NIKON'S NEW 180-600mm f/6.3 REVIEW for WILDLIFE

[@__-bk6mm]

Your showing of the raw and your crop is one thing that sets you apart so few other people do that on KZbin, they just show their over processed edit which isn’t true to the result in the field

[@qskakaley]

As someone who is relatively new to photography, I couldn't agree more. This was really helpful to see as well as encouraging in terms of what my own shots could be with some more practice/experience with editing. My results don't often resemble what I see, but I'm realizing the disparity isn't as wide as I first believed!

[@michaelkaercher]

I had doubts that Nikon survive the late move to mirrorless. But I think they made it.

[@dw.imaging]

I preordered the 180-600 at launch... and rightly so, I have been following and watching every single video that releases to make sure I have made the right decision. I had been saving/budgeting for a few years to gift myself the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S for my 40th birthday in 2024... and then when this lens came out at half the price....... I could not resist. The tough thing now is waiting it out for delivery.

[@MichaelSeneschal]

You ever get this lens in? Any thoughts on it?

[@dw.imaging]

​@@MichaelSeneschal finally got it in on Sept. 19th, 2023. Thoughts... I haven't used it much. Maybe 500 or so shots. It was such a hot summer when it arrived that quickly went in to a hard winter. The week it arrived, I managed to take some humming bird pictures from about 10 feet away via our backdoor at home (used an off camera flash to bring out some refraction on the shady side of the bird). It was incredible. It blew away my former images using a 2X teleconverter on my old 70-200 2.8! (comparing may not be fair, because it was also on an old D700 body!) I used it 2 weeks ago at the lake. Had the lens on for 5 minutes when a Herron flew by, circled around and landed in the water approximately 50 yards out at 600mm for a dream shot! (Was a burst of about 30 pictures following it down to the water. 10 of those frames were so stunning that I decided to put the camera away and enjoy the rest of the day because I got what I wanted...) I really expected to use the lens more by now... But I am a new dad, weather has been harsh, hot and cold. We are just now entering Spring Time so I expect to put it to use. One thing I want to try with it is the Solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. We are in the "path of totality". I have ordered a 20 stop ND. I am considering renting the 2X TC for Z to try and shoot the eclipse at 1200mm. I am not sure if it's something I want to own or not. I haven't had the best of luck with TC's.

[@HeroShotz]

Pre-ordered day 1 and sold all my canon rf stuff. I've always liked nikons files so this lens plus 3rd party support led me this way.

[@kevc.2958]

do u miss the r system AF?

[@nrocha2466]

With latest nikon firmware you won't miss the RF auto focus ... Nikons AF is vastly improved !

[@garygruber1452]

I've only been using Nikon's for a little over 50 years now, so I remember what used to pass for sharpness way back when -- and long telephotos were at the top of the list. I just purchased a Z8 after about 6 years with a D850, and I am impressed. Your explanations are clear and concise, and most importantly, you don't rush through your video like you have a train to catch. Thanks so much...

[@tcwhite0104]

only a little over 50 years!!!! wow

[@AlainCh2.]

You smile, you enjoy, you do reviews.... but everything is secondary to your joy of shooting and presenting your resulting shot. That is contagiously positive and good for the viewer's soul. Nobody does this kind of review. You are not so much Tech-focused because the main things are shooting and handlings... and you speak of them like a friend at the pub sharing his own experience. And that makes you perfect for me. I'm a Nikon shooter, but it's a feast to me a Duade video. > I long to come and see your backyard, do some shots with my own gear ( sure I am, you wouldn't do the reverse !! )

[@Parroting_Australia234]

Nikon's lenses have been taking a really different turn from other manufacturers, it's really good to see Canon users reviewing other companies' gear. Rather than just 'Canon is better use Canon', you give us much more detail into why, which is invaluable. 🙂

[@quazisanjeed6395]

These days, Canon is good but expensive. Moreover, they nourish some superstitions that have strong spell on them which even priests are unable to drive off. Like producing a 200-600mm prosumers zoom lens. They never had the guts to do it for DSLRs, that scare continues till date.😅

[@bamsemh1]

Canon can't use other lenses anymore, so canon can only talk about canon 😬

[@DuopolyJul]

Thanks for the review Duade. Did you test the lens at F7.1? Is the lens as sharp at F7.1 as it is at F8.0?

[@denisesavage2382]

I'm not much of a gear junkie, but for some reason the way you bring gear reviews and talk about how lenses and bodies perform - especially in the field, is very insightful, informative and quite helpful. There's a lot you go through and details that I wouldn't ordinarily think about, but which contribute to any decision making potential down the line. I also enjoy seeing all those bird images!

[@jackbrumby1892]

Much appreciated Duade. I have had this lens on a kind of pre-order ever since it appeared on the Nikon timeline. My camera store here in Sydney has assured me that I am "first cab off the rank". I did once own a 200-500mm F mount. But I was never happy with it. Cheers.

