Thanks for the comparison Tony ... no surprises really. But here's the thing ... a huge number of owners of the 200-500 paired it with the D500. The obvious upgrade path would be to the 180-600/Z8 combination. Comparing the respective weights of the two kits we see they are almost identical. So yes, you get a measurably better performance from the Z combo ... but you still need to keep the gym membership. One of the big advantages of mirrorless touted by the camera industry a few years ago was how much lighter and compact it was going to be ... I'm not convinced. And at $10,000 AUD I'm hanging on to the DSLR combo for a good while yet.
But you get a full frame camera with more than twice the resolution of the D500. Even at a DX crop you get the same resolution as the D500, but much more flexibility and it's easier to follow your subject in flight. As long as there is no D500 counterpart the comparison is moot and it's much more fitting to compare it with the D850, which is a heavier kit but the actual DSLR counterpart. And it was mostly Sony touting those benefits. Nikon never claimed that mirrorless would be lighter or more compact. And even though it applies to quite a lot of lens and camera kits (e. g. the 14-24 f2.8 with 650g vs 1kg or 24-70 f2.8 with 805g vs 1.07kg). My holy trinity with a Z9 weighs 4.16kg compared to a 4.95kg D6 or 4.51kg D850 kit. The D500 is just 50g lighter than a Nikon Z8, whereas it was 150g lighter than a D850. And how are 3160g and 2860g almost identical? The Z8+180-600mm is 300g or 9.5% lighter than the D500+200-500, offering more range and flexibility at a granted much higher price.
Just got my 180-600 and just love it with my Z8 and I agree with your findings as well as others that have reviewed it, One thing is for sure is Nikon hit it out of the park with this lens;)
Everyone should upgrade to this and dump their old 200-500s onto the used market so it's cheaper for me to snag one for my D300 and my future D800/810.
I bought a D500 not that long ago to pair with my 200-500. If i had a Z8 I would get the 180-600 but I think my most likely upgrade is to the 500mm pf lens. Other than live view autofocus the D500 is still a beast.
If it's still photography, your statement is somewhat true. But if you want to shoot movies, z8 it light years ahead. Over all z8 is camera of another league. Try it once. Sooner Nikon will also Stop support for all dslr bodies.
@@godistrueking5136 I'm sure the z8 is in another league. I would love to have things like eye autofocus. My point wasn't really that the d500 is a match for the z8, more that it is still an excellent camera in its own right and meets almost all of my needs. I think a faster prime lens would make a big difference over my aging 200-500. I don't shoot video, mostly because the cameras I've had, haven't been very good at it and that's frustrating when starting out. Maybe when I go mirrorless I'll switch from 100% stills.
Tony, Thank you for another informative video. I own the 200-500 and just bought the Z8 and was on the fence about the upgrade until watching your review (and just ordered using your link). I appreciate you and Chelsea for your efforts.
Even though both are weather sealed, internal zoom makes a hughe difference when being out in heavy rain shooting wildlife and or big waves in stormy weather !! I know I had been waiting to see what Nikon would come out with in that zoom range for mirrorless and was super happy to see that !!
I recently got the 180-600, and am using it on my Z8 and Z9. I have the 200-500, and it's been my workhorse for a few years now (with the D500 and the Z bodies), and I agree that it is the perfect fit for the Z system. The autofocus works better with the 180-600, and the images are generally sharper as well. I also have the 800 pf, so now I can have a great focal length range with two bodies. If I don't get the shot now, it's on me.
Thank you for a wonderful comparison of the two lenses. I just got a call from my local camera store that my 180-600 has arrived. Can't wait to put that on to the Z9!
I just took delivery of the 180-600 and tested it on my Z9 with the 1.4X Z extender comparing it with a Nikon 100-400 S which is optically superb. Subject matter was a microwave dish antenna about 70 feet in the air on a short tower. Looking at a small serial number on its mounting arm and lettering embossed on a hex bolt, both lenses did admirably with the 840mm I got from the new lens plus extender providing better detail as expected. Both were hand held. Image stabilization worked very well in both cases. It is the heaviest lens in my kit. So I'll likely need to do some weight training at age 77 to reverse some muscle loss with age. As to high ISO, if you're not doing much cropping you can get away with a lot of gain where needed. I do a lot of theatrical shoots using faster lenses due to indoor lighting limits. I was surprised by the fun lens I recently bought, the diminutive Nikon 24-200mm Z lens. Being small with about a 9 to 1 zoom ratio, in spite of it being a slow lens, I found it to be ideal for shooting from on stage during rehearsals where rapid change from wide to tele gave me lots opportunities I would have otherwise missed. My normal goto lens for theater had been the AFS Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 FL ED with FTZ adapter. I love the internal zoom on that lens similar to the new 180-600.
