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Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens

Curated from 116 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: February 26, 2025

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens

Brand: Nikon
Price: $1296
Snoop Score:
7.1
Sentiment
8.0
Popularity
8.8
Technical
6.3

Snoop's Take

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens is a versatile and lightweight lens designed for both amateur and professional photographers. With an impressive zoom range from 28mm to 400mm, it allows users to capture everything from wide landscapes to distant wildlife with ease. Consumer feedback highlights the lens's excellent performance in low light conditions, with users noting that "the Z6II is one of the best cameras for low light photography." Additionally, its lightweight design makes it ideal for outdoor adventures, as one user stated, "For hikes if you only want one lens the 28-400 could be good." Despite some concerns regarding autofocus performance in certain lighting situations, many users express high satisfaction with the quality of their shots, affirming that the lens is versatile for various photography needs. Overall, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens is highly recommended for photographers seeking a flexible and high-quality lens for diverse shooting conditions. It stands out in its category for its balance of weight, zoom range, and low light capabilities, making it a valuable addition to any camera kit.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Mirrorless Camera Lenses

The Z6II is one of the best cameras for low light photography.

Positive Feedback

Sometimes the Zf still hunts for focus even in good light.

Negative Feedback
Product
7.1
Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens
Low-Light Photography
8 / 10
Portrait Photography
7 / 10
Travel & Landscape
7 / 10
Video Recording
8 / 10
See how this compares to all Mirrorless Camera Lenses

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Excellent for low light photography
The Z6II is one of the best cameras for low light photography.
Z6II has been awesome so far as you say for low light photography.
Good autofocus performance with proper settings
the eye detect and eye tracking works pretty well.
User satisfaction with captured shots
Very good shots, especially considering that you just acquired this camera!
Amazing shots!
Lightweight and easy to carry for hiking
For the size and weight it has no benefits that you could really use compared to the 100-400.
For hikes if you only want one lens the 28-400 could be good but if you can bring a dedicated lens at least go 300pf + 1.4tc likely being the lightest.
Versatile zoom range for different photography needs
The 100-400 is a fantastic lens for travel/wildlife opportunities.
The Z100-400 is going to be your best bet if you're trying to balance reach, quality, and size/weight.
High quality video options available
I like the high quality video options on my Zfc too. I never used video before, but find that I quite enjoy it now that I have it so easily available.
Live view feature enhances control over settings
The mirrorless live view is a major gamechanger for me to swap from dslr to mirrorless.
Excellent for portraits and slower sports
I really enjoy shooting with my z50 it works very well for portraits and great for slower moving sports like baseball/softball.
24-70mm f/2.8 is highly regarded
24-70/2.8 is an awesome lens.
It's pretty much the back bone of a pro event/wedding photographer's kit.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Autofocus can hunt in low light
Sometimes the Zf still hunts for focus even in good light.
Confusion about autofocus settings
are you referring to single-point af?
Yes, it’s been lovely, but that’s not my point.
F8 aperture at long focal lengths limits low light capability
Just trying to figure out now if I can accept the f8 from 200m and beyond for wildlife shots.
Confusion about pricing and camera comparisons
So if you see the Z5 as obviously being both better and cheaper, great! Enjoy it.
Adapters can compromise performance
They're always a compromise and they change the handling of the whole camera.

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S LensNikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens$2696
8.8
DetailsBuy
Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM LensCanon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens$199
8.4
DetailsBuy
Tamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD Lens for SonyTamron 28-200 F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD Lens for Sony$649
8.0
DetailsBuy
Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD LensTamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens$399
7.8
DetailsBuy
Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD LensTamron 17-70mm f/2.8 Di III-A VC RXD Lens$649
7.8
DetailsBuy
Canon RF-S55-210mm F5-7.1 is STM Telephoto Zoom LensCanon RF-S55-210mm F5-7.1 is STM Telephoto Zoom Lens$349
7.5
DetailsBuy
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S LensNikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Lens$2396
7.5
DetailsBuy
Canon RF-S10-18mm F4.5-6.3 STM Ultra-Wide-Angle LensCanon RF-S10-18mm F4.5-6.3 STM Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens$299
7.4
DetailsBuy
Meike 25mm F1.8 Manual Focus Lens for Sony E Mount CamerasMeike 25mm F1.8 Manual Focus Lens for Sony E Mount Cameras$74
7.1
DetailsBuy
Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless LensNikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens$1296
7.1
DetailsBuy
Panasonic LUMIX G VARIO 45-150mm Telephoto LensPanasonic LUMIX G VARIO 45-150mm Telephoto Lens$147
6.5
DetailsBuy
NIKON NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S LensNIKON NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S Lens$2796
6.2
DetailsBuy
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Macro LensNikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S Macro Lens$1046
5.8
DetailsBuy
Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S LensNikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens$626
5.7
DetailsBuy
Generic 32mm F10 Free Focus Pancake Lens for RF MountGeneric 32mm F10 Free Focus Pancake Lens for RF Mount$25
5.3
DetailsBuy
Meike 55mm F1.4 Prime Lens for Sony E Mount CamerasMeike 55mm F1.4 Prime Lens for Sony E Mount Cameras$199
4.9
DetailsBuy
Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN Lens for Sony ESigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary DC DN Lens for Sony E$299
4.8
DetailsBuy
Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 Prime LensNikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 Prime Lens$296
4.7
DetailsBuy
Panasonic LUMIX G II Vario Lens 100-300MMPanasonic LUMIX G II Vario Lens 100-300MM$447
4.3
DetailsBuy
Meike 35mm F1.7 Manual Focus Lens for Sony E-Mount CamerasMeike 35mm F1.7 Manual Focus Lens for Sony E-Mount Cameras$69
3.6
DetailsBuy
Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 LensTamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 Lens$1099
3.4
DetailsBuy

Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Mention of unique features in the 135mm DC lens
wow, that is such a cool feature built into the lens.
General discussion about lens preferences for portraits
I was suggesting the 105 DC but as I don’t own either of those I was just assuming the 105 would be better suited for portraits.
In my opinion 135 is a better focal length, especially for headshots.
General praise for high-end mirrorless glass quality
All the high end mirrorless glass is near optically perfect.
Mixed feelings about professional versus consumer camera distinctions
So, just to be clear, 'professional' doesn't necessarily mean 'better in all aspects'.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Commentary on the weight of different camera models
if the OP is struggling with the weight of his D90 setup, the Z8 is not really the best option as it is in fact heavier.
Discussion about adapting vintage Nikon lenses
I am just wondering if it’s worth it to specifically buy a Nikon camera to fit the lenses I have, or do you think those old lenses won’t be much use at all?
That f1.2 will make for a great portrait lens on an aps-c camera.
The zFC would be a perfect match, its designed to look just like the Nikon FE and FM.
That nikon 50mm 1.2 is still worth enough to get a decent used camera body for it.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Discussion about alternatives to the NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8
I have had my eye on the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 but that price tag is pretty damn steep, is it worth the investment?
It's absolutely worth it if you need what it provides.
14-30 is a magnificent lens.
It’s light, has excellent IQ and has a very useful range to work with.
Discussion about camera combinations
That should be good combo for a general zoom lens and a prime lens.
Discussion about refurbished camera deals
I can't recommend a used/refurb Z6 or Z7 enough to people wanting to take exceedingly high-quality images.
This is an insane deal.
It's a lot of camera for $1,000 if the Z7 is your jam.
General advice on upgrading gear for better photography
New gear definitely makes taking pictures easier and in focus.
Clarification on refurbished items and pricing
I'm not trying to say it's not a great price, just the lack of attention-grabbing/FOMO jargon on the B&H page seemed odd.
Commentary on the comparison of the 28mm Series E and other lenses
The 28mm F2.8 AI-S will blow your Series E 28 out of the water completely.
Discussion about the value of older Nikon lenses
The old-school 80-200 2.8's are a screaming bargain; each one was Nikon's top zoom back in the day.
Discussion about using old DX lenses on mirrorless cameras
Way more fun than my Canon 6D to be honest.
The 50mm won't autofocus as mirrorless doesn't have the focus motor.
You will need a ftz adapter with which only the afs lenses will autofocus.
I would just start clean with new Z lenses.
Discussion about camera preferences and upgrades
I'm not ready to go mirrorless just yet when I can still get shots like this for a fraction of the price.
This is why I bought a Z8 when it came out, so far it's my FOMO-antidote.
Haha, this is exactly my story, too.
There's something with actually looking through the lens rather than at a screen that I can't describe.
Discussion on lens preferences for wildlife photography
I'm looking for advice on which mirrorless lenses to invest in, ready for this trip.
Fantastic lens though. I shoot motorsports professionally and this is my current workhorse now that the 70-200 is seeing less use than it used to.
Comparison of different lenses for travel and wildlife
I miss my 28-300 on the F mount, It could go anywhere and do anything.
Discussion about using DX lenses on full frame Z5
Those DX (aps-c/crop) lenses won’t really be any use on your full frame Z5.
My point being, you use what you have and upgrade as you go along even if it means it turns your FX camera into DX at times.
Discussion about lens compatibility with Z5
Highly recommend it especially for free.
if you have them, and they work, then yes they are worth using.
Discussion on adapting old lenses with FTZ adapter
If you can afford new lenses, Nikon Z is at or near the front of the pack.
Discussion about adapting legacy Nikor lenses
I'm wondering about whether or not folks are satisfied with the performance and speed of the adaptor for legacy Nikor lenses.
The FTZ adaptor has no affect on AF speed or accuracy.
This. This is the answer you're looking for, OP!
there is zero loss of usability or quality.
Discussion about the benefits of CFexpress over SD cards for high-volume shooting
CFe is a big quality-of-life upgrade for anyone who shoots a lot of photos at once.
I'd rather have a slightly wider body if it meant at least one slot was CFe.
SD cards, IMO, are a durable workhorse.
Mixed feelings about the inclusion of a microSD card slot
I think that's a great compromise.
Discussion about switching from DSLR to mirrorless
I'm looking for a more compact camera to take traveling and also for street photography.
Discussion on lens choices for Nikon Z6ii
I’m in a pickle about what lenses to get.

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Discussion about the sharpness of the 28mm F2.8 AI-S lens
The 28mm F2.8 AI-S is one of the sharpest wide lenses I’ve ever used. A real gem.
Praise for manual focus AI-S lenses
Once you shoot that 35mm lens, you'll never look at the 50mm f/1.4 the same way again.
Discussion on Nikon's full frame mirrorless quality
Nikon full frame mirrorless is now really good, their apsc lineup is meh at best however.
General discussion about card reliability and personal experiences
they are damn expensive - and to me that camera is not aimed at professionals.
Nostalgia for older camera models and design preferences
My favorite camera of all time is my FM2, so I love this design.
Concerns about shutter performance for high shot counts
The shutter is the last thing I'm worried about when my client is expecting a thousand or more edited shots from a week of 10+ hour days.

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