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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens

BH #NI1804004E • MFR #20071
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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens
Key Features
  • F-Mount Lens/FX Format
  • Aperture Range: f/4 to f/32
  • Built-In 1.4x Teleconverter
  • One Fluorite and Eight ED Elements
Comprising both length and flexibility, the AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR from Nikon is a medium to super telephoto zoom characterized by its advanced optical design, internal teleconverter, and host of handling assets to suit photographing fast-moving subjects. Distinguishing itself among most zooms, this 180-400mm features a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to allow for on-the-fly switching to an effective 252-560mm f/5.6 lens for greater reach. A constant f/4 maximum aperture is also a key feature for realizing consistent illumination throughout the zoom range and for producing shallow depth of field and selective focusing imagery. Complementing these traits is a sophisticated optical design that utilizes eight extra-low dispersion glass elements and one fluorite element to control chromatic aberrations and color fringing for increased clarity. Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to individual elements to reduce flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy when working in strong lighting conditions.
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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED ... Overview

Comprising both length and flexibility, the AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR from Nikon is a medium to super telephoto zoom characterized by its advanced optical design, internal teleconverter, and host of handling assets to suit photographing fast-moving subjects. Distinguishing itself among most zooms, this 180-400mm features a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to allow for on-the-fly switching to an effective 252-560mm f/5.6 lens for greater reach. A constant f/4 maximum aperture is also a key feature for realizing consistent illumination throughout the zoom range and for producing shallow depth of field and selective focusing imagery. Complementing these traits is a sophisticated optical design that utilizes eight extra-low dispersion glass elements and one fluorite element to control chromatic aberrations and color fringing for increased clarity. Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to individual elements to reduce flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy when working in strong lighting conditions.

Balancing the optical merits, this 180-400mm is also characterized by its inclusion of a Vibration Reduction image stabilization system that compensates for four stops of camera shake to enable sharper handheld shooting. A Silent Wave Motor also benefits producing sharp imagery, and affords quick and quiet autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override. As a lens intended for use in trying conditions, it is weather-sealed and features a fluorine coating on the front element to resist fingerprints and smudging. Additionally, a removable, rotating tripod collar is included to assist working with a support system and this lens utilizes an electromagnetic diaphragm to ensure consistent exposure stability when shooting at fast continuous speeds.

Designed for use with FX image sensors, this 180-400mm lens is also compatible with DX sensors where it will provide a 270-600mm equivalent focal length range.
The built-in 1.4x teleconverter allows you to instantly extend your reach to 252-560mm (or 378-840mm equivalent with DX cameras) simply by flipping the right-hand switch. Since the teleconverter is integrated within the lens housing, it is optically matched to the lens for improved imaging performance and also fully maintains the lens's weather sealing.
Constant f/4 maximum aperture, without the teleconverter in position, offers consistent illumination throughout the zoom range. When the 1.4x teleconverter is engaged, the maximum aperture is effectively f/5.6.
One fluorite element and eight extra-low dispersion glass elements are incorporated into the optical design to greatly reduce color fringing and chromatic aberrations in order to achieve notable clarity and color accuracy.
A Nano Crystal Coat, along with a Super Integrated Coating, has been applied to lens elements to minimize surface and internal reflections for a marked reduction in lens flare and ghosting.
Vibration Reduction image stabilization helps to reduce the appearance of camera shake for up to four shutter speed stops, benefiting this lens' use in low-light conditions. Additionally, a designated Sport Mode is well-suited to working in fast-paced conditions and a Tripod Mode helps to suppress subtle ground vibrations when working atop a support system.
Silent Wave Motor affords quick, quiet, and precise autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override. An internal focusing design is also used, where only the internal lens groups are moved during focusing, to maintain the overall length of the lens during use and to promote faster focusing speeds.
Focus range limiter allows you to constrict the focus system to a 19.7' to infinity range for faster focusing performance.
Assignable Function buttons can be used for lens-based activation of AF/AE Lock modes or for switching between different AF Area Modes.
Dust- and moisture-resistant magnesium alloy lens barrel benefits the lens' use in inclement conditions.
Fluorine-coated front element affords protection to the optical system, resists smudging and fingerprints, and is easier to clean.
A removable tripod collar is included with the lens for well-balanced support when working from a monopod or tripod. The collar ring also incorporates ball bearings for smooth transitions between horizontal and vertical shooting orientations.
Specialized electromagnetic aperture mechanism provides greater exposure control stability that is especially beneficial when working with fast continuous shooting rates.

