Nikon's Best Value Z Lens - 180-600mm Reviewed (VS 100-400mm)

[@johnnyViDeO]

Thanks, Matt. Yes, I would like to see a long zoom shootout among the Tamron, Sigma, and Z 180-600mm.

[@davewalker5706]

Picked mine up on Thurs and just been out with it for the first time. It is a beauty, feels very S-Line to me. It’s not light but it feels great in the hand and I find it very easy to shoot handheld. Very warm today and hazy in the UK for my use case (long distance landscapes). Only had to glance at a couple of files in ACR but they look good. Balances well on Z6 but I will in the main use it with the bigger Z8 which I hope to finally!!!! Receive in the next week or so. Good review Matt

[@FlyinRyanProductions406]

Got mine two days ago and it’s defiantly well worth it. My 200-500 will be getting sold on Tuesday.

[@bobbullethalf]

Finally, some sports and action shots with the Nikon Z 180-600. You always see pictures of birds and animals with this lens but not action shots, thanks for that.

[@sipuebla]

Which one has the better image the 180mm-600mm or the 100mm-400mm with the 1.4 teleconverter? Which one acquires the quickest focus 180mm-600mm or the 100mm-400mm with the 1.4 teleconverter?

[@simonbooker]

Great video - thanks as always Matt. Just got mine and its fabulous , but for me teh really stand out feature is 600mm handheld video. Dont know what tweaking Nikon have done - buut its like having a gyro in the lens ; so stable it really is a huge difference.😯

[@tomgodzik8951]

The Nikon 180-600mm works great for what I need it for. ❤❤❤ I have a Nikon 50-250mm to cover the closer shots. ❤❤❤ Great video. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. ❤❤❤

[@dfinlay587]

I ordered mine a few minutes after the announcement, but NPS in line ahead of me. I am looking forward to a longer focal length. This looks like a great lens for what I need. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts on this...

[@realnikonlover6207]

I am right there with you. Still waiting. Patiently. I will find it of interest to see how it stacks up against the venerable Nikon F mount 200-500. Hoping I receive the new 180-600 before our summer completely ends. :)

[@tcwhite0104]

Same I ordered from Nikon Direct on July, 24 as well as a local camera dealer, the camera dealer called me 3 weeks ago and I cancelled the Nikon order.

[@dfinlay587]

@@tcwhite0104 Nice that you got it. I received mine on Sept 25th. Just over 3 weeks into Nikon first ship date. Not bad. Its a great lens.

[@samhalbrooks1534]

another plus of this lens is the fact you can program the lens for focus recall when using the Z8.

[@cy9nvs]

I bought a Z8 the day this lens was announced. The Z8 arrived 13 days later, and since then I've been sitting here with a Nikon Z8 but no lens to shoot with. I really hope it'll arrive soon, I'm losing my mind. 😂

[@tc6912]

Get a lens !!! The Z8 is amazing. The 180-600 may be a waiting game. If you are already a Nikon shooter, at least get the adapter and try an existing lense. I think you will be impressed with the Z8.

[@cy9nvs]

@@tc6912 I switched from Fuji go Nikon, got no lenses. And getting a telephoto lens just to bridge the gap until the 180-600 arrives would be a pretty bad financial decision. Until it's here, I'll continue using my X-H2.

[@tc6912]

@@cy9nvs I get it. The 24-70 F4 is relatively cheap and a good all arounder. My guess is you will like the Z8 and want to do more than telephoto work. Tamron is also putting out some Z lenses.

[@ryancooper3629]

My reco is go pick up a used lens that is likely to hold its value and then just sell it when the 180-600 shows up for about the same you paid for it. That way you aren't waiting for months. I have no idea what Nikon's stock is on this sucker but I've been on pre-order wait lists with Nikon for 6-8 months before because it takes them so long to make enough copies so you may be waiting for a long time still.

[@cy9nvs]

@@ryancooper3629 I got mine yesterday, and today, out of nowhere, I saw and photographed my first white-tailed eagle in the wild. 😂 It's a phenomenal lens. 👌

[@boostedmaniac]

Preordered mine a while back. Been anxiously awaiting it as I’ve been shooting my adapted 200-500.

