The Ultimate Nikon Telephoto Lens Guide
Need help choosing the best Nikon telephoto lens? This guide will walk you through the best telephotos lenses on the market to help you take amazing wildlife, sports and landscape photography.
Best Telephoto Lens For Nikon Overview
Best Lens For Wildlife Photography
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR Zoom Lens
- Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 SP Di VC USD XLD
Best Lens For Sports Photography
Best Budget Telephoto Lens For Nikon
- Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
- Tamron AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC All-in-One Zoom
Best Telephoto Fixed Aperture Lens
Best Super Telephoto Lens For Nikon
Best Lens For Wildlife Photography
1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens
The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR Zoom Lens offers superb clarity and versatility in one heck of a telephoto lens. Designed for cropped sensor cameras, it has an angle of view from 76 degrees to 5 degrees and a minimum focal distance of 1.6 feet. A range of zoom from 18 – 300 mm offers wildlife photographers the flexibility of being able to shoot subjects from near to far. And Nikon’s superb Vibration Reduction technology allows handheld photography with 4 stops of blur-free shooting.
- Maximum magnification of 032x
- Angle of view from 76 degree to 5 degree 20'. Focal length range: 18 300 millimeter, minimum focus distance: 16 feet (048 meter)
- Aperture range from f/35 to f/22
- Angle of view from 76 to 520'
2. Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 SP Di VC USD XLD
- Warning: This lens is not compatible with the Nikon 1 FT1 adapter and the firmware 1.1!
- High resolution thru use of XLD glass
- New USD (Ultra Silent Drive) motor for fast and quiet AF
- VC anti-shake mechanism for steady shooting
- Dual format Di design for use on fullframe and smaller sensor cameras
Best Lens For Sports Photography
3. Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 DG OS HSM
4. Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD
The Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD is a very portable and versatile telephoto lens that’s ideal for sports photography. With a maximum focal length of 600 mm, this telephoto lens allows sports and wildlife photographers to get incredibly close to the action. The Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism helps capture sharp images of fast moving subjects from far away, even handheld. I’ve personally taken thousands of photos with this lens in Alaska, capturing bald eagles, seals and other wildlife, as well as horseback riding competitions in Georgia.
- VC (Vibration Compensation) , Angle of View diagonal 16゜25' - 4゜8' for full-frame format 10゜38' - 2゜40' for APS-C format
- Minimum Focus Distance of 2.7m (106.3in), Focal Length : 150-600mm
- USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive), New eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating
- Moisture-resistant construction
- Advanced Optical Technology.Max. Magnification Ratio:1:5
Best Budget Telephoto Lens For Nikon
5. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
The Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR offers a solid performance telephoto lens at a very reasonable price. This telephoto lens features Nikon’s signature Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology which provides crisp, blur free photos. The 70 – 300 mm focal range offers photographers versatility when shooting subjects near and far. This budget telephoto lens also uses a pulse motor to help you focus very fast and nearly silently. All around, the Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300 mm f/4.5-6.3 ED VR is a great telephoto lens for those on a budget.
- F-mount lens/DX formatfilter-attachment size: 58mm, (p = 075 mm) Maximum Reproduction Ratio: 0.22x. 105-450Mm (35mm equivalent) Aperture range: f/45-63 to F/32
- Nikon VR image stabilization. Access Lens settings in camera menu
- The number of cameras Compatible with both lenses is limited even for compatible cameras, firmware update may be required* Fully compatible Models: D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300*, D3400, D3300*, D500 and later models
- Compatible Models with limited functions: D5, D810 series, DF, D750, D7200, D7100, D5200, Nikon 1 Series with the ft1
- Incompatible models: D4 series, D3 series, D2 series, D1 series, D800 series, D700, D610, D600, D300 series, D200, D100, D7000, D5100, D5000, D90, D80, D70 series, D3200, D3100, D3000, D60, D50, D40 series, film cameras
6. Tamron AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC All-in-One Zoom
The Tamron AF 18-200mm F/3.5-6.3 Di-II VC All-in-One Zoom gives photographers a wide range of focal length for a variety of shooting situations at a very attractive price. This is what I call a “walkaround” lens, because you can carry it with you when traveling and not have to switch lenses because of the large focal range it provides. This zoom lens contains Tamron’s Vibrition Compression (VC) system for lighting fast and tack sharp focusing, even when shooting handheld. It is designed for cropped sensor dslr cameras.
