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10 Best Nikon Telephoto Lenses in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
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You need a robust telephoto lens with a Nikon camera to provide that extra reach. You may think Nikon telephoto lenses will break the bank, but that’s not always the case.
Finding a well-performing telephoto lens for your Nikon camera isn’t just about which one costs the most. Focal length, image quality, image stabilization, size, and weight are just a few things to consider while picking the ideal telephoto lens.
With equipment as expensive as camera lenses, it’s hard to dismiss the price in picking. So, keep reading for reviews of the top 10 Nikon telephoto lenses with the latest cutting-edge technology at budget-friendly prices.
There’s no doubt that the Nikon AF-P 70-300 millimeters f/4.5-6.3E ED VR is the best overall Nikon telephoto lens out there. However, this recently launched replacement of the Nikon AF-S 70-300 millimeters f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED VR is better.
Its pulse stepping motor autofocus system is one of its best features, allowing photographers to operate quickly and silently. The electromagnetically controlled diaphragm is another eye-catching aspect of this lens, but it makes the lens incompatible with older Nikon DSLRs.
It’s also worth noting that the lens’ VR system features a 4.5-stop performance and a switchable ‘Sports VR’ mode, allowing you to track erratically moving objects through the viewfinder. As for the construction, the Nikon AF-P 70–300 millimeters f/4.5-6.3E ED VR has a robust, weather-resistant body.
This Nikon telephoto lens will never disappoint you regarding handling and image quality, as it features an effective optical stabilizer, resulting in sharp and beautiful images. Also, don’t let the lack of a focus distance scale disappoint you; the lens makes up for it with new generation autofocus and aperture control.
The Nikon AF-P 70–300 millimeters f/4.5-6.3E ED VR is an all-rounder, especially for an own-brand lens.
Pros
Ideal optical stabilizer
Impressive image quality
New-generation autofocus and aperture control
Cons
Incompatible with a variety of older DSLRs
No focus distance scale
2. Tamron SP 70-300 millimeters f/4-5.6 Di VC USD – Best Value
The Tamron SP 70-300 millimeters f/4-5.6 Di VC USD is affordable with no compromise on the performance, making it the best Nikon telephoto lens for the money. Of course, no telephoto lens will ever be cheap, but this one is practically a steal with its endless features and robust body.
For example, its whisper-quiet ring-type ultrasonic autofocus works with highly effective optical stabilization to click silent, sharp, and awe-inspiring shots. If you’re a wildlife photographer wondering how to take high-quality shots at a safe distance, look no further than the Tamron SP 70–300 millimeters f/4-5.6 Di VC USD.
Admittedly, this lens isn’t weather sealed, but its overall build quality makes up for it by being incredibly robust and sturdy. In addition, the lens features LD and XLD elements, resulting in impressive sharpness levels and pleasing contrast. It’s also worth noting that the color fringing of this lens is well controlled.
If you’re perusing the market for a budget-friendly 70–300 millimeters lens, the Tamron SP 70-300 millimeters f/4-5.6 Di VC USD won’t disappoint you. The best part about this lens is its compatibility with FX and DX-format bodies, along with the DSLR-compatible conventional autofocus and aperture control systems.
Pros
Impressive optical stabilization
Ring-type ultrasonic autofocus
Affordable
Cons
Hard to find
No weather seals
3. Sigma 70-200 millimeters f2.8 DG OS HSM | S – Premium Choice
The Sigma 70-200 millimeters f2.8 DG OS HSM | S is part of Sigma’s Sport line, which is why this lens prioritizes speed above all. If you love to take action shots, this telephoto lens will provide you with every feature necessary.
Firstly, its high-speed autofocus capabilities will leave you stunned while you’re still getting used to the intelligent OS. In addition, this OS guarantees effective, algorithm-led image stabilization no matter what camera orientation you’re utilizing. The best part is that this lens is weather sealed with water and oil repellent coatings, allowing you to shoot your best shots in any condition.
You’ll also find a focus limiter and a manual override switch on this lens, which you can use to practice complete control over the autofocus. However, it has the typical downsides of any telephoto lens, such as being large and bulky and featuring a sizable filter thread.
It’s also worth noting that the Sigma 70–200 millimeters f2.8 DG OS HSM | S is quite expensive. But, overall, it’s the best lens for your DSLR, as you can’t find an alternative with better autofocus capabilities or algorithm-led image stabilization.
