Nikon 200-500 vs Nikon 300 PF - A Review And Comparison

[@backcountrygallery]

Have nature and wildlife photography questions? Check out the BCG Forums! Ask and answer gear and technique questions questions, post photos and more. Check it out and sign up today! bcgforums.com/index.php Bonus - I also post exclusive tips, tricks, and techniques to the forum you can't get anywhere else! Check it out!

[@JeremyEll]

This is the best lens review I have seen on youtube. You talk fast and don't waste anytime and get to the point. Consider me a subscriber.

[@TonySahoo92]

yes! he talks fast, but, delivers smoothly.

[@antonoat]

@@patricksmith2553 My 200-500 f5.6 bought yesterday has Normal and Sport VR modes!

[@patricksmith2553]

@@antonoat Yeah your correct lol, I don't know what I was thinking when I said that haha.

[@phyllisblanchard]

What gimbal is recommended for the 200-500?

[@WanderingBobAK]

@Matt you can adjust the speed of vids under settings. As fast or sow as you want, Mate.

[@artmaltman]

Excellent video. This is my first time watching one of your video's and I'm hooked. The reason is that you offer extremely valuable information - very useful - AND you do it quickly, concisely. No long stories about your trip to this forest or that lake. No long stretches telling us the obvious. You cut to the chase and you bottom line it. Awesome! This is not so common on KZbin and it makes you a keeper!!!

[@backcountrygallery]

Thanks :)

[@steamhackman]

Definitely agreed. Top notch review.

[@xavierhorn9825]

Could not possibly agree more!

[@Marco_Wildlife]

This is a fantastic piece of work you put together. Thanks a lot. You are becoming (you already are actually) one of the most reliable source of information for wildlife photographers.

[@jazzdanne]

Well said!

[@yitzchallevi8208]

Fro disagrees!

[@OZZIEMV]

3 years on and this video is still relevant. I'm looking at switching from Canon to Nikon and I have the D500 and 200-500mm lens on my radar. As I'm in Australia, the heat distortion test was of great value. Cheers Steve ... subscribed.

[@asifmahmud0700]

Forget the reviews. Steve, your wildlife and bird photos are beautiful and very inspiring, and after I get my first dslr, I will try my best to get pictures like u.

[@ianbrown704]

Another great video, Steve is a superb wildlife photographer and his opinions are supported by real world images. Honest and comprehensive review, one of the best reviewers on the web.

[@AMills-ox4ch]

Excellent and helpful review. I've used both of these lenses and couldn't see any cases where I'd disagree with your assessment. Happy to be the 100th like with zero dislikes. Well deserved.

[@backcountrygallery]

Thanks!! ... but that dislike is coming, it always does LOL :)

[@AMills-ox4ch]

Haha... That's the internet, but to get to 100 without someone jumping in is pretty impressive. Thank you for all the great content.

[@007Poojan]

You've become my favourite source of photography information on KZbin. You're just too good. Looking forward to more videos.

[@coloradofotomatt]

Thanks for a great vid Steve. I'm a pro shooter and educator wanting to shoot more wildlife for personal goals. Up till a few weeks ago I owned the 300 f4 ED-IF AF-S with TC 14 E ii combo. An unfortunate River trip left my Nikon gear fairly soaked (everyone lived). I was torn between upping to the 300 PF, repurchasing the ED-IF I had...or making the leap to this beast. After chatting with a former photojay colleague and getting to handle this lens I did it. So far I'm blown away by this lens. I'm definitely using lens correction in Lightroom and any lack of "microcontrast" is handled with a dash of dehaze. Definitely enjoying your channel as I explore a new area and finding you to be a solid reference for my private and college photo students.

[@backcountrygallery]

Thank you so much - and enjoy the lens, it's one of my all-time favorites!

[@corrbox2]

I have to say Steve, you speak loud and clear. You approach your review in a very mithodical and organized manner. This is very appreciated as I go through the review and think about my questions of my newly received, "pre-owned", Nikkor 200 - 500 lens. All my best and thanks you very much. 👍😎📸🤩

[@lescobrandon3047]

I’ve tried the 300 f/4 VR on my new Z7 and had problems focusing. A few days later, I tried shutting the lens VR off and got much better focusing because the camera VR was not interfering with the lens VR on. The combination of a light lens and light mirrorless has made my DSLRs rest in back of my equipment closet. Hey, it’s a bit easier on my body since I am now 78 years old. Coff coff coff. By the way, your video was very well done and I have subscribed.

