Name: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II
Brand: Nikon

Technical Specifications of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II

Overall score

8.1

Hide

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

Hide

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 zoom

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

8.3

Hide

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

70 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

200 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

2.9x

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

34.3 °

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

12.3 °

Focus & Controls

6.8

Hide

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

7.6

Hide

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

8.2

Hide

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

8.2

Hide

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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II vs the average camera lens

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II better than the average camera lens?

Hide

Has optical image stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
Teleconverter compatible
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
5 more low-dispersion elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (7 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (7 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.7 vs 2
Has internal zoom
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
Maintains length during zooming.
What it is: A zoom design that changes focal length without extending the outer barrel.
When it matters: When balance on a gimbal or tripod matters and you do not want the lens length to change while zooming.
Importance: LOW
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
Has focus limiter switch
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a focus limiter switch, the average camera lens does not. 16.4% of camera lenses include a focus limiter switch.
2.5 µm lower chromatic aberration
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (6 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.
What it is: The DxOMark metric that quantifies unwanted color fringing caused by different wavelengths focusing unevenly.
When it matters: When you want to avoid color fringing on high-contrast edges in backlit scenes or detailed subjects.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (6 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.6 µm vs 8.5 µm
5 points higher DxOMark score
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (31 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.
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
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (31 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.31 vs 26
Teleconverter compatible
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II supports teleconverters, while the average camera lens does not.
5 more low-dispersion elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has more low-dispersion elements than the average camera lens (7 vs 2). The average lens has 2 low-dispersion elements.
Has focus distance scale
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a focus distance scale, the average camera lens does not. 48.6% of camera lenses include a focus distance scale.
Has internal zoom
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has internal zoom, the average camera lens does not. 10% of camera lenses support internal zoom.
Has focus limiter switch
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has optical image stabilization, the average camera lens does not. 29% of camera lenses include optical image stabilization.
2.5 µm lower chromatic aberration
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower chromatic aberration than the average camera lens (6 µm vs 8.5 µm). The average lens has chromatic aberration of 8.5 µm.
5 points higher DxOMark score
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a higher DxOMark overall score than the average camera lens (31 vs 26). The average lens has a DxOMark overall score of 26.

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II worse than the average camera lens?

Hide

2 fewer aspherical elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
1.1 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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.
0.07 x lower maximum reproduction ratio
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.1x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
0.5 stops weaker stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.
113.5 mm longer lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is longer than the average camera lens (205.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.
10 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is wider than the average camera lens (87 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II was released earlier than the average camera lens.
July 2009
0.2 T-stop higher transmission value
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a higher T-stop value than the average camera lens (3.3 T-stop vs 3.1 T-stop). The average lens has a T-stop value of 3.1 T-stop.
113.5 mm longer lens
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is longer than the average camera lens (205.5 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is longer than the average camera lens (205.5 mm vs 92 mm). The average lens has a length of 92 mm.205.5 mm vs 92 mm
1.1 m longer minimum focus distance
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II 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
2 fewer aspherical elements
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.
What it is: Specially shaped lens elements used to reduce distortion and improve sharpness with fewer optical compromises.
When it matters: When edge sharpness and lower distortion matter in wide-angle, travel, or everyday shooting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has fewer aspherical elements than the average camera lens (0 vs 2). The average lens has 2 aspherical elements.0 vs 2
10 mm wider lens barrel
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is wider than the average camera lens (87 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is wider than the average camera lens (87 mm vs 77 mm). The average lens has a diameter of 77 mm.87 mm vs 77 mm
Older release date
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II was released earlier than the average camera lens.
July 2009
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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II was released earlier than the average camera lens.2009 vs 2016
0.5 stops weaker stabilization
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 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 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower stabilization effectiveness than the average camera lens (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average lens has stabilization effectiveness of 4 stops.3.5 stops vs 4 stops
4.04x more expensive
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is more expensive than the average camera lens (£2,140 vs £530).
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II is more expensive than the average camera lens (£2,140 vs £530).£2,140 vs £530
0.07 x lower maximum reproduction ratio
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.1x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.
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
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II has a lower maximum reproduction ratio than the average camera lens (0.1x vs 0.192x). The average lens has a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.192x.0.12 x vs 0.192 x