I decided to upgrade to mirrorless. Found a used Z9, ordered the z 180-600, bought a z 100-400 and the z28-75 f2.8. Traded my D500, D7500, 200-500, and Sigma 150-600, and Nikon 18-300 DX lens Thanks for your reviews and content. Appreciate your reviews and insight.
I will keep my 200-500, so that I can still interchange with my D850, which I will definitely keep. And I will rather invest in the 400mm 4.5 now. This gives me much more options, considering some low light situations. Also, I am a hobby photographer and I can live with the fact that the 200-500 is a little less sharp.
I use a d500 and the nikon 200-500mm for my sports photography. Very happy with the combo. I'm just a hobbyist, so I'm not quite ready to make the leap to mirrorless. Hopefully someday.
So now you have me questioning my direction. I have a D500 as my 2nd body, I mainly shoot military jets & sports, but also wildlife and landscapes. Was thinking of selling the D500 and Picking up the Z8 after Tony's reviews. @@Pamela-c5o
@@Pamela-c5o what did you upgrade to? Z8/Z9 is definitely better for wildlife.. unfortunately they haven't released a true D500 replacement.. I am not even sure if that's on the slate for Nikon.. It's the only reason I am still using a D500 but glass like this is exactly enough for me to consider going to Nikon instead of Sony for mirrorless wildlife.
I am selling my D500; now using a Z8 which is much better for wildlife. Can also shoot at Dx on Z8 and get almost as much resolution (19 MP) as with D500 (21MP). The 200-500 was too heavy for me (I sold mine). I now use the 100-400 and the 500pf (crazy sharp)
@@garyswergold4096 I am considering the Z8 if they do not release a D500 replacement, I don't shoot much more than birds and mammals for me to consider a full frame beast like the Z8 or Z9, and I don't shoot video.. but it will definitely get me more into video and landscape if I go that route..
I own the 200-500 and use it in FTZ and am really on the fence on this one. I def see the new one is a big upgrade but here in Canada the 200-500 is worth about $900 used and by the time I’d pay tax on on the retail price of the new one I would be closing in on $2.7k so the question becomes: Is it worth triple the price? How did you find the slower 6.3 speed? Even though the new lens is optically better does the higher ISO requirement offset that much? Surprised you didn’t talk about that at all.
I had been using my 200-500 with FTZ on my Z7, a month ago I upgraded to Z8, now waiting for my Z180-600 to arrive as not happy with slow focus, soft focus and missing shots with 200-500. Can’t wait, so excited
I am considering a move to Nikon and this lens would be the main reason. As much as the Z8 looks fantastic, I am more thinking about the Zf. This would mostly be for wildlife and I am just a hobbyist so a $2000 camera vs $4000 that seems to have most of the software I would need seems to be a good option.
I do suspect that the ergonomics with that body and a large lens would be pretty bad. Might be worth waiting for the Z6III, which could well be a similar camera in a more ergonomic body...
It might work well, but balance with long lenses, EVF blackout and lack of customising buttons for autofocus would make it a bit more awkward to use. But yes, it seems a great package!
So I have a D850 with the 200-500mm partly because of your review 'back in the day' :) My best friend is about to get a Z8 and we I have been helping him research which long lens to get - this REALLY helps nail it down. Thanks for you time and hopefully we get some great shots over the coming months.
Hi Tony, I have the 200-500mm for a lot of years & love the lens with my old Z6..Just recently upgraded to the Z8 & will agree with your findings..180-600mm is on my Bucket List.. Thanks for your reviews, keep them coming 😉Ken in AZ🌵
My new Z8 and 180-600 arrive tomorrow! Upgrading from a D810 and 300mm f2.8 with TC20-II Teleconverter, and looking forward to shedding a couple of lbs and taking advantage of all the autofocus tracking options in the Z8.
Yeah Canon's 100-500 is nice, but it's really a replacement for the 100-400, and 500 is still a little short for wildlife. They could use something longer. Also it's $2600!
NIce comparison. The one caveat that I'd raise is that the 2090 grams you cite for the 200-500mm is not only without the tripod collar, but without the 125 grams of a FTZII adaptor. So the 200-500mm on a Z-body with the tripod collar is about 3/4 lb heavier than the new lens. Not a huge deal, but something I notice on a long hiking climb on my 70-ish body. I have an order in for the Z 180-600mm.
Thank you for the term "focal shrinking". When I'm explaining it to someone, I have avoided "focus breathing" because that has a different effect. I remember this from when channels like yours and Matt Granger's talked about it with the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR I!