[@18yearsoldnot]

Were the images still sharp handheld with just the ibis on and vr off?

[@BrendanHarington]

Amazing video Steve. What about the older 300mm F4 without VR? They are dirt cheap at the moment and wondering if it wouldn't be worth giving it a go?

[@bertiewooster4043]

I've been using my 200-500 since it was launched and as an amateur, I'm more than satisfied. If I had been making my living off shooting, I would probably have ended up with the 200 f/2, 400 f/2.8 and the 600 f/4 primes but for my needs, the 200-500 is perfect. Great review, Steve - absolutely love your videos. No, shouting, no gimmicks, just informative and pleasant videos. Keep up the good work!

[@AnandavadivelanV]

Couldnt agree more with several comments already made about how very well made and reliable your reviews are; one more excellent video. I have to come to watch your videos the moment I get a notification..and thanks for posting these... One request I have is to hear your views on the Nikon 80-400 Lens and how it compares with the 300 and 200-500 both. Thanks in advance!

[@backcountrygallery]

Thanks! I don't have any current comparisons, but I did do one a while back with the 300 AF-S and the 80-400: www.backcountrygallery.com/photography_tips/nikon-under-3k-tele-comparison/

[@AnandavadivelanV]

This page is no longer available Steve. Do you have another link?

[@karenjege]

Thanks for this - I chose the 300 PF a year ago and added a 1.4 TC (based on your review, I maybe should take the TC off a little more often). It was a no brainer for me, all of the big lenses were simply too heavy for me and too big for my hands to operate, but you have made me feel even better about my choice. I take it out (literally) every single day shooting wildlife handheld - I can't remember ever putting it on a tripod. I've been incredibly happy with it. I'm hoping one day they make a PF 200-500 or 150-600. :) I've never seen any of the halo problems you mentioned. I have no problem handholding the 300 PF with the 1.4 TC at 1/60 on either my original D3300 or my new D500. I do shoot between 1/250 and 1/1000 most of the time because birds are moving, but I haven't had problems between 1/60 and 1/250 when a bird decides to sit still. Thanks for the reviews. I just found your channel. I shoot wildlife on Nikon and I am finding all kinds of great information on your site!

[@yukonstrong589]

Seriously, thank you so much. What a wonderful video, and person. So rare to see reviews not influenced by manufacturers or bias. Well done Steve you've got a fan for life 8). Im gonna go with 300f4 + 1.4x TC simply for backpacking weight. Really these two seem so close it's just size vs reach at the end of the day.

[@KenTheoriaApophasis]

Steve gets A+ for mentioning PRIME LENS superior rendering and "pop" (meaning microcontrast)

[@ivanfeng5220]

Hi Steve, Thank you for your video. I have been using the 200-500mm for 2 years. I learned something new about it from your video. I think it's the best zoom lens at this price. I'll keep using it until I get a new mirrorless camera.

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

FYI, on crop sensors you also need to multiply the max aperture by the crop factor: 300mm f/4 = 450mm (FOV) f/6 (effective max aperture), 200-500mm f/5.6 = 300-750mm (FOV) f/8.4 (effective max aperture). Bumping up the ISO on APS-C sensors to compensate can quickly lead to unacceptable noise for professional applications.

[@Travis4932]

Patrick Fitzgerald where did you hear that

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

Go to Tony Northrup's KZbin channel and search "crop factor" for a detailed review.

[@backcountrygallery]

Careful now... I like Tony, but in this case I think he causes more confusion than necessary. First, there is no difference in exposure between crop and full frame cameras, none. If I shoot a lens at F4 and 1/500th of a second at ISO 400 on a full frame camera, that's going to be the exact same exposure I'd use on a crop camera. You do NOT bump the ISO to compensate. The numbers always stay the same. I've shot hundreds (probably thousands) of test shots between FX and DX and using the same ISO, F/Stop and shutter speed the exposure is identical. What Tony is referring to is equivalent depth of field for the same field of view. So, if I'm shooting a 200mm lens at F5.6 on my DX camera, the depth of field would look like a 300mm F8.4 on a full frame camera (again for the same field of view). Now, to take this one step further, there is actually no difference in FX and DX depth of field. If your the same distance from your subject, the DX camera simply has a tighter field of view. You an prove this to yourself easily - imagine you shoot an image with a D810 (FX). Now, take that image into Photoshop and crop it the the DX area - did the background magically become sharper? Of course not. The reason you get more DOF with a crop camera is simple - you either have to use a shorter lens or move back further than you would with an FX camera for the same field of view - and that's what Tony was trying to explain :)

[@Travis4932]

Steve Perry thats what i was thinking. i was a bit confused by what he said.

