Today Nikon revealed its first pulse motor (AF-P) lens designed specifically for full-frame cameras, the AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR. This is a very interesting release for a number of reasons. First, it improves the already great 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR budget telephoto lens by making it sharper, faster and lighter. Second, it vastly improves the image stabilization system on the lens, capable of compensating up to 4.5 stops when shooting hand-held, in addition to adding a Sport VR mode for panning. Third, the new 70-300mm gains an electronic diaphragm and its new optical design allows to get even closer to subjects with a minimum focus distance of 1.2 meters. And lastly, its $700 price tag puts it just $100 above its predecessor, making it a great choice for budget conscious photographers. Being such a lightweight and compact lens, it seems like an ideal choice for travel photography.
Considering how popular the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR has been in the past, I have no doubt that this new AF-P version is going to be a winner. I can picture myself traveling with such a lens – at just 680 grams, it looks like a great choice for capturing distant subjects on the go. Although Nikon dropped one ED element from the design, the MTF charts for the new 70-300mm VR AF-P look great when compared to its predecessor (top two charts: Nikon 70-300mm VR AF-S, bottom two charts: new Nikon 70-300mm VR AF-P):
While there is a slight drop of sharpness at the wide end in the center of the frame, the new 70-300mm looks optically superior with no field curvature to worry about. Its MTF curves look more uniform and the lens is supposed to deliver even sharper corners. Zoomed in to 300mm, we can see that the new optical design is vastly better. Not only does the lens show improved contrast, but it also seems to be sharper throughout the frame compared to its predecessor. The only worrying element here is the large division between the sagittal and meridional lines, which is an indication of fairly noticeable astigmatism. Not too big of a deal in my opinion, since its predecessor also had quite a bit of it in the first place. Many budget telephoto lenses suffer from this – even the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6E VR has quite a bit of astigmatism at 500mm.
Still, considering everything I see from the above MTF, the new 70-300mm VR AF-P looks really good. If it resolves detail very well when stopped down in the corners, it might even be a great choice for shooting landscapes. It has all the right properties for that, including “dust and drip resistance”.
Now keep in mind that this is a new generation lens with a stepping motor (AF-P). Unfortunately, such lenses only work with the latest generation Nikon DSLR cameras, so if you have an older DSLR and you are not planning to upgrade, you might want to stay away from this one. As of today, Nikon shows the following cameras to be fully compatible: Nikon D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300 and D500, which is kind of crazy, because those are all DX cameras. The more recent full-frame cameras are compatible, but with “limited functions” (not able to change lens settings through the camera): Nikon D5, D810 series, Df, D750, D7200, D7100, D5200, Nikon 1 series with the FT1. And if you have any older DSLRs from the following list, this lens is going to be completely unusable on those bodies: Nikon D4 series, D3 series, D2 series, D1 series, D800 series, D700, D610, D600, D300 series, D200, D100, D7000, D5100, D5000, D90, D80, D70 series, D3200, D3100, D3000, D60, D50, D40 series, film cameras.
This certainly limits the use of the camera, despite its “FX / DX” label at the moment. However, this is also an indication of camera refreshes coming later this year, but I will save that thought for another article :)
For more information about the lens, see the Nikon AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR page in our lens database.
Below is the official press release:
MELVILLE, NY (July 11, 2017 at 12:01 A.M. EDT) – Today, Nikon announced the new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR, modernizing this popular zoom lens with a myriad of the latest Nikon technologies. The new lens features enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization capability and integrates a stepping motor for fast and quiet AF performance, making it Nikon’s first full-frame AF-P lens. This new NIKKOR lens is a versatile, compact telephoto option for intermediate FX and DX-format photographers looking to capture sports, wildlife, candids, travel and other subjects at long distances, all with stunning clarity.
“This latest lens reaffirms Nikon’s commitment to giving FX-format shooters of all levels the unparalleled quality of NIKKOR glass, with the benefits of our latest optical technologies,” said Kosuke Kawaura, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.