Yeah it's confusing because "focus breathing" means something different to stills photographers and videographers. But I made up "focal shrinking" and I don't think the term has exactly taken off sooo
I have the 180-600 on order. Not sure if I will keep it. I also own the 100-400 and 500PF. I would really like to be all Z lenses, but the 500PF is so portable and sharp, however, background rendering suffers under certain conditions. Whenever I go out, I tell myself I need more light and range. This lens will provide the range, but not the light. The 400 2.8TC + TC is calling to me, but it's hard for me to justify the money. The 800PF seems a bit limited, but would certainly give me more range. I think a 600 5.6 built similar to the 400 4.5 ( if possible or maybe a PF) would be a great addition to Nikon's lineup.
Interesting … I bought the 180-600 but sent it back (a bit reluctantly given rave reviews and it seemed sharp to me) - as too heavy compared with my 500PF, in the context of a daily river walk for wildlife shooting. I’m almost always shooting small birds and the zoom is no advantage to me.
I'm using a Z7II + FTZII+ Tamron 18-400 DX (29mm-640mm equivalents) for my do-it-all travel lens. I'm not getting the benefits of the full frame, but the mirrorless body is way better than my old D7500 DSLR. I do miss the pop up flash, however, and the bigger body fits my big hands better.
Thanks for the review. Clear the Z glass blows the previous iteration away. So grateful to have the 400mm f4.5. I use the 200-500 with my D850 for everything else.
I have both of these lenses but have retired the 200-500 as I didn't want to keep having to fit the FTZ. I also have the 2xTC to use on the 180-600 or my 70-200. Despite what some might say, the results using the TC are very good as long as you have good light.
I've had the 200-500mm for years, and for a decade before that the 200-400 f/4 VR1. Weight and cost savings made the 200-500 regret-free, but there are ergonomics issues hopefully the 180-600 addresses. First, is it Internal Focus? (No one complains about the quarter-turn range, which suggests it is, but nobody's said "Internal Focus"). 2nd, is the focusing ring still behind the zoom ring? Last, can the front button(s) be assigned specific AF -on mode (like back focus buttons can, and old 200-400 could do Spot, at least)?
I use Sony and have the 200-600mm...I say...well done Nikon!! They gave their customers the internal zoom...what a game changer. Now you can rack your zoom and stay on target like never before. Meanwhile over at Canon...they are humping their customers. Good show Nikon!!!
Yeah the Canon equivalent lens is 100mm shorter and $1000 more expensive... but Canon has cameras like the R7 that do great with wildlife, whereas with Nikon you really need to spring for a Z8 to get reliable results.
@@TonyAndChelsea I agree about the camera body...but I think in the end...glass is still king. And that Canon has an external throw...frankly unacceptable at that price. Nikon customers are on a...friendlier path...imo. Great video as usual sir.
Tony on the Z8/Z9 to get better results in terms of noise after ISO 200 go straight to ISO 500. it has been shown that the Z8/Z9 has a dual gain function which improves performance at ISO 500
Thank you Tony. I already got one and I totally agree with you. It most definitely is an amazing lens which works perfectly when attached to my new Z8. You got yourself a new follower. Kind greetings from Denmark
One of the biggest jumps hands down is the short throw. The old 200-500 is great but for fast moving subjects it is way too much throw to get through the range.
Thanks for the comparison, this is definitely the upgrade path I want to take with my Z9, I've really enjoyed using the 200-500 and a 1.4x but these advantages are important to me.
Check our comparison of the Z8 and D850, since the D500 is basically an APS-C D850. The DSLRs really feel LOUD compared to the Z8 and Z9, so one of the biggest benefits of mirrorless is the ability to be quiet or silent. Being full-frame with the same pixel density is a HUGE benefit for having a wider field of view to track flying birds, but also getting more detail when you can fill the frame. But, of course, the D500 has an optical viewfinder which I prefer and the setup is WAY cheaper.
Thanks Tony, nice review for Nikon. I received my Z 180-600 whilst in hospital for 13 days, back home now. I tried it on my Z8 but I must admit after major surgery the body needs to heal before I can physically get out and enjoy what I love most ie. wildlife and landscape. Looking forward to your next review maybe the Nikon ZF?