[@R.Hogarth]

When the Z8 was released, that was enough to convince me to switch (back) to Nikon from Sony (A7Riii). I have the 24-120mm lens and am looking for a long lens. I am also in the very early stages of planning a trip to see and photograph a rocket launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. I have never regretted getting a good lens, but I have been struggling with whether to get the 100-400 because of it being smaller, lighter & an S Line lens, or whether to go for the extra reach of the 180-600. Here in Canada, there is $1350 difference between the two lenses so I could ALMOST get BOTH a 180-600 and a 14-30 f/4 for the same price as the 100-400 S. As things stand, I am leaning toward the 180-600mm and this review seems to tell me that I shouldn't think its optics are lacking in any significant way.

[@ArsenijeRadenovic]

I guess there is no reason to opt for 100-400. It only makes sense to me if you need to be super lightweight and don't really need over 400mm reach. I also have 24-120 f4 on my z6II and it is way better than 24-120 for f mount. I want to get a long zoom lens for quite a while now, and this looks like a perfect lens really. Before I switched to Z system I wanted to get Tamrons 150-600 for F mount, but low supply in my country saved me from purchasing it. I hope 180-600 won't be too expensive here. And yes, if I were you I would go for 14-30 and 180-600. You have all the ranges covered with that :D

[@dabian3115]

I got Z8 with 24-120 too and chose 100-400 over 180-600. The only pros i met is when i try to shooting some birds, 400 is really not enough. 100-400 is great for travel and landscape in my short 2 months experience.

[@shadow479]

The Kingfisher was probably not properly in focus and also some of the football shots were definitely not taken within the required shutter speeds maing them look slightly blurred.

[@RaadMambles]

It’s so nice to see you get your health in order. You’re looking good

[@igmanza7373]

Had a chuckle at the dude in the ghillie suit 🤣🤣🤣

[@arindamnsit]

Exactly 😂

[@ryancooper3629]

Great video, was wondering, in your opinion. For someone who currently is shooting with a Z7ii with a 200-500 on FTZ, what would be a better use of cash to upgrade? - Sell the Z7ii to buy a Z8 - Sell the 200-500 to buy this 180-600 Both would cost about the same and I only have budget for one of the options. My main frustration is that my current setup's autofocus is not very reliable, especially when photographing small birds in low light. (golden hour)

[@mattgranger]

If it’s AF you want to improve, upgrade the body.

[@tomdearie5165]

Thanks, Matt - Cheers and thanks for the straightforward info. 👍 Quick question - I’m a wildlife shooter shooting in the wilderness of Northern Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia in Canada. I’m currently running a 70-200mm f/2.8 and a 200-500mm f/5.6 and am looking to update my 200-500mm. If price was not an issue, and you could only pick one long lens what would your gut feeling be to choose: The 180-600mm, the 100-400mm, or the 400mm f/4.5? I’d assume the ability to add the 1.4 and 2.0 teleconverters, but would be very aware of the light loss due to my northern latitude and long twilight. My working conditions are as follows: • I’m often in the kayak to shoot, often near dawn and dusk. • Subject distances range from quite close to very long. (recently shot coastal wolves at 3m and at 500m in the same day. ISO on the 200-500 was 3200-12,800) • I’m 95% handheld and encounters are fast and fleeting - I don’t get to stand at a tripod for an hour of composing. • I also shoot video when the situation calls for it. Good hunting! 😎

[@ryancooper3629]

I feel like you just described me hahah. :) Are you my long lost twin? hahah I'm also a wildlife shooter from Ontario who mostly shoots in Ontario, AB, and BC from my kayak or canoe using a 200-500. ;) I'm also wrestling on how to upgrade my 200-500. Personally I don't think the 400mm lenses offer enough range. Even at 500 I'm often feeling like I'm too short as my style is to try to get small things really big in frame. From what I've seen the 400 4.5 with a 1.4TC on it def outperforms any of the zooms but you are also paying more than double for a marginal increase in performance. My instinct is that this new 180-600 is the best option short of going all the way to the 800PF and selling a kidney. ;)

[@tomdearie5165]

Yep. That’s the struggle - reach versus speed. I saw Thom Hogan’s analysis of the 400mm f/4.5 with the two teleconverters and it was very favourable. It gives you f/6.3 at 560mm and f/9 at 800mm and the performance was excellent. The price is, as you say, about double that of the 180-600mm, so it’s not a casual decision.

