Nikon 400mm Utimate Lens Comparison

  Рет қаралды 68,483

Wildlife Inspired w/ Scott Keys

Wildlife Inspired w/ Scott Keys

Күн бұрын

In this video, I look at all the 400mm lens options from Nikon for wildlife, bird, or any other photography genre.
This review is completely unbiased and I have NO affiliation with Nikon on any of these products. All lenses purchased by me or loaned from B&H Photo.
Interested in any product here and shop with the link below:
Nikon 400mm f/2.8: bhpho.to/3l22X6A
Nikon 400mm f/4.5: bhpho.to/3BJoZzK
Nikon 100-400mm: bhpho.to/3On06By
Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8: bhpho.to/4044ec0

Пікірлер: 322
@edwtg59
@edwtg59 Жыл бұрын
Awesome review Scott! Best comparison I’ve seen so far. Appreciate it!
@BudBetz
@BudBetz Жыл бұрын
Nice work Scott! A complex subject whittled down to comparisons most understand. Thanks for that extra mile to the finish. Well Done!
@joebecker3107
@joebecker3107 Жыл бұрын
Nice review/comparison of the 4 lenses! Well done. Can't wait to get my hands on the 400 2.8 for sure.
@TCRONIN002
@TCRONIN002 2 ай бұрын
Incredibly valuable information and research - loved the entire thing and appreciate the work that you put into making it.
@rcgrant9310
@rcgrant9310 Жыл бұрын
Scott, Thank you for taking the time and effort to test the 4 lens and report the results. Very helpful! As others have stated, I'm very happy with my 100-400. I sure looking forward to the 200-600. Hurry Nikon!!
@dropin324
@dropin324 11 ай бұрын
Great review!! I like the concept of picking a focal length to do the comparison. I also liked your “who is this lens for” summary at the end. Would be neat to do another review when the mythical 200-600 arrives, and also a @600mm (560mm) comparison between the four lenses (400 2.8, 4.5, 100-400 + TC; 200-600).
@gunny2044
@gunny2044 Жыл бұрын
Great comparison review, Scott. On a recent trip to Canada this past autumn, I took my 600G ED VR, 500PF, and the 100-400. We were mostly photographing mammals; Elk, Bighorn, Grizzly's, Black Bear, and we did encounter a few Great Gray Owls (I know how much you love owls), and I found myself all most exclusively using the 100-400, with few exceptions. It's a fantastic lens and has earned a spot in my kitbag.
@MegaBriarpatch
@MegaBriarpatch 11 ай бұрын
Appreciate the info! I've got the 100-400, and love the versatility for wildlife, sports, air shows, you name it.
@petersymes8467
@petersymes8467 10 ай бұрын
Excellent clear and simple explanations and comparisons of these lenses. Thank you.
@jimbolic0809
@jimbolic0809 Жыл бұрын
Perfect timing as I am in the market for a 400mm lens from Nikon. I also love the criteria you used, and the order of importance. Brilliant comparison!!!
@CaptRod
@CaptRod 22 күн бұрын
Outstanding work sir! Fantastic! I happen to know that yes, this type of video is a crazy amount of work! Thank you for your service to the photography community!
@cherylpereira7259
@cherylpereira7259 7 ай бұрын
Thank you Scott for explaining so much with these lenses. I have the 70-200 and Love It!
@donaldstarkey8177
@donaldstarkey8177 Жыл бұрын
Excelent comparison. I have the 100 -400 mm lens and love it. Also with the newer denoise post processing and cameras the higher iso is less of an issue. Thanks for great summary and application recomendations.
@cmichaelhaugh8517
@cmichaelhaugh8517 Жыл бұрын
Great review! I especially like the fact that you stayed within the Nikon lineup. Many similar reviewers test across brands which, to me, is irrelevant since I’m not going to junk my Nikon gear and switch to Canon/Sony for a single lens. I just bought a 100-400 and have been wondering if I should keep my beloved F mount 70-200. You just gave me the answer: indoor events with the FTZ adapter and the 2.8 light gathering.
@ericaceous1652
@ericaceous1652 4 ай бұрын
Really useful, thanks for the hard work you put into this
@SolamenteVees
@SolamenteVees 10 ай бұрын
Fantastic, unbiased comparison. I appreciate your real world approach vs. specs and pointing lenses at graphs and charts... I eagerly await your thoughts on the soon to be released 180-600.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 10 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@jimcastanzo8736
@jimcastanzo8736 Жыл бұрын
Really helpful this video. I've been wondering about the 100-400. I shoot mostly landscape so the 70-200 is my go-to lens. I've added the 2x converter for wildlife. The 70-200 is exceptionally sharp alone, but I've noticed the 2X converter does soften it a bit. Also, a few weeks ago I made a presentation to about 35 folks at Middle Creek titled Nature Photography 101. I emphasized wildlife photography since I assumed most folks were there to learn more about that. I really talked up your channel as a great resource for learning about technique, gear, and instruction. Hopefully you added a few subscribers after my presentation. Thanks so much for the work you do pulling together your videos.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Sincere gratitude!
