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Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR specifications and in-depth review

Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR

Manufacturer: Nikon

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR is a zoom telephoto lens designed for the Nikon Z mount, offering a versatile 28–400 mm focal range that spans wide-angle through long telephoto in a single optic. It weighs 725 g, accepts 77 mm filters, and includes built-in optical image stabilization to help manage camera shake across its full zoom range.

Optically, the lens delivers a 14.3x zoom ratio with a maximum angle of view of 75° at the wide end and 6° at the telephoto end, along with a maximum magnification of 0.35x and a minimum focus distance of 0.2 m. Aperture runs from f/4 at 28 mm to f/8 at 400 mm, with a minimum aperture of f/22 and f/45 at the respective ends, and the 9-blade rounded aperture diaphragm supports smooth background rendering. The focus system includes a built-in silent autofocus motor, full-time manual focus override, and the ability to focus to infinity. The lens is not weather-sealed and does not include a lens hood.

Pros
  • The 28–400 mm focal range covers wide-angle through long telephoto in a single lens, reducing the need to carry and swap multiple optics
  • Built-in optical image stabilization helps manage camera shake across the full zoom range, which is particularly useful at the telephoto end
  • The silent built-in autofocus motor allows discreet shooting and is well-suited to video work or quiet environments
  • Full-time manual focus override provides immediate control without requiring a mode switch
  • A minimum focus distance of 0.2 m allows for relatively close shooting at the wide end, expanding compositional flexibility
  • The 9-blade rounded aperture diaphragm supports smoother background blur characteristics
Cons
  • The maximum aperture narrows to f/8 at 400 mm, which limits light gathering in telephoto situations and may affect autofocus performance in low light
  • At 725 g, the lens adds noticeable weight to a camera kit, which can become fatiguing during extended handheld use
  • The lens is not weather-sealed, making it unsuitable for use in rain or dusty conditions without additional protection
  • A lens hood is not included in the package, requiring a separate purchase for adequate front-element shading
Who is this for?

This lens is well-suited to photographers who want a single, carry-everywhere zoom that handles a broad range of subjects without lens changes, thanks to its 28–400 mm focal range covering everything from moderate wide-angle to long telephoto. The built-in optical image stabilization and silent autofocus motor make it a practical choice for travel, wildlife observation, and event shooting where discretion and versatility matter more than maximum aperture. Users who shoot in controlled or well-lit environments will also appreciate the 0.2 m minimum focus distance, which allows for close-up shots at the wide end without switching to a dedicated macro lens.

Who is this NOT for?

Photographers who frequently shoot in low light or need fast shutter speeds at long focal lengths will find the f/8 maximum aperture at 400 mm a real limitation, as it significantly reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor in telephoto situations. The lack of weather sealing makes the lens unsuitable for outdoor use in rain, mist, or dusty conditions, which rules it out for dedicated wildlife or adventure photographers working in harsh environments. At 725 g, it is also not the most comfortable option for users who prioritize lightweight, compact setups for long days of handheld shooting.

General info:

lens type Zoom, Telephoto
lens mount Nikon Z
is weather-sealed (splashproof) ✕
weight 725 g
Includes lens hood ✕
filter size 77 mm

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR is a zoom telephoto lens designed for the Nikon Z mount, weighing 725 g and accepting 77 mm filters. It is not weather-sealed and does not include a lens hood.

Optics:

maximum focal length 400 mm
minimum focal length 28 mm
has built-in optical image stabilization ✓
maximum angle of view 75°
minimum angle of view 6°
magnification 0.35x
optical zoom 5x

The lens covers a focal range of 28–400 mm with 5x optical zoom, delivering a maximum angle of view of 75° at the wide end and a minimum of 6° at the telephoto end. It offers a maximum magnification of 0.35x and includes built-in optical image stabilization to help reduce the effects of camera shake across the full zoom range.

Aperture:

wide aperture (main camera) 4f
widest aperture at maximum focal length 8f
aperture blades 9
Has rounded aperture blades ✓
smallest aperture at maximum focal length 45f
smallest aperture at minimum focal length 22f

The lens has a variable aperture, opening to f/4 at the minimum focal length and f/8 at the maximum, with minimum apertures of f/22 and f/45 at the wide and telephoto ends respectively. The 9-blade rounded aperture diaphragm contributes to smooth out-of-focus rendering in the background.

Focus:

Can focus to infinity ✓
Has focus motor ✓
Has full-time manual focus ✓
has a silent focus motor built into the lens ✓
minimum focus distance 0.2 m

The lens includes a built-in silent autofocus motor and supports full-time manual focus override, allowing seamless switching between auto and manual focus without engaging a separate switch. It can focus as close as 0.2 m and all the way out to infinity, covering a broad focusing range suitable for a wide variety of shooting scenarios.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR makes a compelling case as a versatile single-lens solution for Nikon Z mount users, with its 28–400 mm focal range and built-in optical image stabilization addressing a wide variety of shooting scenarios from one package. The silent autofocus motor, full-time manual focus override, and 0.2 m minimum focus distance further broaden its practical appeal. Its variable aperture, absent weather sealing, and 725 g weight do place real-world constraints on where and how it performs best. For photographers who prioritize reach, flexibility, and convenience over maximum light gathering or rugged build, the Nikkor Z 28-400 f/4-8 VR is a well-rounded, travel-friendly zoom that covers an unusually broad focal range without requiring a bag full of alternative glass.