Nikon Z-mount 70-200 2.8 VR S Lens vs F-mount AF S 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Do you own or plan to own the Z-mount 70-200 2.8 VR S lens? If you own one, how do you like it? Have you owned or do you own one of its predecessors? I'd like to hear your experiences.

[@indrajitadvani3742]

I have a D850 (but am about to sell it now that I have a Z9). I used to have the 70-200mm VRI (you have VRII I believe). I thought it was spectacular and since I now no longer have any telephoto lenses since selling my 500mm f4.0 (though I have a 200mm f2.0 VRI) I am considering either Z 70-200 f2.8 or 100-400 VR or perhaps even 500mm PF.

[@rds990]

Well....I had hoped to see a comparison of the 70-200 E FL f mount lens and the Z lens. I am a midwest pro and shoot a good deal of sports action. It's an absolutely superb piece of glass (and priced accordingly). It blew away my predecessor (the f mount lens you have there). That said tho. My D5 was sold and I am now transitioning to the Z 9.

[@dishboy14]

Currently own a Z 24-70 F2.8 and Z 70-200 F2.8. Both amazing lenses and a massive step up from my old F mound equvialants. The 24-70 is made in Japan and as you stated the 70-200 is made in Thailand. I honestly cant tell the difference and honestly what difference does it make if the lens performes this well. Well before my time items made in Japan use to be looked down upon, I think people have have a preconsived notion of craftmanship and that somehow a product being made in a different country is a negative.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

@@dishboy14 Absolutely! I'm old enough to remember the brickbat "Japanese junk." In fact, I was working in the bicycle trade when Japanese bikes started to pour into the market. As a "connoisseur" of fine, handbuilt European bikes, I had to admit some of the Japanese bikes were very good ... at half the price. Of course, not long before that, Japanese camera manufacturers were the interlopers. Funny how people with no sense of history wield opinions with such enthusiasm.

[@stephenspiteri_zunkus]

Thanks for taking the time to do this Ray. I have the VR2 and was considering the new S version for my portrait work. I was pleasantly surprised that my old lens was working even better than it did on my old dslrs so resisted the upgrade. I am now more convinced that for my work the old lens is more than sufficient. Yes the new lens is better controlled and hasn’t got the focus breathing issue. But those don’t effect my work. I control my ambient by choosing locations and am not after the magnification but the dof which there is plenty of with the old lens. The rendering in my eyes of the dof on both lenses are the same. If the newer lens made a better job than that might have been a determining factor for a change but it isn’t. They’re so similar in rendering. Again, thanks for your help. Hoping we get a 50, 85, 105 and 135 f1.4 or Sigma art lenses converted to the z mount. That is what z portrait shooters are waiting for. That’s were my money is going.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Nothing wrong with the VR II, for sure.

[@MyKonaRC]

Would have been interesting to see a comparison with the newer version of the 70-200 Nikon F instead of the 2008 version.

[@Bas_B_]

Well, I had more difficulty finding a comparison using the VR II lens (which I own) rather than a comparison with the 2016 lens. I'm personally very happy he used the older one to compare to the Z lens.

[@MrModerate_kane]

08:03 saved my EDFL, went from upstairs to downstairs long 1.5 stair cases. Had it in the case and not a scratch. Kept the polystyrene top piece on and was inside the case. My 24-70 2.8 Z is cloth only and never comes out of its case alone :-) Z is sharper on the edges and switches off in camera VR which i use in sport selection, but after shooting volume at a dance even with it, it drains the battery quicker than the Z. Now i dont know if thats due to the camera driving the VR or the FTZ interaction but switching out the EDFL the battery was then ok(normal).

