Melville, NY—Nikon introduced the super-telephoto Nikkor Z 400mm F2.8 TC VR S prime lens for Z mirrorless cameras. The fast S line lens complements the Nikon Z 9 for professional sports and wildlife photographers.
“Nikon’s engineers continue to bring new and exciting advancements to image creators and working professionals. Immediately following the extraordinary response to the Z 9, the Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens features the latest technologies resulting from our expertise in optical engineering,” said Jay Vannatter, executive vice president, Nikon Inc.
“The customers for this lens often find themselves in situations where there is no second chance to get a shot; this lens takes full advantage of new technologies made possible by the Z mount and gives professional shooters an edge to capture the decisive moment with remarkable image quality, under any kind of light.”
Nikkor Z 400mm F2.8 TC VR S Key Features
The Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S makes use of new optical technologies to enhance image quality and performance. Furthermore, its constant f/2.8 aperture provides low-light capabilities as well as beautiful bokeh and subject isolation from the background.
For extended reach, this is the first Nikkor Z lens to have a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to instantly increase the focal length from 400mm to 560mm. This is achieved via a switch located close to the camera operator’s right hand. In addition, photographers can make the increase in focal length without changing posture to avoid disturbing wildlife. This also minimizes the intrusion of dust often associated with conventional teleconverter assembly.
For even more reach, the lens also accepts the TC-1.4x and TC-2x Z teleconverters. They enable a maximum reach of 784mm and 1120mm, respectively.
This is also the lightest lens of its type with a built-in teleconverter, according to Nikon. Weighing in at 6.5 pounds, it is nearly two pounds lighter than the Nikkor AF-S 400mm f/2.8FL ED VR. The use of fluorite elements also contributes to the lens’s reduced weight.
Engineered for balance, it features intuitive controls as well as weather sealing suitable for professional. In addition, it is the first lens to employ Nikon’s newly developed optical technologies. For example, a silky swift voice coil motor (SSVCM) enables high-speed, accurate AF with near-silent operation. This S line lens also features Nikon’s new Meso Amorphous coat, for the highest antireflection capabilities in Nikkor history.
Additional Specs
The lens is constructed of 25 elements in 19 groups. Two ED glass elements; a super-ED glass element; two lightweight fluorite lens elements; as well as an SR lens element help compensate for aberrations, including chromatic aberration.
Furthermore, built-in vibration reduction (VR) provides up to 5.5 stops of shake compensation, even when the built-in teleconverter is in use.
For dust and moisture resistance, it comprises a rugged magnesium alloy body; weather sealing on various portions, including movable parts of the lens barrel; and a rubber gasket around the lens mount. What’s more, the surface of the front element has a fluorine coat with antifouling performance to repel water droplets and dust. 
There are also multiple customizable function buttons. They include a control ring as well as an Fn ring that recalls a focus position quickly with the lens’s memory recall function.
Nikon’s Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens will reach retail in early February 2022. It will have a suggested retail price $13,999.95.
