Nikon's BEST EVER Telephoto Prime lens - Z 400mm f/2.8 TC
2022 ж. 15 Нау.
58 381 Рет қаралды
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A friend of mine sold his "F" mount 600 f4 and a myriad of other lenses to defray the cost of this beast of a lens, his logic was similar to your conclusion that this one lens with (2) Tc's basically can perform the job of (3) "F" mount lenses so he ordered it. Unfortunately I can't justify it but I would luv to have it no question about it.
That 400 FL is a SEXY BEAST!!! Thank you Matt for your hard work. Really appreciate your attention to detail. You really went all out with different combo tests here. I find it interesting that the 2X TC is actually better in your findings than the 1.4X tc. I own the 600 FL and 400 G VR with the TCIII 1.4X F mount and could not be happier.
The Z 400mm looks to be the Mother of All Lens, I've been on the wall between the Z 400m and the Z 800mm PF, I ordered the Z 800 PF mainly because of the price as compared to the Z 400mm, after reviewing a lot of videos on the Z 400, and having already purchased the 1.4 and 2.0 Z teleconverters, I cancelled my order for the 800mm and went with the Z 400mm 2.8. It is costly, however, with the 2 teleconverters and the built in TC on the Z 400mm, it now becomes more than just a 400m and 560mm Lens, I can now get the reach of the 800mm as well at 5.6 and reach even farther if needed with the built in TC on the Lens, I like your Lens Rating, and have to admit, that your test with the 2x converter was surprising in regards to image quality, I'm more than confident I made the right choice on switching up from the Z 800PF to the 400 TC 2.8, Thanks for the Video, as well as sharing your knowledge
Thanks as always Matt, already have one on order so did not need any convincing, but nice to know I made right decision.
Yup, can’t wait for mine to arrive
Great informative review, just ordered it yesterday, but only made it to the waiting list. I still love my 600 FL but will sell it together with my 500 PF, and just go with the Z9 and this beast and beauty of a lens :)
By far the best review for the z400 lens. I already watched it for more than 5 times for considering the lens buy. Cheers💙
Great comparison on the two setups and the differences in the TC application. It makes it a hard choice between the F and Z 400’s, based on cost, technology, image quality and weight. Your video shows the better option would be the 400Z with the extra reach. I like two lens in one aspect with more reach with the TC or DX mode. Currently, I am using a 500f4G with 1.4 TC on my Z9 and very happy with the results! Yet the 6 lb lens is a big + vs the 10 lb 500! As you mentioned, I use mono/tripod as needed. Just need to save or the rent the 400z as needed. Great video and review.
Thank you for answering my questions about using this lens with external TC‘s! 🤗
Will be curious to see if the 600S has a built in TC as well. If so, that makes the decision even more difficult! As for now, I've preordered the 400S and will just wait and see if it comes in before the 600S is announced officially. Great video!
Being using this lens now about 3 weeks, I have to say, mind blowing on the autofocus speed. Testing side by side with the F mount version, just love the rendering. Thanks for your review Matt...
Thanks for sharing. It's outstanding huh!
It truly is … I can completely understand the tempt within you on this lens …
How do you like the bokeh with the new lens compared to the old? My old 400 2.8’s AF is dead and it’s PNLA at Nikon… are there any annoying artifacts in the background blur? I’ve read a few people claiming this, your thoughts?
This Nikon 400mm f2.8 (mirrorless adaptation, yet still fully dedicated to Nikon Z mirrorless) is expensive, given that it is priced at $14,ooo USD, but... It's also worth every penny, it really is that good. Worth it to use, proves itself both artistically and professionally. Worth it to even get to borrow it (if one gets the chance) or to rent it. This is a great example of a lens that makes Nikon Z so valuable.
I used one today and was really struck by the light weight and balance. Definitely hand holdable at 560 and 800, this and the Z9 are a game changer for BIF and sports.
Thank you Matt for sharing your thoughts on some of the most lust worthy camera gear on the planet right now! It's amazing that it is also somewhat of a 'value' proposition too!
