Nikon NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
The premium Z-mount wildlife and sports zoom, with S-line optics, 5.5-stop VR, 77mm filters, and a 1,435 g build — a capable pro telephoto. It accepts Z 1.4x and 2x teleconverters for extra reach. A top choice for serious wildlife and action shooters wanting high optical quality in a manageable telephoto; skip it for budget Z kits, or when you need 500mm-plus native reach, where the Z 180-600 or 800 PF make more sense.
Scores
BreakdownHideOverall74±3Caliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions.
Scores
BreakdownHideCaliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions.
The ± band on the overall score reflects sourcing confidence — wider when fewer specs are verified.
How each score is computed: our scoring methodology.
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| mount | Nikon ZSourced | Sourced |
| coverage | Full-frameSourced | Sourced |
| focal length | 100 400mmSourced | Sourced |
| max aperture | f/4.5-5.6Sourced | Sourced |
| filter thread (mm) | 77Sourced | Sourced |
| stabilized | yesSourced | Sourced |
| weight (g) | 1435Sourced | Sourced |
7/7 detail specs sourced. Amber rows are flagged for verification — we show them as reported, not confirmed.
Verdict
Best for
- The premium Z-mount wildlife/sports zoom — S-line optics, 5.5-stop VR
- Pairs with Z 1.4x/2x teleconverters for extra reach
Who should skip this
- Budget Z kits (premium-tier price)
- 500mm+ native reach (use the Z 180-600 or 800 PF)
Where to buy
List price $2,500
Prices are a guide and can change — confirm the current price on the retailer's site before buying.
Prices last checked Jul 8, 2026 — retailer prices change often, so click through for the current price.
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Ecosystem
Compatibility
Built around Nikon Z mount. Make sure the rest of your build uses the same platform before you buy — mismatched sockets, mounts or standards are the most common return reason. Check it in the builder →
Upgrade path
A top-tier lens — there's little to upgrade to within the category.