@cliftonwhittaker260
@cliftonwhittaker260 11 ай бұрын
Thank you for this review, Scott. I have been using the 80-400 lens for several years, starting with the D-300 up through the D-850. It has served me well and won many awards for its birds. It has been extremely versatile for everything from bugs to buzzards. I shoot almost everything on manual exposure and when I go out in the morning my default setting are 1/1000, 5.6, ISO 1600. then I test the exposure and adjust from there. But, it is beginning to rattle a bit and I might need to start thinking about replacing it. My 500mm F 4 G lens is fantastic but weighs 8.6 pounds. I still use it when I'm shooting from a blind or from my mobile blind (Tundra). The 80-400 is used for everything else. So, I was considering the Nikon 100-400 5.6. I think you have helped me make up my mind. Thanks for all the information.
@patrickbhirdo2869
@patrickbhirdo2869 29 күн бұрын
Agree with all the comments below about this being the best comparison I've seen on youtube. The consistency of your shots on the tennis balls really helped make the comparison of lens sharpness each easier. I do mostly indoor sports - volleyball - so the 70-200 is my current lens but I was wondering how it stacked up with the other lenses for bird phototgraphy with the 2x teleconverter. This completely answered that question. Also helped me realize it could be used for psuedo-macro in back yard or out in nature with an extension tube so going to give that a shot.
@DusToDeath
@DusToDeath 10 ай бұрын
Love this video! Great comparison which was extremely helpful. I understand the emphasis is on daytime wildlife photography, but photo examples of low light/night time would be a bonus to those of us that do that.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 10 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@photographydiscourse1185
@photographydiscourse1185 11 ай бұрын
Great review and summation of these lenses - very education and well presented. -PD
@briandurell
@briandurell Жыл бұрын
Thanks for a very interesting comparison video. You have made me feel even better about my purchase of the 100-400 with the 1.4 teleconverter. That combination has become almost welded to my Z6. One other point in favour of this lens is for landscapes. I’m not much of a landscape shooter but many of the leading YT experts in this genre have recently posted videos promoting the use of 100-400 for landscapes.
@ravinchandra
@ravinchandra 4 ай бұрын
I'm thinking of buying one for mostly landscape and occasional birds/animals. I've also heard it can focus quite close as well.
11 ай бұрын
Great video. Thanks. Have the 100-400 and happy with it!
@michaeldreese4979
@michaeldreese4979 Жыл бұрын
I really appreciated the detailed comparisons between the Nikon 400mm lens options. It is obvious that a great deal of time and effort was invested in the video. I’m personally torn between the 100-400 and the 400 f4.5. I’m probably going to choose the zoom because I already own the 500mm PF and the adapter. I would love to see a future video that compares various combinations of lenses to round out a wildlife kit for various budgets and subjects. Keep up the great work!
@paulstephenson9539
@paulstephenson9539 11 ай бұрын
This video is great, thank you. All the explanations I have looked for in relation to various lens' you have answered here really well. Thank you. Just a same I have Canon lens'.
@gregroberts875
@gregroberts875 11 ай бұрын
Excellent video!! Because of this video I just bought the 100-400. Thanks so much for sharing this information!! Greg Roberts, Bham, AL
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
awsome enjoy!
@librasulus
@librasulus Жыл бұрын
great review, very helpful. Thank you!
@GeoffCooper
@GeoffCooper 11 ай бұрын
Nice review. I've owned the 400mm f/4.5 S from launch and have been totally blown away by it - such a fantastic lens for the size and weight! Sure, I lust after a 400mm f/2.8 TC for low light, but realistically it would be very hard to justify the bigger lens even if I /could/ afford one! PS. The 400mm f/4.5 S does have one custom programmable function ring (the f/2.8 TC has two)..
@mikedavis1110
@mikedavis1110 Жыл бұрын
Great review on the lens and the differences in use! Personally, I can wait for the 500/600Z f4 replacements to come out for the weight savings vs my 500f4G!! It will be interesting to see what the new 200-600Z lens will be like when it’s released and I like the direction Nikon is headed with the new lens in optics!
@Mark13376
@Mark13376 Жыл бұрын
600G already exists in the 600/4TC, and I'm not sure if a 500 is going to happen anytime soon considering the 400/2.8TC exists
@mikedavis1110
@mikedavis1110 Жыл бұрын
@@Mark13376 I was referring to budget friendly versions not the $14-$16000. A lens like the z400 5.6, but in 500 or 600mm versions. I have a 500 f4 G that weighs in at 10lbs and having a prime version in the Z line up like the 400 6.6 would appeal to more general Wildlife photographer. I had read on Rumors that drawings had been submitted,so I hope this is true for general photographers vs the pros that are using 400 TC or 600 TC. Yes these two versions are great lens, but out of reach for most.
@user-tr7vm5dp9k
@user-tr7vm5dp9k 4 ай бұрын
That was the coolest and most helpful video I've seen on the subject and I've seen a lot of them. Now I am confident with my decision. Thank you very much Scott
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 4 ай бұрын
Awesome! Thank you!