[@backcountrygallery]

I've seen that video. In your original statement, you say that you need to bump the ISO to compensate for the "effective aperture" and that's not the case. An exposure of 1/125th of a second at F8 at ISO 400 is the same on a DX or FX body - you DO NOT need to change the DX camera to 1/125th, F8 at ISO1200 to compensate for the extra 1.5 stop difference. If you do, you overexposure the shot. However, if you're referring to the fact that the ISO performance will be 1.5 stops worse, sure, that's correct and pretty common knowledge. The DX camera will have same noise level an FX camera does at ISO 1200 - I'm not arguing that.

[@cabelas1987]

I have the 200-500mm and love it. A zoom of that range shouldn't even be close to the prime telephotos and the fact that it is, is remarkable. I don't regret my choice, although when I'm packing my camera bag for a trip or at the end of a long hike, I do start wishing I had the 300mm PF as a compact lightweight option.

[@alanalain4884]

Thanks!

[@andyobrien6263]

Fantastic review & comparison of these lenses Steve. I'm lucky enough to have both & tend to use the 200-500 on my D500 for the additional reach, and the 300 PF on my D5, often with the TC1.4 iii. As you mentioned, the D500 / 300 PF combo is a great walk around option. I also have the Sigma 150-600 sport lens, which is considerably heavier than the 200-500, although I find it sharper at the long end. That said, I tend to grab the 200-500 in preference to the Sigma because of the weight saving and its constant f5.6. I've had one or two issues with the 209-500 lens hood falling off. I love the sigmas push/pull zoom option as opposed to the lengthy zoom process of the Nikon. Keep up the great work.

[@imgamba]

Excellent comparison. The way you differentiate the topics is very very well. Thanks, it helps me a lot!

[@Needacreate]

Very nuanced and practical discussion of the pros and cons of both lenses. Found this intriguing enough to watch till the end. I am saying this as a generalist-approach Pentax shooter, who would feel more confident now to make an informed pick between offerings even in the competing system, given that the selection criteria are pretty universal. Did I mention that your wildlife photography rocks big time, Steve?

[@davidsmith3716]

Very well done, Steve...THANKS! I use the 300 PF on my Fujifilm X-H1 with a Fringer adapter with stunning results and I can use the Fuji 1.4 TC between the adapter and body! I compared using the 300 PF on a D7200 and while the focus acquisition and tracking is a little better, the IQ on the Fuji body is remarkably better. I had to do the test twice to confirm what I was seeing and without any post processing, cropping or pixel peeping, the clarity and sharpness difference just jumps out.

[@sinetwo]

Incredibly well presented and laid out video. Thanks so much for covering topics I didn't even think of!

[@JonWilliamsJonnyKstudio]

About the VR sport mode, I've also heard it is used for when you and the camera are moving, like in a vehicle, etc.

[@_systemd]

when Steve mentions he needed several copies to find a sharp one - how big were the differences and was the sharp copy sharpest at f5.6 or same as the others - it exhibits clear improvement going to f8 = where does the improvement over the bad copies lie, overall or wide open?

[@hemakhatri3442]

Hi steve , please come up with a head to head comparision for nikkor 300mm pf (with tc) vs 500mm pf which is better for wildlife photography

[@inverlane1939]

Great review and based on your findings, I have just ordered the 300 PF and a TC 1.4. I also love your style of presentation and have just subscribed. Thank you 😁

[@UncleJaco]

Thanks for another down to earth, honest and to the point review! Always a pleasure watching your videos with fast, honest real world advise and insights.

[@juleskarney4009]

As usual Steve your videos are superb. I bought the 200-500 vr a couple of months ago. I have practice with it around the house, etc. Now next week since high school sports (Maxpreps) is starting I will really put it through it's paces. Everybody at Ugly Hedgehog likes your videos too. Keep up the good work, you have made me a better photographer.

[@varghamehregan1183]

It was a great review, thanks to you. But can you help me to choose between: 200-500mm vs 200-400mm f/4 vr II. thank you.

[@photosbyfry]

I loved this so much I saved my money to buy one and it is as sharp as everyone says and well worth the money. I had a 150-500 Sigma 5.6-6.3 and it cannot hold a candle to this nikki 200-500 5.6. I do appreciate all your hard work!