[@carlmcneill1139]

I ordered the 180-600 the morning it was announced (mine hasn't shipped yet). I haven't seen any videos comparing it to Tamron or Sigma's 150-600. I've seen it compared to the Sony 200-600 and Canon's 100-500. I think it's going to be better than the Tamron and Sigma lenses.

[@mattgranger]

Hope you get it soon!

[@Chrsly]

I got mine Thursday, but haven't even had a chance to mount it yet. Tomorrow!

[@rogeryoung3587]

Random lenses represent great value for predictive text auto-correction ;)

[@carlmcneill1139]

@@rogeryoung3587 thank you

[@terrywbreedlove]

Combined with a Pro grade apsc Z camera. What an amazing wildlife kit that would make.

[@bigboi36]

I’m really interested to see what this lens does with the z50

[@ravinchandra]

Wish there was a D7xxx series or a D500 replacement sooner than later.

[@m.maclean8911]

I bought the 180-600 but upgraded to the 100-400mm S lens. It is sharper, smaller, and lighter ... and with TCs easily covers from 100mm-800mm. It also gives the ability for super close focus, and it is the size of a 70-200mm. Having the 100mm wide end is a great improvement without sacrificing on the long end. The 180-600 is a great lens though.

[@mattgranger]

Glad it works for you 👍🏼

[@samsonhung1498]

If I seldom taking photos for wildlife, but more for landscape and potrait, would you recommend 180-600 or (100-400+ teleconverter 1.4x or 2x)? (Using z8) Thank you.

[@kennethmull724]

I would be interested in your comments comparing the 180-600 Nikon Z lens to the Tamron 150-600 G2.

[@AlanMcLaren]

I just received my copy after ordering it on the first day. I was excited until I FOUND THIS LENS DOES NOT DO "FOCUS RECALL with Z6, and this was one of the reasons I purchased this lens. Nikon informed me that I need a newer Z Camera for this function to work. I do not have other z cameras to see how this works on them. If the lens had a second L-fn2 button it could work like the 70-200mm f2.8. this is a consumer lens, that needs new updated z Cameras, yet the Pro lens works on the older z Cameras

[@mattgranger]

Oh damn that sucks. Sorry to hear Alan

[@vk4vsp]

I wish someone would do a review of this lens on a Z6(ii) or Z7(ii). Every single video I've seen, it's been on a Z8 or Z9.

[@ryancooper3629]

I agree, I feel a lot of people feel that Z8 and Z9 are the only viable Nikon cameras, which, as. a Z7ii owner, I sometimes agree. For its price it is a great camera but the autofocus is so pitiful compared to the 8 and 9 that to a serious shooter it isn't even close to an option.

[@IamNoOne-001]

4:08 We can see that, this lens wasn't meant to be used with 2x teleconverter, the result looks as foggy as the air in China.

[@michaelgerhold5659]

They obviously were there for the Kingfisher…..so funny how they were all camouflaged up for no reason. Kingfishers in parks do not really mind folks hanging out there…..only in very natural environment, camouflage might help but from my personal experience with kingfishers, they do not really care as long as you are not making loud noises or hectic movements. Nice video!

[@RobBulmahn]

I really wish Canon would release something like this. I've been jealous of Sony's 200-600mm for a while, and now Nikon has one as well. It really is a great value.

[@y_h_d1638]

200-600 has not so good quality

[@boostedmaniac]

Canon has the 100-500 RF which is a L lens. Yeah it’s f7.1 at the far end but it’s small and compact. But yeah given the choice I’d take the 180-600 f6.3 over it. For what I shoot, the extra range is welcome and the slightly larger f stop is helpful too.

[@RobBulmahn]

@@boostedmaniac Yeah, the 100-500 is what I have, because that's the closest that Canon has in this space, but it definitely stings that the other 2 main systems have something that's cheaper and with better reach.

[@michaelgerhold5659]

The 100-500 is very good I heard. But unfortunately is much more expensive.

[@boostedmaniac]

@@michaelgerhold5659 more expensive because it’s L glass. It has those special coatings that I suspect raise the price. The only cheap option by canon is the 100-400 F5.6-F8. Even slower and shorter, but priced at a very affordable $649. Hopefully Canon will open up the mount to 3rd party.

[@fasteddy3661]

Weird, these price differences in different countries. Here in the Netherlands currently the 180-600mm costs EUR 1999 and the 100-400mm EUR 2319..