[@v3rlon]

I have used the Nikon 80-200 f2.8, the Tamron G2 70-200, Sigma 70-200, and now the Z 70-200. Of these, the Z is my favorite. The 80-200 wasn’t as edge to the edge sharp (nearly 30 years old, so why would it be) The Sigma was also an older model and just not as well made. I really liked the Tamron. It has an excellent short minimum focus, great sharpness and contrast, and is downright affordable. Tamron, however, had some issues with FTZ adapting, and were slow to fix them. Some people see the OLED on the Z lens as a gimmick, but I get some good use from it.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Agreed. I've used the 80-200 -- a bargain now and built like a tank. Can't speak to the Tamron, though I have wide angles that are good. Of course, this new 70-200 is in a class of its own.

[@makatron]

Yeah that 80-200 was built like a tank.

[@intrinsicimagery]

Don’t need the background music. At least not this loud. Sounds like the intro for the LOve Boat.

[@Tom_YouTube_stole_my_handle]

I think this illustrates what we've seen from the Z lenses so far, they give in some areas and take away in others. Sharp lenses with better coatings for sure but the fringing is there, as is the distortion and vignetting and in some cases the rendering has less character. I don't see any need to rush into purchasing the new lenses before the old ones have worn out in return for at best marginal advances. Best to wait for the second or third iteration of the Z lenses. Enjoyed the film.

[@matrishva]

I agree, the chromatic abberation in general us more with z lenses as compared to f mount lens.

[@denishennessy5192]

You really should have more subscribers. Love the detail you go into.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I heartily agree! 😀 Glad you liked it.

[@ramdaspawar98]

Best video... Before listening to the whole video I have commented this video as "best video" because I was looking for this type of video and this the one kind of information that I needed

[@samorayee420]

Everything you said was brilliant I believe you . I have tons of tons Nikon lens . But there's one problem The z lens lenses are so expensive even we don't know where they produce.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Really, relative to previous Nikkor lenses, the Z lenses are not so expensive. It really is a matter of "you get what you pay for." This is widely seen as the best 70-200 2.8 zoom on the market. If I understand your second point, we do know where the latest lenses are produced: Thailand. I made a point of addressing this in this video -- I don't see it as an issue.

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

My last F mount purchase was the FL version for a cross country drive in 2019. I really love 5hat lens! So far I’ve not seen a reason to buy the S version, though getting rid of the adapter would be nice. Unlike many, I especially like the 70-200 with its 2.8 capability as a natural light, indoor lens for photos of my grandchildren. I’m headed to the West Coast later this month for landscape photography and a wedding. Space and weight being a consideration at 79, I’m torn between taking my 100-400/4.5-5.6 and the old 70-200 with the low light capable 2.8. I suspect the old lens will win out. My Z7ii’s 46mp will allow the cropping to make up for the 400mm long end of the newer lens.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Excellent. Thanks for the comment. As I say in this video, had I updated to the FL version, there'd have been less reason to buy the Z-mount. The FL is an exceptional lens. Yes, the 70-200 2.8 is versatile, especially with a TC or, as you say, cropping in-camera. I still have the 2.0 TC III, though it's probably time to trade or sell it since I only have 4 f-mount lenses left, including the 24-70 f/2.8.

[@selianboy8508]

As usual Ray, a superb and objective vid. I reflect others' comments in wondering how or why you do not have more subbies and views! Your way is about the best way... no flannel... no mess tins!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I appreciate your endorsement. They (the mysterious "they") say that the algorithm merely returns the best content according to the audience's interests. I'm sure that's a simplification, but it's supposed to mean that content is ranked by quality. But we all know that ratings, whether algorithmic or direct polls, don't necessarily reflect that subjective measure of "quality." I watch a tiny slice of television programming, because, to my mind, the vast majority of it will rot the mind. I'm guessing a similar proportion of KZbin is a waste of bandwidth. Certainly, what evidently draws the greatest numbers of views is repellant to me. My job is to simply make the content I'm interested in making ... but I'd be lying if I said that the algorithm's "ratings" didn't influence me, either psychologically, or in choosing what is worth my time creating. Now that this channel is monetized, for instance, it is strange that what I consider my best work, makes the least $.