Still photography with the D500/200-500 is great, 6 years on. Video with the D500 is a real PITA and the reason to upgrade. 200-500 zoom is too long throw, and internal zooming with a short throw a welcome improvement. Had a 200-400 f/4 for a dozen years and what I've missed most was programming the barrel buttons to be the back-focus and VR refresh switch. That worked well for manual fine focus because the focusing ring was the front ring. Not so with either the 290-500:or 180-600. I'll miss sots with minimum focus distance longer than 6.5' because closer subjects just won't be focus-able. (Sometimes you just can't back up from tight quarters). This 180-200 needs a Z6 iii-equivalently affordable APS-C sensor body with not more than 24MP and that new best-in-class EVF.
Thanks Tony for this detailed review. Would you be doing a comparison between Canon, Nokin and Sony telephoto zooms with their wildlife cameras (R5, Z8, a9 or a1) please? I am curious to know which combo is the best or more relevant perhaps is the advantage of each system
I want to buy the 180-600mm. I recently used my Sigma 100-400mm to film a woodpecker. Always too far and the video is shaky handheld. I have Nikon Z 5 and I enjoy nature photography when I can
I would love to see the z8 with the 180-600 go up agaibst the sony a7rv with the 200 to 600 for wildlife video. Taking into acount the stabilization and also things like clear image zoom
Yay, lots of 200-500s going up for sale to scoop up! - BTW: If you're starting out, you can get a used D500 and 200-500 lens for less than $2K USD. Just a thought if you don't mind pre-owned gear.
Nice vid -- yes the 200-500 has relatively slow AF motors and a huge throw on the zoom ring. Obviously there is no point comparing the 200-500 without the FTZ/FTZii to the 180-600 - the FTZ adds back the difference between the small flange depth on the Z bodies vs DSLRs. Look at the focus distance indicator on the Z9 EVF, which no doubt will come to the Z8 as well. I note you use/show lenses without lens feet attached -- these must be used when using such lenses on a tripod/monopod. Anyone out in heavy weather on on boats must use appropriate rain coats on their gear - not least to keep salt/spray out.
I've got the 200-500 which I love and I have the 180-600 on order yet. I am upgrading from a D850 to Z8 and can't wait to offload the D850 with the few lenses I have left. The Z8 is amazing and is a wonderful replacement for the D850. Thanks for the review. I am looking forward to receipt of the 180-600 so I can get out and find something interesting.
I originally bought this lens, and it is a good lens, but I upgraded to the 100-400mm S lens. It is a faster, sharper lens, and has very close focusing. It is smaller and lighter, with the added ability to go as wide as 100mm. With the TCs it gives me the ability to zoom from 100mm to 800mm. I found that the 180-600 was so close in size to my 800mm S lens that the 100-400 is a better combination for me. These 2 S lenses cover 100mm-1,600mm and are easily usable handheld.
I'm still on the fence..I've just recently purchased a z8 and im coming from the cropped dinosaur D3300 but i only have 1 FX lens but I've ordered 2 cheaper dslr ones both nikon 70-300 and 28-300 just to help me get a better feel for the z8 but I love sports/wildlife/motorsports/aviation/airshow photography with a few landscape/travel/potrait occasionally but im.still torn between choosing my purchase as I do not shoot professionally but i enjoy seeing things get better with time. I have had the D3300 for about 10 years and I wanted to upgrade...befire it i hsd a P510 for 5 years or so. So I'm slowly learning. Im not gonna say this video tipped the scales in the 180-600mm direction but it has definitely put more weight on that side....i just try to balance value with results and both new or used the price on the 200-500 is more doable for sure. I just cant bring myself to make a decision yet but thanks for this very informative video. This is the first video I've not seen mention how the throw is on the 200-500mm or the 2 different VR modes and how they compare.
I started with the Tamron 150-600 F5.6-6.3 moved up to the Nikon 200-500 F5.6 several years ago which was a good update, and I've been using it adapted on a Z7. It works well. Yes the Auto focus isn't what you could get with the Z8. I've been waiting for your review for over 2 years since this lens has been on the roadmap for forever and I knew you would give it a fair non-biased review. This lens is on my list to buy due to the lens quality, native Z, focus improvements (which for more of a step will require a body update), weight savings, non telescoping, and shorter zoom throw which I think will be a fairly big deal in usability for me. Would love to have you review it with the new Nikon FC to see how that autofocus performs, but it would be hard to go back to 24MP after using the 45MP Z7 for a while now. Still I think that will tell us what the autofocus in a Z7/Z6 III will be like with the Expeed7 processor. I'll buy the lens now with the hope that in the not to distant future there will be a lower priced 45MP body than the Z8, after all it's just a hobby for me. I was very pleasantly surprised a the $1700 price, I was expecting around $2200-$2500.