[@tpjverhoevenphotography]

Matt! Do you have a comparison between the 180-600 and 600/4 S? I mean, besides the fact that the latter is superior in every way, it might be nice to see the budget 600 next to the ultimate 600. I do own the 100-400 and love it for sports on (indeed) bright days, outdoor. When on birding trip to Spitsbergen last June, I had my trusted 180-400/4E with me. I loved it, but I lacked the mms for especially the smaller birds in harsher conditions. 600 and over would be ideal. Saving up for that 600/4 and halfway atm, but at this price I can imagine the 180-600 being a stopover towards that one.

[@mattgranger]

No i don’t sorry

[@johnpeterka8355]

Thanks for your video, Matt! I have had my new Nikkor Z 180-600 for five days, but only got to use it for two because the birds left our yard or it got too dark. Then, I spent the better part of those two days in chat rooms or on the phone with Nikon and Adobe. Nikon advised that I try a "power cycle". When that did not work, they recommended that I clean the contacts. Now, they want files that will take them at least two days to review. In the meantime, I want to return the lens if it is a dud (although I am willing to admit it could be user error). I shot with our Z7ii and Z9, Manual and Shutter priority, on a tripod for each camera, using my MC30 with the Z9, and I double / triple checked my camera settings, but the results remained poor. The Histogram looks good as does the image at time of shot, but the curves slider must be moved a good distance from the left to the right in NX Studio. Today, I took light meter readings of where the birds would land on the feeder. I switched the WB to Kevin 5620, set the shutter to 640, set the F-stop to 6.3 at 600mm, and ISO to 100. I removed the lens hood and purposely underexposed my shots by -1 EV. I still am not satisfied with the grain and desaturated colors. Dating back to 1975, I do not recall ever having an experience like this with my cameras and lenses. I borrowed a Tamron Z 150-500 from our local camera store before I purchased the 100-600. The Tamron worked immediately, without a "power cycle" or cleaning contacts. Do you have any recommendations? Is there a setting, perhaps, in the Z9 that I forgot to set? Thank you. John

[@vincenterwinphotography4224]

Sorry where is the location did u ahot kingfisher in Hong Kong? Whats the name of the park sir? Amazing capture sir thanks

[@jhophoto5721]

Hello We have Nikon 100-400 and Telecom 1.4x. I'm thinking about exchanging them. Performance is 1.4 times greater than 100-400 180-600 Which is the top? I beg you.

[@Photographersforyou]

Thanks Matt for the video, lol forward to a more comprehensive comparison if and when you get a chance. I am a little disappointed in the AF speed comment compared to the 100-400 though. Do you feel it’s at least better in Af than the 200-500 or tam/sigma ? Would appreciate a rough idea on your personal experiences.

[@richcower]

thanks Matt, you did the comparison I wanted to see.

[@mattgranger]

My pleasure 👍🏼

[@jdjohnston1960]

Any chance your shot with the lens at 600mm + the 2X was affected by heat distortion/diffraction?

[@wtonthemove6861]

Hey Matt, we sat next to each other at the lecture by Ami Vitali at Bild today... nice meeting you.

[@mattgranger]

You too! Thanks for saying hi. Ami gave a great talk, so glad I caught it.

[@patrickmolloy6994]

if you compare two lenses then show the Lr images side by side like Nikon Ricci does ... so easy to see exactly what's what

[@tariqjhangir9627]

Hello Sir, question is if one can take moon shots and how near one can come ? How about details photografing coming really near to subject and show some details and sharpness with it (180-600mm) Taking the subjects photo or shots but im interested into sharpness and details , so if possible without hokus pokusing with software just simple photo's direct from camera would be great. Hope my wondering and questions didnt confused you or other photographers. Have a nice 0ne.

[@RUDYVOLCANO]

Matt would you please be so kind to let me know which double camera strap you have and which backpack you carry,,,,,,,,,, thank you!!

[@dannesweden4166]

Booked mine the first day you could and got it on Wednesday. I think I was among the first to get it in Sweden anyway. A bit heavy but 100-400 is a bit expensive for me though if it had aperture 4 I might have bought it instead.❤❤

[@highanddryful]

The lens has attracted my attention big time. Please tell me what camera body you are shooting with the 180-600Z? Secondly please tell me what is a suitable equivalent Nikon body compared to Canon R7. Thanks

[@mattgranger]

I don’t own this lens. I think I tested it with the z8

[@freddieslaughter1107]

Which camera would you recommend between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon Z7 MK2? You have a lot of experience in photography and have use a lot of different cameras.