[@Hrishi1970]

I never thought the difference in sport vs normal vr is so extreme! Thanks for letting us know!

[@ChrisEller-rm9vg]

Amazing review! I‘m shooting Canon but I think it‘s an realy good lens for Nikon shooters.

[@cotswoldphotographers]

A really nice review and appreciate your honesty. I’m still contemplating trading my 500pf for this lens because I love the flexibility of shooting from 180-600 however was concerned about the loss of sharpness. It’s really good to see that zooming back to 500mm sharpens the lens considerably therefore makes the choice easier so having the extra reach added to the flexibility of that wonderful zoom range is well worth it 👍

[@AliasJimWirth]

This is one fine review, Duade. You sure captured some really nice images with this lens, too. It is a lot of work to do a review video like this. Thanks for taking the time and sharing the results.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, a lot of effort but hopefully will be a long term resource for those interested in the lens. Cheers, Duade

[@MegaBriarpatch]

Thanks for the thorough review, Duade! You're not the only reviewer who found the lens noticeably softer at f6.3, and sharpening up at f8. My copy just arrived today, and I hope to start putting it through the paces this week at a local wildlife area. I greatly appreciate your honest reviews. Having the pros and cons to consider always makes for a better purchase decision with managed expectations. Happy shooting!

[@dirksegl2693]

Great Review. Thanks a lot. 👍 For me as a Sony shooter the Canon 100-500/7.1 was the game changer of this three lenses.

[@augusto_alves]

This must be better than my nikkor 200-500mm. I need one!!! Excelent review as always!

[@cryptographerchris4856]

Great review. Would love to see a comparison with this combo vs. the OM-1 + 150-400 f/4.5 combo.

[@AmandaStewart-dc2xp]

Hi Duade. Thanks for your honest comments. I've got this lens on order along with a Nikon Z8. Can't wait to see how I can improve my bird photography.

[@Harry-bh5dg]

Great review, its a shame that canon don't produce something similar, really like that you show the pros and cons of the equipment you review

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

It's not only this lens. Nikons entire lens line-up offers better overall performance even with lower priced S-Line lenses, for example read the customer reviews about the Z 50 mm f/1.8 S lens. I've checked similar budget f/1.8 lenses at Canon but they are mediocre at best. At Canon you have to buy very expensive L glass to get high quality.

[@Duade]

Thanks Harry, it is always fun to try different brands, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

Have you tried the RF100-400? not sure any other lens comes close for value and sharpness, but I agree Nikon are producing some wonderful wildlife lenses. Cheers, Duade

[@Marleydia]

Great review! I’m a Canon shooter, but I feel that they are out of touch with amateur shooters. I currently shoot the R5 and RF 100-500. I wish it was a 600, but there are so many things that keep me loving this lens. Weight and versatility! I can do landscape at 100 mm, and I can do macro-ish photos with .9 m minimum focus distance. This is the only lens I own. I did get the 1.4 tc for some extra reach, but you need good light to make that work. I really only use it when the ducks are migrating. Sometimes I have to remind myself, it’s not the gear that makes a truly good photo! Thanks for reviewing all brands, it’s good to know what’s out there! Cheers!

[@victorlim5077]

Wow. Didn't know the Focus Breathing was so bad on the Sony 200-600. Great images, Duade and very fair review.

[@johnclark9499]

Hi Duade. Thanks for yet another excellent, and unbiased, review. Nikon seem to have done a fantastic job with this lens for the price, actually really fantastic for the price. Hopefully the wide open sharpness weakness is just something confined to the pre-production sample you’ve been testing - can’t seem to find it being raised as a particular issue in other reviews even though it is quite clear (well not so clear!) in your test lens. If I was a Nikon user I think I’d probably have an order in already. I don’t think it’s enough to make we want to move from Canon but it should certainly be giving Canon (and even Sony) something to think about. Thanks again.

[@Duade]

Thanks John, yes, could have been just this lens, not sure, hopefully that is sorted for the final version. I think it will make many Nikon users very happy. Cheers, Duade

[@PhilThach]

Great job, Duade! Very informative. I have a 180-600 on order. It's funny. Nikon announced the 180-600 before Sony announced the a6700. There is no telling when I'll get a 180-600. I've had my a6700 for 10 days! LOL

[@e1evn1ee]

Probably the best lens review I've ever watched. Cheers from NSW

[@Jackleong29]

Excellent review and presentation. The supporting captions and information are hard to find in other reviews. Love your reviews! Thank you for the effort and sharing.

[@Duade]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GustafssonFotografi]

Preordered my lens today. Hope I get mine soon. Thanks for a good review and video as always! Best regards from Sweden.