@brucegraner5901
@brucegraner5901 Жыл бұрын
A very well reasoned video. I'm a retired press photographer coming up from film and transitioning into digital around 1999. But it wasn't until the Nikon D3 and D700 came out that I felt digital gave us parity (and then some) with film. I mention this because when I took delivery of my D700 I also received the first (I think) Nikon 80-400mm f4.5-5.6 zoom. While it wasn't as sharp as my Nikon 80-200mm f2.8 or our staff 300mm f2.8 lenses, the flexibility of the zoom coupled with the low light capability of the D700 allowed me to use the lens for night football with good results at ISO 4,000 and even a bit more. For me the 80-400mm was a game changer, opening up opportunities beyond the reach of my 80-200 f2.8 and allowing me to seamlessly cover football plays all the way from almost the 50-yard-line back to the end zone. I think the low-light capability of modern digital cameras is an often forgotten factor when talking about fast primes vs zoom lenses, especially in full-frame cameras.
@kghareeb
@kghareeb Жыл бұрын
Excellent and one off review! i have the 100-400 and it is a very versetile lens, for what it can do i think it is a must have for all serious photographers wherever genre they're in.
@MuratKilci
@MuratKilci 11 ай бұрын
Just came across your channel. Great content. Great comparison. Thank you. Liked and subscribed,.
@martincarran4294
@martincarran4294 4 ай бұрын
Brilliant review, well explained, many thanks for doing this, I still cannot decide between the middle 2 though...... 🙃🙂🙃
@michaelcirillo5306
@michaelcirillo5306 11 ай бұрын
Very helpful comparison. Thanks!
@mywildlifestories3793
@mywildlifestories3793 Жыл бұрын
Scott, I just loved this video. The lens comparison you made keeping most of the wildlife photographers who may not have enough budget to afford beast like 400f2.8. And you rightly said, the sharpness difference is not much noticeable between 400 f4.5 and 2.8. A stop and half of light, we may increase iso accordingly. And keeping noise reduction softwares like DXO pure raw, Topaz denoise and Adobe Denoise in mind, spending $13k dollars is not an option except for pros. But enthusiastic photographers like me, it's a 400f4.5 go to lens.
@kareemtejumola5443
@kareemtejumola5443 Жыл бұрын
I definitely Love this review and it has resolved my confusion on which 400ml lens I need. Am an outside shooter landscape and seascape mostly hence from your review am well suited with the 100 -400 lens. Thank you and found this review very helpful, useful and highly educative
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
glad it was helpful!
@TheStephenHaley
@TheStephenHaley Жыл бұрын
Great video. Your enthusiasm shows through. I'm still using my F mount 500 PF and holding out for the 200-600 Z mount.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
That will be a neat lens
@michelebelotti2022
@michelebelotti2022 6 ай бұрын
Hello, I liked this review, it actually helped me to decide which lens I would probably buy. Thanks for doing that
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 6 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@elaboy320
@elaboy320 11 ай бұрын
Awesome vid! glad I found this channel, thanx!
@2Bad.
@2Bad. 11 ай бұрын
I just discovered your channel... subscribed. I'm new to the Nikon Z system and am looking forward to following your your photographic journey. 🍻
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
awesome thanks!
@stevethompson8154
@stevethompson8154 Жыл бұрын
Thanks Scott! I went from F mount to Z mount early in 2022 with a Z6ii. By July I was able to get a 100-400 Z mount and 1.4X. I liked it so much I sold my 300 F 2.8 VR AFS ED in October along with the 1.4 and 2X converters.. I did notice the 100-400 did not focus quite a quick as the 300 but I can live with it for what I do. I have pre ordered a Z8 and am hoping the AF will be quicker and more accurate than the Z6ii. I feel like I made the right choice for me and am not considering any changes to my lens line up. Thanks again.
@stevenwei5511
@stevenwei5511 4 ай бұрын
thanks for the comparison it is exactly what I wanted to know.
@raziel7997
@raziel7997 11 ай бұрын
Great video! Before I watched this, I had a big plan to buy 400/4.5. Now I'm not so sure which one should I choose. 2.8 is too expensive, but 100-400 in terms of af speed and image quality seems to be the best option. Maybe only the weight can be painful. Thanks for this comparison, well done!
@Krongchai21725
@Krongchai21725 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for very impressed comparisons.
@gordonmcintosh3159
@gordonmcintosh3159 3 ай бұрын
Great review, thanks. I was torn but now am going to order the 100-400. I have the 180-600 but I think it will be a bit too much to carry to Panama with 2 bodies and my 24-120. The 100-400 with my 1.4TC will be a lot easier to manage. I had my 500PF in Costa Rica last year & found that I could not back up far enough for some birds and could not easily locate the very close ones which is the reason I got the 180-600 to start with. The 100-400 close focus distance will be a real bonus too!
@Lets-Take-Pictures
@Lets-Take-Pictures Жыл бұрын
Hi Scott, I appreciate the side-by-side(-by-side-by-side). I have the 70-200mm and TC 2X, and this was a very useful comparison for me. Just like your “who’s it for” section, I’m not primarily doing birds, sports, or wildlife, but I really enjoy being able to use the lens for those things now and then. It really is a nice combo, and I’ve been quite happy with the image quality. Your sample photos suggest to me that while I might be able to get slightly higher quality results with the other lenses, the main gain for me would be extra reach when combined with the TC. Thanks for the video!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Welcome !