[@mattgranger]

Depends on your usage, and your lens investment.

[@senseofeverthing]

It woulf be nice to see a comparison with the Nikon 200-500 and the Tamron 150-600

[@Garrus4Spectre]

Welcome to the world of full frame, where a value lens costs 2000€. I keep pondering about switching, but my bank account always tells me to stick with Micro Four Thirds. 😁But nice shots!

[@davidpearson3304]

I used to live in full frame land myself, but a few months ago I moved back to apsc land. My bank account and back are much happier here.

[@angeloplayforone]

You put a good question which I always ask about OM System strategy focussing to wildlife. They only have the OM5 and OM1, but no cheap lens around €2000 euro. Only the 150 to 600 costing around €6500 euro. So having a Nikon Z8 with the reviewed lens you are cheaper. Also OM system has no camera at the price of Canon R7. So the strategy of OM System needs to be evaluated using total cost of camera and lenses. Also path of low eind wildlife shooting growing into that system. In 2 or 3 years Canon, Sony and Nikon has better upgrade path for wildlife shooters.

[@tntytube]

@@angeloplayforone: There are the cheap 100-400mm lenses from both Oly and Pana that can more than match up with any long zooms from any other systems. The R7 and 100-400mm f/8 lens is the only lesser alternative kit, but you get what you pay for in performance. The next step up from the OM-1 would be one of those Z8/Z9, R3/R5/R6 and A1/A9 - all are more expensive, none is perfect, and only with behemoth lenses.

[@DrgnSpawn]

I freaking LOVE that shot with the DragonFly on the Turtle, that was on top of another Turtle!!! 😍

[@mattgranger]

Thanks!

[@veivoli]

A Terry Pratchett moment... 🐢

[@pseudoryx9284]

Can you clarify if the shot of the kingfisher later in the day at 12:40 is still with the TC20 @ 1200mm? If so, that is seriously impressive - it is still a usable image.

[@mattgranger]

Can’t recall what time each image was taken sorry, was months ago

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

Another reviewer found the pre-production lens a bit soft wide open and sharper stopped down one stop. It would have been interesting to see if you found that. Maybe that explains the one soft kingfisher shot?

[@mattgranger]

That’s true of pretty much every lens

[@duncangroenewald]

@@mattgranger My Sony 200-600 is sharp as a tack wide open, as is the Canon 100-500. I just did a direct comparison with the Z8/180-600 and the latter is unacceptably soft wide open imo - looks worse than the 200-500. f9 it starts looking sharp.

[@bradcofo]

I've had my 180-600 since Thursday, and I can tell you that it is TACK sharp wide open. Obviously, only having it 4 days isn't quite enough to confirm anything, but I have no complaints in the sharpness category. I would say it's not quite as sharp, obviously, as my primes but it's miles above the 200-500. When you shoot the exotic primes, feather detail is something that is very easy to use as benchmarks for sharpness. Feather detail at 6.3 on this lens, even without sharpening in post is fantastic. Just my limited experience so far.

[@Mr09260]

I have mine on order here in S Africa to go with my Z 70-200 f2.8 for African Wild Life on my Z7

[@stevelink3]

Great comparison between these 2 awesome lenses, Matt! I have the 180-600 on preorder for about 9 weeks, but have yet to receive it. Anyway, I realize that you shoot mostly handheld, but as a tripod landcape photographer interested in obtaining the best image quality and detail possible, I never understood why Nikon can't simply make the tripod collar foot Arca-Swiss compatible! I have a super-sharp Irix 150 f/2.8 Macro lens (Nikon F mount with FTZ II Adapter) that cost a third the price of the 180-600, and it comes equipped with a nice Arca-Swiss compatible tripod collar! So, I had to get a Wimberley P-30 Arca-Swiss tripod plate for the 180-600. Please explain Nikon's reasoning behind their decision. Thanks!

[@danieldougan269]

When I shoot wildlife, I often feel like 600mm still isn't enough reach. Those teleconverters are great!

[@mattgranger]

100% agree

[@ryancooper3629]

I agree, though beyond 600mm I accept that the cost to effectively do it becomes ridiculous to the hobby shooter unless you are content to only ever shoot in direct sunlight.