I was using the 200-500 on a D500, excellent combo to be honest & a wildlife snappers dream pairing which gave me first class results. The zoom on my 200-500 however got stuck when an internal screw came loose (Thousands of users have had this issue) I did however strip the lens and find a fix. I have now moved to the Z9 and 180-600 combo, the jury is still out as I have been using the Z9 with a Nikon 200-400 f/4 G lens and a Nikon 600 f/4 which would be an unfair comparison. I wanted something lighter though as the 600 is always used on a tripod and the 200-400 is for the most part on a monopod. Having the 180-600 will now mean I can hand hold again just like I was with my 200-500 and D500. Its a pity that the price point of Nikon Z glass is, well, ludicrously expensive to be honest, especially the none pro glass, as you say, the 180-600 is at a fair price point which is why I decided to buy it. I will however be using my "F" glass and the FTZ adaptor for the forseable future as I dont think the pro Z glass offers any real benefit to me.
You didn't mention in this review the difference in using DSLR direct view vs the Z8 or 9 EVF. Looked at a Z8 today and it is clear the viewfinder is not up to DSLR standards at present for active wildlife and flying aircraft., sports, etc. Holding out for better EVF before making the switch. Since Nikon buys sensors from Sony.....wonder if they might buy Sony's higher resolution EVF for their next iterations of the Z8, Z9? Just wish there was a version of this new lens for the DSLRs already out there. Maybe secondary market could design a work around to use this lens with DSLRs?
For a few hundred dollars more, the 180-600 is a no brainer. However, Nikon just dropped the price of the 200-500 by $340! So, for only $1049, the 200-500 is a steal. It's a super sharp lens and I'm glad I just bought it again. For my purpose, it's more than sufficient. Now that leaves me with over $600 in savings to put toward another Z! I think too much emphasis is being put on sharpness. With the improvements in post processing such as Topaz Photo AI 2, what can be brought out from most any lens is incredible. My 200-500 came in today and a series of wildlife shots in RAW were more than acceptable for anyone's standards. After running them through Photo AI 2, I could count the blades of grass at 500 and cropped. Stunning software and lenses.
I'm buying the Nikon 180-60mm. You aided my decision making all i need do now is cash in my son's college fund, he's not very bright in anycase. I'll enjoy the lens more than my son would've enjoyed college
I've pre-ordered the Z180-600 on the morning of the release. I would love to know how I like it but I haven't received it yet. I'm using my Sigma 150-600 until then.
Sign up for Nikon Professional Services and submit your order as a priority. Nikon is REALLY behind on shipping gear so that's basically the only way to get some stuff. We ordered our 600 f4 TC in May and we're still waiting, even with NPS.
Which camera would you recommend between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon Z7 MK2? You have a lot of experience in photography and have use a lot of different cameras.
How does it compare with Nikon z 100-400mm as I’m in between the two. I’m not one for shooting much wildlife but the option of 600mm is appealing and nice to have the reach, especially when will be getting 2.8 trio of lenses covering 14-200mm range. The 100-400 is more versatile at wider range, lower aperture and then being a s line lens.
dear Tony I love my 200 500 very much . I am old school person . I dont see very different be honest with you . sometimes I feel like some of cameras and lenses are like paper the old dslr rs like soviet tanks . even I compare my old Nikon d3x with z9 it wasn't too much different I keep my d3x . it's not too much expensive at the moment but I know the d3x the best one
Thanks for an okay review. Anyone who has played with the Nikon 200-500 knows that there is a lot of variation between individual lenses - also regarding chromatic aberration. It's nice to see that the Nikon 150-600 is sharper, but considering the price - one can get a 200-500 today for 878 EUR or less. Nikon's 150-600 costs 2,027 EUR in Europe... that's also worth considering.
I'd like to ask you about Nikon Z9 + Nikkor 180-600. When VR is on in Normal mode the target shifts every time you release shutter. I read in Internet and many people confirms the same
I think that happens with every (super telephoto?) lens on the Z8/Z9, at least it also happens with my 800 PF. Can be annoying in some situations, specifically when using single point AF, but I think this jumping is what allows you to get sharp images at 600+ mm with shutter speeds below 1/50th of a second. You can always go with sports mode, in that mode it doesn't jump, and you can still get sharp shots at pretty slow shutter speeds.
Tony, if you made a video like you did back in the day that you referred to in this video of the best combos for different price ranges, would the Z8+180-600 be above the Canon R5+100-500 or the Sony a7rV+200-600? It seems like it would, with a stacked sensor and a great lens that reaches to 600mm while being reasonable priced.
Tamron's 150-500 is coming to Z mount soon. Price aside, I think the more compact size of that lens will hold some value to photographers hiking into the backcountry. Both the length and weight are big considerations in that scenario.
