Melville, NY—Nikon Inc. announced the AF-S Nikkor 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR super-telephoto zoom lens at CES 2018. The versatile, professional-level FX-format lens is targeted at photographing sports and wildlife.
The lens was updated with the newest Nikkor technologies, including Nikon’s first-ever built-in teleconverter and an advanced optical formula to enhance speed and clarity while minimizing its weight.
“This lens is a great example of how Nikon continues to push the boundaries of innovation and what’s possible with pro-level optics and high-end imaging equipment,” said Kosuke Kawaura, director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.
AF-S Nikkor 180–400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR Pro-Level Features
The new Nikkor lens is a professional super-telephoto zoom lens designed for versatility with an extended wide range of 180–400mm and a constant f/4 aperture. As a result, Nikon says the lens can “easily isolate a subject from the sidelines, even in challenging light.”
This is also the first Nikkor lens to include a built-in 1.4x teleconverter. This allows photographers to seamlessly swap to a 252–560mm (FX-format) focal range. The teleconverter is engaged at the flick of a switch. It can be operated with a single finger while looking through the viewfinder. When used on the Nikon D500 and other DX-format DSLRs, the focal length becomes the equivalent of 270–600mm (378–840mm with teleconverter engaged).
In addition, Nikon asserts that photographers can shoot with confidence when using the lens, because the new 180–400mm f/4 is optimized for high-speed capture. Moreover, it features an electromagnetic diaphragm, which helps to create smooth, consistent exposures while shooting high-speed bursts of images.
Furthermore, the AF-tracking algorithm controlling the motor drive was enhanced to increase tracking performance of fast-moving subjects. When using cameras equipped with Nikon’s 153-point AF system (D5, D500, D850), the outer row of AF points are activated as cross-type sensors. As a result, the AF coverage throughout the frame is enhanced.
New Technology
Additionally, the lens employs a fluorite element, contributing to improved balance while minimizing weight. The optical formula of the new lens also uses eight extra-low dispersion (ED) elements. This is two times the amount of ED elements used by its predecessor, the Nikkor 200–400mm. Also Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat is used to suppress instances of ghosting and flare.
To further enhance handling and agility, it also has adopted a new ball-bearing tripod collar ring. This helps to create a seamless transition from shooting horizontal to vertical composition. Moreover, the lens’s vibration reduction (VR) mechanism offers a normal and sports mode. As a result, it provides up to four stops of compensation to help create sharp images, even when shooting handheld. 
The lens construction includes durable magnesium alloy for weight reduction, and it is also sealed against dust and moisture. In addition, a fluorine coating is used to help repel water droplets and dirt. Moreover, to help provide sharp images and 4K UHD/1080p video, it is engineered to be mated with Nikon DSLRs.
Nikon’s AF-S Nikkor 180–400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR super-telephoto lens will be available in March 2018 for a suggested retail price of $12,399.95. nikonusa.com