Nice review Matt - you did the tests I want to do. Following receipt and extensive use of my first Z9 I have sold 5 F-mount DSLRs and only have a pair of D850s left. The challenge now are the lenses. I have and truly love the Z-mount 14-24/2.8, 24-70/2.8, 70-200/2.8 and 105/2.8 macro S-line. I find the 70-200 exceptional and works fantastically with both the 1.4 and 2.0 Z-TCs. The challenge for me are the longer lenses. I go on safari with both a 400/2.8EFL and 600/4EFL (plus a lot of other gear). I have wanted to understand if the 400 with built in TC would allow me to carry less gear - even only 1 carry on bag. I placed a fully paid order for 400TC on 19th Jan 2022 (the first day I thought I could with NPS priority in the UK) and discovered that the preorder list was already long and I am waiting and waiting and waiting. I have been using my first Z9 with FTZII and both 400/2.8EFL and 600/4EFL and it is wonderful. It is exceptional with the 70-200/2.8 s-line The test I need to do is compare the 400+Int TC -vs- 600 on my Z9s - your scores show the 400+Int TC produces "the same performance" as the 600 native. I will look on your website for the details. Re other comments -- just replace the foot/handle with a RRS, Kirk, Wimberly or JoBo. It is what WE just do -- I am hoping the fitting on the new Z-400/2.8TC is the same as the 400/2.8 E-FL. WHY do you guys demand switches for VR on the lens and mark the lens down for this - I is a switch I almost never use while shooting, I might change this between shots but never during a shot. Understanding how Sport, Normal and Off work is key. So I could not DISAGREE MORE with your comment and frankly find it a little irritating coming from a fellow pro shooter.. I sold my 400/2.8 and 600/2.8 G version earlier this month and will sell my E-FL 400/2.8 version when the Z 400/2.8 TC arrives. However, I am a little loathed to just sell the 600/4.0E-FL until I have confirmed the new lens adequately replaces (at 560) 600/4. I am also waiting to hear details about the Z-mount 600mm/4.0 S-line. I expect it will perform just like the Z400/2.8 TC -vs the E-FL version. But the key question for me is will it also come with an internal 1.4 TC - I hope so to provide a reach out to 800mm/5.6 without needing to detach it. YES the price will be higher than 400/TC. In the meantime I am proposing to travel on my trip to the Chobe & Delta with the new 400/2.8TC and the much smaller 100-400 (as a back-up lens), together with the truly awesome Z 70-200/2.8 S-line and yes the 2 TCs. I just hope they all arrive soon.
Thanks for the feedback.
Thanks for the great video, Matt! This lens certainly has a lot of appeal. I don't want to talk you out of something you have your heart set on. BUT, realistically if you want to shoot birds with a prime, wait for the Z 600 f4. Hopefully, it is the same just 50% longer focal length.
Huge lens, great shots,Matt!! wow whatta price!! so huge.
Hi Matt, i'm seriously considering buying this lens for bird photography especially for bird-in-flight. But am wondering whether the bokeh produced by this 400f2.8 with its build-in 1.4 TC turned on would be inferior to the 600f4 lens. Any comments? Thanks.
Would have liked to see an AF speed comparison. Want to know what the "voice control motor" is compared to the ring type.
As a working sports photographer, the 400 + 1.4x built is is a dream for field sport work Have moved to Canon but if i was still a Nikon shooter and could afford it, be the perfect combo - Nikon just need a mini Z9 too
Great review. It’s still a bit unobtainable, but I’d love to get an OM Digital / Olympus OM-1 and 150-400/4.5 review from you.
Watching ur channels Wil make someone fall in love with Nikon
based on this video I sold my 400mm fl ed vr lens and bought the 400mm f2.8 td vr s lens and it does everything you said and more so I sold my 800mm f6.3 z lens and I haven't looked back best move that I ever made. you make outstanding videos keep up the great work
Wow that’s huge. I’m so glad it worked out well for you mate.
@@mattgranger thank you
Thanks for the preview, though it'd be good to see the results side by side on screen for us to see the comparison too. Also it'd be good to see the native lens cropped in to the same amount the TC's enable. You might be surprised that the TC don't actually do that much in my experience?