Not an easy lens to get due to limited availability - but I finally got one, should be here tomorrow just in time for the Long Beach air show. I guess I'll find out just how good it is with the Z9. Thanks for taking the time to review it for us ;-)
Nice! That's the kind of specs you want for a wildlife lens. 600mm on fullframe is a great range. And living in the Netherlands: the 6.3 is also greatly appreciated. And being 180, that also beats the sony 200-600. And it surely beats the 100-500 from Canon because of the 7.1 So yeah: good job Nikon!
Tony, Thank you taking the time & effort to provide the comparison review of the lens. I'm planning to get the 180-600mm when available. If shooting the Nikon Z9, which brand & size CFexpress Type B Cards would you use for wildlife still photography and would you use a different size card for wildlife video work? THANK YOU
While I'm happy with my D500/200-500 kit's performance, I'm done with mirrors. Except for long distance wildlife, I've fully switched over and my new 180-600 arrives today. The other rig will be sold in the near future.
I believe that some variation of quality is caused by the adapter. I would have like to see the difference from a DSLR with the 200/500 instead of using the z adapter ? That is the reason why they made this lenses for z mount again spending money on gear instead of spending the time to become better photographer!!
Great video! Thank you. My current favorite Super tele is my (manual) Nikkor 500mm f/4 P ED, though it is much harder to get consistently clear shots (need to stop down and increase iso to deepen the focus range) but it is an amazing lens. I just ordered a new Zf to replace my Leica SL, so perhaps this 180-600 will be added to my quiver of lenses :)
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When you said 'animals don't want to get that close to you', did you see the flying irony that almost hit your head? ;-)
Good point. They want to get close to you when you don't have your camera ready.
@@TonyAndChelsea😅
Yes. But why does he call the cameras C8 and C9? Their real names are Z8 and Z9.
@@__Mr.White__Isn’t he saying zee 8, rather than zed 8?
Further proof that we live in a simulated reality.
I dont know what nikon is doing but even the kit lens is incredibly sharp
Thanks for the comparison Tony ... no surprises really. But here's the thing ... a huge number of owners of the 200-500 paired it with the D500. The obvious upgrade path would be to the 180-600/Z8 combination. Comparing the respective weights of the two kits we see they are almost identical. So yes, you get a measurably better performance from the Z combo ... but you still need to keep the gym membership. One of the big advantages of mirrorless touted by the camera industry a few years ago was how much lighter and compact it was going to be ... I'm not convinced. And at $10,000 AUD I'm hanging on to the DSLR combo for a good while yet.
For photos yes but I so wish I could look into the viewfinder and record videos of my tiny birds😂
But you get a full frame camera with more than twice the resolution of the D500. Even at a DX crop you get the same resolution as the D500, but much more flexibility and it's easier to follow your subject in flight. As long as there is no D500 counterpart the comparison is moot and it's much more fitting to compare it with the D850, which is a heavier kit but the actual DSLR counterpart. And it was mostly Sony touting those benefits. Nikon never claimed that mirrorless would be lighter or more compact. And even though it applies to quite a lot of lens and camera kits (e. g. the 14-24 f2.8 with 650g vs 1kg or 24-70 f2.8 with 805g vs 1.07kg). My holy trinity with a Z9 weighs 4.16kg compared to a 4.95kg D6 or 4.51kg D850 kit. The D500 is just 50g lighter than a Nikon Z8, whereas it was 150g lighter than a D850. And how are 3160g and 2860g almost identical? The Z8+180-600mm is 300g or 9.5% lighter than the D500+200-500, offering more range and flexibility at a granted much higher price.
Just got my 180-600 and just love it with my Z8 and I agree with your findings as well as others that have reviewed it, One thing is for sure is Nikon hit it out of the park with this lens;)
Hit “it”? And what park??? 🤔
Linkin park!
Everyone should upgrade to this and dump their old 200-500s onto the used market so it's cheaper for me to snag one for my D300 and my future D800/810.
Love the D500 with the 200-500 lense. Do not want to spend 5 grand to upgrade.
Exactly
I bought a D500 not that long ago to pair with my 200-500. If i had a Z8 I would get the 180-600 but I think my most likely upgrade is to the 500mm pf lens. Other than live view autofocus the D500 is still a beast.
If it's still photography, your statement is somewhat true.
But if you want to shoot movies, z8 it light years ahead.
Over all z8 is camera of another league. Try it once.
Sooner Nikon will also Stop support for all dslr bodies.
@@godistrueking5136 I'm sure the z8 is in another league. I would love to have things like eye autofocus.