[@shinemendwoor]

Use 2.0 teleconverter 😂😂😂 j

[@HR-wd6cw]

I am so glad I didn't go for the 200-500 F mount when it went on sale for $960. I mean $960 on sale is a great price for that lens and it's a great lens, but I think the 180-600 is better partially because it's native and because it gives you a bit more reach on both ends (and is hopefully lighter than the 200-500 which was like a tank). Now the question is when I will get a 180-600.... might be Christmas if it goes on sale, otherwise next year some time, but I'm definitely going to pick one up at some point (along with the 100-400 probably).

[@tomdearie5165]

Maybe consider the 180-600mm plus the 400mm 4.5. I have the 200-500mm and love it but, in low light it struggles, and my 70-200mm f/2.8 is a bit short. I’ll probably pick up the 180-600mm bc of its better handheld video capability. But it’s even slower than my 200-500mm and, for lower light situations, I’d want a faster lens. Good hunting! 😎

[@ryancooper3629]

You won't get a 180-600 "on sale" this year, I don't even think everyone who preordered will get on in 2023. I suspect it will be a year or two before this lens realistically starts showing up for a discount.

[@HR-wd6cw]

@@ryancooper3629 That's fine . I wasn't expecting it. I mean $100 off may not be unheard of but again, probably not likely since the lens is s till too new.

[@HR-wd6cw]

@@tomdearie5165 Probably going to start with the 180-600. I was just looking at the MTFs and it looks to be quite good, even on the long end, but should be sufficient for the ranges I'm thinking I'd use the most 300mm+ as it looks like the 180mm might be the weaker end of the focal range (at least according to Nikon's charts) and hopefully there no funky oddities in the focal lengths between 180-600mm (like field curvature).

[@tomdearie5165]

@@HR-wd6cw From what I’ve seen in testing, the 180-600mm is optically very well behaved. A lot of bang for the buck. Apart from aperture, I don’t think you can go wrong.

[@Skill_Issue92]

I just added a Lumix S5ii and a Sigma 150-600 Sport to my bag but had I known about this Nikon 180-600 I might have grabbed a Z series camera and this lens haha. ( I also own an S1 which is why I went with the S5II)

[@VandrefalkTV]

I know this comment is old by now, but did you stick with the setup? How is it? I am either getting the same lens for my s5ii, or jumping ship. Hard to decide. Mostly do photography, not video.

[@Skill_Issue92]

@@VandrefalkTV I've stuck with it and love it, it would be nice to high more resolution but I suspect a few new S cameras this year.

[@VandrefalkTV]

@@Skill_Issue92 thank you so much for your reply! That's my hope as well. A higher mpx, faster version of the already excellent S5ii would be a dream.

[@balintk.9373]

I loved the dude in full camouflage in the middle of a city park :DDDD True dedication :D

[@imjooboy]

What do you think of the Sigma 60-600mm F mount for football?

[@lyfandeth]

Nothing really looked tack sharp ( like the ancient 85mm lens) but then again, between the 2xtc and the wide zoom ranges...

[@livejames9374]

And slow shutter speeds

[@Nickkettt]

I’m still waiting my copy from BH. Ordered first day in preorder ….

[@hkraymond]

Hello, may I know what band of your camera bag are you using?

[@TheHawkMaverick]

How does this lens perform compared to the F Nikkor 180-400 TC? I'm considering to replace the F lens by this 180-600. For me focus speed is some kind of crucial, how fast can this lens focus? Thx for your time

[@mattgranger]

Thanks mate. I think I covered this in video

[@hishamosman4341]

Folks, this lens is a no brainer for Nikon shooters. Now I'm regretting get the 100-400 earlier. May sell that and get this. Hell...its light, looks sharp to me

[@dicekolev5360]

Why regretting when there are 2 years difference in release time. Z100-400 is, was and will be one of the best Nikon Z lenses with amazing Macro capabilities. And it pairs great with 35mm or 800mm (that's how I combine them). Don't regret having it, just get the 1.4 TC 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@romanhar4151]

Thank you very much for your great video. I think your dressing has some room for improvement 😊. My 180-600 should already be at home waiting for me 😬🙂

[@mattgranger]

Enjoy!

[@romanhar4151]

@@mattgranger Got it. 🙂 What I like, is the internal focus and zoom. The other properties I have to check.

[@vladislavkuba5837]

do you know how or someone the tracking and autofocus performans of the 300mm f2.8 VR2 works on the Z9/8?