Updated with the Latest NIKKOR Lens Technologies
Whether capturing a baseball game from the bleachers or the sights of a scenic vacation, the new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR is a versatile lens that helps users capture sharp images and video, even in challenging light. The new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm is lighter than its predecessor, despite packing new technologies that help those shooting photos and video achieve stellar results. Enhancements to the lens include:
- Improved Vibration Reduction (VR) System: The new AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm lens provides users with up to 4.5 stops* of VR stabilization, to help create sharp photos and smooth video, even in low light or while handheld. Users can choose from either Normal or Sport VR Modes for added stability when shooting from a non-stationary location.
- Lightweight with Stepping Motor Technology: This AF-P lens uses a stepping motor for fast and quiet autofocus, which reduces the sound of lens operation while recording HD or 4K UHD video. This new technology also contributes to the lens’ reduced weight, making it easy to carry on all-day excursions.
- Electronic Diaphragm: This lens takes advantage of the fast burst speed of Nikon DSLR cameras, as the Electronic Diaphragm not only provides smooth exposure transitions during video capture, but also helps maintain consistent exposure during high-speed shooting, such as when photographing sports.
- Get Close: The AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm lens features a minimum focus distance of only 3.94 ft. (1.2 meters) and a reproduction ratio of 0.25x, letting users get even closer to capture the most extravagant details, even at 300mm.
- Lens Construction: The lens features dust and drip resistance, along with a metal lens mount for durability. It features a 9-blade diaphragm for a natural, circular bokeh. The lens also features an ED element to significantly reduce instances of chromatic aberration.
Price and Availability
The Nikon AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR lens will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95**, and availability will be announced at a later date. For more information on this new NIKKOR lens as well as the latest Nikon products, please visit www.nikonusa.com.*Based on CIPA Standard. This value is achieved when FX-format compatible lenses are attached to a FX-format digital SLR camera and zoom lenses are set at the maximum telephoto position.
**SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.
Sounds so promising for the AF-P construction. Does this means Nikon will gradually update the current AF-G to AF-P?
You mean AF-S (see Nikon Lens Abbreviations)? “G” type lenses do not have an aperture ring on the lens and they have a mechanical aperture lever on the back. This new lens has an electronic diaphragm, so it is an “E” type lens. AF-P is a stepping motor, which is supposed to be fast and silent, making it ideal for both photo and video work. However, I doubt that it is going to be faster than AF-S – we have not yet seen any high-end lenses with this motor yet. Things might be changing soon with the release of a mirrorless full-frame camera though :)
I don’t know how these stepping motors work precisely, but I agree they are probably not yet ideal for large lenses.
However, for smaller lenses like this new 70-300, there is no doubt they work faster than AF-S, both in live-view and viewfinder work. So fast and silent, a new problem has emerged: you can’t tell when the focusing process has started when the subject is close to similar distance objects, especially when tracking. CaNikon may seriously have to think about enlarging the focus acquisition indicators!
Thanks for letting us know, that’s very useful! I am anxious to see if Nikon is going to incorporate AF-P in its professional lenses.
Nikon thought about it ages ago, which is why they provided menu options to configure such things as: beep sound when focus has been acquired; AF single-servo mode shutter release priority; AF continuous-servo mode shutter release priority.
And, of course, the focus annunciator in the viewfinder display: which does not need enlarging for those of us who have learnt to give it the attention that it deserves.
Regarding stepper motors and large lenses: all recent autofocus large lenses use internal focussing, which means that their focussing control group of elements is very low mass compared to their front elements.
Stepper motors are being deployed because the work precisely. Now you know precisely how they work :-)
Hi, first of all, your articles are very useful also for amateur like me!
I own a Nikon 70-200 f/4 and I think that it’s a monster glass for my needs, but this new zoom lens intrigues me!
What do you think about this lens and 70-200 f/4 ? Could I sell 70-200 f/4 and buy this lens instead without drop in image quality?