My point wasn't really that the d500 is a match for the z8, more that it is still an excellent camera in its own right and meets almost all of my needs. I think a faster prime lens would make a big difference over my aging 200-500.
I don't shoot video, mostly because the cameras I've had, haven't been very good at it and that's frustrating when starting out. Maybe when I go mirrorless I'll switch from 100% stills.
Tony, Thank you for another informative video. I own the 200-500 and just bought the Z8 and was on the fence about the upgrade until watching your review (and just ordered using your link). I appreciate you and Chelsea for your efforts.
Even though both are weather sealed, internal zoom makes a hughe difference when being out in heavy rain shooting wildlife and or big waves in stormy weather !! I know I had been waiting to see what Nikon would come out with in that zoom range for mirrorless and was super happy to see that !!
The 200-500 isn't weather sealed.
I recently got the 180-600, and am using it on my Z8 and Z9. I have the 200-500, and it's been my workhorse for a few years now (with the D500 and the Z bodies), and I agree that it is the perfect fit for the Z system. The autofocus works better with the 180-600, and the images are generally sharper as well. I also have the 800 pf, so now I can have a great focal length range with two bodies. If I don't get the shot now, it's on me.
This is my new combo Tony…. Had the Z8 paired with the 200-500, but now I’ve got the 180-600 tracking birds in flight is a dream 👍
The lack of focus scale is frustrating. Prefocusing your lens in wildlife is useful, even with modern autofocus.
Thank you for a wonderful comparison of the two lenses. I just got a call from my local camera store that my 180-600 has arrived. Can't wait to put that on to the Z9!
I just took delivery of the 180-600 and tested it on my Z9 with the 1.4X Z extender comparing it with a Nikon 100-400 S which is optically superb. Subject matter was a microwave dish antenna about 70 feet in the air on a short tower. Looking at a small serial number on its mounting arm and lettering embossed on a hex bolt, both lenses did admirably with the 840mm I got from the new lens plus extender providing better detail as expected. Both were hand held. Image stabilization worked very well in both cases. It is the heaviest lens in my kit. So I'll likely need to do some weight training at age 77 to reverse some muscle loss with age. As to high ISO, if you're not doing much cropping you can get away with a lot of gain where needed. I do a lot of theatrical shoots using faster lenses due to indoor lighting limits. I was surprised by the fun lens I recently bought, the diminutive Nikon 24-200mm Z lens. Being small with about a 9 to 1 zoom ratio, in spite of it being a slow lens, I found it to be ideal for shooting from on stage during rehearsals where rapid change from wide to tele gave me lots opportunities I would have otherwise missed. My normal goto lens for theater had been the AFS Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 FL ED with FTZ adapter. I love the internal zoom on that lens similar to the new 180-600.
I just got the 180-600. New to mirrorless Z8 and am really excited. Thanks for your vids!
I decided to upgrade to mirrorless. Found a used Z9, ordered the z 180-600, bought a z 100-400 and the z28-75 f2.8. Traded my D500, D7500, 200-500, and Sigma 150-600, and Nikon 18-300 DX lens
Thanks for your reviews and content. Appreciate your reviews and insight.
I will keep my 200-500, so that I can still interchange with my D850, which I will definitely keep. And I will rather invest in the 400mm 4.5 now. This gives me much more options, considering some low light situations. Also, I am a hobby photographer and I can live with the fact that the 200-500 is a little less sharp.
I use a d500 and the nikon 200-500mm for my sports photography. Very happy with the combo. I'm just a hobbyist, so I'm not quite ready to make the leap to mirrorless. Hopefully someday.
So now you have me questioning my direction. I have a D500 as my 2nd body, I mainly shoot military jets & sports, but also wildlife and landscapes. Was thinking of selling the D500 and Picking up the Z8 after Tony's reviews. @@Pamela-c5o
@@Pamela-c5o what did you upgrade to? Z8/Z9 is definitely better for wildlife.. unfortunately they haven't released a true D500 replacement.. I am not even sure if that's on the slate for Nikon.. It's the only reason I am still using a D500 but glass like this is exactly enough for me to consider going to Nikon instead of Sony for mirrorless wildlife.
I am selling my D500; now using a Z8 which is much better for wildlife. Can also shoot at Dx on Z8 and get almost as much resolution (19 MP) as with D500 (21MP). The 200-500 was too heavy for me (I sold mine). I now use the 100-400 and the 500pf (crazy sharp)
@@garyswergold4096 I am considering the Z8 if they do not release a D500 replacement, I don't shoot much more than birds and mammals for me to consider a full frame beast like the Z8 or Z9, and I don't shoot video.. but it will definitely get me more into video and landscape if I go that route..