[@Duade]

Have fun with it, very nice lens, Cheers, Duade

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always Duade, keep up with the awesome content 🐦👌🤗

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, will do. Cheers, Duade

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

It's not only this lens. Nikon had already exceptional telephoto lenses such as the 500 mm f/5.6 PF or the new very lightweight Z 400 mm f/4.5 S or the 300 mm f/4 PF but also the 200-500 mm f/5.6 was very popular. It has 956 customer reviews at B&H photo.

[@mikedavis1110]

The Primes you mention are great lens, but the 200-500 wasn’t great at the start. A few had to get 2nd or 3rd copy to have a good AF. Unfortunately, I was one of them that didn’t have a good lens.

[@katesavage2001]

I have both the 300mm F/4 PF and 500 f/5.6 PF - both work well with my Z8. I'm very much on the fence about this Nikon 180-600mm lens. I have the Fuji 150-600mm and like using it with my X-T5.

[@Ben_Stewart]

The Nikon 400 f4.5 is so light and sharp its incredible. I ordered 2 180-600 one for me and one for my buddy 😅. I can't wait for the new APS-C offerings. Z50ii.

[@mikem922]

Fascinating to see Duade. The affordability, reach and build quality of this Nikon lens is a winning combination and I only wish Canon would take this onboard with their high-end pricing. I really enjoyed the opportunity to view more images from you that included an excellent moonscape and a stunning Killawarra sunrise! For me that Eastern yellow robin in such a beautiful habitat was tops but many other highlights including swamphens, cockatoos, scarlet robins (your robins are so colourful compared to NZ), red-rumped parrots and dead-tree falcon. Great to see you hand-holding too and all the way down to 1/40th! I really enjoyed and always look forward to your next posting Duade.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mike, yes, it is pleasing to see such a good lens shake up the competition. Yes, it was fun doing the moon and sunrise and of course the birds. I still think your tomtits are very pretty and who wouldn't want to see a Black Robin one day :-) Cheers, Duade

[@alanwilder4693]

Mine is a regular production lens and wide open @ 600 on my Z9, resolution measures 88 line pair/mm centrally or at the edge shot at 30 meters. The corner resolution drops a little bit at 72 line pair/mm as one would expect. A prime 600 is a touch better but not by much.

[@LouisaLee63]

Good review, very helpful!! Kudos to Nikon Australia for sending you the lens. Glad they recognize the value you provide your viewers!

[@Duade]

Much appreciated!

[@cbmilne]

I am just waiting for mine to arrive as it is pre-ordered from my local dealer. I will be pairing it with my Z9 and will be using it for water based motorsports and aircraft photography. It will be interesting to see how it performs compared to my Sigma 150-600 sports that I currently use.

[@onnonugteren2935]

Finally you mention the big difference in use: the 100 mm of the Canon! This is a BIG difference. Great review again so far! Greetings again from the Netherlands Onno Nugteren. (EF 4.0 300) 🙂

[@berniestang2616]

why is Nikon not shipping this lens ???? Been waiting forever … What is happening with production of this lens ??

[@NikonJeremy]

At 6.04 - I think you have not fully understood the “Save to all” & “Save individually” options. The four buttons around the lens act as one - they cannot be programmed individually (assuming this is the same as the 800mm pf that I own and the other Nikon telephoto primes). However you can assign the “Recall focus position” function to multiple buttons on the camera (Z9 in my case). This means that if you select the “Save Individually” option you will be prompted to choose which of the buttons on the camera you would like to recall that particular focus distance. So you can in fact assign different focus positions to each of those buttons on the camera. Handy if you're in a situation where you're hoping a bird may return to one of several perches. Just have to remember which button to press for. each one!

[@joningarfield6670]

Very informative video, Duade, thank you. I have this lens on pre-order (am UK based) as an upgrade to my Tamron 150-600 F-mount via FTZII adapter. Interested in your experiences with the 1.4 TC, which I may well add - if I can get the additional expenditure past my Financial Controller / Wife...

[@simonbooker]

Great review Duade - Thank You 🙏🏻 , ordered one so braced myself for the negatives but schooling to use 7.1/8 much more & coming from Sigma I reckon I’ll be over the moon. Internal zoom and video should be game changers for me 😊

[@Duade]

Great to hear Simon, yes plenty sharp at 7.1/8 and pretty sharp wide open

[@ravidevre4997]

Excellent video!! Please also review Nikon 800mm f/6.3 PF lens. Thank you

[@stanpiper8158]

Terrific review. Your coverage, insights and honesty result in the best review I have seen on this lens. The lens comparisons were also helpful info. Informative images and compositions as well. I'm looking forward to having that reach and flexibility in the field. Update: it is front heavy. On the plus side, it better fills my frame (than my 500) with the subjects, and the VR seems a superb improvement. I am getting sharper images in flight than I expect.

[@Duade]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@CalmCinema4K]

Fantastic review! Your detailed insights really helped me understand the capabilities of the Nikon 180-600mm lens! 📸

[@Duade]

Glad you enjoyed it! Cheers, Duade

[@andrewphillips2520]

such an an in-depth, exhaustive comparison! Thank you for the time you put into this

[@Duade]

Cheers, I am glad you found it helpful!