Thank you very much!
Hi Francesco,
According to the MTFs, it does look like the IQ will be improved, especially at the tele end where the old model was somewhat weak. However, the 70-200/4 is almost ‘perfect’ optically, so is unlikely to be surpassed. Moreover, you gain a stop of light with the 70-200/4, implying a stop less ISO when shot wide-open, which improves digital IQ. Finally, the ergonomics and build quality of the 70-200/4 are excellent, which makes shooting a seamless and highly reliable process in my experience of 2-year’s use (100k+ shots).
The new 70-300 AF-P seems an good choice for a first telezoom purchase, or as a travel lens when the 70-200/4 is too large, as Nasim mentioned. I would not consider selling the 70-200/4 until I’d had a chance to check the handling of the new lens.
Thanks Burgh for your advisor ;)
Thank you for this !
You can probably fit a 1.4TC to the 70-200 to get near equivalent reach (280mm) without the image quality deteriorating much below that of this new lens. 70-200 f4G is optically stellar and has excellent construction too. Inner focus and inner zoom means the front element does not move on focussing or zooming. This means it does not suck any air or dust into the lens when zooming as most cheaper zooms do. Its a keeper and far superior to the new 70-300 in my opinion.
Two very good points. The 70-200/4 is Pro level in all areas, and additionally performs better with the 1.7tc than any other Nikkor I’ve tried.
Francesco, I would not do it right now – wait until we evaluate lens sharpness and see what the potential weaknesses could be. I am personally very anxious in evaluating the sharpness differences when stopped down to f/8 on both 70-200mm f/4 and 70-300mm AF-P. If the AF-P is as good, then I will most likely buy one for my landscape photography and travel needs!
Thanks Nasim! I’ll wait for your test ;)
It looks like they’ve improved two other features that weren’t ideal in the old version: (i) the VR is now 4.5 stops, which means equivalent to the 70-200/4. We should notice less jumping on shutter release and excellent performance in the 1/4-1/60 sec range. (ii) Note the ridge in the zoom grip at the front. The old models zoom barrel was sticky and imprecise, so using the broader front portion (effectively lower geared) should facilitate smoother and more accurate zooming.
I just hope they haven’t used the flimsy plastic stock, and have maintained reasonable weather sealing, as the old model was a respectable mid-range option.
Looks like the new 70-300mm is “dust and drip resistant”, which is an indication of some sort of weather sealing. I don’t think the previous one had any seals.
Unfortunately, it looks like it’s the other way round.
The old AF-S did have a rear seal, and I found it ok in light rain, also with it’s large hood.
The new AF-P is strangely described as ‘Designed with consideration of dust and drip resistance’, which may be a dodgy Japanese translation, but is certainly the weakest statement on weather sealing I’ve ever seen from Nikon. ‘Drip’ is hardly how you would describe a typical rainy day in England (!) and combined with the lower weight is a bit worrying for me.
At the moment, for DX users the AF-P 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 VR is already a very good option at a much cheaper price point. Now we will have to wait and see if the D750 replacement will be compatible with the FX version of this lens.
Depends I guess what they mean by “limited” compatibility. I bought the 18-55 P on a whim for my D7100 when it was on sale for $99, was pleasantly surprised what a speed demon it is, with pretty darn good IQ. Appears to be fully functional except VR is always on the camera. And the 70-300 has a VR switch and the banner on the Nikon website showed it mounted on a d750. So I guess we wait for clarification on limited compatibility
.
Just saw this comment on another site> “The limitation is that you can’t control the lens through a camera menu. But that’s not really a limitation since it basically works exactly like every other lens and lens functions continue to be controlled by physical switches on the lens for AF and VR”
If so works for me.
I’m amused by the marketing derp from Nikon. “It has the same functionality as any other lens you’ll buy, but we’ll mis-state what we mean to cause needless heartburn because, hey, it’s time for lunch and I’m hungry.”