[@selianboy8508]

​@@RaymondParkerPhoto one's best is never recognised until we depart this mortal coil... I am living proof of it, after all no one has recognised my brilliance yet! 😂😆🤣🤣 But I do what I enjoy and will continue to take large military group photos to earn a living - just 12 a year will do me at this stage of my life! 😉 Do please keep up the good work as we will all miss you if you decide to ditch us... no pressure then!

[@dance2jam]

Thanks for your efforts Raymond and Happy Holidays. Thanks you for providing the comparison. First, if you wanted the Z mount 70-200 zoom, why did you not sell your older lens? Holding onto it because you still use a DSLR? just curious. Second, you are going to leave "leaf it" to us to figure out where your focus point was on the spider web? LOL. Naw. I did find the music overlay a bit distracting from the points you were making and the random review of image portions and different f/stops rather difficult to follow. It would have been easier to follow if you had used settings that were the same and then systematically went from center of the image to the corners (I know some folks live on that information). When comparing the leaf at 20:36 of the video, the VR"S" lens image appears darker (lower T stop?) from all the coatings to reduce everything including light? or something else? Same with the dock photo. Hard to make judgements on image sharpness without knowing where the focus points were. No? Anyway, happy holidays and hope you love the new gear.

[@rds990]

I own a Z8 , a Z6, and a D5. I also own the latest F mount 70-200.....the 70-200 f2.8 E FL. I plan to use it on my Z8 and Z6 when needed via the FTZ adapter. I cannot imagine the 70-200 S lens is discernibly better than this outstanding piece of glass. I did however change to the 14-24 f2.8S which is phenomenal and much better than the F mount....and...changed to the 24-70 f2.8 S lens for the same reason.

[@451greenwood]

While the 70-200 Z is a fantastic lens, I'm leaning to the F mount because it can now be had used at a bargain price, that been said I still use the 80-200Af-s just because of its characteristics on my Z6ii it gives

[@DarthPrime10]

I'm still finding the 70-200mm f/2.8e lens at full price. Do you have a site you would recommend?

[@Cincy_Kid]

But…. The new Z lens is so sharp wide open and that’s where most of us live. I think it’s worth the extra money!

[@451greenwood]

@@Cincy_Kid while I’ll agree with your sharpness comment,the question really then falls down to not how much sharper it is but can you tell the difference? We may but 99.9% of our clients could not,and this is where most of our bread and butter is from, remember the saying it maybe not the best but it’s good enough,,,and that good enough is what makes you the money

[@Cincy_Kid]

@@451greenwood but you know as an artist we are our worst critics and we have to satisfy ourselves before we can satisfy our clients.

[@joekelly9369]

I have both vrii 70 -200s / fl ed vrii iv not used it yet , i still have the older vrii on my 850 , the images can be cropped in ridiculously close , for more magnification no light and quality sapping converters needed ,

[@tonyantoine5823]

Great video! I appreciate the very practical approach to explaining the similarities and differences. Bottom line is that both lenses have great optics and technology. The music selection is great also 👍

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! Music choice is always the hardest because music is a personal thing ... accordingly, I'm guided by my personal taste.

[@tonyscavo9411]

When you brought up the offshore (Thailand) production of the new lens I don’t think you mentioned how much of the new Z lens is plastic compared to the all metal build of the older lens. You noted that to your eye it didn’t look flimsy… I was hoping that you could elaborate on that as I’m a bit concerned about a (roughly) $2,500 lens being made with more plastic than its predecessor- Thank you 🙏

[@eefvelthorst4127]

Congratulation. Very nice vlog. Clear/plain and very informative.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks! Glad you liked it!

[@eventozsingh280]

Great video. Great comparison . Thank you .

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Very welcome

[@eefvelthorst4127]

I have got the idea the comparison is not completely fair. Sometimes not the same focus-point. The same counts for the different timescales of the different photographs. The boat for instance is not situated identical. So I don't know if you may compare two photographs and therefore the two lenses. Would it not be better to compare the two lenses in the studio?