[@romanhar4151]

Thank you for this comprehensive and detailed review. The best video I have seen about the 180-600 so far. 👍🙂 I hope to get my lens delivered soon. For me it is a great added value that it has an internal zoom and focus.

[@Duade]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Jirik_460]

Great review!! For the very first time with TC 1.4. Thanks!

[@tectoramia-sz1lu]

I have one of these on order to replace my 200-500, can't wait. I don't see the point in comparing it to other lenses though.

[@Duade]

Thanks, and fair point, I did not have the Nikon 100-400 or 200-500 on hand to compare so I was just comparing for interest as many people were curious. Cheers, Duade

[@tectoramia-sz1lu]

Fair point.

[@45loot]

Beautiful subjects .Seriously. Well done. T.

[@MattisProbably]

I got lucky. Everything came together for me last week. Got a bonus for 10 years at my workplace, got a 10% discount for the Nikon online store and the lens was actually available. So I pulled the trigger immediately, even though I originally planed to upgrade from my 200-500/5.6E much later. Should arrive by Wednesday and I can't wait to try it!

[@thephotoyak]

Good honest review. Would be nice to see comparison with the S 100-400, but I know you don't have that lens on hand.

[@Jay-sr8ge]

Love the content! We are definitely spoiled for affordable wildlife gear. On that note, would lover to see your opinions of the little A6700 paired with the 200-600, particularly with respect to the AF performance.

[@Duade]

Thanks, I have been trying to source the Sony a6700 with no luck whatsoever unfortunately. Cheers, Duade

[@Jay-sr8ge]

@@Duade I'm actually very glad that's on your radar! An a6700 video would be very timely too especially considering all the excitement for Sony's upcoming A7c cameras that have similar AI autofocus capabilities. Love your work as always and thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@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.

[@luka3rd]

Currently the only Nikon lense that stands out... Many others are just a gimmick. I'm Nikonian. BTW lovely video!

[@__-bk6mm]

Perfect I am in the market for this lens I’m so glad you posted a review!

[@Duade]

Glad I could help!

[@chrishayes4785]

Great review. Answered all of my questions as i await its delivery. Also love the as shot RAW image and then after some post work. Well done.

[@wellingtoncrescent2480]

A nice overview, thanks. Due to a physical handicap, I find the weight off-putting at 4.5lbs. I currently use the Canon RF100-500 for birding, which is about my physical limit at 3.0lbs. As you are a long-time user of the Canon lens, I am curious as to your sense of relative image quality given that the Canon is from their L series?

[@mikebrownhill4662]

Another great gear review, Duade. I think this lens is another example of why Nikon is becoming more attractive to wildlife shooters like me who've used Canon for decades. Nikon offers a full frame high resolution stacked sensor body, which Canon doesn't. Nikon's 600mm f4 prime has a built in teleconverter - Canon's doesn't. Now Nikon also offers a walk-around zoom with 600mm reach at an "affordable" price that takes a teleconverter well. Canon doesn't offer this. I'm going to give Canon another year to see what they come up with because I know they've got things in the pipeline and I'd prefer to stay with what I know. But if, after that year, they haven't at least matched what Nikon are doing, then I'll have to seriously consider a change of direction.

[@jefferyrobbins3468]

Thanks very much for this excellent, thorough review. They always factor into my future purchasing plans. Kind regards.

[@Duade]

My pleasure Jeffery, Cheers, Duade

[@BrakDanych-f1w]

I just bought this lens. Why I choose it? - native Z mount (I do not see any reason to invest in F-mount any more), internal focusing, sealing, do not change size when focal length is changed. It is obviously heavier than my Sigma 100-400 but it is lighter than Sigma 60-600 or Sigma 150-600. For Nikon Z shutters - it is obvious choice.

[@Ceko]

Beautiful lens but let's talk about that wildlife in your area! Mindblowing!

[@bobrutan4735]

I have had some similar results and was very disappointed with the sharpness of this lens. I traded in a D850 and 200-500mm lens which I loved, but got caught up in the mirrorless hype. I did take some photos on the D8 with the 200-500 prior to the 180-600 arriving and they were much sharper than what I could get under the same settings and the 180-600. What I have not tried is stopping down to F8 and after watching your video I will give that a try. Typically, the light is an issue when shooting birds in the early morning hours and I tried to keep the shutter speed at 1/500 or above. I will now go to F7.1 or F8 and a slower shutter speed and see if that gives me better results in regards to sharpness. Thanks for the info and your honesty.

[@alfafoxtango]

Hi @Duade that was an amazing review 👏🏻 What picture control or file did u use for the video, maybe raw?

[@Canon1DMkII]

I am loving the mid range telephoto and telephoto zoom lenses Nikon is producing. After all, not everyone has the deep pockets required for pro grade glass.