Well, one issue is that “… these models reset focus when reverting from standby status (timer off), pre-focus shooting is not available.”.
This is a very minor concern for most, and is apparently resolved in the firmware updates, for the FX cameras getting updates that is.
I’m not sure why this lens is more compatible with earlier enthusiast cameras than their AF-P DX lenses, but it’s certainly welcome.
This lens is less heavy than the 24-120mm! I live in a neighborhood with a lake and channel nearby, and lots of urban wildlife. With a 300mm reach and small weight and size, I could be taking lots of casual photos of squirrels, bunnies, ducks, ducklings, other birds, the occasional possum, swan, etc., even while out walking my dog. Is a firmware update immediately forthcoming for the D750? They need to clear up the compatibility issues quickly.
Apparently, the firmware update is already out.
From the Nikon web site:
Fully compatible models (without limitations) after available firmware update: D5, D750, D610, D600, D5500, D5300, D3300. Download firmware updates at: downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/index.html
I will this lens if it delivers very good sharpness at 300mm @f/5.6.
“Fully compatible models (without limitations) after available firmware update: D5, D750, D610 …”
Does this mean that the D750 is fully compatible with the current, most recent, available firmware update, or with a firmware update that will soon appear?
How is the focus with 1.4X teleconverter?
The Nikon Europe website shows a picture of this lens mounted on a D750. It seems to me that Nikon USA has, yet again, not bothered to check its publication of ‘alternative facts’ with Nikon Japan.
The camera compatibility list seems to be an exact copy of that for the recent DX 70-300 mm AF-P — a lens which lacks both of the two switches provided on the previous FX 70-300 mm VR and the new AF-P version: focussing mode; and VR mode.
Nikon USA states that the new AF-P has a maximum magnification ratio of 0.25. This is the same as the previous version. The fact that it supposedly achieves this at a slightly shorter distance from the image focal plane is not something to boast about!
Nikon USA states that the new AF-P provides “up to 4.5 stops of VR stabilization” and that the previous version “provides 2.5 stops* of blur free handheld shooting”. However, Nikon Europe states that the previous version [the AF-S VR 70-300 f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED]:
“This lens incorporates Nikon’s second-generation vibration reduction system (VR II) that allows flexible hand-held shooting by stabilizing the image to the equivalent extent of using a shutter speed that is four stops faster when compared with a conventional lens (as determined by Nikon performance test).”
So, does the new AF-P version provide 2-stops of VR improvement over the old version, according to Nikon USA; or only a half-stop improvement, according to Nikon Europe.
The above two branches of the Nikon Corporation have a long history of providing us with ‘alternative facts’ about Nikon products.
As far as I’m aware, Nikon DSLRs released either during or since 2013 were designed to be compatible with the then forthcoming AF-P lenses: other than AF-P lenses which have had their focussing mode and VR mode switches deliberately removed by the marketing department!
NB: Absolutely no criticism intended whatsoever towards Nasim.
Pete,
I think Nikon used to be allowed to quote in-house VR calculations, but nowadays has to quote the CIPA measured results, which are shown in the lens catalogues. The old 70-300 AF-S had VRii as was applied to all lenses after the original 80-400, 70-200vri and 300/2.8vri, where the CIPA performance is in the 2.5-4 stop range depending on lens. In my experience with the old lens, 2.5 stops was right, as it was a fairly early model with VRii.
In indicating that the new 70-300 AF-P has 4.5 stops of (CIPA) stabilisation, it is implied the VRiii is used, which is currently only on the 70-200/4, 70-200/2.8 FL and the super-tele FL lenses. This provides at least 4 stops in my experience, and up to 6-stops if you have good technique. So, I would certainly expect 2 stops improvement over the old 70-300. Additionally, VRiii runs quieter and doesn’t jump so much after the shutter is depressed.
Pete: “The camera compatibility list seems to be an exact copy of that for the recent DX 70-300 mm AF-P — a lens which lacks both of the two switches provided on the previous FX 70-300 mm VR and the new AF-P version: focussing mode; and VR mode.”