[@elmerdeloso594]

Please tell me what make/model of ball head you are using as shown in 9:44 of this video. Thank you.

[@backcountrygallery]

Sorry for the delay - it's a really right stuff BH 55 :)

[@slodays1158]

Would love to have both but the 200-500 is it for me. Maybe I'll rent the prime...my arms would love it. Great review.

[@primate2744]

Great video! I'm getting ready to purchase the 200-500 and was curious to see if you could recommend a good way to test the lense for sharpness when it arrives?

[@ArnaudSiemons]

You are awesome. Humble yet outspoken.

[@stevemartin239]

Another great tube Steve. As always the most informativeI Photo tube around. I have the old 300 AFS F4, & was wondering which way to go. Thanks for all your hard work.

[@leftykelly3944]

You do a great job on your videos. I am researching for a camera and lens for wildlife photography. I just ordered your e-book. Looks like it will be a big help for my upcoming Alaska trip.

[@VladimirBarriere]

Thanks for another fantastic video. Now as someone who never questioned my lenses (in the sense I never thought there were bad copies!) I'd be interested to know how you test your new lenses to figure that out!

[@backcountrygallery]

In this case, it was easy because I was comparing the 200-500 to my 300 PF. Everything's on a tripod, carefully focused in Live View, mirror up, EFC, cable release, etc. The first two copies were so far off it was obvious something wasn't right. I also saw it in the field - I'm used to shooting long glass and for the life of me I couldn't get a sharp image with the first copy and only marginally sharp images with the second. The third has been fantastic and I like to think that most of the lenses are like my third copy. :)

[@TheMrBennito]

nails it . time and again. Steve is simply the best for wildlife shooters. Keep it up!

[@djrocc-jamaica3527]

Oh, got your ebook, and it was greatly informative, with some fantastic shots!!

[@backcountrygallery]

Thanks :)

[@peepingtube7]

Hi Steve, the "Exchange and Return" policy part of this vedio made me to think, it is difficult for hobbyists to check the perfection of the Lense. Please share vedio if you have about checking of New lense.

[@BillFerris]

Steve, glad to see you found a good copy of the 200-500. I appreciated your comments about the benefits of shooting at f/4 vs. f/5.6. My experience shooting with the 200-500 has sold me on the advantage of f/5.6 vs. f/6.3. Photographing BIF in anything less than great light, the ISO starts to climb pretty quickly. I'm usually always wide open at f/5.6 and am typically at 1/2000 to freeze action so, opening the aperture or slowing shutter speed are not options...at least, not preferred options. Even a 1/3-stop lower ISO can make the difference between acceptable and unacceptable noise. Regardless of how good the 150-600's may be, I have no desire to give up another 1/3-stop of light. As someone who's never shot with a 500 f/4, shooting with the 200-500 had given me an appreciation of the idea of having such a lens. If your looking for suggestions on topics to cover in future videos, I'd be interested in a discussion of the wildlife/bird scenarios where each - 500 f/4 and 200-500 f5.6 - shows its value. Which scenarios are tailor made for the exotic and which for the zoom?

[@1stRealty]

I just ordered the 200-500 used from Adorama. How can check the sharpness to see if it a “keeper”? Great video!

[@BillFerris]

@@1stRealty one subject I'll recommend is a 1st quarter Moon. Of course, the weather needs to cooperate but assuming it's clear, the Moon is detailed, conveniently positioned, and can be used to test things like autofocus acuity, image quality at different focal lengths and f-stops, and vibration reduction (VR) at different shutter speeds.

[@definitelynotatroll]

No extra fluff, very straight to the point. Great review! You earned a subscriber.

[@backcountrygallery]

Thanks!!!

[@definitelynotatroll]

Steve Perry wow! A response on a 3 year old video within just a couple hours! That’s amazing. Seriously, kudos! I guess if there is a chance of you reading this then I might as well ask a question I had: in your opinion does the Nikon D3500 have too few autofocus points? My current camera’s shutter is dying and I will probably need to buy another one, I’m on a fairly tight budget as a grade 12 student and so I’m looking at the entry level options by all brands. Do you think that the 11 AF points isn’t enough or should it do just fine, my current camera has 19 cross type points (Canon 7D), but I rarely use anything but the single focus point in the center. Thanks!

[@balintk.9373]

@@backcountrygallery Hey Steve! Currently using a D500+ 300 f4 pf. Kinda find the combination a little short on focal length in certain situations. Do you still recommend getting a 1.4 tc mark 3 for this setup? I do not want to buy a zoom lens, on a long run i would probably buy a 500mm F4 but financially it is out of reach right now.