Pros
High-speed autofocus
Intelligent image stabilization
Best for DSLR
Cons
Sizeable filter thread
Large and bulky
4. Nikon 120-300 millimeters f/2.8E AF-S FL ED SR VR
If you’re willing to overlook a hefty price in hopes of impeccable performance, the Nikon 120-300 millimeters f/2.8E AF-S FL ED SR VR is all you need. However, you might be put off by the unusual focal range since people tend to prefer the trusty 120–200 millimeters or the ideal 300 millimeters.
It provides an effective middle-ground while shooting mid and long-range subjects. Regarding weaknesses, the Nikon 120-300 millimeters f/2.8E AF-S FL ED SR VR has none.
Its performance stays unmatched, guaranteeing remarkable sharpness across the frame, focal range, and apertures. It’s quite expensive, but this lens ensures you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for, if not more. If you have the budget for this beastly telephoto lens, we wouldn’t recommend anything else for a sports or wildlife photographer.
It’s also worth noting that this lens features a constant and speedy f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range while covering the focal lengths normally captured using multiple prime lenses. Finally, its VR image stabilization is up to 4.0 stops faster.
Pros
Rock-solid build quality
Stunning image quality and performance
Ideal for mid and long-range subjects
Cons
Large and heavy
Expensive
5. Nikon AF-S 200-500 millimeters f/5.6E ED VR – Best Reach
The surprisingly affordable price of this telephoto lens may put you off, but the Nikon AF-S 200-500 millimeters f/5.6E ED VR doesn’t lack in any aspect. Its speedy ring-type ultrasonic autofocus is among its best features, allowing for quick and silent photography.
It also features an electromagnetically controlled aperture, dramatically improving chromatic aberration at telephoto ranges. Meanwhile, the 4.5-stop stabilizer and Sports VR mode complete the set, making for a feature-studded telephoto lens you can’t resist.
Typically, telephoto lenses don’t have constant apertures, but this one ensures that the f/5.6 remains available throughout the entire zoom range. Moreover, the three ED elements of the lens boost sharpness and contrast. The color fringing of this lens is also well maintained.
Undoubtedly, its shocking reach is the best aspect of this lens, with its dimensions being 108 x 268 millimeters. The Nikon AF-S 200–500 millimeters f/5.6E ED VR has positives all around, but its downside is being too heavy for prolonged handheld shooting. So, if you want to make the best of this lens’ capabilities, invest in a sturdy tripod!
If you’re sick of your pro f/2.8 lens, let the Tamron 70-210 millimeters f/4 Di VC USD make things easier. This lens is much easier to handle due to its light and compact build, weighing only 850 grams. But its portable body isn’t where the pros of this lens end—it has so much more to offer.
For example, it’s full-frame compatible, but it works effectively on both full-frame Nikons and DX-format DSLRs in terms of the zoom range. Compared to any 70–200 millimeters lens, the lens takes the cake. Compared with a 105–315 millimeters lens, this lens is equivalent in full-frame terms.
Now, let’s talk about its features, specifically its optical image stabilizer. This optical image stabilizer is ideal for static shots but less for panning since it doesn’t feature a switchable ‘Active’ mode. Regardless, this lens will allow you to get the best shots from a moving vehicle or any other unsteady platform.
Of course, the image quality doesn’t reach the same level as Nikon’s telephoto lens, but it’s quite close. Regarding the construction, the Tamron 70-210 millimeters f/4 Di VC USD features a weather-sealed body and a keep-clean fluorine coating on the front element.
The Nikkor Z 24-200 millimeters f/4-6.3 VR is the best pick for photographers that prefer handheld photography since this lens is quite lightweight. Most 70–200 millimeters f/2.8 lenses are somewhat heavy, which is why this lens gives you twice as much telephoto reach at the long end of its zoom range without straining your arms.
Upgrading your DX camera can eliminate the 1.5x crop factor on your FX body. Luckily, this lens will give back some of the lost reaches. The Nikon Nikkor Z 24–200 millimeters f/4-6.3 VR also wins in construction, featuring a sturdy and robust yet lightweight body with fluorine coating.