I’ve noticed several differences in the compatibility list, namely the D4 series, D800 series, D700, D600/10, D300 and the D7000, are all compatible, but will not be able to be pre-focused, as the lens will park after the auto timeout period. Not a deal breaker, IMHO.
Why there should be a compatibility difference between this lens and the earlier AF-P DX lenses is not clear to me.
Cheers,
Roberto
Burghclerebilly and Roberto,
Thank you for your replies. My reason for being interested in this new lens is that the previous version (AF-S VR 70-300 f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED) has been my most frequently used lens since I bought it a few years ago.
I have very unsteady hands and legs so you can probably imagine just how much I appreciate VR. I couldn’t even capture sharp hand-held images using a wide-angle lens before I purchased the 16-35mm f/4 VR!
It seems that both of my VR lenses are VR 2 (VR II). They are a joy to use because they back-off their image stabilization during a half-press of the shutter button just enough to prevent me from losing my balance while looking through the viewfinder. I was informed that I should avoid using VR 1 lenses because they don’t have this feature: I don’t know if that’s true, but it’s very important for me to know if this feature has been retained in VR 3.
I’ve never noticed a problem with VR jumping (due to centring its VR element group) when the shutter button is fully depressed. However, I’m always attentive to the noise and vibration from the VR mechanism because it enables me to gain some short-term muscle control of my unsteady hands and legs, especially during cold weather. I guess the quieter VR 3 would remove that useful feedback.
My currently most used camera is the Df: I guess it is compatible if the D4 series is compatible. I totally agree with Roberto that the lens parking after the auto timeout period is not a deal breaker — all of my cameras are set to use a “Auto Meter-off Delay” / “Standby timer” delay of much longer than the factory default of several seconds.
Many thanks again for your replies,
Pete
Thanks Pete,
I also wouldn’t worry about the AF reset on timer-off, because the AF-P (and STM) lenses focus so fast it doesn’t make a difference where they start.
I used to have the 70-300 AF-S, and it’s VR was fine. As you say, noticeable but not off-putting noises when in operation. The VRiii lenses I have used still make a little noise, but it is generally less than the older models, especially the click when it starts and stops. Everything works a bit faster and smoother, but you can still notice when it is on.
In contrast Canon’s latest STM lenses are even faster and quieter than anything Nikon has. You basically cannot tell when their VR (IS) is on. I would hope that it would be similar on this new 70-300 AF-P, but I have mentioned that it now can be problematic not being able to tell if the lens is actually working!
I have the D7100 and am onto my second 70-300VR because it’s always been best alternative given my finances, but have long wanted this models upgrade to happen with a few improvements .. and here it is finally !! ,
But then you mention there will be issues with my body :/
What issues exactly, now all of a sudden this lens is on pause until i know what the hell is going on, i think i feel a tear :'(
The “issue” with your D7100 would be:
“*Because these models reset focus when reverting from standby status (timer off), pre-focus shooting is not available.”
Not much of an “issue” to me, but your uses might dictate otherwise.
Nikon has updated compatibility explanations on all sites. Seems latest FX cameras will be compatible.
According to the Nikon product page, the D7000 has the same limited compatibility with this lens as the D7100 and D7200, namely:
“Regardless of firmware update, these models will still have some limitations*: D4, D4S, D3, D3X, D3S, D810, D810A, D800, D800E, Df, D700, D300, D300S, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5200.
*Because these models reset focus when reverting from standby status (timer off), pre-focus shooting is not available.”
I’m not sure why this lens should differ from the DX version in its compatibility, but there you are.
Why would anyone want to buy this lens? It seems to be incompatible for the platform it was developed for – ‘budget conscious’ (per Nasim) enthusiast full-frame photographers (per build and price). Yet, the lens is not compatible with most cameras that this segment of the market has. So, clearly this is Nikon’s way to push this segment of the market to buy a new FX body with this lens. Not likely to happen for those who are budget conscious. Another stupid marketing decision. Another nail in Nikon’s enthusiast market coffin.
