Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED AF-S VR II

In one of the most exciting recent releases, Nikon has unveiled the Nikkor 70-200mm F/2.8G ED AF-S VR II. Few lenses have been as eagerly anticipated as this new Nikon telezoom flagship. It is a completely redesigned version of its workhorse professional 70-200mm zoom. It features a brand new optical array designed to deliver sharp images all the way into the edges of the frame even on FX format cameras. It uses 7 ED elements to minimize aberrations and the expensive Nano Crystal coat to combat flare. ‘VR II’ Vibration Reduction technology offers a claimed 4 stops benefit, and a new A/M focus mode provides autofocus priority when the manual focus ring is handled during shooting. Compared to its predecessor it is 0.3 inch shorter but weighs 70 grams heavier.

Latest Update: Save $150 on the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G VR II at Amazon.com

Classification

There are  many high power zoom lenses in Nikon’s lineup with 8 of them still in production today and now the newly released Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II adds to the list with a total of 9 for serious photographers to choose from. It should be noted that this is the first lens that has both the VR image stabilization and Nano Crystal Coat. Wildlife, travel, and news photographers will be well served by the power of the new Nikon 70-200mm VR II.

Design & Construction

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is fitted with all the best qualities that the other recently introduced lenses have. The lens construction alone comprises of 7 ED elements including 21 elements in 15 groups. It is quite heavy and rugged at 1.54Kg (3.4lbs), and incorporates extensive sealing against dust and moisture.

The new Nikon 70-200mm VRII and hood are on the left. The newer lens is marginally shorter. The hood is a new design and shorter too.

Features & Specifications

The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is one of the sharpest high power zooms Nikon has released till date. The best results are achieved when used with FX format cameras like the Nikon D3, D3X and D700. Fitting it on a D3000 or D90 will cause the combination to be lens-weighted.

The new VR II technology is highly recognized as an effective vibration reduction system that further contributes to image sharpness as well as versatility allowing up to a claimed 4 stops shutter speed slower. Manufacturer’s claimed specs tend to be on the high side, so expect a two-stop gain to be more realistic in actual use. Two modes are available – ‘Normal’ for everyday shooting and ‘Active’ to minimise vibrations caused when shooting from any moving vehicle. Both modes offer a stable viewfinder image, which ultimately makes focus point acquisition and framing far more comfortable and precise.

Actual user review:
“I had the previous copy of this lens which performed well. However, I was never really comfortable shooting the older version wide open. With this lens, I do not hesitate as it is still very sharp at 2.8. I use this lens primarily on my D3S and combining it with the low light / high iso capability of the D3S, I get amazing results. My only knock on this lens was I thought the lens hood was not of the same quality as the first version, but because it is so sharp, I could not knock it down a star.” – H.Spooner (North Carolina,USA)

Most lenses focus on the sharpness levels of focused areas, but the Nikon 70-200mm VR II does something extra by having better bokeh than the other Nikon lenses which means better rendition in points that are out of focus and works well with the rounded 9-blade diaphragm. This new lens design results in less barrel distortion than the old 70-200mm lens. Pincushioning at the longer end of the new lens is also better controlled. In terms of sharpness and resolving power, wide open and minimum aperture performance of the new version is improved. Auto-focus operation is precise, and silent.

The ED Glass specification is also a major feature of the lens that helps enhance sharpness and contrast on wide aperture settings. Chromatic aberrations are well controlled because of the two Extra-low Dispersion elements.

The problem with ghosting and flare is very much reduced with the Nano Crystal Coat resulting in better image clarity. Another proprietary coating that is unique to this model is the Super Integrated Coating for further reducing the flare and increased light transmission leading to improved color consistency.

The new flower-shaped HB-48 lens hood included in the package is shorter than the previous model but it more than serves its purpose.

Bottom Line

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II is quite pricey, but it is one of the best midrange high power zooms out there. It is best for professional photographers that know how to handle the weight and have an FX-format Nikon.

• “I purchased this lens to replace a 15 year old version which was always superb as to sharpness, resolution, and contrast. However, I have wanted the VR function since it came out but didn’t go with a VR I version because of the vignettting problem with FX (full-frame) cameras. As I shoot primarily with a D700, I simply used my old non-VR lens and have produced fabulous portraits for many years with it. I bought a new VR II lens and cannot find the words for how great this lens is. It is literally perfect, assuming you can handle the weight. For those who wonder about sharpness at wide open aperture – this lens is simply stupendous. Great bokeh, super sharp.” – J.Shaver (TX,USA)
• “I love this lens! Yes, it’s big and heavy but this is the price you pay for excellent image quality in low light. I can shoot night-time sporting events and stop the action thanks to the 2.8 speed and my D700 high ISO ability. This 70-200 F2.8 VR II lens on the D700 is a powerful combo. If the subject isn’t moving I can hand hold this baby easily at 1/30th so shooting in the dark is not a problem. Don’t pass go just buy this lens! “ – R.Shipp (MD,USA)

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