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Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III 2X for Select AF-I, AF-S Lenses
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$232.00
Nikon TC-20E III doubles focal length on select AF-S glass.
The TC-20E III is a 2x teleconverter built for Nikon F-mount shooters who need reach without adding another prime to the bag. Paired with a compatible AF-I or AF-S lens, it doubles the effective focal length, a 300mm f/2.8 becomes a 600mm, a 500mm f/4 becomes a 1000mm. The light loss is two stops, so fast glass stays workable in decent light.
Nikon's third iteration of this converter refined the optical formula and internal mechanics compared to earlier versions, addressing autofocus reliability that had been a limitation with the 2x multiplier class in general. On bodies with capable phase-detect systems, AF remains functional with compatible lenses, which matters when the subject isn't cooperative. The optical construction is matched specifically to Nikon's AF-I and AF-S line, so edge degradation is kept in check on lenses the converter was designed around.
For a working photographer who already owns a 300mm f/2.8 or 400mm f/2.8, the TC-20E III is a straightforward way to extend the toolkit at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated long prime.
Who It's For
Wildlife photographers shooting at distance, shorebirds, raptors, African game, gain a practical 600mm to 1000mm effective reach when pairing this converter with a 300mm or 500mm prime. Sports shooters covering field events from fixed positions get an extra stop of compression and subject isolation on a lens they already own. Photojournalists working remote beats where weight is a real constraint will find this a more packable solution than a second telephoto. Birders and nature photographers who need reach on occasional assignments than daily use get access to extreme focal lengths without committing to a dedicated super-telephoto.
Key Features
- 2x magnification doubles effective focal length on AF-S telephoto lenses
- Refined autofocus mechanics improve tracking reliability vs. earlier 2x converter designs
- Optical formula matched to Nikon AF-I and AF-S glass controls edge softening
- Two-stop light loss keeps fast glass workable in available light
- Nikon F-mount design
- Extends reach without adding dedicated long prime to kit
FAQ
- Which Nikon lenses work with the TC-20E III?
- Nikon's AF-I and AF-S telephoto primes - the 300mm f/2.8, 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4, and 600mm f/4 are the main targets. Check compatibility with your specific lens before buying, as earlier AF and manual-focus glass won't meter or autofocus properly with this converter.
- How much light do I lose with a 2x teleconverter?
- Two stops. A 300mm f/2.8 becomes a 600mm f/5.6 in terms of effective aperture. Autofocus still works on bodies with solid phase-detect systems, but you're working in brighter conditions than the bare lens would demand.
- Will autofocus actually work with the TC-20E III?
- Yes, if your camera body has a capable AF system and your lens is compatible. The TC-20E III refined the AF reliability issues that plagued earlier 2x converters. On a D5, D6, or Z9, you'll get reliable focus tracking. Older bodies may struggle.
- Can I stack teleconverters or use this with AF-S lenses I already own?
- Only with AF-I and AF-S glass - the optical formula is designed for those specific lens designs. Stacking converters is not supported. Check your lens's documentation or Nikon's compatibility list before assuming it will work.
- What's the main advantage over buying a longer prime lens?
- Cost and bag weight. If you own a 300mm f/2.8, adding the TC-20E III gets you 600mm reach for a fraction of what a dedicated 600mm prime costs, and it's far lighter to carry as a backup.
- Is edge sharpness maintained across the frame with this converter?
- Nikon engineered the TC-20E III specifically to pair with their AF-S and AF-I telephoto designs, so edge degradation is controlled compared to generic converters. You won't match the bare lens, but the pairing is optimized.
- Does the TC-20E III work on mirrorless bodies like the Z9?
- No. The TC-20E III is an F-mount mechanical accessory. It will not fit Z-mount cameras. If you shoot mirrorless, you need the Z-mount teleconverters or a FTZ adapter, which introduces additional optical compromises.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Magnification | 2x |
| Compatible Lenses | Select Nikon AF-I and AF-S lenses |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount D Type, Nikon F Mount G Type |