This mechanism limits the compatibility of this lens to the following cameras: D5, D4, D3 series, Df, D850, D810, D810A, D800/E, D750, D700, D610, D600, D500, D300/S, D7500, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5600, D5500, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3400, D3300, D3200, D3100, Nikon 1 J1, J2, J3, J4 with FT-1, Nikon 1 V1, V2, V3 with FT-1, and Nikon 1 S1, S2 with FT-1.
UPC: 018208200719

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED ... Specs

Key Specs
Focal Length
180 to 400mm
Maximum Aperture
f/4
Lens Mount
Nikon F
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Filter Size
40.5 mm (Drop-In)
Maximum Aperture
f/4
Minimum Aperture
f/32
Lens Mount
Nikon F
Lens Format Coverage
Full-Frame
Angle of View
13° 40' to 6° 10'
Minimum Focus Distance
6.56' / 2 m
Maximum Magnification
0.25x
Optical Design
27 Elements in 19 Groups
Diaphragm Blades
9, Rounded
Focus Type
Autofocus
Image Stabilization
Yes
Tripod Collar
Removable and Rotating
Filter Size
40.5 mm (Drop-In)
Dimensions (ø x L)
5.04 x 14.27" / 128 x 362.5 mm
Length at Maximum Extension
14.31" / 363.5 mm
Weight
7.7 lb / 3500 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
16.7 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
21 x 12 x 12"

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED ... Reviews

The Missing Link

By Garrulous
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2025-03-16

For $3,720 off, it was worth buying to fill the missing link in the Z lens lineup. I use it with both Z8 and D850, generally for wildlife at short range. At 180-400 F/4, performance is comparable in all respects to my 600mm F/4; the teleconverter does compromise sharpness and contrast at F/5.6 but does well at F/8. If it were a pound lighter up front, it would be pretty handholdable.

Unbeatable.

By Nelson
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-01-22

As a professional who's worked with many cameras, both heavy and awkward, from film to digital, I'm here to tell you that this lens is truly outstanding in terms of performance, versatility and build quality. As of January 2024, this lens seems undervalued and underrated compared to Nikon's other exotic primes, both mirrorless and DSLR, if we're looking at the price of these used (half price for 9+ used B&H rating). Great images come with the use of a good tripod, proper technique and good light. Lots of people want to complain about weight, well this type of equipment comes with a price, and not just monetarily. You want fast glass, i.e. you want lots of light dumping through the front element? OK, these lenses are large and that means more heft, especially when you factor in the zoom. But don't forget with said zoom, you'll receive the glorious ability to make game changing compositional decisions. This is truly a one and done lens! 10/10 for me.

See any errors on this page?

Used warranty

Used warranty
Asked by: Brian
Used items have 90 day warranty with B&H.
Answered by: Daniel C
Date published: 2022-03-28

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen's I just bought this ...

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen's I just bought this lens and I am about to purchase the camera body to attach it to the lens . I was doing my research and find out from Nikon website that Nikon D6 it is not listed as compatible camera body with this lens! Is it true or Nikon is so incompetent/lazy to update their own website?! I own pretty much all Nikon digital camera's including Nikon D6 but as I am waiting for the lens to arrive I thought that I am doing some research. All sensible answers are welcome, Kind regards S.
Asked by: Sorin
This lens will work with the D6. Nikon is just behind in getting the information out.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2021-09-10

question

What is the main reason to own this lens instead of a Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6E?
Asked by: Ning
The 200-500 is very sharp and the absolutely best bang for the buck from any Nikon lens, but it autofocuses VERY slowly, and the stupid zoom ring requires such a very large amount of rotation that you have to twist and regrasp and twist and maybe regrasp to go from 200 to 500 mm. The 180-400 is a truly PROFESSIONAL lens that will last forever, and is as solid as a baseball bat, way better weather sealing than the 200-500, super fast to focus, and the absolutely best image quality you can get. I sold my 200-500 after one day. I've got the 180-400 and am now selling my 200-400 f4
Answered by: Bill M.
Date published: 2024-04-19

Can you use a front screw-in filter for ...

Can you use a front screw-in filter for protection?
Asked by: Peter
No, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens does not offer a front filter thread in order to add a protective filter.
Answered by: Kirk R
Date published: 2023-06-08

Are the minimum focusing distance and maximum ...

Are the minimum focusing distance and maximum magnification for the lens with or without the built in teleconverter?
Asked by: John
The minimum focus distance is the same with or without the TC being on. With the TC it's .36 and without it's .24.
Answered by: Stephen G
Date published: 2021-01-07

Does the 40.5mm slip-in filter holder accept ...

Does the 40.5mm slip-in filter holder accept screw in filters? If so which 40.5 NDs will work?
Asked by: Jack
The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens drop-in filter holder comes with the Nikon Neutral Clear Filter (40.5mm). This filter is interchangeable with slim 40.5 mm fixed NDs.
Answered by: Llinelva D
Date published: 2025-02-23

Does Nikon make a hard case for this lens? I find ...

Does Nikon make a hard case for this lens? I find it hard to believe that a 12k+ lens comes only with a bag for a case!!!
Asked by: Craig
The canvas bag that ships with this lens does a GREAT job of protecting the lens. It's well designed. And you can carry that bag over your shoulder like a (half) backpack.
Answered by: Bill
Date published: 2023-05-14

How do I buy more 40.5 slip-in filter holders?

How do I buy more 40.5 slip-in filter holders?
Asked by: Jack
The drop-in filter holder provided with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Lens is not sold separately. If you need a replacement, you will need to contact Nikon. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Answered by: Llinelva D
Date published: 2025-02-24
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