Expert reviews

dpreview.com

25/02/2010

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm 1:2.8G ED VR IIGo to product viewer dialog for this item. review

The DPReview analysis of the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II highlights a professional telezoom that corrects its predecessor's full-frame issues, offering superior corner-to-corner sharpness and improved 4-stop Vibration Reduction. Built with durable magnesium alloy and thorough weather sealing, the lens also provides fast, reliable autofocus, making it a robust, high-performance tool. However, the review notes significant focus "breathing" at close distances, a lack of front-barrel AF-stop buttons, and susceptibility to flare, alongside small, fiddly controls. Despite these drawbacks and higher weight, the lens earned a Gold Award for its excellent image quality, serving as a reliable workhorse for professionals.

kenrockwell.com

01/11/2009

Summary of the review

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR IIGo to product viewer dialog for this item. Review

Ken Rockwell’s review highlights the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G VR II as a significant upgrade, delivering outstanding, accurate autofocus and improved, edge-to-edge sharpness with minimal light falloff. Key performance advantages include exceptional, reliable performance at f/2.8, reduced distortion compared to its predecessor, and an advanced VR II system enabling sharp handheld shots at low shutter speeds. Ken Rockwell However, the lens has drawbacks, including a $500 higher launch price than previous models and the removal of physical AF-lock buttons. Additionally, Rockwell noted minor sample variation, with his unit displaying slight softness on one side of the frame.

photographylife.com

11/11/2018

Summary of the review

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G VR IIGo to product viewer dialog for this item. Review

The Photography Life review deems the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G VR II an outstanding professional telephoto lens, highlighting its robust, weather-sealed construction and exceptional sharpness across the zoom range at f/2.8. Key advantages include an effective Nano Crystal Coat to reduce flare and a highly capable Vibration Reduction II system. Conversely, the review notes significant focus breathing at close distances, where the lens acts more like a 135mm, and its substantial 3.4-pound weight. Despite these factors and a high price point, the lens is recommended for its reliable performance and build.

cameralabs.com

19/01/2013

Summary of the review

Nikon 70-200mm f2.8G VR IIGo to product viewer dialog for this item. review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is a highly capable professional telephoto zoom lens engineered for full-frame FX-format DSLR bodies. Tested on a 36MP Nikon D800, the lens delivers excellent overall performance, boasting a constant f/2.8 aperture ideal for fast-moving action and a shallow depth of field. Its premier features include excellent build quality, robust weather sealing, standard 77mm filter threads, and a very precise, fast, and silent wave autofocus motor (SWM). Furthermore, the second-generation Vibration Reduction (VR II) provides a 2-to-3 stop stabilization advantage, ensuring consistently sharp images during hand-held tracking. Despite its professional strengths, the lens has notable drawbacks, primarily its high retail price and significant physical heft. Weighing 1,540 grams, it combines with a full-frame body to strain a photographer's shoulder over long shooting periods. Optically, with 21 elements in 16 groups, the lens is prone to internal flares and ghosting. A major drawback for videographers is that the autofocus mechanism produces audible "clack" and humming noises that register clearly on the camera's built-in microphone. Additionally, the close focus distance of 1.4 meters limits...

photocrati.com

07/02/2010

Summary of the review

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G AF-S ED VR II LensGo to product viewer dialog for this item. Review – Field Test Report

Summary This review highlights the Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens as an outstanding, professional-caliber "workhorse" telephoto zoom optimized for both DX and full-frame (FX) digital SLR cameras. The reviewer praises its tank-like, dust- and moisture-resistant construction, exceptionally smooth rubberized control rings, and a highly responsive Silent Wave autofocus motor that aggressively tracks fast-moving subjects. Optically, the lens delivers incredible edge-to-edge sharpness and contrast across the entire frame, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8, thanks to seven Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and Nano Crystal Coatings that highly suppress flare and ghosting. Additionally, the upgraded VR II stabilizer provides an impressive four-stop advantage for steady handheld shooting in low light. Despite its superb performance, the lens does come with some notable drawbacks. It is a large, heavy piece of equipment weighing 3.4 lbs, and comes with a hefty retail price tag of around $2,300, which may deter casual photo enthusiasts. Users will also experience a "focus breathing" effect, meaning the effective focal length shortens and maximum magnification decreases to 0.12x when focusing on nearby subjects rather...