Hi Nasim,
I was pretty excited when I first heard about the coming update to the 70-300mm lens, and was thinking of adding this new lens to my gear. But then, when I started to read more about this lens on other websites, they listed the incompatible cameras as you do as well. Then I read on the “Nikon Rumors” website that on the Nikon France website it said some of the incompatible listed cameras were compatible with limitations. The camera I am mainly wondering about is the D800 which I own. Checking the Nikon USA website today it says this….
“The number of cameras compatible with this lens is limited. Even for compatible cameras, a firmware update may be required. Fully compatible models: D7500, D5600, D3400, D500.
Fully compatible models (without limitations) after available firmware update: D5, D750, D610, D600, D5500, D5300, D3300. Download firmware updates at: downloadcenter.nikonimglib.com/en/index.html
Regardless of firmware update, these models will still have some limitations*: D4, D4S, D3, D3X, D3S, D810, D810A, D800, D800E, Df, D700, D300, D300S, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5200.
*Because these models reset focus when reverting from standby status (timer off), pre-focus shooting is not available.
Incompatible models: D2 series, D1 series, D200, D100, D90, D80, D70 series, D60, D50, D40 series, D5100, D5000, D3200, D3100, D3000, film SLR cameras.”
What I find puzzling is why would the FF D600/610 be compatible after the firmware update without limitations and not the FF D800/800E/810/810A, which are listed as compatible but with limitations? I also went to Nikon Japan website and used Google translate, and it pretty much said the same thing as Nikon USA, although the translation was a bit sketchy. Is this going to be the norm now when Nikon updates lenses, making them AF-P models, or do you think it really has more to do with mirror-less camera release in the near future?
Vinnie
As stated on the Nikon website D610 is fully supported after the firmware update. This lens seems to be a great upgrade from Tamron 70-300 f4-5.6 VC for most enthusiasts like me!
I have the older 70-300 version which is a very good lens for the money and in my opinion only one shortcoming it’s soft on the 300mm side. What did Nikon do between 200 and 300 mm to make the optics work better on this version?
Hello,
I wonder if the new AF 70-300 is compatible with TC-14E or TC-17E?
Hi Nasim,
First, I appreciate the time and thoroughness you put into your articles – having formally had a site devoted to iP-based television, I know it is a major time investment to keep current.
Shooting with a D750, I need have been looking at a new zoom lens and was for a time considering the Nikkor 80-400 AF-S f/4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens (having read your 2013 review), however, at $2,300. it seems more difficult to justify in light of lenses such as 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR for $750. or perhaps the 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, which at $950. also is f/3.5 and provides extra reach at the wide end as well as silent wave motor.
Someone mentioned and wondered if the TC-14E will be compatible, however, I’ve not seen it listed anywhere as an option.
Hello,
I wonder if the new AF 70-300 is compatible with TC-14E or TC-17E?
Thanks.
Hi Guys,
I have a different take on this discussion; I am seriously considering getting a D500 to use with my 70-300 FX lens with a TC-14E. I have not seen any thoughts on this combination. Can this work I mostly do a lot of birding and landscapes. I would appreciate any comments/suggestions on this setup. Thank You.
Darryl
I want one BUT I’m probably showing my ignorance here. I have D750 with the 24-120 mm lens which works like a treat, But I’m confused by the with bit that states “limited functions” (not able to change lens settings through the camera). Does that mean I can’t use the aperture priority settings (A) on the camera to direct it to the lens? Do I have to manually set the aperture on the lens? I’ll have to retrain my little brain if that is the case. Someone please tell me that my concern is unjustified. I thank you in advance…
Eric
have you planned to test this new optics soon ?
thanks à lot
I’m waiting myself also a review of this lens, here on PL, although I read few reviews by Tom Hogan and camerastuff, but this my fav place for nikon gear reviews…