Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR vs Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED
Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.
Verdict at a glance
- Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is lighter by 435g.
- Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED goes wider (200mm vs 300mm).
- Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR reaches further (300mm vs 200mm).
- Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR is the newer design (2015 vs 1993).
| Spec | AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR | AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Mount | Nikon F | Nikon F |
| Type | Prime | Macro |
| Focal length | 300mm | 200mm (wider) |
| Max aperture | f/4.0 | f/4.0 |
| Released | 2015 | 1993 |
| Blades | 9 | n/a |
| Format | full-frame | full-frame |
| Groups | 10 | 8 |
| Af motor | SWM | none |
| Elements | 16 | 13 |
| Weight g | 755.0 (lighter) | 1190.0 |
| Filter mm | 77 | 62 |
| Length mm | 147.5 | 193.0 |
| Stabilized | Yes | n/a |
| Diameter mm | 89.0 | 76.0 |
| Min focus m | 1.4 | 0.5 (closer focusing) |
| Max magnification | 0.24 | 1.0 |
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm f/4E PF ED VR
A 2015 telephoto prime using a Phase Fresnel element to stay short and light, at about 755g. It adds VR and an electromagnetic aperture.
Pros
- Very light for 300mm
- VR with Sport mode
- Sharp
- Takes 77mm filters
Cons
- Phase Fresnel lenses can show banded flare near bright lights
- f/4 is slower than f/2.8 telephotos
- Minimum focus of 1.4m
Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED
Macro telephoto that reaches 1:1 from a comfortable working distance, introduced in 1993. It has internal focusing and a tripod collar.
Pros
- 1:1 reproduction
- Long working distance
- Internal focusing
- Tripod collar
Cons
- Heavy at 1.19kg
- No VR
- Slow screw-drive focus