[@studiomossige2997]

I got to say, i am worried now buying nikon z lenses. Iv just been told that my z 14-24 2.8 lens is worn out, it shows a lot of wear and tear in the bayonet on the lens. Was told by nikon they are using a lesser alloy in the metal parts thst will wear out faster. I used my lens for 6 months, interchanging the lens maybe 10-15 times a day, 5 days a week. My old version 14-24 which is 12yrs old has no wear and tear, and thats been interchanged on camera a tusenfold. Its disapointing…..cuz the glassmis so much better than my old one…….

[@mattgranger]

Surprising to read this. I’ve not seen any unusual wear on mine.

[@adarrylljacksonsr7525]

Unfortunately I'm flying back to Memphis on Monday so I'ma miss the photo walk!.🤦🏽‍♂️

[@mattgranger]

Safe travels

[@ronawood]

I'm still waiting on mine but can you tell me what the diameter of the lens hood is? I want to order a slip on filter for the eclipse next year.

[@dominickeen6091]

Scrolling through the comments did you end up getting the shot? Had totality a couple days ago Bedford Indiana

[@mikelyon5595]

Thanks for sharing your experiances!

[@dr.normanklack9111]

Now Nikon needs to make a great value camera because not everyone has Z9 or Z8 money.

[@travellingjoey]

I believe that Z f is coming soon 😎

[@mattgranger]

I know what you mean. Imo the z9 is great value. But some more inexpensive models with lesser features would be great to see

[@gasbike100mpg]

thanks for the review

[@Jviotr]

Hope I get mine soon. Looks like I wasn’t in the first batch. 😢

[@scottallen8174]

Are you going to be at the Bild conferece both days?

[@mattgranger]

Yes! Hope to see you there.

[@gewglesux]

That Camouflage!!! reminds me of Turkey season! That Turtle.. hahahha he's lucky he's where he is!.. Thanks Matt!!

[@lukaszklopotek]

Thank you Matt🔥

[@ShajiCee]

Z8 is what should make everyone who left Nikon switch back ,,but is it a little over prized and little too late ?!! and also they have designed the primes in the size of zooms ,always make me think what's the point of mirror less....but then Z8 looks fantastic ...

[@loitruong4821]

overpriced??? Can you give me a list of full frame cameras with a stacked sensor and 45MP+ for $4000? There's not a single one, let alone a full list

[@ammadoux]

thanks for this review. i have a question. already have the 100-400 using it with the z50. shall i keep it and wait for a better crop body in regards of focus and speed. or shall i get the 180-600 mm if the z6 iii ever came in reasonable price 😂

[@mattgranger]

haha, sorry mate, I can't tell you what to buy

[@villageblunder4787]

Yeah. Digital Rev is back.

[@bigboi36]

Nikon imho hit it out of the park with this lens. Hopefully the Quality Control is superior

[@danielmaluba7862]

Where is it made???

[@photo-markus]

Compare it to 400 4.5 pls!

[@pf4773]

very difficult to carry this lens when I travel internationally.

[@mattgranger]

Pop it in a backpack. No drama

[@Ben_Stewart]

So good I ordered 2.

[@Junior-n7r]

Them guys are saying look at this guy shooting without a tripod??

[@Der_Ed]

I'd appreciate a comparison to the Tamron 150-600mm, haven't seen one yet

[@kevc.2958]

3rd party lens wont track as fast for sure

[@solusquinto3086]

Unfortunately prices in Germany got increased by 300€ to 1999€. First listings in various shops were 1699€ … should have ordered immediately. Now it’s no longer under consideration. It‘s a rip off and I‘m fortunate enough to not need it.

[@babs274]

Its not as sharp compared to sony 200-600mm.

[@josefmolina3510]

@@babs274What a bullshit comment. Totally useless.

[@dicekolev5360]

​@@babs274That Sony lens is not even 200-600 but 150-550mm... make some tests and you'll see how Sony always steal your money with lies and lame tech...

[@solusquinto3086]

@@Fred-wb5nz Yup. First listing at Calumet was 1699€. Now, like you said, it's 1999€ everywhere.

[@kevc.2958]

​@@babs274really? sony is cheaper as well，but sony bodies like a74 fps sucks.