[@dannirr]

wonderfully honest review. thank you for this

[@Duade]

My pleasure!

[@minusinfinity6974]

If FL is 840mm, 1/30s is about 4 stops, so while result is excellent, given it's rated at 5.5 stops you should be able to even get keepers at 1/10-1/15s depending on how unsteady you are. Duade, I pointed this out last time you had a spec list of lenses but you didn't correct it, and the Nikon is not 0.2x it's 0.25x, so it needs to move up that list considerably. Your video even shows it. The Nikon focuses to the same mfd as the Sony and the image is much larger, so magnification is much better. IIRC Ricci's tests seemed to be much better wide open than your copy.

[@Swindie]

I really hope these ship soon. Got mine on order

[@robert_may]

Pre-ordered this the moment it was announced. Nikon's primes are lovely but for those of us without a cool 14k burning a hole in our pockets, this fits into a really nice price/performance bracket. I've been happy with my Sigma 150-600 Sport with the FTZ adapter, but the new Nikon is a major upgrade in two ways: 1. It's like 700g lighter 😅 2. It performs much better for video, being a mirrorless-specific lens Thanks for the detailed review Duade! For birds in flight on the Z9, I find using a large custom area with subject tracking works best, as when it loses the bird detection it picks up the closest object instead.

[@MarkusGebhard]

How does the FTZ adaptor perform for wildlife? I got a Sony 200-600mm and want to upgrade my aging a7rii to a camera with a stacked sensor and 40+ MP. Since Sony only has the way too expensive a1, I was thinking about a Nikon Z8.

[@robert_may]

@@MarkusGebhard Surprisingly well! I'd say the Sigma 150-600 Sport works better on the Z9 than it does when I used to own it on a DSLR, curiously 🤔 The adapter feels really solid and has no rotational wiggle, which is impressive. I haven't tried any other lenses with it, though. Sony still have more lens options than Nikon but Nikon have really been delivering on firmware updates for the Z9 (and I expect the Z8 to be the same), which is a pretty huge contrast to Sony right now. I've loved the Z9 so far, and I had a go on a Z8 and it feels practically identical, save for the size/weight 😄

[@daleroyal6449]

Im using ftz adaptor on z8 with 200-500 and found this lens works better on z8 than it did on my old D500 dslr, This 180-600 will be a beast on the z8 and cant wait to purchase, Currently £1795 in the uk @@MarkusGebhard

[@robert_may]

@@MarkusGebhard Not sure if it's useful or not, and I don't normally go around sharing links to my stuff, but I have a bunch of example shots at the end of this recent video with the Z9 + FTZ II + Sigma 150-600 Sport: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoOYmoN5nZWhmrs

[@livejames9374]

@@MarkusGebhardthe Sony 200-600 also adapts well on Z9/8

[@andreaskentis565]

Again an other honest review! Very nice! It would be nice to see how big is the subject at 2,4 meters compared to Sony lens. Which I understand that is better in Nikon as you review but at 2,4 meters we could have better understanding of the macro capabilities. Except if you did that and I missed it. 😊. Greetings from Cyprus, I always enjoy your videos, they make me relax.

[@Ihab.A]

The real unbiased review that I was looking for! Thanks

[@ingridmatschke]

Very informative, thanks.

[@1tothe2the3]

Fantastic review, some absolutely cracking shots! Definitely makes me wish that Canon would do something similar in reach but isn't as expensive as the 100-500, if only sigma or tamron could do RF lenses!

[@nordic5490]

Why ? the advantages of the RF 100-500mm. I often like to walk around the bush behind my house carrying just one lens. On a bush walk, 200mm is often too long for close animals, eg, that kangaroo that faces you on a trail just meters away. You can easliy crop in 500mm to 600mm fov, but you cannot crop wider. Infact, the 100-500mm lens excels in close focussing and will focus with the body just 90cm from the subject. I can take great pics of bugs from only 0.5m from the end of the lens @ 500mm. You clearly do not understand just how great that is. The Sony GM 200-600mm has a MFD of 2.4m. This lack of close focussing kills of a huge amount offunctionality the RF100-500 has. Also, the GM 200-600 is not 600mm @MFD. One youtuber tested the GM 200-600 as being only 390mm @ MFD. The Nikon 180-600 has a mfd of 1.3m @ 180mm, but a whopping mfd of 2.4m @ 600mm ! Thus close focussing on small bugs @ full length is not even possible with the Nikon & Sony, but works great with the Canon 100-500. Thus, I shoot lost of unusual bugs on bushes on my RF100-500, sometimes even with a 1.4x TC - but rarely. Adding a tc reduces focussing speed and accuracy on all 3 platforms, Canon, Sony and Nikon. Best to avoid using a tc. Thus, when it comes to close focussing, Canon 1, Sony 0 and Nikon 0 Weight. RF100-500 is 1.365 kg Z 180-600mm is 1.95 kg GM 200-600mm is 2.115kg After a 2hr hike in the bush, up and down steep slopes, that extra 0.75kgs (the weight of an R5 body) the Sony has, holding up this extra weight will turn your arms to jelly, and also consider the leverage effect of this extra mass. All bad mate. Thus, for weight, Canon1, Sony 0, Nikon 0 For the huge advantages the Canon RF100-500mm has over the Sony and Nikon competition in terms of very close focussing, weight, and the width of 100mm, the small extra $700 of the Canon pve rthe Sony is definitely worth it - you will be able to take full body shots of close roos and macro like shots of bugs that you couldnt take with the Sony.