If its performance wasn’t already impeccable, the super-fast autofocus, 4.5-stop dual-mode stabilization, and an autofocus limiter further improve this lens’ functionality. The best part is that you can use this autofocus limiter to select the short or long section of the focusing range.
Since this is an own-brand telephoto lens, it works ideally with all Nikon bodies. Finally, its exclusive eBAND coating reduces flare and ghosting.
Pros
Relatively lightweight
King-size zoom range
Effectively replaces two zoom lenses
Cons
The tripod mounting ring costs extra
Typically narrow maximum aperture at the long end of the zoom range
If versatility and wildlife photography are your priorities while shopping for a telephoto lens, look no further than the Nikon Z 70-200 millimeters f/2.8 VR S. This lens has a long list of features and benefits. Still, its cost-effectiveness helps you overlook a few downsides.
The design of this lens is the most impressive aspect, featuring high-end glass, two aspherical elements, six ED elements, a fluorite element, and a short-wave refractive element. Its sturdy polycarbonate body is protected with a high-tech ARNEO and nanocrystal coat for good measure.
This lens even features a dual-mode zoom mechanism; all you have to do is twist the conventional zoom ring or use the push-pull action of the barrel to operate it. You’ll find that the supplied lens hood facilitates the latter option.
The Nikon Z 70-200 millimeters f/2.8 VR S is large and heavy, but the removable tripod mounting ring, two customizable L.Fn buttons, and a multi-mode OLED information display make up for this downside.
Finally, its dual autofocus stepping motors and 5-stop optical stabilization improve the image quality and make for a pro-grade, own-brand telephoto lens. Overall, this is the best professional mid-range zoom for Nikon Z cameras.
Pros
Weather sealed
Stunning image quality
Rock-solid build quality
Cons
Large and heavy
Expensive
9. Sigma 150-600 millimeters f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | S
The Sigma 150-600 millimeters f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | S is another member of the Sports line by Sigma, offering no compromise on the performance. Like all other lenses in Sigma’s Sports line, the main priority for this impeccable telephoto lens is speed and optimum performance.
There’s no doubt that this telephoto lens is packed with advanced features, such as the manual override focus option. This option allows you to swap to manual focusing simply by twisting the focus ring. This way, you won’t have to wait for autofocus to lock onto an object initially.
Its dual-mode stabilization is another feature worth mentioning, as it has switchable static and panning modes. This enables the zoom lock switch to work at any focal length setting marked on the lens barrel. The metal barrel sections, lens hood, and weather-seals also represent the lens’s build quality.
The Sigma 150-600 millimeters f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | S promises impeccable image quality and excellent telephoto reach. Moreover, since this lens is a new edition, it offers reduced distortions, quicker autofocus speed, and better performance overall. In simpler words, this lens has a huge range and will get you your money’s worth.
The Nikon Z DX 50-250 millimeters f/4.5-6.3 VR typically comes in a twin-lens set, including the Z 16-50 millimeters standard zoom. While the two lenses work to create the perfect set, you can also buy them separately, as the 50–250 millimeters pick is a better lens for the Z 50 mirrorless DX body.
This lens has a space-saving retractable design, making it a refreshingly lightweight addition to typically bulky DSLRs. Its lightweight nature mostly stems from its plastic construction, as most telephoto lenses feature metal mounting plates instead.
Like all Z-mount Nikon lenses, the Nikon Z DX 50-250 millimeters f/4.5-6.3 VR includes a pulse stepping motor autofocus system, enabling quick and virtually silent shots. Moreover, its electromagnetically controlled aperture diaphragm improves the chromatic aberration at telephoto ranges.
In full frame terms, the lens has a zoom range of 75–350 millimeters. Overall, its image quality is impeccable and unmatched as the highly effective 5-stop optical VR system further enhances the sharpness. Moreover, since it has a minimum focus distance of just 0.5–1.0 meters, users can focus sharply on closer subjects.
Finally, the silent control ring gives easy access to key functions such as manual focus, aperture control, and exposure compensation.
Pros
5-stop optical stabilizer
Compact, lightweight build
Great image quality
Cons
Relatively narrow aperture rating
No weather-seals
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Nikon Telephoto Lenses
Buying a good Nikon telephoto lens isn’t as simple as picking the most expensive one. Certain influential factors are to consider, such as the focal length, optical quality, image stabilization, size, and weight. Here’s how you pick the best Nikon telephoto lens.