[@backcountrygallery]

@@definitelynotatroll Sorry for the delay. I you're mostly using the center point, I think it's fine. The truth is, there's not any cameras in the D3500 budget range that are going to have wall to wall AF points anyway. I think it's a good choice. Of course, if you can get into a D5xxx series, that may be even better - or possibly a used D7200.

[@backcountrygallery]

@@balintk.9373 Yup, the 1.4 TC is really good with that combo, Not 500 F/4 good, but good.

[@waltyu945]

Hi Steve, do you have any comment about AF-S 80-400VR under heat distortion scenario? Does it be always out of focus under 400mm? Thanks.

[@ebonyreeves885]

Found this extremely helpful thank you for spending so much time sharing!

[@elmerdeloso594]

I'm totally sold! Just had to buy your e-book after this. Thank you for publishing it and your channel!

[@daltonramsey9585]

The one thing I have to say about the 200-500 tripod collar is that it's nice for carrying the lens. I've had the canon 400mm 5.6L and the sigma 150-600c and there wasn't a comfortable way to grip it for a suitcase carry type of position which makes carrying that large lens a lot more convenient when hiking around.

[@JaseEvoX]

Did you know you got a "youtube channels that inspire" in Outdoor Photography? couldn't agree more :)

[@backcountrygallery]

Nope, didn't know that - that's really cool!! Do you have the link? THANKS!!!!

[@JaseEvoX]

It's in this months Magazine, I'm in the UK not sure if it's available worldwide.. it's only a small part on page 12 with your picture and a a link to this channel. The Magazine is : www.outdoorphotographymagazine.co.uk/magazine/2016/08/op209-the-highlights/

[@backcountrygallery]

Awesome - I'll have to see if I can find a copy here in the states (some of my local bookstores have a selection of UK mags). Thanks again for letting me know - that's really cool :)

[@ashwarne3293]

JaseEvoX aaa

[@nickgill7941]

Good video, can please tell me what the manufacture of the bag is as cant see the name in this video. Thanks

[@JG-dp8wy]

Hi Steven, how can you tell when the first two Nikon 200-500 lenses were no good? how could I test the sharpness of my used Nikon 200-500 lens. Thanks

[@egyjanek]

Any idea about the Sigma 500 f4 sport lens focus speed and accuracy ? Specially in focus tracking ? Thanks

[@klackon1]

Well Steve, 7 months on from my last post and I bought a new Nikkor 200 - 500mm f5.6. It is brilliant: and despite the weight I have been using it instead of my 300mm f4 PF VR since buying it a fortnight ago. I find it really easy to aquire a subject (far easier than my Olympus EM1 mark II + Oly 300mm f4) and it works really well for birds in flight.

[@backcountrygallery]

Congrats :) As an owner of both lenses, I find myself going back and forth between them all the time - can't go wrong either way and I'm glad you're enjoying to 200-500. I personally think they pair up well.

[@Ark7760]

VR on 500mm lenses is a must for shooting handheld, I'm less fortunate and use a mirror lens for telephoto work and it's very tricky to get well centered photos with all the shaking going on.

[@CyberDNA13]

Steve, Great review and best video I've found so far on KZbin, but...... You've forgot to mention the main aspect of using Crop sensor cameras. Nikon D500 should definitely have 1.5 times cropped numbers on those FF lenses. 300/4 would be 450/6 and 200-500 would be 300-750/8.4 in 35mm equivalent. I think it should be written as disclaimer at least because this is the fact that not everyone do pay attention to it. Cheers!

[@backcountrygallery]

The "effective F/stop" is only for DOF if you shot a full frame equivalent lens from the same distance. Note that it DOES NOT affect exposure as many people fear.

[@jessev.bassiii4689]

thanx for the great videos and info. my wife just bought me the 200-500 and i bought the D500 earlier this year. love the combo and have good success so far. thanx for all the info you give on everything nikon!!

[@frankkristensen4256]

Thank you, Steve, for an informative video. You definitely had my attention for the entire review. Interesting information about the heat distortion. Never thought you would see differences among lenses at equal circumstances.