[@lefear2]

I'm curious how this lens compares to the f-mount 180-400mm f/4 TC. I know it's a $12,000 lens and a stop faster, but it is also a lens designed for DSLR. The Z 180-600 doesn't have a lot of lens coatings so it would have more contrast and flare problems than the AF-S 180-400 TC but optically the Z 180-600 seems to be good.

[@tomaszstramel3594]

Why don't you rent and compare? If you're interested in $12,000 lenses it would be best to find out first hand rather than rely on someone else's view.

[@angeloplayforone]

Walking with this 2 lenses may be very heavy task.

[@mattgranger]

Nah they’re ok 👍🏼

[@FallGuy2005]

I don't like a clamp style tripod collar.

[@abdulghumpi5095]

Price please

[@mattgranger]

It's $1700. Mentioned in video and the lens is linked in description too.

[@duncangroenewald]

You don't think it is rather soft wide open ? Doesn't stack up when compared to the Sony or Canon equivalents. Disappointing in my opinion. What's wrong with Nikon that they can't make it sharp wide open ? Who shoots a zoom at f/9 ?

[@mattgranger]

Not particularly, no

[@babs274]

The 100-400 is sharper

[@nickpavlakis3359]

I wish it was a tad lighter. 4.4 lbs is barely lighter than the 5lb 200-500 f mount. I honestly don’t know why people would use this for action shots being such a high f stop way better options. I backpack and travel can’t decide what to get but the 100-400 is lighter and might go with that.

[@guermeisterdoodlebug7980]

Realizing that “high f-stop” value is just a relative judgement, some of find we get the shots we want so don’t worry about the number. I have been unable to find “way better options,” but would happily check them out if you offer suggestions. (Note: several $thousand more is not a better option.)

[@chengyuan7658]

Prices in China got increased by $400. Not worth it if not the original price.

[@izzyfernandez8719]

😂. We will never see the 180-600 on the market again. Nikon must have realized that for the amount of glass and the quality of that lens that they were practically giving it away. I hope I’m wrong because i would like to own that lens someday.

[@dennisjones5579]

And 1 yr later, Nikon has raised the price by $200.00 US...

[@destinyangel5]

Save up the extra 4 grand get a second hand 400mm F2.8 FL F mount you can use on both F mount and Z much better , becomes 600mm 2.8 at DX or put 2x converter on becomes 800mm 5.6 .Like you say F. 2. 8 keeps the iso down to around -60- 100-200 less noise so you can pump up faster shutters speeds 2500 3000 ect available to freeze wildlife . looks more pro not amateur hour. This slow lens 180-600 is still expensive must be bright sun light to get decent results , spend more and get the best Nikon's 400mm F2.8 .

[@ryancooper3629]

It doesn't "become" longer when DX, all you are doing when you put your camera in DX mode is are just autocropping right in camera. It just saves some file size. You aren't getting an effectively longer lens. Also, I really don't think anyone who is looking at the 180-600 is seriously comparing it to a 400 2.8 with a TC. The 3x price difference aside the majority of wildlife shooters are hobbyists who just want to walk around and snap photos on hikes. They don't want to carry around a 10lb beast of a lens designed for the elite pro shooter.

[@Ericbjohnston5150]

Sigma art 150-600.

[@adamur2]

Unfortunately, compared to the Sigma 150-600 C, noticeably heavier. Slightly shorter range. I sent back to the seller. 200 g makes a difference if you are shooting sports and holding the lens in your hands for several tens of minutes or more. I didn't notice the increased sharpness. Whether greater accuracy - hard to say. Whether better work under light - perhaps a little better. Nevertheless, the price difference also matters.

[@chilledwalrus]

Hold it! That wasn't real football!

[@cesarm8811]

Matt, all the reviews of this Nikon lens have been super positive. Unfortunately for us hobbyist photographer, Nikon hasn't introduce an affordable camera (not sure it will ever happen) with great AF to go with this great affordable lens. Sad, but at this time Nikon is a 2 camera company for the professional market. It simply sucks....

[@bigboi36]

Get a Z50!!! Look this lil camera really shines with superior glass.

[@cesarm8811]

@@bigboi36 I own the Z50 it a great camera (specially for travel), but the AF is poor compare to the competition.

[@Buckshot00fan]

I'm a hobbyist that just bought a Zed 8

[@jgranseth]

3:40 Ahh! My trypophobia!

[@intmedubchosp4110]

Great looking lens but it’s still huge and would be very hard to drag around.

[@lozzom]

Nice Batgirl!