[@davepastern]

fully agreed - Canon's RF100-500 is starting to look weak vs the opposition imho (and overpriced).

[@georgewelch2366]

Big negative of my Canon 100-500 is having only the 300-500 range available when using the 1.4 TC. Plus doing so negates one of the big advantages of the 100-500 which is it’s smaller form factor as the lens can’t retract all the way.

[@alekpilipovic4076]

I have nikon 24 200mm.and stabilization is superb,only thing you need to watch out is when moving the camera,image tends to “snap “ suddenly out of place until it catches your movement,or new position.

[@JRodPhotoArt]

Well done! Can't wait to get my hands on this new lens!!

[@georgedobbs9216]

First, thanks for putting out more great content. Secondly, though, is the Sony really sharper wide open??? If we say the Sony is sharper at 600 mm wide open, but the Sony isn't really at 600 mm, what good is it? It would be interesting to back the Nikon off to where the field of view is exactly the same as the Sony and then see how they compare. I have seen reviews suggesting the Sony gives you an effective reach as little as 480 mm at 600 mm. That is a huge discrepancy. Arthur Morris, one of the world's most celebrated bird photographers, says that the Sony reaches a true focal length of only 540 mm at distances common in bird photography. I read a lab test review that put the Sony at a mere 530 mm once you got in around 20 feet. Regardless of the numbers on the side of the tube, the Sony is more of a 200-500+ lens. Since Nikon has managed the focus breathing issues so much better, you are probably getting a lens as good as the Sony with almost 60? 80? maybe a 100 mm of extra focal range.

[@Duade]

Thanks George and wonderful comment and I am so annoyed that I did not test that as its obvious to me know, I think you are right and they are likely very similar. Hopefully I can borrow the lens again from Nikon when an APSC body is released. Cheers, Duade

[@knowyouryoga]

Brilliant review as usual pointing out the smallest of details like the viewfinder one, I need your suggestion I currently own a7iv with 200-600. I'm thinking of switching to to the z8 and 180-600 for 4k 120 and the 20fps what're your thoughts?

[@livejames9374]

a used A1?

[@knowyouryoga]

@@livejames9374 That was my first option but used a1 still selling for a higher price than the Nikon z8 body

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

Z8 with it's stacked sensor and this lens offers a extraordinary value for the money and you can mount any Sony E-Mount lens with a E-to-Z adapter (Megadap, Techart, Fotodiox) onto the Nikon with autofocus capability. It's a win-win. IBIS + VR is much better at Nikon, colors and image quality are better and the bigger Z-mount leads to less vignetting (Sony is the only one camera manufacturer with a tiny mount for full-frame sensors).

[@hans6304]

I waited for the A7iv to upgrade from my current A7iii but did not due to its off-center display, slow burst speed and video limitations for my birding needs, and thinking of getting the 7rv instead. Still the slow burst, the rolling shutter and price held me down. The A1 was the only option but with a much higher price tag. Then I read about the Z8 stacked sensor, AF, video specs, quiet electronic shutter, and the price. I'm thinking of taking the plunge. Note that I only have two sony lenses that I always go to, the 200600 and the 90 macro. I hope I can still use them flawlessly with the Z8.

[@knowyouryoga]

@@hans6304 if only a7iv had 4k 120 even if it was at crop mode I would hold on to it and use with a tripod due to its bad stabilization with 200-600. The keeper rate is high with the a7iv but the low fps leaves much to be desired. Where I live the Nikon z8 bundle offer is tempting but since I also shoot cooking videos in kitchen the temperature runs a bit high, haven't had overheating with a7iv but don't know about the z8

[@Hummingbirder1]

Since it's Nikon: haven't much to say... Except: always fun to see the photos! Also: !!

[@Duade]

Yes, lots of fun shots, Cheers, Duade

[@jpatrickdowns]

Excellent review. I just got mine and had a chance to use it last night photographing birds in flight including a blue heron that flew right over me. I had it on 20fps and got about 15 sharp! ❤ The new 2.0 software update that includes bird tracking is brilliant on the Nikon Z8. I used to have my own 600 F4 and 400/3.5 when I shot Sports professionally but I haven't had a super telephoto in a long time. I'm very happy. I'm even pleased with the results that I see shooting wide open, even at 600 mm. One stop down is better. Cheers.