Chec the sample files.
Thanks for another outstanding review. In your experience shooting super teles such as this, what's the best way to protect the front element since filters can't be used?
Just be careful. I never use protection filters for any lenses. I am super clumsy but even I have never had an issue.
Matt I love your videos and respect your opinion. I currently shoot z9 and I have the 400mm f2.8e fl ed vr and the 800mm f6.3 z mount. would you stay with this combination or buy the 400mm f2.8 z with tc and replace my f mount and 800 or do I just stay with the combination I have now?? Thank you for your time and your opinion
Always great videos and good content and objective. To me the 800 f5.6 is the sharpest lens I have ever used in the telephoto range. Used it on DSLR and on The Z7ii. It is a specialist lens and very expensive. This is where flexibility beats everything els is with a lens line the new 400f2.8 S.
Thinking about the 800 pf 6.3 Z mount . I’m gonna wait for that to come out , then decide !
I have the same thoughts Matt but I have promised myself to wait until year end and see what the performance of a hopefully released Z200-600 is like!🙏🏾
I've given up on the Z 200-600mm
Jack, do you mean you don’t think it will be any good or that the 400 + tc is so good that you have that as your first and only choice for your longer telephoto needs?
With the speed Nikon is doing things it will be a long wait. If it wasn't for the crappy interface of Sony I would've switched already. Their lenses are awesome and quite regularly available second hand. But the camera interface "can't respond because writing to card nonsense" rrrrr. And then they go with CfeA! Why Sony! Nikon has the real eye and technique for the photographer, but their track record over the last decade is horrible. Delay delay delay. And who makes a first mirrorless without a grip!? Without the button layout and interface of a D300 or higher? It's like they never build cameras for 100 years. Jesus Christ. The build, ergonomics and button of the R5 was the first truly decent one. But now, finally a decent Z mount. €6000 boom. To be fair not really more expensive than an R5 with grip. If we could only have a Canon ergonomics and color with the Nikon file flexibility, the Sony lenses and a decent programmer like from Samsung to make the menu system, because they all are awful. Sorry for the rant. It's a lot of money and I don't know if I'm willing to spend it, but it's so tempting.
Note that the 200-600 isn't an "S" lineup lens, so it's not going to be top optical/etc quality like the 400mm or 100-400mm or other lenses are. Not that it's going to be bad, just not as good.
@@lekkerpruven887 "But the camera interface "can't respond because writing to card nonsense" rrrrr." The latest generation of Sony cameras no longer have that issue. I have the A1 and I don't recall ever waiting for anything other than maybe slow-ish booting. And given the excellent battery life, I simply keep it on or in sleep mode.
Would there be any discussino of how the F mount - 2.8 might operate with the FTZ?
Gr8 report with your model… nice video and explanation…
That is a gorgeous lens, i've been looking into large primes this is up there. I wonder when a 180-400 Z with TC will be released as they had for the F mount.
Given how new the f one is, I guess a Z version won’t come soon
Thank goodness for lens rentals for that special occasion.
The ability of this lens to benefit from both the internal and external TCs, especially the 2.0 TC, is a considerable factor in making this an outstanding offering. I too am waiting for the 200-600 to arrive with hopes that lightnesses and effective TC use are also properties of what might be a more flexible lens to accompany the 400mm f/2.8. How would you compare the performance of the 400mm lens against the 500mm PF with TCs employed?
Much better.
Matt. would love to see you review the Nikon F 180-400/4 Wirth the Z9 and see if this is a viable option
I will try.
thanks Matt.
Matt, Great review. Did you test the focus acquisition speed; 400F with D6 against the Z counterparts?? I was hoping you will speak about that. Long lens's main duty is in the fast action department. How much of the Z kit comes close to 400F with D6. Please let us know. You gave it a new perspective altogether.. no one has touched the topic of TCs like you did. Cheers.
The Z kit is faster. Easily.
Agree with your review. I ordered the 400Z as soon as I learned about it. Already have sold my F600.