- Faster, quieter and more precise autofocus
- Maximum diameter: 75mm.Designed exclusively for APS-C DSLR cameras
- VC (Vibration Compensation) for sharp handheld shooting
- Compatible Mounts:Canon, Nikon, Sony*3
Best Telephoto Fixed Aperture Lens
7. Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens
The Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens is a fantastic fixed aperture lens on the shorter telephoto focal length range that offers consistent and accurate performance for a wide variety of photographic situations. It has a minimum focus range of 0.8 meters and contains Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor technology to keep your focusing action quiet. This fixed aperture lens is perfect for detailed portrait shots.
- Fast aperture medium telephoto lens
- Internal focus, focal length: 85 millimeter, minimum focus range: 0.80 meter
- Silent wave motor (SWM). Number of diaphragm blades: 7 (rounded diaphragm opening)
- M/a focus mode switch. Filter-attachment size is 67 millimeter (p=0.75 millimeter)
- Nikon super integrated coating (sic)
8. Nikon 300mm f/4E PF VR AF-S ED-IF Telephoto Nikkor Lens
The Nikon 300mm f/4E PF VR AF-S ED-IF Lens is a very lightweight and versatile fixed telephoto lens in the longer focal length category. This lens is designed for full frame cameras but will work fine on cropped sensor cameras, too. It’s perfect for photographing wildlife or sports events and even portraits. The SWM is very fast and the Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element captures images with virtually no ghosting or chromatic aberration. You’ll love this lens especially for the razor sharp images you’ll capture with it.
- Full-frame AF lens
- Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element
- Virtually no chromatic aberration or ghosting
- VR modes specifically designed for Sports & Action and tripod shooting
- Fluorine coating on the front lens element effectively repels dust, water, grease or dirt
Best Super Telephoto Lens For Nikon
9. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Zoom Lens allows photographers to capture stunning long distance photos with unparalleled sharpness and accuracy. This Nikon super telephoto lens is built on an FX format and provides you with a maximum 500 mm focal distance on full frame cameras and a whopping 750 mm equivalent on DX cameras. This makes it an easy favorite for wildlife photography and action sports photography, enabling you to get closer than ever before to your subject while standing far away. It has a minimum focus distance of 7.2 feet ( 2.2 meter). Sports mode will give you 4 stops of vibration reduction, allowing you to capture tack sharp photos even while your subject is moving at high speeds. Plus, the f/5.6 constant aperture produces gorgeous out of focus backgrounds and provides excellent low light performance.
- Compact super telephoto zoom lens for birding, wildlife, motorsports, events and more
- 500 millimeter of zoom power on fx format DSLR; 750 millimeter equivalent on dx format DSLRs, minimum focus distance: 7.2 feet ( 2.2 meter), focal length range: 200 500 millimeter
- Fast f/5.6 constant aperture for beautiful out of focus backgrounds and low light performance
- 4.5 stops of vibration reduction with sports mode. Approx. Weight 81.2 ounce. Approx. Dimensions (diameter x length) 4.2 inch x 10.5 inch( based on CIPA guidelines)
- Af compatible with optional TC 14e series tele converters and DSLRs that offer f/8 support. Mount type: Nikon f bayonet
10. Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens
The Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens is a very affordable super telephoto lens alternative to the Nikon 200-500mm that offers very similar quality and performance. This lens achieves 10.2 inches (280 cm) minimum focusing distance and is dust proof and splash proof for rugged photography adventures. It’s lightweight at only 68 oz and you’ll be amazed at how sharp the images are that you can capture from so far away.
- 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM / C
- Minimum focusing distance : 280 cm/110.2 inches, focal length :150-600mm. Diaphragm blades: 9
- First hyper-telephoto zoom from the Contemporary line, Dust proof and splash proof mount95mm filter
- Lightweight & compact in construction for higher usability.SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 and TC-2001 are dedicated to Tele Converter lenses, which should be used with only listed lenses.The converter cannot be attached to the camera and lens whose mount is different.Do not use the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER on top of another SIGMA TELE CONVERTER, or any other kinds of converters.