[@LincolnshireRailMonkey]

Nikon is doing so well with lenses, I’m lucky enough to have the Z 800mm f6.3 and whilst it is still very expensive it is amazing value for money. I use it to shoot airshows paired with a Z6ii, would love to add this lens to my bag but I think it’ll be a while yet 😂

[@Duade]

Congrats, I really want to try that lens out, Cheers, Duade

[@__-bk6mm]

Send your lens to Duade or fly out there and do a shoot together

[@LincolnshireRailMonkey]

@@__-bk6mm interesting idea, let me invite myself out there and whilst I’m at it shake the money tree lol

[@randyschwager2515]

Thanks so much for this straight forward review! I’m on the list at my local camera store to get one of these lenses to pair with my new Z8! I can’t wait!!!

[@jamesgolando8862]

Thanks for the clarification

[@woodygreen6826]

Thanks, Duane. I'm going to pass the link to this video along to an online Nikon group I am a part of. Excellent video. As far as the lens being a little soft wide open at 600mm, I'm not surprised. I've yet to see and x-600mm zoom that isn't, with the exception of the Sony. With the focus breathing of the Sony, though, it's not really a 600 when shooting close. Anyway, thanks again. :)

[@abmarawild]

💚 soon I will have one ☝️ great video 🙏🏽

[@jonmedjeski2402]

can't wait to find some time to go out into the field and take photos! I enjoy putting headphones on and listening to you and planning my next adventure. Thanks!

[@Duade]

Have fun!

[@wolfganglueger1691]

Absolutely great comparison! Congrats!

[@sigurdrille9693]

Thank you, thorough and wonderful to watch, as always!

[@Duade]

My pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@brucekraft744]

This is an excellent review! Very useful! Thanks for posting.

[@coled463]

Hi Duade, I know you’ve shot with the 500mm pf in the past with the 1.4 tc. Now that you’ve tested the 180-600 as well, would you rather shoot with the 500 pf +tc14 or the 180-600?

[@sandybottom6623]

Lovely photos!!! Very enjoyable looking at them. I do landscapes and critters (SW WA) with Nikon Mirrorless and am looking at the 180-600mm lens. I usually use a higher F stop so that I have a gradated 3D effect. I use Ubuntu Linux computers and GIMP, gThumb & Caja for the processing and workflow. Lovely Moon shot - I need to practice there. Have you tried Jupiter with its moons?

[@sandybottom6623]

PS: also a lot of very interesting and useful information - much appreciated.

[@Duade]

Thanks Sandy, I would love to visit your part of the world, great to hear you are enjoying Nikon and this lens will be fantastic for all the beautiful birds you get. Good luck trying to find the Ground Parrot :-) Cheers, Duade

[@johnschofield6675]

I have a Z9 and used it with the 400 F4 prime it was great but I like zooms so sold the 400 F4 and bought the 180-600. I bought the 1.4 and the 2.0 extenders I am amazed how I can shoot at low shutter speeds even at 1200mm I get great shots of the moon hand held. Nikon keep releasing firmware upgrades so it just gets better. Thanks for the review

[@adamrubinstein1479]

Excellent review and delivery as always Duade. The most disconcerting thing is the sharpness at f/6.3. Hopefully, this doesn’t manifest in the final production lenses. Having recently switched to Nikon after 40+ years of being a Canon shooter, I appreciate a few of the observations, namely that about the superiority of the VR along with the challenges of the AF. It is a much more user dependent AF system than say Canon or Sony. Once mastered, the Nikon AF system is really good though it doesn’t eye detect as far as the other systems. Thanks for the balanced review.

[@Photographersforyou]

Thank you for the review that was interesting especially with regards to the Sony nikon 600mm comparison - I would be very interested to know if the Nikon wide open zoomed out a bit to the same actual focal length of the Sony (say 560mm or whatever the field of view is on the Sony) - if the Nikon matches it for sharpness as you did say the Nikon is considerably sharper at 500mm wide open. Any chance you can do the test or have any images showing when the Nikon starts to decline in sharpness wide open. Thanks again.

[@Duade]

Thanks, I am annoyed at myself that I did not do this as its an obvious test I should have completed, and I suspect you are right that at 550mm on the Nikon wide open would have been similar to the Sony at 600 wide open. I hope to get the lens again in the future with an APSC body so will be sure to try that then. Cheers, Duade

[@Photographersforyou]

@@Duade Thanks and again for showing the comparisons they were still helpful.

[@stoufenatz3728]

Thanks a lot Duade ! Great review and very interesting tips !

[@jzsanchez]

I have the Nikon 500mm F4 vrII, Its an amazing lens, So sharp but its way to heavy. This is a great lens that im going to get. Thank you. Im also waiting for the Nikon Z6 mark 3 that is soon to be released in the next few weeks.

