Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras

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A few days prior to this review, I found an offer for the non VR version of this lens that no sane person could refuse. Lets start with the positives of this lens that I have discovered thus far during my use. The first plus is that the AF system on this lens is like nothing I have ever seen before. I have shot plenty of Nikon branded lens from all of the product lines, and this has one of the fastest AF systems ever made. This lens does not focus hunt, and can go from infinity to a close object in what feels like just a few tenths of a second. The FX 70-300VR I directly compared this to feels like a slouch in comparison, and that is saying something since the FX version is fairly quick on its own. The phrase lightning quick describes this well, it really has redefined what can be provided in a consumer product.The focusing system also has the advantage of making more or less no audible noise. This is a great advantage over non AF-P lenses while taking video. The second main feature I like about this lens is its great ergonomics. The demographic for this product most likely wants a compact, lightweight solution that they can compactly store when not in use. This delivers. My unscientific analysis concludes that this lens attached to a D3300 is lighter than just the FX 70-300VR itself. If you can handle a kit AF-S 18-55, this is only a tad heavier. Third, I have been pleasantly surprised at the quality of results provided by the AF-P 70-300. Sharpness and contrast seem to be similar to the FX 70-300VR. I did notice a tad of vignetting, though I suppose that should be expected at this price point. Im looking forward to a professional review of this on DxOMARK to see how much it differs in every metric, but know that if my copy is normal, it shouldnt be much different than the old version. At the same time, this isnt perfect. As I said in the title, this is a truly great lens that you should AVOID. There is no reason why Nikon should have created a non VR version of a 300mm telephoto. The fact that this is a consumer lens makes the situation even worse. I am sure many will pick this up, get blurry results, and blame the camera itself. VR is an essential component of zoom lenses, do yourself a favor and spend $50 more for the VR version. The performance gap is simply too much, and the extra price is a no brainier. Next, I was disappointed that Nikon decided to cut costs on this lens like they are going out of business tomorrow. A lens hood is not included, which I feel is a necessary part of a lens. I also loathe the lack of any physical buttons on the lens itself. I dont want to have to go into the menu of my camera to change whether AF is on or off. On the plus side, this does have manual override, so you can twist the focus ring at any time without going into the settings menu. This is not like the terrible AF-S 18-55 where the ring is locked until you switch the slider to AF off. Finally, I am most annoyed by how poorly Nikon has handled the upgrade to AF-P lenses in general. This and the VR version only work on certain recent DX bodies. Nikon needs to clearly state this in their promotional materials, as many recent DSLR bodies still in wide use will not function with any AF-P lenses. At the same time, Nikon seems to be streching the definition of compatible. I tested this lens on a D7100 which is listed as being compatible, but the firmware of the camera has not been updated to show any menu options. If a user purchases the VR version of this lens, they will not be able to turn VR on or off as of this writing. Does that fit your version of compatible? Summary, I like this lens. But please please please do yourself a favor, and get the VR version. At $400 it is going to be a good buy, that offers a lot to the intro DX market.

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My Nikon D7100 can with a 40-180mm lens, which took great pictures. when focusing in on an object or person, the lens field of view captures most of the object (depending on how close I was, and zoom). However, I wanted a lens that would focus closer, at a distance. This lens is perfect for that. I am a novice at taking pictures, so Im still trying to figure out my cameras capabilities. So, some of the shots taken with the lens that came with the camera could use a little photo shop editing. With the new lens, the pictures are very clear. Clearer then the images I get with the lens that came with the camera. By the way, the auto focus works really well. Bottom line, great lens, great price. You will be satisfied.

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Versatile lens for close up or distant shots from the same physical position.

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Had to return the AF-P series camera due to my own error. It is not compatible with my daughters Nikon D3200. Camera Camera had very simple process for the return by providing a UPS shipping label and as soon as it was recieved by them a refund was immediately made. I ordered the proper lens, AF-S, which was somewhat more expensive but had the automatic focus that was desired. Camera Camera and Amazon was simple and very responsive. Thank you to both.

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Bought it for my d3400 and love it

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clear sharp images ... your hands have to be steady though, or use a monopod

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Worth the purchase, I bought this when it was on sale for $150

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Great product use it for football pictures and all of them come out great from the bleachers.

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Needed a lens for far away shots and this was the most versatile

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Works good

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