[@rockapejv]

Late to the comments section, but, I have to totally agree with everything related to the Nikon 200-500 stated in this video. After using the 200-500 for around two years now, the first thing that immediately comes to mind is the huge difference between 500mm image sharpness at distance and at close range on a warm day. At full aperture down, the short range performance (i.e small bird in a branch at say.. 6m) is outstanding! (razor sharp with wonderful bokeh!), but at distance (50+m) images are often dissapointing; not always mind, but it is a definite trend. The VR on the 200-500 is outstandingly good! My other gripe is the relatively slow focus, which I could have offset a bit by using manual focus, had Nikon not put the focus ring so close to the lens mount..... sigh! I have also used this lens for close up work at around f8 (flying insects etc.), where it truly excels, with wonderfully, completely defocussed backgrounds. But yes, a good copy of this lens will offer great value for money, and is marginally better than the simmilarly priced 3rd party opposition.

[@TheMiniatureStudio]

My only concern when thinking about whether or not to get the 200-500 for a D850 is if they've sorted out the QC issues. I'm not really in a region that does return periods that would allow me to test this out. :/

[@Wykertak]

Hi Steve, I have a question. I'm using D7500 with Nikkor 200-500mm for wildlife. I need this lens for its long focal end, but I must admit I'm a bit bothered by the weight (I like to hike and photograph at the same time). Would it make sense in my case to use Nikkor 300mm f/4 PF with TC-14E III attached most of the time?

[@abhikdas2113]

Which among the Nikon TC 20E III,TC 17E II and TC 14E III teleconverters is best for 300 PF lens along with D500 camera? Please give ranking/preference according to you for best wild life and birding photography.

[@jimt9479]

Steve love the videos AND really love your book. Torn between the 2 lenses still...I shoot a Nikon d810 and am considering the 300mm over the 200-500 zoom and at times when shooting outdoors ( mainly sports ) I will put my camera in DX mode to give me extra reach when using my 70-200 f/2.8. I realize i reduce my pixel density to 16Mp but the images still work well for me. Any thoughts on using this technique instead of paying an additional $500 for a 1.4x teleconvertor ? And would you recommend this technique ? Your video on cropping full frame vs crop sensors was excellent also !

[@backcountrygallery]

It sounds like you're using a D800/ 810. Using a TC should get you more detail than cropping down to 16MP, so it may be worth it to you. Of course, if 16MP is all you need, then I wouldn't bother. As for the two lenses, for sports I'd probably lean towards the 300 F4 with its faster AF and larger aperture (although I'm not a sports shooter, so that's just a guess).

[@jimt9479]

Thanks Steve, yes I do use a Nikon d810 and have been torn between the 2 lenses for quite some time. Looks like I'm going with the 300mm F4 and a 1.4x TC. If I begin to start shooting more wildlife I will consider the 200-500. Keep up the great work ! Your videos, book and photos are fantastic and I love the channel.

[@kaplandg]

im actually having a hard time deciding on a shorter prime to replace my 200-500mm. i recently just got a 600mm f4 fmount and it really put things into perspective. if you have any suggestions to a shorter lens that matches the 600mm in quality id appreciate it. a cheaper suggestion and expensive options would also be nice to include

[@serkan4241]

Hi Steve I have a question. I hope you can clear it up for me because everyone says something different. If I am using 300mm f4 on crop body does crop factor effect my maximum f stop ? I need trustable answer 🙂

[@backcountrygallery]

Nope. F/4 is F/4. However, it DOES affect the way Depth Of Field looks compared to cropping the same way with a full-frame camera. For example, if you shoot a frame-filling shot with a full frame camera, you'd find you'd have to back up 1.5 X that distance to get that same framing with a DX camera (same focal length of course). This means you have 1.5X the Depth of Field for the same framing as you'd have on an FX body. So, it can affect subject isolation (you can better subject isolation with FX). However, exposure is the same - if it's 1/125th, F/4 ISO 200 with a full frame body, it's the same with the crop body (of course, the crop sensor doesn't capture as much overall light, so it's noisier at the same ISO). Hope that helps.

[@serkan4241]

Thank you so much for sparing your time to answer my question. It makes sense. 👍

[@martinaves7026]

I rented a 200-500 and D750 earlier in the year and was really impressed with the images of birds in flight and on the strength of this purchased a D500 and 200-500. I can see from your excellent review and images that this lens is very capable when connected to a D500. I used to shoot Canon and sold it all some years ago, but I had pro gear including capability with extenders to 600mm f/5.6, so I have experience with wildlife and birds in flight. My experience with Nikon is one of disappointment. With good light and supported on stationary objects, it's pretty good. For birds in flight it's simply horrible. I haven't yet achieve a single useable shot having tried VR variations on and off, varying shutter speeds and aperture settings and all are soft. Even on slow moving birds. I'm on my second 200-500 and about to return that, but I'm thinking returning it all for a refund to reconsider options. For those having bad 200-500, was this across the range or specific to a certain focal length or scenario?