lenstip.com

16/08/2010

Summary of the review

Nikon Nikkor AF-S 70-200 mm f/2.8G ED VR II review

The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 70-200 mm f/2.8G ED VR II review by LensTip highlights this professional journalistic zoom lens as a highly successful upgrade over its predecessor, engineered to solve the corner vignetting and edge performance degradation previously experienced on full-frame FX sensors. The lens features an armored, weather-sealed metal build quality alongside a rapid, ultra-quiet, and exceptionally accurate autofocus system driven by an ultrasonic motor. Optically, LensTip praises its ability to maintain a highly even and outstanding resolution across all focal lengths, while also ensuring remarkably low chromatic aberration, negligible distortion, well-corrected coma, and an efficient VR II stabilization mechanism. Despite its stellar overall execution, the review pinpoints a few clear performance bottlenecks. The primary optical drawback is that the outermost edges of a full-frame sensor remain a bit too soft when shooting wide open at the maximum relative aperture of f/2.8. Additionally, LensTip's deeper technical testing notes that some internal rings show strange splinters, the minimum focusing distance is restricted to 1.4 meters, and its performance against harsh, direct bright light can sometimes be problematic and prone to...

photoreview.com.au

03/02/2010

Summary of the review

AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II - Review

The AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is a premium, weather-sealed professional lens offering exceptional image quality with 9.0/10 scores for build and optical performance. Its 7-element ED design and Nano Crystal Coat effectively eliminate aberrations and soft corners, while the VR II stabilization and SWM autofocus system provide reliable low-light, handheld performance. However, the 1,540-gram lens is physically demanding to use over long sessions. Specific drawbacks include noticeable focus breathing at close distances, a shallow lens hood design, and a high retail price, according to the review.

naturalart.ca

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Brad Hill: Field Tests: Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VRII

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII is a highly professional, ruggedly built lens designed to cover full-frame (FX) image sensors with blazingly fast autofocus performance and highly effective four-stop image stabilization. Overall image quality is excellent, delivering exceptional color, strong contrast, and a superb bokeh that rivals top-tier fixed lenses when shot wide open. Furthermore, it performs surprisingly well with teleconverters, particularly the 1.4x TC-14EII and 2.0x TC-20EIII, maintaining impressive sharpness and autofocus capabilities once stopped down by a single stop. However, the lens has notable limitations regarding corner sharpness and focal length behavior. Edge-to-edge sharpness falls off significantly at 200mm when using larger apertures, a flaw that is even more pronounced on high-resolution bodies like the D800 and requires stopping down to f/8 or f/11 to correct. Additionally, it exhibits an internal focusing characteristic where the focal length noticeably shortens—by an estimated 20%—when focusing on subjects at very close distances. While these flaws have minimal impact on general wildlife photography, they pose a distinct drawback for landscape photographers or those shooting small, close-up subjects.

focus-review.com

06/05/2013

Summary of the review

Review Nikon 70-200mm 2.8 VR II (DX)

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II lens delivers exceptional, professional-grade performance when paired with a DX-format crop sensor camera like the Nikon D3200. The 1.5x crop factor transforms this lens into a fast 105-300mm equivalent f/2.8 zoom, making it an excellent, cost-effective alternative to a full-frame 300mm prime lens. Optically, the lens is a standout performer; it suffers from virtually zero lateral chromatic aberration, exhibits almost no flare even in direct light, and shows no noticeable vignetting in JPEG files because the DX sensor only uses the sharp center of the lens circle,. Resolution remains stunning across all focal lengths, drawing sharper than many professional fixed-focal lenses after stopping down just one stop. The lens boasts several physical and operational pros, including a highly rugged, mostly metal construction featuring a rubber lens mount seal to block out moisture. It features fast and accurate internal autofocus, internal zooming that prevents dust buildup, and highly effective vibration reduction that grants a proven 3 to 4-stop advantage. However, the review notes a few notable cons, primarily its large, heavy build and its high...

