is highlighted in this Nikonland review as a revolutionary, "featherweight" telephoto lens defined by its extreme versatility and adaptability to the photographer's needs. The reviewer notes several prominent pros, starting with the innovative Phase Fresnel (PF) optical design that makes the lens incredibly short and compact, combined with an extraordinarily low weight of just 755 grams that enables effortless handheld shooting. Optically, it delivers stellar sharpness, depth of field, and smooth color gradations across diverse conditions, from sports and action panning to high-contrast landscapes. Additional technical strengths include a highly efficient Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus system, a second-generation Vibration Reduction (VR) mechanism, and a modern electromagnetic diaphragm (E) that eliminates traditional mechanical linkages. Furthermore, its native FX format can easily step down to DX mode to seamlessly mimic a 450mm f/4 lens without requiring an external teleconverter. On the downside, the review identifies a couple of notable cons, specifically pointing out that the retail price is quite steep and "not exactly inviting". In terms of performance, the reviewer observes a...

nikonland.it

22/04/2019

Summary of the review

Nikon 300mm f4E PF ED VR vs. Nikon 200-500mm F5.6E VR for Wildlife Photography

The Nikonland review indicates that the 300mm f/4E PF ED VR prime lens offers superior sharpness, color, and a one-stop aperture advantage, though its fixed focal length is limiting for wildlife. While highly portable, its reliance on teleconverters can reduce autofocus speed and image quality. Conversely, the 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR zoom provides immense versatility with satisfying sharpness, but it is hindered by its 2.3 kg weight and reduced performance in low-contrast conditions.

lmphotography.it

Summary of the review

Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR (Review and Comparison)

The Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/4 D ED (older version) and the Nikkor AF-S 300mm f/4 E PF ED VR (newer version) are both high-quality telephoto lenses that perform identically at the center of the frame across all focal lengths. The older D ED version stands out for its robust, all-metal construction, an included built-in tripod collar, and significantly better image definition at the frame's edges and corners when used without teleconverters. It also features a superior magnification ratio for close-up shots because it suffers from less focal length loss at short distances compared to its successor. Its biggest advantages are financial, as a used copy costs roughly a third of the newer model's price. However, its primary downsides are its lack of image stabilization, non-weather-sealed body, and heavy weight (1,440g), which is nearly double that of the newer model. Conversely, the newer PF ED VR version is highly optimized for handheld shooting and outdoor excursions due to its exceptionally compact size, weather sealing, and lightweight build (755g) made possible by Phase Fresnel (PF) lens elements. It adds optical image stabilization,...

focus-review.com

03/05/2015

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR on D810 Test - Autofocus Review

The Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is a high-end telephoto lens designed for nature, sports, and landscape photography, tested here on a full-frame Nikon D810 body. The standout feature of this lens is its innovative Phase Fresnel (PF) technology, which allows it to be incredibly compact (15 cm long) and lightweight (750 grams)—nearly half the weight of its predecessor. Optically, the lens delivers fantastic image sharpness from its widest aperture across the entire frame, coming very close to the performance of the pricier 300mm f/2.8 lens. It is built with high-quality additions including a water- and dust-repellent fluorine coating, Nano Crystal Coat to reduce ghosting, an electromagnetic diaphragm for precise exposure during high-speed shooting, and an effective 3-stop image stabilization system that includes a dedicated "SPORT" mode for a stable viewfinder image without performance loss at fast shutter speeds. While the lens offers outstanding optical and mechanical quality, it does come with a few notable drawbacks. The review highlights that it is significantly more expensive than the older Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4 model and does not include a...

focus-review.com

17/05/2015

Summary of the review

Test: Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR on D7100

The reviewed Nikon AF-S 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is an exceptionally light and compact FX telephoto lens tested on a 24-megapixel DX-format Nikon D7100 body. Thanks to its innovative Phase Fresnel (PF) technology, the lens measures only 15 cm in length and weighs just 750 grams—roughly half the weight of its predecessor. Optically, it delivers remarkable center-to-corner sharpness even at its maximum f/4 aperture, reaching peak performance when stopped down by one stop. Its built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) proves incredibly efficient, enabling sharp handheld shots at exceptionally low shutter speeds like 1/40 of a second. Distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting are also exceptionally well-managed, while a specialized Fluorine coating provides strong physical protection against dust, water, and debris. However, the review highlights several distinct compromises associated with this ultra-portable build. Due to the inherent optical characteristics of the Phase Fresnel element, the lens is uniquely prone to producing colored rings or flare artifacts when shooting directly into bright, intense backlighting. Financially, it commands a significantly higher price tag than the older AF-S 300mm f/4 version. Additionally, despite its premium...

Third-party reviews

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(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR?

Incredibly lightweight and compact for a 300mm lens, making it easy to hand-hold for long periods
Excellent sharpness across the frame even when used wide open at f/4
Effective Vibration Reduction (VR) system, including a 'Sport' mode for tracking moving subjects
Fast and accurate autofocus performance, even when paired with a 1.4x teleconverter
Impressive minimum focus distance for close-up and 'macro-esque' subjects
High-quality optical coatings that produce great contrast and colour rendition

What customers dislike about Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm F4E PF ED VR?

High price tag compared to its predecessor and other similar lenses
Does not include a tripod collar, which must be purchased separately
Potential for 'Fresnel flare' (ring-shaped flare) when shooting directly into bright light sources
Reported issues with VR performance at specific mid-range shutter speeds (around 1/80s to 1/160s) in early models
Build materials include more plastic components than some users expected for a high-end 'gold ring' series lens

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