Focal Length
Before buying any lens, it’s important to consider what you’ll be shooting with it. Telephoto lenses are extremely versatile, so you must pinpoint the type of photography you’ll utilize one for. Additionally, these lenses come with different telephoto focal lengths, meaning there’s no one-size-fits-all in this case.
If your purpose for buying a telephoto lens is in general walkaround photography, it’s best to go for a lens with a large zoom range. In this case, ensure that the lens starts wide, at least 50 millimeters, and expands to 200 millimeters or 300 millimeters. A wider zoom range makes for a versatile lens, keeping you prepared for any photography situation.
On the other, if you’re a bird or wildlife photographer, you need something that allows you to shoot from a safe distance. Even 300 millimeters will fall short if your wildlife isn’t comfortable around humans, so you need at least 400 millimeters. This number only increases when you’re planning to photograph small birds, requiring a minimum of 500 millimeters.
Those who want to capture tight portraits with their telephoto lens won’t be disappointed by a standard focal length, around 200 millimeters. For sports photography, however, a medium-telephoto lens will work adequately, somewhere around 70–200 millimeters.
Finally, a telephoto lens in the 70–200 millimeters range will ideally work for shooting tight landscapes without forcing you to deal with an excess of 100 millimeters. Ensuring the lens fits your main purpose helps you invest in the right equipment and further hone your skills.
Image Credit: Shutterfast, Shutterstock
Optical Quality
The lens’s optical quality is the next most important thing to consider while buying a telephoto lens. It may seem an obvious factor to keep in mind, but if you buy one without thinking it through, you may suffer unpleasant fringing and blurry results even after paying a fortune.
Sharpness at all focal lengths indicates a great telephoto lens, so you must ensure the optical quality remains constant. Of course, it’s nearly impossible to find a telephoto lens with truly constant image quality, but some of the options on our list guarantee that.
Other than that, you’ll find that most telephoto lenses lose sharpness once you reach the end of their focal length range. If you’re a bird photographer, this can be especially troublesome while photographing small birds at a distance.
Size and Weight
Telephoto lenses are typically heavy and bulky; some options on our list are rare exceptions. Of course, the size and weight of the telephoto lens will somewhat influence the functionality and performance of the camera, the lens, and the photographer.
So, you must decide between two outcomes. First, you settle with a somewhat heavy telephoto lens that doesn’t allow for prolonged handheld photography, so you invest in a sturdy tripod too. As a result, you benefit from impeccable image quality and reliability from the lens.
Second, you opt for a lightweight telephoto lens that allows you to carry it around for everyday photography and experiment with handheld shooting for longer periods. However, you may compromise on the lens’s build quality and overall performance.
Photographers that plan on regularly carrying their lenses outside should prioritize better build quality and rugged equipment. It may be an investment, but it’ll come in handy more often than you think, especially in unexpected weather conditions.
Image Credit: Tadeusz Lakota, Unsplash
Image Stabilization
It’s hard to find telephoto lenses that don’t offer image stabilization, allowing you to handhold at slow shutter speeds and still capture sharp images. Vibration Reduction is a great feature in your telephoto lens if you’ve opted for a lightweight build to benefit from prolonged handheld photography.
This feature will especially come in handy when photographing small subjects, such as birds or small wildlife, from a safe distance. Image instability is more likely to occur when the lens is fully zoomed in, and you’ve reached the end of the focal length range. Luckily, all the options on our list are compatible with Nikon cameras, which is why they feature VR.
Conclusion
A high-quality but affordable telephoto lens is hard to find but not impossible. Those that prioritize authenticity and compatibility should opt for the Nikon AF-P 70-300 millimeters f/4.5-6.3E ED VR, an own-brand all-rounder that will never disappoint.
Jeff is a tech professional by day, writer, and amateur photographer by night. He's had the privilege of leading software teams for startups to the Fortune 100 over the past two decades. He currently works in the data privacy space.
Jeff's amateur photography interests started in 2008 when he got his first DSLR camera, the Canon Rebel. Since then, he's taken tens of thousands of photos. His favorite handheld camera these days is his Google Pixel 6 XL. He loves taking photos of nature and his kids. In 2016, he bought his first drone, the Mavic Pro. Taking photos from the air is an amazing perspective, and he loves to take his drone while traveling.
