Quick answer
500mm f/4 telephoto with fluorite elements, electromagnetic aperture and VR, introduced in 2015. It weighs about 3.1kg.
Pros
- f/4 with VR
- Fluorite elements
- Lighter than the previous 500mm f/4G
- Weather-sealed
Cons
- Large
- Needs a gimbal head or monopod
Verdict
A professional wildlife telephoto, lighter than the previous 500mm f/4.
About this lens
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 500mm F4E FL ED VR is a telephoto prime lens covering 500mm at f/4 for Nikon F mount cameras, with Vibration Reduction, Silent Wave Motor autofocus and extra-low dispersion glass. It brings distant subjects closer for sports, wildlife and events.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 500mm F4E FL ED VR specifications
- Brand
- Nikon
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Focal length
- 500mm
- Maximum aperture
- f/4.0
- Lens type
- Prime
- Format coverage
- full-frame
- Released
- 2015
- Optical construction
- 16 elements in 12 groups
- Aperture blades
- 9
- Image stabilization
- Yes
- Autofocus motor
- SWM
- Minimum focus distance
- 3.6 m
- Maximum magnification
- 0.15x
- Weight
- 3090 g
- Length
- 387 mm
- Diameter
- 140 mm
Specification source: imaging.nikon.com
What can you shoot with the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 500mm F4E FL ED VR?
- Wildlife
- Sports
- Aviation
Its moderate maximum aperture works best in good light or with a higher ISO.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full frame | 1.0x | 500mm | 4.1° | 5° |
| APS-C | 1.5x | 750mm | 2.7° | 3.3° |
Frequently asked questions
How heavy is the Nikon 500mm f/4E FL ED VR?
About 3.09kg, lighter than its predecessor. A monopod or gimbal head is still recommended.
Does the 500mm f/4E work with a TC-14E III?
Yes, giving 700mm f/5.6. Autofocus is retained on supported bodies.
Can the 500mm f/4E be used on Z bodies?
Yes, through the FTZ adapter, with autofocus and VR working.
Alternatives for Nikon F from other brands
All Nikon F lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