@Walkinginthewoods
@Walkinginthewoods Жыл бұрын
They are surprisingly close. As you say it all depends on your need. Very useful information Scott.
@louiscerrato3142
@louiscerrato3142 Жыл бұрын
Thanks Scott, well done. Great information.
@keithwalls6316
@keithwalls6316 Жыл бұрын
I love my 100-400 f/5.6. It’s even great with the 1.4TC if you can live with lower light gathering. Thanks for doing this comparison test!
@romanhar4151
@romanhar4151 11 ай бұрын
Thank you very much for your detailed lens test 👍 I am looking for the 200-600Z Lens. (Sport outdoor) (have already the 70-200 and TC's) I would consider the 400/2.8 with the built in TC and the possibilities for external TC as very versatile, but well out of my range.
@jamesp7762
@jamesp7762 Жыл бұрын
Excellent content and perfect timing. I have been shooting with a D850 and D500 and, more recently, added a Z6ll. At present, my only Z lenses are the 24-70mm F4 and the 40mm F2. However, I have the Z8 preordered and am now committed to continuing with only the Z6ll and Z8. I primarily shoot birds, other wildlife, and woodland landscapes all in natural light for myself; and as much of my 11 grandchildren and their activities and families as I can in any available light for all of them (and myself of course). My point is that I will now start converting my collection of F-mount class to Z. I have been looking at all the options and have determined that I will be able to reduce the number of lenses in total and the weight of my total kit considerably. Your comparisons in this video has solidified a spot for the 100-400mm lens and both Z teleconverters on my "must have" list. Thank you! Thank you!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Those grandkids will be playing sports and running around the 100-400 is really flexible to shoot. 400 can be a little long at times for some sports
@dah7772
@dah7772 Жыл бұрын
Great comparison. I purchased the 100-400 a little while ago and love it. Completely agree with you on how sharpe it is. Takes the 1.4 TC really well too.
@uhoh7541
@uhoh7541 7 ай бұрын
Have you had any luck with the 2x on it? Nikon and others claim there is little to no image or AF capability loss with the 2x, but i don't like it on the 100-400 or the 70-200. I only keep it for shooting the moon. No complaints with the 1.4
@dah7772
@dah7772 7 ай бұрын
@@uhoh7541 I don’t own the 2x so I can’t speak to how good or bad it is.
@uhoh7541
@uhoh7541 7 ай бұрын
@@dah7772 Thanks for reply none the less!
@Hrishi1970
@Hrishi1970 Жыл бұрын
This is so good. Wanted to compare 500 pf with 400 mm. I got some answers! Thank you!
@buckturgidson9666
@buckturgidson9666 7 ай бұрын
Excellent and thorough analysis! One of the few ~30 mins videos that are worth watching full length. I'm a pro needing only up to 200 mm, but ever since I got the x2 TC for the 70-200 I'm getting drawn to the 400 mm use in my spare time. The result that surprised me the most is how useable the 70-200 x2 was in the tests you did. The difference was very noticable, but I expected it to be larger. Nevertheless, I'm conviced now to get the 400/4.5 for even sharper images and the option to turn it into an 800/9. Thanks for this excellent video!
@criegel42
@criegel42 Ай бұрын
Awesome content and very helpful - thanks
@waynejones1054
@waynejones1054 11 ай бұрын
Excellent review, thank you. I'm trying to make my mind up between the Z400mm prime and the Z100 - 400 zoom, so this has been really informative and helpful. Historically I've tended to go for zooms because of the versatility you mention, but having bought a used 300mm prime to go with my D850, I've been very, very impressed with the results and has brought the Z400mm more to mind as the mirrorless option. Decisions, decisions.😄. Thanks again.👍
@save_the_night
@save_the_night 11 ай бұрын
exactly my situation. I would have easily opted for the 100-400mm,but the bokeh of the 400 / 4,5 is so much more pleasing (at least for me)
@edbritelight7683
@edbritelight7683 Жыл бұрын
Hello Scott, thank you so much for putting all that effort into a comparison like this ❤!! Just a quick comment on lens performance at greater distances…in my experience light gathering capability and sharpness become much more important at greater distances, because a „small in the frame“ subject will be all smushed at higher ISO. This effect will be magnified when people start heavy cropping. Therefore, the max aperture of 2.8 at 400 justifies the price 😮😊
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
This is very true.
@timothyduvernet2711
@timothyduvernet2711 5 ай бұрын
"justifies the price", really depends on personal needs.
@terrykellyphotography6171
@terrykellyphotography6171 10 ай бұрын
excellent review, thank you!
@saopaulosoul8714
@saopaulosoul8714 Жыл бұрын
oh man I am so stoked about this.. I am absolutely dying to upgrade my 200-500 lens. I am so glad you made this because it helps me figure out which one would be worth it for me, I will say the 500PF is in the mix as well for me. Hey Scott, I am a wildlife enthusiast and I was wondering investing in better glass > better than upgrading the body from z6ii to z8? what do you reckon. as I said I only have a 200-500 and while I love it I would like to upgrade to something lighter and weather sealed. Unfortunately cant upgrade body and glass. so.. thanks for any input you could provide cheers!
