The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S is a super-telephoto prime mixing unique portability with a long reach, advanced optics, and apt AF and VR. It's a well-rounded lens for the traveling sports or wildlife shooter looking for a handheld design and capable reach for photographing distant subjects. The sophisticated optical design includes specialized elements that promote a lighter, more compact overall design. With a size more akin to a 70-200mm f/2.8, this lens measures just 9.2" long and weighs 2.7 lb. Compared to the Z 400mm f/2.8 lens, this f/4.5 version weighs 3.8 lb less and measures 6" shorter in length. The SR element features a specialized high-dispersion design that refracts wavelengths shorter than blue; this helps achieve truly accurate color rendering and also aids in making the lens design more compact. Advanced autofocus system uses stepping motors to deliver quick and accurate focusing performance, along with smooth and quiet AF that is well-suited to both stills and video applications. Synchro VR is also supported when paired with compatible cameras featuring sensor-shift VR, which combines in-body VR with optical VR for improved results of up to 6 stops of compensation.

The physical design focuses the center of gravity toward the rear of the lens, around the tripod mount, for smoother, more responsive panning when shooting handheld or working atop a tripod or monopod. The tripod mount also rotates easier switching between vertical and horizontal shooting orientations. A separate manual focus ring and a programmable control ring offer distinct levels of tactile control over shooting settings. Store a focusing position using the Memory Set button so you can instantly return to this position by pressing the Fn or Fn2 buttons perfect for capturing fleeting movements. The focus limiter switch can constrain the focus range to 19.7' to infinity or from the full focusing range of 8.2' to infinity.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm F/4.5 VR S Specs