Nikon has announced the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens. Nikon’s catchphrase for this lens is ‘All the Reach, Half the Weight‘.
The NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 tips the scales at just 5.2 lb / 2.38kg. This relatively low weight for an 800mm prime lens is largely due to the use of a Phase Fresnel element. If you compare this lens to the F-mount 800mm f/5.6 lens, this new Z-mount option is a whopping 50% lighter.
If you aren’t familiar with how a Phase Fresnel element works, the hint is in its name. A Phase Fresnel element consists of a unique layout that essentially replaces having to use multiple conventional glass elements in an optical design. Just like a Fresnel lens in a light, a Phase Fresnel element features fine concentric circles. One of the claimed benefits of using a Phase Fresnel element apart from a huge weight saving is that it helps to reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing.
Along with the Phase Fresnel element, the lens also features extra-low dispersion (ED) and short-wavelength refractive (SR) elements. A Nano Crystal Coating has also been used which is claimed to suppress flare and ghosting for improved contrast.
Key features
- Z-Mount Lens/FX Format
- Aperture Range: f/6.3 to f/32
- PF Element, 50% Weight Reduction
- SR and ED Elements
- Nano Crystal Coat
- Multi-Focus Stepping Motor AF System
- Vibration Reduction Image Stabilization
- Customizable Fn and Memory Set Buttons
- Weather-Sealed Design, Fluorine Coating
- Rotating Tripod Collar
As well as being lighter than the 80mm f/5.6 F mount lens, it is also 16% shorter with a length of 15.2″ / 38.5cm.
Yes, at f/6.3 this lens is a 1/3 of a stop slower than its F-mount predecessor but the reduction in weight, new optical design, and the ability to use this lens with cameras that have far better image stabilization capabilities should negate that difference.
Speaking of image stabilization, this new lens offers up to 5.5 stops of compensation when using Synchro VR. This, coupled with the low weight and smaller size should be welcome news to anyone who wants to shoot handheld.
If you need extra reach, the lens is compatible with the Z Teleconverters TC-1.4x and TC-2x.
The lens has a minimum close focus ability of 16.4′ / 5 m and you can use 46mm rear filters if need be.
Other Features
Rubber gaskets keep dust, dirt and moisture out of moving parts, including the lens mount. However, Perfect dustproof and waterproof performance is not guaranteed under all conditions.
The barrel is made out of robust magnesium alloy.
All the buttons, rings, and switches are designed with tactile details to help you quickly make adjustments without taking your eye off the viewfinder.
When you know where the action will occur, for example, when you are shooting wildlife, you can save a focus position with the Memory Set button. As your subject approaches you can instantly snap back to the saved position by assigning it to the Fn or Fn2 buttons.
Nikon also claims that this lens is very suitable for shooting videos as it has very minimal focus breathing and fast and quiet AF perfromance.
Price & Availability
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S Lens is now available to pre-order for $6,496.95 USD. The lens will be available from April 22nd.