@HellBatDC
@HellBatDC Жыл бұрын
Thanks for this Scott. I'm currently using the 70-200 2.8 with TC's and will be picking up a 400mm lens in some form in the future. The 2.8 is beyond my means and needs, so I've been leaning to the 400 4.5 since I feel it will probably pair better with the TCs than the 100-400 due to the lower aperture at 400mm, and my 70-200 with TC's gives me the intermediate zoom coverage. (Admittedly with the additional hassle of adding/removing the TC's.) For the close-up work, I have both the 50 and 105 macros in the bag, so the closer focusing of the 100-400 is less valuable to me. It was helpful for me to see the samples side-by-side like you presented. Thanks so much. Drew.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@stevelink3
@stevelink3 11 ай бұрын
Awesome comparison sir!! I’m leaning towards the Nikkor Z 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 S for the Z8…should be spectacular, I hope!
@dennisdewildt6898
@dennisdewildt6898 7 ай бұрын
Yes just the review I was looking for. Thanks for clearly explaining it on (my) no-400mm-experience level.
@tc6912
@tc6912 Жыл бұрын
Great info, thank you. It would be nice to see how the adapted 500PF fits in this comparison.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
Ill see what I can do
@19Photographer76
@19Photographer76 Жыл бұрын
Well done Scott. I think we all get an f/2.8 or larger for reasons other than light. I to achieve a bokeh that's important for the types of images captured with a specific focal length lens. With my 400mm f/4.5, I'm happy since the background is always in the distance. My 70-200 with 1.4TC is just right.
@suzannegmirek1520
@suzannegmirek1520 11 ай бұрын
Best video I've seen comparing these lenses. Exactly what I needed. I was surprised that the 70-200 was not as sharp as the 400 f/4 or the 100-400. I have the old 70-200 (not Z) and thought it was a sharp lens. Things surely have changed. I thought my lenses would be great forever. Well, it's still great...just not like these. I also loved seeing the results with the f/2.8...the obvious winner (except for weight and price and well, now you've shown us, versatility. Thanks for truly the best comparison I've seen. I'm off to check out some of your other videos :-)
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
without a TC it is VERY sharp With a 1.4tc, its still very sharp. The 2x is a little softer, still usable but not as sharp as the others at 400mm
@JovicaNedeljkovic-nf2ur
@JovicaNedeljkovic-nf2ur 5 күн бұрын
great suggestion, thanks and well done.
@scottheppel8847
@scottheppel8847 Жыл бұрын
Very interesting comparison. After switching from DSLR to a Z9 mirrorless, the 100-400 was the first Z Lens I purchased. Versatility and weight were important to me. I take this kit on long walks searching for birds. I just returned from Magee Marsh where we had the chance to photograph over 2 dozen warbler species. At times on the boardwalk, birds perched less than 6 feet away, so the close-focusing capability was an issue that I could handle. It also came in handy for butterflies and other insects. I frequently switched back and forth between full-frame and DX mode to help with focus on more distant birds.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
8 feet is almost always enough min but when the 600 has 13 foot minimum range, thats not close enough!
@Gualdo007
@Gualdo007 7 ай бұрын
Great review! Thanks
@henryamdur8004
@henryamdur8004 11 ай бұрын
We’ll done, this narrows down my choice. Wish you had mentioned the body you we’re testing the lens with as it may have influenced the focusing speed. I’m looking forward to seeing more content from your channel.
@TomasBodin
@TomasBodin 6 ай бұрын
I really liked this review! Thank you.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 6 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@sunking9050
@sunking9050 3 ай бұрын
Great comparison. I’m in the market for either the 400mm prime or the 100-400mm zoom paired with the 1.4 tele when required. Light is very important for me because I shoot birds often in shaded areas. I’m also looking at the 180-600mm zoom that completes the lenses of interest to me. I’m leaning towards the prime because of the light
@user-ly8jd4jn8m
@user-ly8jd4jn8m Жыл бұрын
Very interesting comparison Scott ! However, as a wildlife shooter, I am more interested with 500/560 mm lenses. Because there is no 500mm lens in Z mount yet, a comparison between the 500/560mm solutions would be extremely usefull. Thanks !!
@ohstandard
@ohstandard 11 ай бұрын
Really liked you taking us through how the different apertures play out in terms of equivalent iso! The sharpness comparison was really great too. Never owned a 400mm so I don't know how the fixed prime would be practically vs the extending 1-400 but nice thinking about the weather proofing point!
@JanWagner77
@JanWagner77 Ай бұрын
Hey mate. This was the best comparison video ever seen, Scott. Very honest and precise. Great. Thank you very much. I got the 70-200 lens for events. The best lens I ever owned - perfect for this kind of purpose. And I also use the 2.0 teleconverter on this lens. But there are limitations when it comes to sharpness. I think I will try the 400 or the 100-400. Maybe a better setup ist the 400 with the 1.4 TC to get more mm. I missed the 180-600 lens. Do you got a review on that? Greetings from Germany.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Ай бұрын
no review on the 180-600 as there are so many on already out there.
@davearchbell9921
@davearchbell9921 Жыл бұрын
Great review!!! I bought the 400 4.5 and love it!!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Great lens and super light. Was definitely impressed with sharpness!