[@jimtincher7357]

What I don't like about the 70-200 is the location of the Zoom Ring. It's an amazing lens but I wish like on my F-Mount lens that the zoom ring is the closest ring on the lens barrel.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Funny, I like the change. It took a while to adjust, but I find it more convenient now.

[@michaelkaercher]

Frankly, I did expect bigger differences. I concur that the Z mount lens is a bit better. But except for front light, I would not consider buying it.

[@golight1]

Ray, thank you for all the effort and trouble making this happen. it was well informative, and really did help me get my mind if to take an FF and use it on the 850 and ftz on the 6ii, or to go all the way to z mount only. i do feel, though, the compare method should be more methodical. if the z is giving more enhancement then the ff focal should be adjusted to the same. sometimes, using a tripod is also a need. all by all, a good scale. thank you.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Glad to help. But, as I said, this was not meant as a highly technical, controlled test, but rather as a practical guide. Some of the comparisons (first ones) were tripod-mounted, focal lengths were mostly the same, except where noted. Cheers.

[@Photographersforyou]

Nice video although i noticed that the vr2 old seemed sharper in certain scenarios

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Interesting. Can you point to a particular clip?

[@Photographersforyou]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Thanks Raymond for your reply, however the point in the video around 22.22 - you said in the corners I dont know if we can draw too much from that as they looked to you to be pretty much the same. I can clearly see the Z series S lens to be much sharper there.

[@bobbullethalf]

I own the 70-200mm 2.8 Z-mount VR S and it takes by far the best pictures over Canon, Sony and Fuji. It stays on my camera, if you haven't picked one up you should get one.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Obviously, I have. 😀 And I second the recommendation.

[@ajayindunegi]

Great comparison sir, Thanks for sharing.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@nespressoman]

Your video is fantastic quality.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Cheers!

[@outdoortechtrekguy1029]

Thank you your delivery is amazing brilliant.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Wow, thank you!

[@mikechien8287]

Good stuff Raymond, the 70-200 f2.8 is one of my favourite lens. I parted ways with the F mount one to be able to afford the Ninja V recently.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks. Absolutely! The Z is the best 70-200 2.8 I've used. My F-mount will be going up for sale once I've finished with the comparisons. It's been a good lens, but it just met its match. How are you finding the Ninja?

[@MyKonaRC]

Why does the audio sound slightly muffled? Its not as clear when others are speaking.

[@joekelly9369]

I take it you didnt have access to the newer FL ED VR lens for a fair review , although the older vrii f mount lens is still a brilliant lens , for those not wanting z cameras .

[@thomasgeier2405]

Pepole are getting rid of their vr 11. I picked up a mint ve11 for 500 plus dollars, where the new lens is around $3000. Something to think about.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I'm one of them. Traded mine on the Z9, so I'm almost all Z-mount now, except for the 24-70 2.8 and a couple of vintage primes.

[@matrishva]

Straight forward question and I expect a Straight forward answer. I have f mount 70-200 which I use with Z9. Is it a significant advantage to buy z 70-200. Will it practically make a huge difference. Kindly acknowledge...standing to hear

[@livejames9374]

Depends on which F mount version. The FL, expect minor improvements with IQ, you lose the adapter and focus is faster. VR2 is a large difference going to the Z lens.

[@Mr09260]

I had rhe G version here and now have the S version for my Z 7 >> wow different planet and the G was GREAT

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

It is a world of difference. I neglected to mention focus in this epic, which is noticeably better.

[@Mr09260]

I bought the Kirk Foot replacement for mounting the S onto a Ballhead

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

@@Mr09260 As per video, I use a less expensive solution: Arca-Swiss plate.

[@m.maclean8911]

The F mount 70-200/2.8 FL is a better quality than the older F mount models like the G VR II. On the Z9 the FL is amazingly sharp.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Yes. As I said in the video, I might have hesitated to update if I'd had the FL.

[@angelisone]

I know that the S lens has display window for feet/meter/min & max showing on lenses. But does it displays on camera EVF /or LCD screen?