frederikboving.com

07/10/2021

Summary of the review

Review: Nikon AF-S 70-200mm F2.8 G VR II lens

The Frederik Boving review highlights the Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G VR II as a highly functional, feature-packed workhorse, boasting exceptional image quality driven by ED glass, a constant f/2.8 aperture, and effective VR II stabilization. Key performance advantages include a rapid AF-S silent wave motor, internal focusing, and robust build quality with versatile, tactile controls for professionals. Conversely, the review notes significant practical drawbacks, primarily the lens’s substantial 1.5-kilogram weight, which can make prolonged handheld shooting physically demanding. Additionally, the requirement for 77mm filters and the high cost of entry constitute the main compromises, though it remains a formidable lens despite these factors.

zielfoto.com

27/07/2026

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm F/2.8G ED VR II - Target Photo

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is highly regarded by the community as a professional, high-end telezoom workhorse that delivers exceptional performance across versatile shooting scenarios like sports, wildlife, portraiture, and nature. Reviewers consistently praise its outstanding image quality, superb edge-to-edge sharpness, and excellent contrast. Equipped with a fast, precise Silent Wave Motor (SWM) autofocus system and an effective VR II image stabilization system providing up to four stops of compensation, it excels in fast-action and low-light environments. Its "built like a tank" magnesium-alloy construction ensures full weather sealing and elite durability for demanding environments. However, community feedback highlights a few notable drawbacks, primarily regarding its heavy weight (1540 g) and bulky size, which make prolonged handheld shooting exhausting. Users also note a technical phenomenon known as focus breathing, where the effective focal length shortens considerably when focusing on subjects at very close distances. Lastly, while the lens offers great long-term value, its steep premium retail pricing—often costing around 2,000 to 2,499 € new—can be a financial barrier for non-professional or casual photographers.

dxomark.fr

01/07/2009

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II - DXOMARK Review

The DXOMARK review highlights the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II as a highly capable professional telephoto zoom lens that justifies its premium price through exceptional performance. When tested on a high-resolution body like the Nikon D810, the lens achieved a strong overall score of 31, driven by an impressive sharpness rating of 27 P-Mpix. Optically, its performance peaks at a focal length of 105mm at f/4. The lens delivers excellent, consistent resolution across most apertures—particularly from its wide f/2.8 setting up to f/11—making it an ideal workhorse for professional photography. In terms of specific performance metrics, the review identifies several pros and cons for this optical system. The main pros include its outstanding sharpness, low distortion overall (0.3%), minimal chromatic aberration (6 µm), and very well-controlled vignetting (-0.9 EV). Furthermore, its bright T3.2 transmission score makes it highly efficient for low-light shooting, while the updated VR II image stabilization technology provides up to a valuable 4-stop advantage for maintaining sharp handheld images. On the downside, the cons focus heavily on its steep financial investment and standard zoom-lens...

photoexposition.fr

25/02/2018

Summary of the review

Nikon 70-200mm VRII - Photoexposition.fr

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II is highly praised as an exceptional, professional-grade zoom lens that rivals the optical performance of fixed focal length prime lenses. Evaluated by DxO Labs with an outstanding score of 29/50, it maintains unparalleled sharpness and image quality uniformly across its entire 70mm to 200mm focal range. The lens excels with an incredibly fast and accurate autofocus tracking motor, effective VR II image stabilization that provides up to 4 stops of compensation, and a 9-blade aperture design that produces a smooth, rounded background bokeh. Structurally, it features a robust, weather-sealed "tank-like" build where all zooming and focusing mechanics remain entirely internal, preventing the lens from sucking in unwanted dust. Optical flaws are virtually nonexistent, boasting exceptional center-to-corner geometric distortion control and minimal vignetting or flare due to its Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings. Despite its stellar performance, the lens presents a few significant drawbacks, primarily its steep financial investment and substantial physical footprint. Retailing around 1,900 Euros, the high price tag presents a major barrier for casual or amateur photographers. Additionally, its heavy build...

nikonland.it

29/06/2020

Summary of the review

Nikon Zoom 70-200mm F4 VR (vs Nikon 70-200/2.8 VR II) (Test/Review)

A Nikonland.it review compares the Nikon 70-200mm f/4G VR and 70-200mm f/2.8G VR II lenses, highlighting the f/4 variant as a lightweight, compact, and cost-effective option featuring exceptional sharpness and efficient 5-stop VR, though it lacks a tripod collar. Conversely, the f/2.8G VR II is described as a heavy-duty, expensive professional tool offering superior low-light performance and bokeh, but it suffers from significant focus breathing at close distances. YouTube · The review concludes that the 70-200mm f/4 is a more agile, versatile, and high-performing choice for most photographers, while the f/2.8 version is best suited for those specifically needing maximum aperture for action or portraiture. Overall, the f/4 lens is presented as a significant alternative that challenges the need for the heavier, more expensive f/2.8 model.