@davearchbell9921
@davearchbell9921 Жыл бұрын
@@WildlifeInspired I love the lightness. I can bird all day with it.
@K4783
@K4783 11 ай бұрын
1st time viewing your channel. While not a wildlife photographer I enjoyed your approach and comparison. I did a quick mathematical comparison based on your grading and found the the 400 2.8 slightly beat out the 100-400. The two reasons for this were light and build quality. Light..no question. But when you discussed the build quality and had an issue with potential problems with the 100-400 barrel when zooming....I decided to look up Nikon's reasons for designating the 'S' for the Z-line lenses. They are very specific here....'Dust and Drip Resistance-Extensively sealed to keep dust and moisture out, especially around all moving parts of the lens barrel, for worry-free durability.' Now, if your experience with the Z-line S lenses indicates a real issue here..and not a potential issue; then Nikon should be made aware of this and not make this representation for the zoom S lenses. But if Nikon is right and will back up this claim; then I think the C+ rating should be modified. I thought purchasing S designated lenses offered equal durability and build quality. So,...maybe a shot at the Z100-400 S lens taking over 1st place! Thanks again.
@jackbrumby1892
@jackbrumby1892 Жыл бұрын
Thanks Scott. I'm still hanging out/on for the long-promised Z 200-600mm. The plus side is my bank balance has grown with the wait period - so now I want it to be an internal zoom S line lens. Hopefully f4.5/5.6. Cheers.
@JovicaNedeljkovic-nf2ur
@JovicaNedeljkovic-nf2ur 5 күн бұрын
Great suggestion, thanks and well done. The only problem is the lack of information about the functioning of the stabilizer?
@JayBlue2U
@JayBlue2U Жыл бұрын
Hi Scott. This is a terrific comparison. I own the 100-400 lens and I’m amazed at its sharpness. What I’m less pleased with is its bokeh. I’d rate it as good but not great. I’d expect bokeh quality on the 400 f/2.8 to be superb. When Nikon’s mythical 200-600 lens becomes available it’d be great to add it to a test like this. Great content and very enlightening, too. Thank you!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Ill compare the 200-600 when it comes out, but unfortunately my channel isnt big enough to get early product from Nikon. Maybe I will reach out and see if I can get a better relationship.
@JayBlue2U
@JayBlue2U Жыл бұрын
@@WildlifeInspired It’s been on the roadmap a long time. Many amateur wildlife photographers are looking for a more affordable telephoto option and this might be it. We’ll see. I hope Nikon USA will share a pre-production unit with you!
@saopaulosoul8714
@saopaulosoul8714 Жыл бұрын
@@WildlifeInspired your channel isn't big enough YET!. 😊I am sure you will get there I enjoy your content!
@craigwallace166
@craigwallace166 11 ай бұрын
Excellent video! I like your practical down to earth , honest comparison approach. The 100-400 looks like it will fit my needs, I can replace the dinosaur 80-400. I can’t wait till the 200-600 is available. But if I win the lottery I’ll get the 400 2/8. Thanks for taking the time for all these great informative videos.
@ThePinoyAggie
@ThePinoyAggie 3 ай бұрын
I have the 400 mm f/4.5 and 70-200 mm f/2.8. I'm very happy with both lenses. The 100-400 mm looks impressive as well.
@danb821
@danb821 Жыл бұрын
I struggle for a long time making the decision between the 400mm f4.5 and the 100-400mm. For me as someone who shoots sports and wildlife and mainly at the 400mm or above focal length I chose the 400mm f4.5. In looking at images of the same subject with both of these lenses I felt the 4.5 had a slightly better out of focus backgrounds and subject separation with the extra 2/3 stop of light. So occasionally I may miss a shot because I’m locked in at 400mm the shots I do get would be better. Having said that I still think the 100-400 would be the better choice for many but maybe you can’t go wrong either way!
@Baker504
@Baker504 4 ай бұрын
Great comparison video. Thanks. New subscriber here.👍🏻
@BowlesImages
@BowlesImages 11 ай бұрын
Excellent review. Excellent testing methodology and examples. I have the 400mm f/4.5 and the 70-200 and would agree completely with your thoughts. There are three other variations on the testing - and I certainly would not expect you to add these tests. Since most lenses are slightly sharper stopped down slightly, I would test all four lenses at f/5.6. It would only be relevant for the 400mm f/4.5 which becomes a bit sharper and moves ahead of the 100-400 and 70-200/2x. The second variation is testing at an effective 560mm and/or 800mm. When it comes to versatility, the 400mm f/2.8 does very well with the internal TC, but the 400mm f/4.5 is remarkably good with the 1.4 TC and also holds up with the 2x. My testing of the 400mm f/4.5 with the 1.4 TC showed me it could resolve the small feathers that make up the eyering of a bluebird (feathers around 0.05 inches in width with detail less than 0.01 inches) - a level of detail and sharpness not possible with most lenses. The third variation of testing is looking at out of focus backgrounds - particularly those that include specular highlights. I found the 400mm f/4.5 to have very smooth, clean out of focus areas including the specular highlights, and that's the biggest advantage of these options over the F-mount 500mm PF. I find the 70-200 and 400 f/4.5 make a great pair of lenses - around the same size so they are swapped out in a single bag while in the field. I use the 400mm f/4.5 + 1.4 TC in DX mode for birding - and it's good enough that I no longer carry binoculars when birding.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
good point about testing at equivalent aperatures, but soooo many variables. Appreciate the insight!