[@larsthufvesson9725]

Thanks for your review. I shoot Z8 and is considering the 70-200 f2.8S. Have you tried using the 2.0 extender for getting up to 400mm?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

My pleasure. Yes. Also with the 400mm f/4.5. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHekkJalgt-Cirs Use with 70-200 f/2.8S is on the "to do" list.

[@joekelly9369]

​@@RaymondParkerPhotodont use a converter ,crop in on the image after , your losing light and quality

[@mattiasbacklund5617]

Did ffwd on this, a bit long video. My take is that you get the S lens because you are done with FTZ, and love the silent AF and coating in back light. I am sure I would not see difference in sharpness. F mount is a nogo if you do video, or use AFC a lot, very noisy! Sold my VRII because the AFC and was not silent or smooth enough.

[@RyanTroy]

The new one look good but after seeing the photo of the guy on the phone i can honestly say you cant go wrong with either

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

😀 Well, the iPhone looks pretty good superficially -- look closer and you'll see the glitches, and of course there's no DoF isolation. The 12 looks to have improved video significantly and computational faux DoF is coming along. As for the rest, camera 2 operator (my wife) gets all the credit.

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

In the F-mount the VR II was the Best of the 70-200 2.8s. It's successor was not as sharp, and was a bitch to use with the Zoom Ring further out

[@pynpotha]

Actually i love this video. Your amazing storytelling ability bought me to my child ages. Your imaginative story telling skills sooooooooo coooool ! Really Love Your Video ! Good Luck All The Way Sir Parker !

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Wow, thank you!

[@pynpotha]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Good Luck Sir !

[@NikCan66]

Another brilliant video

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@indiekun3506]

What options lens for Nikon D200? I love going wildlife photography since living in Alaska. For you gurus out.. any suggestions since I only have f Mount.

[@castieldiallo2945]

The F mount version is not significantly cheaper than the Z version. In about 18 months, assuminng things are more up and running on the Z system, then will you see a decent price difference.

[@makatron]

I just wish they had taken the time to make the new lenses parfocal.

[@indrajitadvani3742]

One more question. If I get the 70-200 Z mount, is there merit in also buying 105mm MC Z mount?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

The MC 105mm 2.8 is a macro lens so there’s that. It’s also much lighter. The rendering is different.

[@indrajitadvani3742]

very true. ok I will try to demo it

[@robertdupcak3162]

I know this is a bit old - but thanks for the video. Any comment on the AF speed of the FTZ + VRII? I just recently acquired a Z6II, updated the firmware all around and the auto focus speed seems glacial. Maybe it's just me.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

My experience and that of many other reports is that the FTZ has absolutely no negative effect on focus performance. I can't speak for third-party lenses, but all my F-mount Nikkors are unaffected. The FTZ is basically a spacer. I even use my VRII with the 2X teleconverter (TC 20E III) with no noticeable effect.

[@PatrickBarylla]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto thanks a lot, very helpful for videographers

[@KWArtist]

You needed to compare the z to the fl lens not the G

[@indrajitadvani3742]

Thanks Raymond. Got my Z9 this week. Now building a set of Z lenses. Got the 35mm, 24-120 and 50 MC so far , so now in the market for telephoto. So your video is helpful for sure. Can't decide between 70-200 and 100-400. Any thoughts?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

That's a hard call, Indrajit. Things to consider: constant 2.8 vs variable f/4.5-5.6 -- that would be the most important decision, to my mind. How often would you need the reach of the 100-400? Do you need the wider end of the 70-200? There's not much in terms of size (and that's a virtue of the 100-400). Would you use a teleconverter ... with either? I use the 2x teleconverter with the 70-200 to get 400mm / f5.6 . Of course, you could use a teleconverter with the 100-400 to get either 560mm / f/8 with Z TC-1.4X Teleconverter, or 800mm / f/11 with Z TC 2.0X Teleconverter. Only you know your use case. I looked at the 2x teleconverters here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmfcqKxqgd1gpJY

[@indrajitadvani3742]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Would like the 100-400 for its longer reach. For when I get back to safaris/wildlife. And possibly for photographing tennis.