- Water and oil repellent coating on front glass element makes maintenance of the lens surface easier
What Are Telephoto Lenses?
Unlike a wide angle lens, a telephoto lens brings subjects that are far away and makes them appear closer. Generally speaking, telephoto lenses are those with focal lengths greater than 80 millimeters which create a more narrow depth of view.
Telephoto lenses are most often used in:
- wildlife photography
- nature and landscape photography (capturing waves and the moon)
- sports and action photography
- portrait photography (in order to create a more blurred background)
How To Choose The Best Nikon Telephoto Lens
Glass Quality
The better the quality glass, the sharper your image will typically be. And like many things in life, the more you pay, the better quality you’ll get. Telephoto lenses are no exception. The lenses listed above have excellent quality glass, so you can feel confident choosing a telephoto lens from this selection.
Prime (Fixed) Or Zoom
When selecting the best Nikon telephoto lens for your camera, you’ll have to decide whether you want to go for a prime lens or a zoom lens. A prime (fixed) lens has one focal length. Whereas a zoom lens provides a range of focal lengths simply by twisting the lens barrel.
Prime telephoto lenses typically offer a faster, and this wider aperture lets in more light. So these are great for shooting portraits of family, friends, models and weddings.
Zoom lenses, on the other hand, are perfect for capturing wildlife and fast moving sports where it’s important to quickly change your perspective by zooming instead of moving your feet. This makes getting the perfect composition a lot easier.
Focal Length
Whether you choose a prime telephoto lens or a zoom lens, you’ll still need to decide which focal length suits your needs best. This completely depends on how you intend to use your lens.
Short Telephoto Lens – Generally from a focal length of 85 mm to 135 mm, this is what I call a “walkaround” lens. They’re great for travel photography, a wide range of portrait photography, weddings and closer range sports and nature photography. Short telephoto lenses are often lighter and easier to carry around all day.
Medium Telephoto Lens – These lenses are typically 135 mm to 300 mm in focal length. They’re great for wildlife photography and action sports where the subject is a little further away.
Super Telephoto Lens – The longest and heaviest of lenses, these are usually 300 mm or longer. They offer a much higher magnification, making far away subjects like wildlife or sports car racing seem like they are right in front of you. These lenses are heavy, more expensive and they usually capture the sharpest images when mounted on a tripod.
Which Is Your Favorite Nikon Telephoto Lens?
Now that we’ve shared our best telephoto lens for Nikon list, we’d love to know which telephoto lens is your favorite. Let the Schubert Photography community know in the comments below.
Happy shooting!
Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What lens do you recommend for night photography for a Nikon d3500
Hey Kirsten. I’d recommend the Tamron 10-24 mm for night photography: https://www.schubertphotography.com/best-wide-angle-lens-for-nikon-d7000/#astrophotography
Hi, Which one of these two lenses has faster shutter speed and better for both wildlife and sport action including movie recording
Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens
Not sure which one has faster shutter speed, but I think you can’t go wrong with either one. I’ve had great experiences with Tamron recently.
I’m looking for a lens for stage photography – specifically ballet/dance. I have a Nikkor 70-200, but would love something to be able to get tighter shots and still have good low-light function. What would you recommend?
What camera body are you mounting it on? Full frame or cropped? If full frame, I would recommend the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR Zoom Lens. If cropped, you could go with the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens.
Hey Jim, I have a D5600 and I want to get a telephoto lens for wildlife photography, but one that I can get away with not having to lug around a tripod hopefully. Any suggestions?
Any of the lenses listed in this post can be used without a tripod, as long as you’re using a fast enough shutter speed to compensate for any shaking. I took a river rafting trip in Alaska a couple of years ago and took this photo while floating in a very bumpy raft (https://jimschubert.smugmug.com/Galleries/Alaska/i-DdWMWvq/) with a Tamron 150 – 600 mm at a 420mm focal length. It’s listed as #4 in this post. The reason I was able to get such a clear crisp shot of the eagle was because I increased my ISO to 500 and used a 1/1250 s shutter speed to compensate for the moving raft and bumpy ride. That lens also has a great Vibration Compensation (VC), which I had switched on. That eagle was also about 30 yards away from me when I took the photo. So you can get away without having to use a tripod if you’ve dialed in your camera settings to match your particular circumstances. Hope this helps!