@kurtkemnitzer
@kurtkemnitzer Жыл бұрын
Great review Scott.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
THanks!
@psoon04286
@psoon04286 Жыл бұрын
Hello Scott. Ive been discerning on a longish lens for general bird and the occasional mammal photography and was hoping that someone will compile exactly what you’ve just done. I’m so glad to now know that the 400 f4.5 and the 100-400 are neck to neck at 400. Not only didn’t I know that the 100-400 is compatible with the teleconverter, but that its a great combination👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😄
@ganainm5113
@ganainm5113 11 ай бұрын
Definitely worth considering the F5.6 200-500 in my opinion. It's a little bit bulky and heavy, put produces some some really great shape images and is very reasonably priced.
@psoon04286
@psoon04286 10 ай бұрын
@@ganainm5113 thanks for the suggestion. I’ve rented the 200-500 in a number of occasions but somehow didn’t think of it as a permanent addition to my kit. Now I’m more invested into the Z system and weaning off my F gear🙂
@MyContestPix
@MyContestPix Жыл бұрын
Another great review Scott. I suspect the main factor is price as sharpness is pretty much equal. Weight, if you have to lug it around in the field or hand hold it. All great lens!!! It comes down to your subjects, lighting conditions and your budget.
@JamesWilson9777
@JamesWilson9777 9 ай бұрын
I really enjoyed this video and found myself wanting the entire thing instead of skipping through it. Thank you! I still have no idea which lens I should get though because I am a lens hoarder.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 9 ай бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it!
@hugaukulele
@hugaukulele 9 ай бұрын
Great comparison. I bought an AF-S Nikon 200-500 a year ago to use with my D5 and D850. I have since replaced my D5 with a Z9 and am looking for an equivalent Z mount lens. It would be interesting to see a comparison between the 200-500 with ZFCII adapter, the Z 100-400 + 1.4 TC and the new Z 180-600. I like the fact that the new Z 180-600 has internal zoom but the Z 100-400 seems more flexible.
@jonerikrolf2029
@jonerikrolf2029 11 ай бұрын
Great review of the practical similarities and differences among these lenses. (One wonders when or if Nikon will make internally zooming non-extending lenses such as the OM-1’s close focusing 150-400mm f/4.5 lens with built in 1.25x.) On my safaris in Africa in past years, the F-mount 80-100 zoom was so much more versatile than the 200-400mm or the 500mm lenses. When the animal came near the safari trucks, those persons with the 500 and 600 mm lenses had to stop photographing. The down side to the 80-400mm lens (as possibly with the Z 100-400) was that it did suck in dust, and it became very soft with the 1.4x.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
the 100-400 is claimed to be very well sealed time will tell
@frankfountain7680
@frankfountain7680 7 ай бұрын
Fantastic review!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 7 ай бұрын
Glad you liked it!
@Samanthaohlsenphotography
@Samanthaohlsenphotography 11 ай бұрын
Definitely the best review of the available Z series 400mm options. I really appreciate you breaking down the features and explaining who each of the lenses were designed for. As someone who is still a Nikon DSLR shooter and is considering switching over to the Z series, I would have loved to see how the old 400mm f2.8 F mount lens works, when adapted with the FTZ onto a Z8 or Z9? When I have invested so seriously into the old F-mount lenses I want to know if I can upgrade to the Z series camera body without losing the performance from some of the excellent F mount lenses.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
i did a video that discussed my choice to change the biggest thing was i HATED the TC + FTZ. not a huge difference in speed or sharpness, but the solid connection and built in TC was really great! poke around for the other vid if you never saw it.
@Samanthaohlsenphotography
@Samanthaohlsenphotography 11 ай бұрын
@@WildlifeInspired I watched this video and it was great. I guess I was looking for a comparison of the old 400m f2.8 on a D5/6 vs that lens on a Z8/9. In other words, can I change to the mirrorless system (body) and still make good use of my old lenses on a Z8/9 with a FTZ until I can start to afford to change over the lenses or should I wait a few years till I can afford to buy the mirrorless lenses at the same time? I do agree however with your point of failure in having to add an adapter onto the system. After watching the video you recommended I don't think I could ever justify the price upgrade of going from the old 400mm f2.8 to the newer version. I only recently came across your channel and I really appreciate the way you give truely practical gear reviews. To be honest I have never come across such good content on KZfaq before in this area!
@angelawilkins3624
@angelawilkins3624 11 ай бұрын
I finally got my 400 2.8 tc 3 weeks ago and already planned a trip to the Kenai Peninsula Alaska in July!I tested my z 70-200 with the 2x tc in Wyoming in Feb and it was great. I am selling my 100-400 to a friend.
