Posted by Dave Hutchison on December 4, 2017 at 12:07 PM
Looking for some feedback, please !!!
I am considering upgrading my long lens and researching used Nikon 200-400 VR I vs the newer VR II model. Does anyone have experience using both models or friend that has tried both models. I am attempting to determine which one is best for value. I will be using it on my D500 (and D850 in the future) for mammals (bears, etc.).
Main criteria would be sharpness, contrast, VR, and durability.
Dave, From my experience, the older 200-400 was slow to acquire focus, although sharp and a good lens.
The new 200-400 is much faster.
You have good equipment - and even better in the future with a D850. Don't try to save a few hundred dollars by using less than the best equipment.
Just to add another card on the table - consider the Sigma 150-600 ("Sport" model ) - it's an incredible lens after fine-tuned, smaller, lighter, a wider reach and a whole lot less. It's replacing my 500 prime in many cases. The difference in price will buy you most or all of that D850. The Nikon 200-500 is also a good choice, but #2 after the Sigma, imo.
Do web searches on lens comparisons, and look especially for Brad Hill's excellent review. .
Thank you Sandy. I think you are right - go for the best possible. I am getting the 200-400 V2 next week on loan from Nikon for 2 weeks. I owned the VR I version back in 2007-2012 and it was pretty good back then on my D700. I have the 200-500 but find it too slow and the f/5.6 is not that good and the balance bugs me when going through the focus range on a whimberly.
Great idea to research the Sigma 150-600 Sport model. Forgot about that one.
Thank you Sandy. I think you are right - go for the best possible. I am getting the 200-400 V2 next week on loan from Nikon for 2 weeks. I owned the VR I version back in 2007-2012 and it was pretty good back then on my D700. I have the 200-500 but find it too slow and the f/5.6 is not that good and the balance bugs me when going through the focus range on a whimberly.
Great idea to research the Sigma 150-600 Sport model. Forgot about that one.
Discussion
3 repliesI am considering upgrading my long lens and researching used Nikon 200-400 VR I vs the newer VR II model. Does anyone have experience using both models or friend that has tried both models. I am attempting to determine which one is best for value. I will be using it on my D500 (and D850 in the future) for mammals (bears, etc.).
Main criteria would be sharpness, contrast, VR, and durability.
Thanks a lot if you have any suggestions.
Dave Hutchison
www.davehutchison.ca
The new 200-400 is much faster.
You have good equipment - and even better in the future with a D850. Don't try to save a few hundred dollars by using less than the best equipment.
Just to add another card on the table - consider the Sigma 150-600 ("Sport" model ) - it's an incredible lens after fine-tuned, smaller, lighter, a wider reach and a whole lot less. It's replacing my 500 prime in many cases. The difference in price will buy you most or all of that D850. The Nikon 200-500 is also a good choice, but #2 after the Sigma, imo.
Do web searches on lens comparisons, and look especially for Brad Hill's excellent review. .
Let's see what others think too.
Sandy
Great idea to research the Sigma 150-600 Sport model. Forgot about that one.
Dave
Great idea to research the Sigma 150-600 Sport model. Forgot about that one.
Dave