Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S Autofocus FX Lens for Z-Mount, Black {77} with Tripod Foot

Nikon's S-Line 100-400mm telephoto zoom built for Z mount.

The Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S sits at the serious end of Nikon's Z-mount telephoto lineup, carrying the S-Line designation that signals the brand's highest optical standards. The 25-element, 20-group construction delivers edge-to-edge resolution across the full zoom range, and the 77mm filter thread keeps your existing polarizer and ND glass in play. At 3.2 lb, it's light enough to shoot handheld all day without the toll of a heavier prime.

The optical VR system pairs with in-body stabilization on compatible Z bodies, delivering up to 5.5 stops of shake compensation on full-frame cameras like the Z 6II and Z 7II. Inner Balance Technology holds the center of gravity within 3.8mm as the barrel extends, which matters when you're tracking a moving subject or mounting the lens on a gimbal. Two STM stepping motors drive the autofocus in near silence, and focus breathing suppression makes this a legitimate choice for telephoto video work.

The minimum focusing distance of 75 cm at any focal length opens up shooting situations that traditional super telephotos shut out entirely. Paired with Nikon's 1.4x or 2x Z teleconverters, the effective reach extends to 560mm or 800mm without sacrificing AF point coverage.

Who It's For

Wildlife photographers get a field-ready tool that covers the 100-400mm range in a single barrel, with the VR and Inner Balance Technology steadying shots during long handheld sessions in uncontrolled conditions. Sports shooters benefit from the dual-STM autofocus tracking fast-moving subjects with minimal noise. Nature documentarians and video-focused shooters will find the focus breathing suppression and smooth aperture transitions directly useful for clean telephoto footage. Birders who shoot both in-flight frames and close perched subjects will appreciate the 75 cm minimum focusing distance, which lets the same lens handle frame-filling detail work without a swap.

Key Features

• 100-400mm zoom range with f/4.5 max aperture at 100mm
• S-Line optics: 25 elements in 20 groups for edge-to-edge resolution
• Optical VR plus in-body VR on compatible Z bodies yields up to 5.5 stops compensation
• Inner Balance Technology maintains constant center of gravity within 3.8mm
• Dual STM stepping motors deliver silent autofocus with suppressed focus breathing
• 75cm minimum focusing distance at any focal length
• Compatible with 1.4x and 2x Z teleconverters
• 77mm filter thread, 3.2 lb weight

FAQ

What's the effective reach with Nikon's Z teleconverters?

Pair the 100-400mm with the 1.4x Z teleconverter for 140-560mm, or the 2x for 200-800mm. You retain full AF point coverage and gain only minimal length or weight.

How much vibration reduction do I get on a Z 6II or Z 7II?

The lens's optical VR combines with the camera's in-body stabilization for up to 5.5 stops of compensation on those full-frame bodies.

Can I use my existing 77mm filters on this lens?

Yes, the 77mm filter thread accepts your polarizers, NDs, and other glass without adapters.

What's the closest I can focus at 400mm?

Approximately 3.22 feet, which is unusually close for a super telephoto and lets you work in situations where traditional long primes force you back.

How does this lens perform for video work?

The dual STM motors operate silently, focus breathing is suppressed, and Inner Balance Technology keeps the center of gravity stable as you zoom, making it a legitimate telephoto option for motion work.

Does weight matter compared to older telephoto zooms?

At 3.2 lb with the tripod foot included, this is light enough for genuine handheld work all day without fatigue-critical if you're shooting events or wildlife.

Will the lens balance shift as I extend it?

Inner Balance Technology keeps the center of gravity within 3.8mm across the entire zoom range, so handheld tracking stays consistent and gimbal mounting stays predictable.