[@reneefariasphoto40]

IMO, although I own the 70-200 F/2.8 FL (F mount), I prefer the 70-200 F/2.8 S (Z mount). I am using the Z9 and I don't know if that makes a difference since the mp is much higher than the Z6. In any case, nice Vlog.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks Renee, that's interesting to hear, as I say in the video that I'm not so sure I would have upgraded if I'd had the FL. Anyway, I'm glad I did buy the Z-mount; it's a beauty!

[@reneefariasphoto40]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto The S is better for Z mount is better on the Z9. I have tested and of this there is no doubt on my mind. But The 70-200 FL is a great back up, so keeping it.

[@leonardbertaux6897]

Love mine, shooting on a Z7

[@zakcole2229]

Another highly useful , engaging video Raymond, thank you! However I was unsure at the end what your recommendation is. I currently don’t have a 70-200 and definitely feel it is missing from my camera bag. I could buy the same F Mount 70-200 you test second-hand for around 800 euros or the Z version new for 2100 euros currently in Germany. I do a mix of video- and photography. Are you happy you bought the Z version? Would you recommend it to me? My ultimate goal is high quality photos and video footage.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi Zak. My intention was not to make a recommendation but to simply compare the lenses. I'm glad I bought the new Z-mount because I'm planning to move full time to Z System. One can see where the VRS excels. I think it's clear, as well, that the old VRII is not a bad lens. Obviously, the VRS comes at a premium. Choice would depend on budget and needs.

[@selianboy8508]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto I would add here that if you are intending to use your 70-200 for video then you may want to go for the Z'S' range of lenses for no other reason but that the ones I have used so far are a) brilliant b) sharp and (above all for video) c) silent. The latter point being the pertinent point regarding video. Ray points this out in several videos. For me the F lenses are really too noisy for video.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

@@selianboy8508 Agreed. The S lenses are in a class of their own. Regarding lens noise: If you use on-camera mic then, yes, lens motor noise will be an issue; if you get the mic off the camera, not so much.

[@selianboy8508]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto indeed... that is a somewhat important point. If one is serious in the world of video then one should have this sort of capability to use off camera mic etc. In which case the F lenses should certainly be fine to use. Great advice Ray.

[@zakcole2229]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto That is helpful, thanks Raymond. I’m trying to determine how much of my motivation is based on gear acquisition syndrome vs what I really need! In the meantime I’ve picked up a Tokina 80-200 4.5 manual lens second-hand for 20 euros (yip - really), just to see how much I use it. I’ve ordered the Z 70-200 which is not likely to arrive for another month or so, so I still have time to decide. At this point I am veering towards buying the Z 70-200. Life is short!!!

[@NikCan66]

Does the Z mount diameter seem like it could be used in a possible medium format Z mount ?🤔

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I know there has been speculation on this point -- wouldn't that be cool! -- but my lack of knowledge in the area of optics disqualifies my opinion.

[@NikCan66]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto honest opinion

[@destinyangel5]

The F mount FL version is better and it's a true 200mm unlike the older previous VRII version , that was actually only 170mm at the top end , that they lied about it was suppose to go to 200mm . This FL version focus much closer bigger magnification ratio and you can use on both F and Z mounts with no difference in image quality over the Z mount version , and its made in Japan , it costs more that the Thailand made Z mount because its much better .

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

All covered in the video and I contend the Z-mount is well made, wherever it's made.