[@klackon1]

Martin Aves: Keep the D500 and get a 300mm f4 PF VR + Nikon 1.4 TC 111, you will be amazed as to how incredible this combination is for birds and dragonflies in flight. I had a Canon 7D mark 11 + Canon 100 - 400mm IS mark 11 prior to my Nikon system and for me, the D500 + 300mm is far superior. I have been considering the Nikon 200 - 500mm f5.6 but Tamron have just released the 150 - 600mm f5/6.3 G2.

[@martinaves7026]

Cheers Pete, that's exactly what I did and am delighted with the results. The 300mm f4 PF is a great little lens and results are really sharp. I've not tried the 1.4TC III extensively yet, but some initial quick shots look promising.

[@alanalain4884]

Hi Steve, I am looking to purchase the 200-500mm, but you mention you had to return 2 copies before getting a sharp one. In this regard, could you give any insight on the merchant you got it from? For it should be a merchant with which we can easily return and exchange, and if possible, without having to pay for return shipping, if it's a bad lens. Thank you...

[@j777]

Is there an easy way to check a 200-500 sample for adequate quality by shooting it in the store? Or at home? I'm just not sure what to expect from a sample, besides that is should be sharper than my 70-200+TC20. Thanks.

[@jc32750]

Steve, the Nikon 200-500 arrives Friday. Going to take it out Saturday for a test with the D500.

[@MrCorelex]

Steve ... You should compare 200-400mm/4 with 200-500mm/5.6

[@CloudyNeSS2011]

MrCorelex I have used both and I would personally go for the 200-500mm. Having used the 200-500 then returning it for the 200-400, I went back to the 200-500 as it’s just as sharp if not more so, a lot easier to carry around making it more adaptable to environments etc and the colours etc from it are gorgeous, not that the 200-400mm arnt but for the money and weight, it Defo wasn’t worth the small pros for me

[@MultiAudrey1234]

Hi! First of all thanks for all your great videos. So useful ! I am really interested in buying the 200-500 mm. You said that the first 2 that you bought were not sharp. I would like to know how can i chek if the one I will buy is actually sharp. I'm a beginner and i have only use a 300mm f4 afs lenses for the past year so I d'ont have many reference to compare the sharpeness. Is there a way I can test my lense to see if its as sharp as it should be ? thanks a lot and sorry for my english, i'm from quebec!

[@kevinhopkins7119]

would you recommend shutter release auto focus or back button auto focus when shooting wild life or sports?

[@backcountrygallery]

I use the back button for everything.

[@kevinhopkins7119]

Steve Perry I also use back button on my D5300 but I'm having trouble to consistently follow any fast action with any real accuracy. any suggestions? I'm looking to mow buy either the first Tamron 150-600 or the G2, what has faster auto focus?

[@Guairenito]

I will love to see a comparison the Nikon AFS 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens and the Nikon 200-500mm, it will be amazing as well to include the Nikon 300mm f/4 to see the difference with the 80-400

[@InCountry6970]

This covers everything, very good review !

[@hemakhatri3442]

Hi dear Steve ,what do you think of this I am thinking make for shooting faraway birds nikon d500 with nikkor 300mm f4 pf lens (with 1.4x tc) is this combination good for wildlife and bird photography . THANKS

[@backcountrygallery]

If the birds are far away it's probably going to come up too short.

[@hemakhatri3442]

@@backcountrygallery , but if get something like a 200-500 , 300mm with tc will offer me more focal length plus I can use crop modes get more focal length.

[@IAmJustSaying6]

How come no protective filter on your lenses?

[@Aleksejs_Saripins]

Hi Steve! Have you some examples (photo) to show, what do they look like, that lenses with unsharpness defect?

[@RodAllsopp]

Living in the UK I guess there's not too much concern about heat distortion as much as rain distortion, especially at the moment. A great video and review of each lens. My decision is between the older 300mm AF-S + 1.4TC 2 and the 200-500mm. I kinda wanna go for both, but I don't think that will be an option.

[@mooreons]

Steve, what difference, if any, is there between the 1.4 TC II and the 1.4 TC III ? I currently own the TC II, is it worth trading it in for the TC III?