lmphotography.it

Undated

Summary of the review

Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8 G ED VR II - Field Test

The Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/4 G ED VR serves as a highly capable, lightweight alternative to the professional f/2.8 G ED VR II, offering almost identical center sharpness between 70mm and 135mm and matching edge-to-edge performance from 105mm upward. Its standout advantages include a much closer minimum focusing distance of 1.0 meter (compared to 1.4 meters on the f/2.8) and a significantly lighter, compact body that weighs exactly half as much (850g vs. 1,540g), making it ideal for handheld shooting and hiking. Furthermore, it completely avoids the embarrassing "focus breathing" focal length loss at short distances that plagues the f/2.8 version, and it costs only about half the price. However, opting for the f/4 version means losing one full stop of light, which limits low-light performance and results in a slightly busier, more "nervous" background bokeh compared to the creamier rendering of the f/2.8. Optically, the f/4 lens suffers more from diffraction at its minimum aperture (f/32) and exhibits weaker edge sharpness at 70mm, alongside inferior corner consistency when paired with a 2.0x teleconverter at 400mm. Additionally, a notable physical...

saggiamente.com

27/06/2013

Summary of the review

Review: Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII, Nikon's ultimate telephoto zoom lens

The Saggiamente review highlights the Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II as a top-tier telephoto zoom, praised for outstanding sharpness at f/2.8, efficient VR II stabilization, and rapid autofocus driven by the Silent Wave Motor. It features Nano Crystal Coat and seven ED elements, along with a durable, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body and smooth bokeh, making it ideal for professional use. Conversely, the lens is noted for its high weight of roughly 1,540 grams, which can lead to fatigue during long handheld sessions. Other drawbacks include significant focus breathing at close distances, a high price point, and the minor inconvenience of a non-removable tripod collar.

justdutchie.com

12/10/2018

Summary of the review

Review: Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G VR ED Type II

The Just Dutchie review identifies the Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G VR ED Type II as a professional-grade lens featuring a constant f/2.8 aperture, robust weather sealing, and fast, quiet autofocus with the Silent Wave Motor. It excels in image quality with smooth bokeh and offers effective VR II stabilization for hand-held shooting. justdutchie.com Key drawbacks highlighted include its significant 1540-gram weight, a restrictive 1.4-meter minimum focusing distance, and noticeable zoom distortion. Furthermore, the lens is described as expensive and now surpassed in performance by newer, lighter FL-series models.

focus-review.com

03/02/2013

Summary of the review

Review of the Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II (FX)

The Nikon AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VRII is an exceptionally robust, professional-grade zoom lens designed primarily for full-frame cameras like the Nikon D800E. Built almost entirely of metal with a weather-sealed rubber bayonet mount, the lens features completely internal zooming and focusing mechanism that effectively prevents dust from being sucked into the barrel. Optically, it sets a new benchmark with mind-boggling sharpness, achieving resolution scores in the center that exceeded the reviewer's standard evaluation charts even at its maximum f/2.8 aperture across all focal lengths. Chromatic aberration and overslaring (flare) are virtually non-existent due to advanced Nano Crystal coatings and ED glass elements, while its 9-blade rounded aperture produces highly attractive bokeh. The lens's primary strengths include its stellar overall image quality, a highly effective vibration reduction system that delivers a practical advantage of 3 to 4 stops, and a fast, nearly silent wave autofocus motor. However, these professional capabilities come with notable trade-offs. The lens is physically massive, heavy, and carries a very high price tag. Additionally, vignetting (light fall-off) remains clearly visible in RAW files at wide apertures...

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II Review | 54 Data compared

Best prices in UK

Best prices in US

Best rankings

Verdict

Technical Specifications of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II vs the average camera lens

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II better than the average camera lens?

Why is Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II worse than the average camera lens?

Graphic comparison of Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II?

What customers dislike about Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II?

Expert reviews

Best alternatives

Compare Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70 200mm F 2 8G ED VR II with