[@hoctainhagioiphapha2667]

Good video thank you, see you again

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks for visiting

[@MainlightDrone]

Nikon should congratulate you for this. Almost wish I shot with Nikon. : )

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I'd be happy if they just gave me early access to gear. 😉 You'll come around. 😃

[@Lon1an]

My Z 70-200 f2.8s with lenshood is 1542 grams

[@doogieham]

Well done Ray. Regarding your criticism about the lack of VR control on the Z lens, can’t you assign VR on/off to one of the 5 function buttons? From my perspective, this would be an advantage over the older F lens because the function buttons are closer to your natural grip point on the lens rather than at the back of the lens.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thanks for bringing this up. I was under the impression that VR was not one of the assignable options ... and it isn't, at least not directly. But since you mentioned it, I've discovered a workaround: Assign My Menu to a button and add VR to the menu. That way one can launch from the lens. I'm not sure it's much faster than hitting the "i" button, then VR on the back of the camera, but it is then controlled from the lens, sort of.

[@rotvonrat]

Perhaps the biggest difference here is that you do not have to use that awful adapter. What do I know but S lenses on mirrorless Z are amazing. Of course both lenses are good and very expensive. I keep my old F mouth which is praised and and good. I almost never take pictures with it, it is a monster and a lens I think most of us do not need.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

In my experience using the "F mouth" is never good and doesn't attract praise. 😀 Sorry, I couldn't resist the autocorrect chance to make a joke. But I agree; once you've used the Z-mounts, the older lenses pale in comparison. Having said that, the FTZ isn't a great bother and some of the older glass holds its own. I'm still using the 24-70 2.8ED quite a bit (overhead on this video) and it's not half bad.

[@2triangles]

Sir, the content of your video is great but the music is driving me nuts. It’s so loud and distracting.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

You aren't the first to complain. In retrospect, I agree that the music in one section is a bit too loud. This kind of mistake is something that can and does happen whilst trying to meet deadlines. Gladly, this hasn't stopped the video from vying for most-watched on this channel. I'm always trying to improve.

[@2triangles]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto All the same, I very much appreciate your content and presentation. Please keep up the great work!

[@arunphillips6977]

It doesn't matter about visiting the Thai or China facilities, there is simply no way they have the same ring about them as 'Made In Japan'. Those words (Made In Japan) simply means the products ooze quality, precision craftmanship, impeccable finish and on and on. Can stuff that says 'Made In China' give you the same feeling?

[@Mr09260]

I will never use a Filter on a Digital lens >> advice I got from 'Experts' so my insurance is up to date and I use the Lens hood as protection too

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I know this is a divisive issue, but I'm in favour of using good quality protective filters. My tests indicate no discernible IQ effects with filters. I explain my rationale in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/laqQkKVmlNCMkJo

[@Nancy-V]

I loved your video, but the background d music distracts from your discussion. Yes, I’m ADHD, LOL! I’m convinced now that I don’t need to trade up.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Hi Nancy. You're not the first to mention the sound. Mix could be better.

[@maze400]

I found your video presentation very well done and relaxing. I am a cross shooter, meaning DSLR'S Nikon and Fuji. I am starting to dislike zoom lenses, not because there is a lack of quality, because they take away my ability to think like a particular focal length. I have been using adapted M lenses on my Z5 (I don't shoot video). Now to my question, I would like to get a native "Z" lens, I hate the idea of variable aperture and slow lenses but the 24-200 does get very good reviews. ON my DSLR's I would never get anything slower than f2.8. Any thoughts?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Thank you. I haven't had chance to try the 24-200. Yes it gets good reviews, but I also don't like variable aperture because so often my creative decision is based on DoF. For me, I prefer a prime but certainly zooms come in handy, especially when shooting from a fixed position.

[@jeffrey3498]

The gold ring bling now signifies inferior F-mount glass.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Well, I'm not sure "inferior" is the word, but the Z-mount certainly have to be considered in a different class.

[@jeffrey3498]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Ok, maybe less sharp, less contrastier, more flaring, more coma, instead of inferior? 📷😂👌

[@billrosmus6734]

Nice troll.

[@klartext2225]

Excuse me, but am I the only one who finds your background jazz COMPLETELY UNNECESSARY AND DISTRACTING?? Nice break at 7:00... Are you reviewing jazz CDs or NIKON lenses??