[@backcountrygallery]

I never really tested them side by side, but have owned both. I think the III is a touch sharper, but anecdotally it seems that the options are mixed between the III being a bit sharper vs even.

[@mooreons]

@@backcountrygallery you reply to many folks, so I doubt if you remember my question about purchasing a 500mm PF lens. I ordered one a month ago, and I probably have months to go before it arrives. So, I see the 300 pf is now available at Amazon. Perhaps the 300 pf with my 1.4TC will hold me over until the 500 pf arrives!

[@Empireabc]

How did you test the sharpness of the 200 to 500 to check if the sharpness was as good as it was supposed to be?

[@VTPyzon]

I'm not currently in the market for either of these (yet), but I always learn from your videos. I really like your practical approach to things. Thanks! BTW, it would be interesting to hear your evaluation of the competing Tamron and Sigma lens in this price/focal length category.

[@stephendean7756]

im thinking of using the 300mm pf lense on my D750 steve would I lose image quality if I set the camera to DX crop mode?as this would give me a longer focal length on the lense and would it affect image quality with a 1.4X teleconvertor with this camera setting if I fitted one?

[@KrishnaPrasadKotti]

Can you use Nikon 300 mm f/4 with 1.4xTC II ?

[@backcountrygallery]

Yes

[@KrishnaPrasadKotti]

Thank you

[@andygibson9422]

What a great video - you’ve put a lot of work into it and it shows. New sub here!

[@richardbarakett4163]

Awesome VDO! Thank you Steeve for what you do!

[@vincenterwinphotography4224]

ohbya sir,i have tele zoom nikon af 80-200 f2.8 if i mix with tc brand nikon can or can not? how about autofocus and diapraghm can be set from body and autofocus sir?

[@backcountrygallery]

Most teleconverters should allow you to set the f/stop from the body and focus. However, not all teleconverters are comparable with that lens so you'd have to look it up.

[@adamturner9061]

I notice you don't use the hoods. Is there a reason for that?

[@jaaycesholiday388]

What are your thoughts on the afs 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR with a 1.7 TC mark 2? How does that lens hold up against these two? I’m curious about the image quality.

[@MLJ7424]

Hi Steve , I had a used 200-500 copy from B&h and had to return it was really lacking sharpness, I'm curious where you ordered yours from that they were flexible enough to go through 3copys to get a good one. Thanks

[@ungavaproductions]

Love the way you review things...You're doing an excellent job and have the kindness to share. Thanks, you are a fantastic reference.

[@apprenti45]

Good vidéo. Could you give thé référence of Wimberkey toi are using. Sorry i live in France and I don t speak very Well. Thanks so much.

[@oqhr]

How would this lens performes on Nikon d3400 in terms of sharpness and focusing ?

[@richardlatuchie3986]

Steve, how do you recommend testing the sharpness of the 200-500. I’m relatively new to this, so tend to attribute lack of sharpness to my own lack of experience. Thanks.

[@FlyinRyanProductions406]

Richard Latuchie same with me. I have gotten lots of throw away photos but they were nearly all on cloudy low light days. I have also blamed myself for many. I really can’t complain too much because I have gotten some great great keepers. I’m looking for a solid test also.

[@chrisracecars]

How can you tell if sharpness is having issues when you purchase the lens?

[@vincenterwinphotography4224]

sorry sir,which one is the best for birding? 300 f4 nano mix tc 1.4 or 200-500 f5.6 vr witbout tc?

[@backcountrygallery]

That's the thing - there's a lot of overlap and either combo can work well. I would tend to favor the 200-500 for reach though when it comes to most birds (although I have a lot of birds with the 300 as well).

[@vincenterwinphotography4224]

how about the purple frimging,focus breathing and dust pump and focus speed,which is better or best between 200-500 and 300 f4 sir? i still confuse which one i have to buy thanks alot sir

[@backcountrygallery]

I haven't really noticed any issues with focus breathing or purple fringing with either lens. As for dust pumping, I don't think it's a big issue with the 200-500, but the 300 PF will have less since it's not a zoom :)

[@alanalain4884]

Hi Steve... At 20.40, what a nice place... Water !.. Water !.., Where is that ? Is it Florida ? (Drying in So Cal...)Thanks for any insight... And by the way, what another awesome review !.. Thank you, so useful and well made...

[@backcountrygallery]

Some of those area are local to me in NW OH, but I think the one you're referring to is from Merritt island.

[@CarlyWaarly]

Good review, have the 200 - 500 we do commercial construction / demolition work with it but we are about to get the 300PF, horses for courses.