[@robertarmero6320]

Wow this is incredible. I have a Z6 but have been using my adapter Leica M Mount lenses because the Nikon Z lenses are insanely expensive. I also wanted to use this camera for wildlife and this gives me a lot of hope ! Great review

[@SwanSycorax]

Good review, but, for me, you have missed out an essential comparison. I suspect the majority of potential buyers for this lens will already be dedicated Nikon users so the comparison with the Sony and Canon equivalent lenses is, for me, and, I suspect many others, pretty irrelevant. However, Many of us in the Nikon camp will already have the Z 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 which is, of course, a Nikon S-line lens and about £1000 more expensive. Therefore, the BIG question I suspect many of us will have is how does the new 180-600 compare against the more expensive, shorter reach S-Line 100-400. I have been using the 100-400 for a year, and love it - my go-to lens, however, I often wish I had a little more reach. I do have the 1.4xTC which takes the 100-400 up to 560 but then I switch to the Z 800 f/6.3 PF. So, what I want to know is - do I sell my 100-400 and buy the 180-600 or stick with what I have got? What are the S-Line benefits not available to the 180-600? Professionals will be spending BIG money on the Z 400 f/2.8 or the Z 600 f/4 but for the majority of us mere mortals those £13,000+ (UK) lenses are way out of reach so I think the important comparisons will be between the 400 f/4.5, the 100-400, the 180-600 and the 800 - in all cases with and without the TCs.

[@Duade]

Thanks for the feedback and a fair point, unfortunately I do not own the 100-400 and did not have access to it but yes that and the older 200-500 are the obvious comparisons with this lens. I think if you own the 100-400 it is just a different lens to this one, the 100-400 is a great all around lens for landscapes, macro etc. The 180-600 is really wildlife focused. Hopefully I will do that comparison in the future. Cheers, Duade

[@Michael_Chay_Photography]

I'm very jealous of this lens as I'm a Canon shooter, but I definitely can't complain about how light and sharp the RF 100-500mm is. Thank you for another fair and very informative review, Duade. You definitely capture plenty of great images with this kit. Thank Michael.

[@hstein27]

I agree. Z9 or even Z8 plus this is so much heavier than 100-500 and R7 or R5. Probably not worth it if you wind up needed a monopod. For people already having Nikon Z, it is going to be awesome, but too bad about the softness at 6.3.

[@hans6304]

​@@hstein27hope it can be rectified in the final products.

[@KevinNordstrom]

Other than an extra 100mm on the long end and internal zoom, the 100-500 blows this lens out of the water.

[@Duade]

My pleasure Michael, we are lucky to have so many wonderful lenses available for wildlife and each brand has their own star. Each of course will suit different people. Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

Yes, once Nikon release an affordable APSC with tracking that combo will be great for Z mount shooters. Cheers, Duade

[@richardwanbon3087]

Would love to see a 200-500mm vs 180-600mm Nikon IQ and AF speed comparison if you are able to do so in the future. Great video, thanks!

[@prokremelskidezolati1426]

The 180-600mm is much better - AF, or IQ wise...

[@richardwanbon3087]

You have compared?!!! I’m sure it won’t be worse, but a visual comparison would be helpful nonetheless.

[@Duade]

Thanks I would love to but do not have access to the 200-500 to compare. Cheers, Duade

[@brucemclean2876]

First of all, I love your channel! Your videos are super informative, and a really helpful. I'm looking to buy my first long tele-zoom, and in addition to this lens, I've been looking at the Sigma/tamron 150-600, as well as the 200-500 for nikon F mount. In previous videos for the Sigma & Tamron lenses, you talked extensively about the issues with "focus pulsing". I was wondering if you experienced anything like that at all with the lens?

[@cesarm8811]

I am hobbyist photographer and own the Nikon Z50. I have thought of purchasing this lens, but the AF on the Z50 is a bit poor for action and moving subjects. So hoping that Nikon introduces a D500 mirrorless replacement to get the benefits from this affordable lens.

[@joebecker3107]

Thank you so much for doing this review. I've watched all the reviews out there and you answered a question I had that I don't believe anyone else covered. Its the save/recall focus position. When this first became available IN CAMERA, there was only a few nikon z lenses that would allow it to work, that didn't have it on the lens itself like the 500pf does. And its something that would've been deal breaker for me if it didn't have it bc I use it a lot. I am getting this lens and will most likely be selling my 500 pf.. this will allow me to have the full range of focal length I need/want for video and images, in one lens vs carrying two lenses. Even if theres a slight loss in quality, speed and bokeh rendering, it will be worth to me. I will do a comparison though before selling the 500pf, to make sure its not an unbearable loss. I don't believe I'll have a problem selling either one in an instant.

[@peterjackson2632]

A very enjoyable review Duade. I have looked at many reviews of thew same lens and Steve Perry's copy would appear to be far sharper copy than yours. I would like to see a review that shows variations between copies.