@jackjericho
@jackjericho Жыл бұрын
Timely video, as I'm debating the same question myself at this time, and have the 400 4.5 and 100-400 in-hand to test. I also am a bird photographer, with my main lens the 800PF; that being said, if I'm going birding, the 800 is on the Z9/Z8, but where I need coverage is when a bird flies under that 16' minimum focus distance, and that's where the 400 option comes in. Thought the 400 4.5 was the easy answer, but even 8' is often times too much MFD, so enter the 100-400 and its 3' MFD. Yes, the prime has slightly better sharpness, contrast and bokeh, but a lot of that can be made up in post. Along w/ pinch hitting for birds (w/ the 1.4TC), the 100-400 will get me shots that those other lenses cannot, so I think at this point it's in the lead.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
Nice to have options, honestly I dont think you can go wrong!
@lizards821
@lizards821 9 ай бұрын
Hey Scott this was super helpful! I think I am going to go with the 400 4.5 now. By the way, nice shot of that loon!
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 9 ай бұрын
I have a client using that and getting good results. Maybe pick up a 1.4 converter which gets you to 560 f6.3 for when there is more available light (still super sharp)
@lizards821
@lizards821 9 ай бұрын
@@WildlifeInspired thats the plan!!
@tinmadtube
@tinmadtube 11 ай бұрын
Great review Scott, but some folks get anxious seeing that metal mount without a cap on it 😰
@sinetwo
@sinetwo 11 ай бұрын
I certainly hope you get to review the Z8 soon! Although I suspect it'll be identical to z9 based on AF at least
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired 11 ай бұрын
me too!
@smallbatchsessions6892
@smallbatchsessions6892 5 ай бұрын
I am mostly a prime guy and shoot in low light a lot . That being said I I’m probably getting the Nikon Z 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 . My reason is because I’ll use it for video mostly and closeup nature . It’s a versatile lens . I wish the aperture did open up one more stop. But then it would be bigger. I myself wouldn’t mind .
@JzFire007
@JzFire007 Жыл бұрын
Honestly I have the 100-400 lens on my buy list. I currently use the Tamron 150-600G2 for my wildlife work on the Z9. I haven’t been able to use any Z glass yet so the 100-400 looks so appealing for the price. I like the versatility of zoom lenses so I can’t wait to see the 200-600 on the Nikon roadmap, although it will most likely be out of my price range. Great video!
@JayBlue2U
@JayBlue2U Жыл бұрын
I have the Nikon z 100-400 lens. It’s sharp but the bokeh is so-so. I’m going to try the Z 400 f/4.5. Since the Z 200-600 won’t be an S lens, it should be quite affordable.
@dicekolev5360
@dicekolev5360 Жыл бұрын
The best feature of z100-400 is the macro abilities alongside the telephoto. It's overall amazing lens!
@loitruong4821
@loitruong4821 Жыл бұрын
Like Jay Blue said, the 200-600 is not a designated S line lens. There are rumors it might be 180-600 and not 200-600. but given that it's not S line, and would compete with Sony's 200-600 (which is around 2k USD), my guess is it would be cheaper than the 100-400
@JayBlue2U
@JayBlue2U Жыл бұрын
@@loitruong4821 I’m guessing it’s a reengineered Tamron 150-600 lens and it will retail for $1,500 to $2,000. We’ll see.
@1946bike
@1946bike Жыл бұрын
GREAT REVIEW! I own 3 of them, can't afford the 400 2.8 at this time! Bought the 400 4.5 for the better bokeh over the 100-400 5.6...for my sports photos! better separation of subject vs background.
@WildlifeInspired
@WildlifeInspired Жыл бұрын
I wish I had compared bokeh controlled. Generally when it's less than a stop, I don't notice significant different 2.8 to 5.6 is very noticeable 4.5 to 5.6, I would guess is some difference but not much?
Approaching the Scene 189: Nikon 70-200 S vs 100-400 S + The Z TCs
40:45
Hudson Henry Photography
Рет қаралды 54 М.
Stupid man 👨😂
00:20
Nadir Show
Рет қаралды 26 МЛН
How to open a can? 🤪 lifehack
00:25
Mr.Clabik - Friends
Рет қаралды 13 МЛН
Barriga de grávida aconchegante? 🤔💡
00:10
Polar em português
Рет қаралды 39 МЛН
I Ranked All Nikon Z Lenses by Value for Money!
27:42
ZWade Photo
Рет қаралды 17 М.
300mm Lens for Bird Photography, Can it Work?
26:58
Wildlife Inspired w/ Scott Keys
Рет қаралды 40 М.
Nikon Z telephoto lenses overview - experiences and recommendations for wildlife photography
34:27
Nikon 800mm f/6. 3 Pros, Cons, Who is is for?
31:48
Wildlife Inspired w/ Scott Keys
Рет қаралды 22 М.
Approaching The Scene 213: Nikon’s 400 4.5 S Test & Comparison
33:29
Hudson Henry Photography
Рет қаралды 39 М.
Nikon 180-600mm Sharpness And AF Speed Tests!
41:12
Steve Perry
Рет қаралды 74 М.
Thoughts on Nikon 400mm Lenses for Wildlife Photography
11:31
Ray Hennessy
Рет қаралды 10 М.
Nikon Z 100-400mm S. First look.
19:40
Ricci Talks
Рет қаралды 160 М.
IS RAW BETTER?   You may be surprised!
14:51
Simon d'Entremont
Рет қаралды 562 М.