Smart to sell the 600 early!
Very good to know. The 400/2.8 FL is next on my list to budget for. Right now I have the 200/f2 and 300/2.8 but need more reach. Would love to get the new 400 but can't budget for that before next road trip.
Renting may be a good option!
@@mattgranger For lower end lenses renting is a good option. High end lenses that's a bit different. $1000USD for 14 day rental. I may just go with the 400/4.5 until can budget for the 400/2.8TC. I use my camera every weekend. My old 200/f2 I use the most.
Matt, you didn’t talk much about bokeh… I have an old Nikkor 400 2.8 D type f mount (bought new in 1999) that is now PNLA through Nikon pro services…so I’ve ordered the new Z 400 2.8 … my question is, do you see an improvement or at least the same quality of bokeh? I’ve read a few people didn’t care for the circles in the new 400 but I’ve yet to really see a difference 🤷🏼♂️ Any insight is greatly appreciated, as usual great vid 👍
Matt, did you feel the AF was "noticeably" faster on the Z400 over the F400 using the FTZ adaptor
Yes. But both are excellent.
just bought this lens. where can i buy arca swiss lens plate for it?
Hi Matt I hope you can help me, I have just received my z 400 2.8 TC, and notice that when i move the lens vertically upwards then downwards I notice something, I pressume VR, moves up and down with a dampening movement. When i switch the camera on it blocks and it does not do it anymore..... Is this movement normal when the camera is not connected?
A 400 F2.8 has always been on my wish list, and is likely to remain there. For me the price is the main problem, but size and weight for travel is also a consideration. For you wouldn't one of the PF-lenses make more sense?
I have the 500 PF. Great lens for travel. But if I am making a big trip to go on Safari or something, I will make the effort to carry the best.
Totally agree with Matt, I like the 500 PF but love the 600 FL, and this new one gives me the option to travel lighter and with only one lens
Question Matt: is it possible to use the z teleconverter, then add the FTZ w/lens?
Pretty sure no.
Ordered Z9 Oct 29th and still waiting. For nature photography, my setup will be 14-30mm, 24-120mm, 100-400mm, and the 400mm 2.8 TC. It might take a year for everything to arrive, yet we'll see. I'm not on NPS, yet perhaps it's worth it. Waiting 6 months to a year to receive product is frustrating.
Nikon has a history for over a decade of not being able to deliver products on demand fast. It looks like they aren't learning from there mistakes. Just now it matters to keep people connected to the brand.
Putting the rather consumer grade 24-120 on a Z9 feels like blasphemy. :D
@@youknowwho9247 actually Matt Irwin tested all kinds of different lenses on the Z9 and the 24-120 is superb. I believe it's a tad wider than the 24-70 (because according to the patent it isn't really 24, but 24,6 the lying bastrdsd). You'll lose the 2.8 but gain a wider field of view and more tele. Very versatile. Sharpness at F4 i believe was rather identical, but it was a while ago I watched it.
@@youknowwho9247 I can't even get that Z lens right now, it's so popular. I plan to use it mostly with the Z7ii, as a walk-around...
I live on Cheung Chau Island where you like to visit and it's a good place to photograph birds. The best zoom I have at the moment is a Sigma 18-300 and I need something better for birds and thought I should buy this. But then when I checked the price, like for most people here, it's out of my reach!
Matt whens the R3 V Z9 video coming, I have both at the moment and can't decide which to keep, I need your video:)
This week
Just wonder if the lens foot on the Z 400mm f/2.8 is same as their 100-400mm zoom? Which would mean replacement foot is available from several suppliers. Thanks
Different foot.
@@mattgranger Thanks, too bad though, hope someone is working on a replacement foot for Arca Swiss
Great review and what i expected. The TCX2Z is so much better than III version. It even works with my 100-400mmZ lens. You did not compare with the 180-400X1.4F lens. I had the lens and loved it. However I traded that plus the 400mmf2.8FL to get on the list for the new 400mmZ lens. I think this lens will replace all my big primes and make me sell the 600mmf4FL also. Skip the 800mmZ because of size and costs. If the 200-600mmZ ever comes out I will be open minded.