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Good thing you didn't have to pay to watch it then, eh? Hope 2022 is a better year for you.

[@klartext2225]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Yeah, those people who criticize others (here Camera/Lens manufacturers) but are absolutely immune to hear one word of criticism of their own work. Oh yes, it is not the music, it is 2021. Pathetic, as the headshots of this... (crashtest?) dummy.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

What you don't seem to grasp is that this is my channel, my music choice, my opinions. If you don't like them there's plenty of other free channels out there. Happy New Year.

[@klartext2225]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto Obvious. So please disable the comment section. Or open a "cozy corner" for praise and applause. To be fair: it happens on many channels, the distracting music in the background. And I reacted extra unnerved therefore. The message for me is: my content won't do, alone it is not sufficient, I have to prep it up. Message to me, certainly not to all: "dry" content is not attractive, those fools out there will click away. I has to be smooth for the ear! I find this kind of insulting at the worst, because I really WANT to listen. Enough said: Peace and a Happy 2022, if possible.

[@camilo8cheryl]

I can go down 1/10th of a seconds on a 70-200 S lens and still get tact sharp images hand held! which i cannot do on a F 70-200 lens..that is how good the VR in this Z lens is👍

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Yup. Pretty awesome!

[@dennymaple4144]

Ken who has a KZbin channel said it not a professional lens because it was made in Thailand

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I made clear in this video what I think of that idea.

[@guillermojoaquinbello448]

Ken Rockwell is a photo snob with lots of prejudice. He hates Sigma which is one of the few brands that manufactures exclusively in Japan but he always points against anything that is made in China or Thailand. He's very xenophobic about this issue. BTW, he's a mediocre action and wildlife photographer so don't take him seriously with his reviews with long lenses. He only loves Canon. I don't know why he wastes his time reviewing other brands when he hardly says anything good about them.

[@hoctainhagioiphapha2667]

Nice video

[@ytr8989]

On a DSLR you’d be better off with the f lens. On the Z mirrorless you’d be better off with the Z lens. In my opinion the f lens is better quality than the Z lens. What was the purpose of comparing an old VR II lens to a brand new Z lens?

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Because it was there.

[@deanjelcic9299]

Is it just me that I see a huge sharpness detail better in Z mount lenses than F mount 🤔

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

I guess I'd say "substantial." These Z lenses are in a class of their own. Nikon is also giving us firmware updates for both cameras and lenses that add features and improve function.

[@deanjelcic9299]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto So its true ahhaha But seriously, I have a 24-70 and the quality just beats up my d750 with 24-120... Different level... I know the F mount is nice too but Z is really better....

[@Jakiita1]

im so happy to see the focus breathing in the new z series has been adressed.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

Not sure I follow. The Z lenses have next to no focus breathing. Perhaps you mean that *with* the Z lenses Nikon has addressed focus breathing.

[@Jakiita1]

@@RaymondParkerPhoto yes thats what I meant

[@billrosmus6734]

Focus breathing is only an issue for pixel peepers.

[@Jakiita1]

@@billrosmus6734 when 200mm becomes 125mm ... no its not just a pixel peeping issue (look up the difference in close ups with the 70-200 2.8 VR and the most recent ones) If your closest focus distance doesnt allow you to get the frame you want that's not a pixel peeping problem imo. Are there other lenses that would give me that frame? sure, but versatility is the point of a zoom lens. and if you do video, depending on the style you're going for.. focus breathing can be an artistic choice and something you might was to eliminate as well. But anyways I only realized after posting my first comment that the FL ED doesnt have that problem.

[@TerryKontopoulos]

Sorry but by said it is not scientific test doesn't mean you couldn't put the focusing in the centre of VF and try to put it in the same spot... Confidence in focus when the subject it is far away, in comparison, in position in the frame?... I was expecting better review judging by your previous videos...

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

KZbin is awaiting your contribution to science.

[@PinkyMirror]

nice