How is auto focus performance for birds in flight with tc 2.0 ? Is it equivalent to 800 f/5.6 lens ?
I shot some wildlife with the 800 - but not small birds, so I can't say definitively. But I would say better. Faster focus and much better handling.
Ooh tempting! Glad I can’t write the check.
Matt, I'm interested why you jump from the 400 to 600 to 800, and never mention the 500mm F4 FL F mount lens??? It's weighs about the same as the Z mount 400mm, it's a 100mm longer, very fast, very sharp, and $2,000 less than than the 600mm F4 FL and some $4,000 less than the Z mount 400mm. I have found it pairs well with the 1.4x TC mkIII, but not the 1.7x, nor the 2.0x, but on a D500 I'm getting 750mm effective reach with no degradation from a TC. That's pretty strong. Your thoughts??? I enjoy your reviews and shooting styles by the way...
No particular reason other than 400/600/800 are what I got asked about and they match this lens capabilities with TCs. FWIW, you are getting image degradation with the TC - but as long as you are fine with the results - that's great!
Nice lens
what's the brand/model of this gimbal head ???
Great video. Thanks, Matt. But, you didn't answer the question I asked on the Z9 FB group....when is mine shipping. :p :)
No, you're right. Just get it! You've kind of sold me on it as well.
When is Nikon going to update their 1.7X Teleconverter?
I was sold when I saw you pick up the combo bij the Z9 grip. With my AF-I 400/2.8 that's a definite no-no.
Would be nice to see the comparison between the 800mm F5.6 and the 400mm Z with the z 2.0 telly. I never owned a super telephoto lens but that carbon fiber texture on the hood always gave me the high-end look. I know at the end of the day it doesn't matter but we are talking about a lens which costs a small fortune.
Seeing they probably saved money on the case and the hood, the only justification of the price jump is because they can. They just want it to be more expensive than the Sony and Canon because it's better. It's not about a tight price to get more people to buy it. But then again, more people but something that's very expensive because they like the appeal. iPhones, cars, but more in this price range bikes. The expensive ones sell like hot cakes.
I am still waiting here in for my Z9 which I have paid for with the z400mmf2.8 lens with built in Teleconverter but still no news on its availability either yet. Z400mmf2.8 lens will replace my f mount 400mm f2.8 and 600mm f4 lenses. I might keep my F mount 120-300mm f2.8 lens.
Hope you get it soon!
@@mattgranger thanks very much 🙏
Have you tried the Z9 on the Z 400mm in DX mode?
Yep. Why?
Wondering well it works and what focal length you get.
I would love it, but it just too expensive. I ended up selling my old tank 500G to KEH and bought a pristine 500E off EBay for $5500 to pair with my Z9. Disappointed that there is no 500 f/4, or 300f/2.8 on the Z lens roadmap. I use both all the time shooting motorsports. Looks like I will be hanging on to both.
I still have my VR1 200 f2 and 300mm 2.8 I bought in 2008. They're still the optical benchmark for Nikon in sharpness, and resolution. This new 400mm is pretty meh based on the photos I've seen.
@@Tap-a-roo Roie Galitz has posted a lot of photos with this lens and they look spectacular.
I wish I had the same balls to trust my camera mount the way he is picking up his camera with a big lens by the grip xD
What I would love to see is the 400 with a 2X TC vs the new 800 6.3f ,,,wow ,, A review like that would turn me on !!!!!
Matt, I'm currently looking for an 800mm lens myself, so if you want me to talk you out off buying this new beauty of a Nikon lens, you are talking to the wrong person. ;)
Damn Matt. I wish I could afford that lens.
Hey Matt, can't help convince you not to buy a lens when you do a heck of a job convincing all of us to buy them; fair is fair. Great review and very thorough!
Fair enough!
What’s the deal with the pacemaker warning?
It has large, powerful magnets in it. The motor is now driven by magnetic field rather than ultrasonic. Hence, it can trigger the magnetic switch on a pacemaker if you carry it up against your chest, or if the magnetic field is powerful enough to trip the switch. It's a general warning. They give the same warning about headphones, because people have the tendency to put headphones around their neck which places the magnet from the speaker right over top of the pacemaker on the left side.
Pacemakers are put into a setting called VOO if a magnet is placed close to them. This means that they do not recognize the patient's own heartbeat and pace regardless. This may cause issues, some of them serious. Normally the setting is DDD or VVI, both of which sense the patient's own rhythm. As soon as the magnet is removed, it reverts back to those settings.
Cost as much as a brand new car. Insane lens. Cheers for the video.
3:2 Video, cool
Download link not working?!
Really? Seems working on my end.
you are using the gimbal the opposite. you should hold the end of the len with your left hand to stabilize it
I have lens envy again.
12k is a little steep. I would rather opt to use the 70-200 with the 2xTC instead
The fact that Nikon brought back the golden ring on S glass is super confusing… Z6 owner here.
I'm curious about the new (rumored) 800mm f/6.3 lens. Then again, I don't shoot sports or wildlife so I probably would never buy this lens (or the 400 for that matter; Z 100-400, maybe).
It's ok Matt, just get the lens, it's only like half an AP anyway 😉
Exactly!
You picked it off the floor as if it was a toy! But I do know that it’s really heavy on it’s own, never mind the Z9 that is attached to it, which in itself weighs a ton 😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮
My workout 💪🏼
Life is short Matt - if you can afford it just get it. I'm sure it'll be a heavily sought after lens for a very long time to come. Just my two cents (that's the size of my bank account - doh !)
Hi Matt. I suggest you buy the lens ASAP. Remember: life is not a dress rehearsal
No, no, no, no! I've used the 800 PF on my Z9 for 6 months and it has changed everything I do. Weighs 5 pounds and can be handheld, even with a 1.4x, for 1120mm! Tack sharp, focuses great, fantastic in low light. I recently used it for birds in Panama in the dark forest and it was a whole new world. I used my wife's lightweight tripod with a ball mount instead of my monster Gitzo Ocean with a Wimberly head. My 600 f4 sits in my closet gathering dust.
Awesome lens the 800 pf. Not optically as good or versatile as the 400tc but great compromise of size price and iq
@@mattgranger Who says it is not as optically good as the 400 f2.8? I have not compared the bench data tests, but subjectively it is as good as my 600 f4.
Hello from Pakistan
👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Only one thing preventing me from getting that lens, lack of money, availability, and skill to take advantage of it.
Matt get it remember "The money isn't yours untill you spend it"
How so?
@@mattgranger it’s an old saying
Matt… That Lens has a Health Warning for Pacemaker users. FYI.
Yep. Luckily I don't have a pacemaker.
So essentially 4 lens in one lens including both the TCs
“Forward slash” LOL Tip: it is called a slash.
Someday, a Z9 plus this used car price of a lens.
No thanks, my new Nikkor 100-400 S Z lens is doing just fine.
Long waiting list in Oz.😓
Everywhere! I just saw the AUD pricing - OUCH!
Mark fellow Aussie here . Where did you order yours from? Looking at placing and order myself
@@scottbeevee9297 Nikon direct 👍
It’s alright / It’s alright / It’s alright / Ni-kon
??
@@mattgranger haha You were sayin about gear acquisition and that popped into me head to Clapton’s tune.
🎶💓♨️
I would love this lens .. but!! Too Expensive..
uhhh ya, it better be great it's more than 13 grand USD. the McLaren P1 is good too.
Yeah, but the P1 doesn't have a bulit in TC
@@mattgranger 😂😂 true!!
Why do I do this to myself ;-)
Great lens, but if you don’t shoot that focal length more than 20% of your shoots AND you don’t have wheelbarrow cash lying around, Then just rent a lens when you need it for a trip
At £16,000 it better be the best ever because nobody can afford it
Haha. I know what you mean, but plenty of people can afford it.
How come all these decades Nikon can't come with an ATG 2.4GHz TTL flash? That overpriced SB-5000 is a joke being just a Slave 2.4GHz TTL.