Received my 180 to 600 today so far so good! 🎉
I own the 200-500 and use it in FTZ and am really on the fence on this one.
I def see the new one is a big upgrade but here in Canada the 200-500 is worth about $900 used and by the time I’d pay tax on on the retail price of the new one I would be closing in on $2.7k so the question becomes: Is it worth triple the price?
How did you find the slower 6.3 speed? Even though the new lens is optically better does the higher ISO requirement offset that much? Surprised you didn’t talk about that at all.
I had been using my 200-500 with FTZ on my Z7, a month ago I upgraded to Z8, now waiting for my Z180-600 to arrive as not happy with slow focus, soft focus and missing shots with 200-500. Can’t wait, so excited
I am considering a move to Nikon and this lens would be the main reason. As much as the Z8 looks fantastic, I am more thinking about the Zf. This would mostly be for wildlife and I am just a hobbyist so a $2000 camera vs $4000 that seems to have most of the software I would need seems to be a good option.
I do suspect that the ergonomics with that body and a large lens would be pretty bad. Might be worth waiting for the Z6III, which could well be a similar camera in a more ergonomic body...
If you are not going with the Z8, I would wait for the Z6 III. I absolutely love my Nikon Z8.
Does the Zf have user profiles like the other pro bodies do? For me lack of that would be an absolute deal-breaker.
It might work well, but balance with long lenses, EVF blackout and lack of customising buttons for autofocus would make it a bit more awkward to use. But yes, it seems a great package!
I wouldn't recommend the Zf for wildlife at only 24 megapixels.
So I have a D850 with the 200-500mm partly because of your review 'back in the day' :)
My best friend is about to get a Z8 and we I have been helping him research which long lens to get - this REALLY helps nail it down. Thanks for you time and hopefully we get some great shots over the coming months.
Hi Tony, I have the 200-500mm for a lot of years & love the lens with my old Z6..Just recently upgraded to the Z8 & will agree with your findings..180-600mm is on my Bucket List..
Thanks for your reviews, keep them coming 😉Ken in AZ🌵
My new Z8 and 180-600 arrive tomorrow! Upgrading from a D810 and 300mm f2.8 with TC20-II Teleconverter, and looking forward to shedding a couple of lbs and taking advantage of all the autofocus tracking options in the Z8.
Mine is on order! I'm gonna start by using on my Z6ii. I'm doing grandkids sports more than birds these days. I can't wait to see results!
I have 200-500 on my Z6 and this combo is still pretty good
As a Canon shooter I am envious of Nikon shooters with this as an option.
Yeah Canon's 100-500 is nice, but it's really a replacement for the 100-400, and 500 is still a little short for wildlife. They could use something longer. Also it's $2600!
Come on over, since the Z8 we are a happy group.
@@TonyAndChelseawell for me 400+mm is good for what I am doing….I also got some other 500+mm lenses so I am set.
I’m thinking of pairing this 180-600 lens with my Z50!
NIce comparison. The one caveat that I'd raise is that the 2090 grams you cite for the 200-500mm is not only without the tripod collar, but without the 125 grams of a FTZII adaptor. So the 200-500mm on a Z-body with the tripod collar is about 3/4 lb heavier than the new lens. Not a huge deal, but something I notice on a long hiking climb on my 70-ish body. I have an order in for the Z 180-600mm.
Oh, good point!
I just got my Z8 and 180-600mm lens! Switching from the D 500 has been a bit of a learning curve but I’m loving it. Thank you for the video.
Thank you for the term "focal shrinking". When I'm explaining it to someone, I have avoided "focus breathing" because that has a different effect. I remember this from when channels like yours and Matt Granger's talked about it with the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR I!
Yeah it's confusing because "focus breathing" means something different to stills photographers and videographers. But I made up "focal shrinking" and I don't think the term has exactly taken off sooo
I have the 180-600 on order. Not sure if I will keep it. I also own the 100-400 and 500PF. I would really like to be all Z lenses, but the 500PF is so portable and sharp, however, background rendering suffers under certain conditions. Whenever I go out, I tell myself I need more light and range. This lens will provide the range, but not the light. The 400 2.8TC + TC is calling to me, but it's hard for me to justify the money. The 800PF seems a bit limited, but would certainly give me more range. I think a 600 5.6 built similar to the 400 4.5 ( if possible or maybe a PF) would be a great addition to Nikon's lineup.
Interesting … I bought the 180-600 but sent it back (a bit reluctantly given rave reviews and it seemed sharp to me) - as too heavy compared with my 500PF, in the context of a daily river walk for wildlife shooting. I’m almost always shooting small birds and the zoom is no advantage to me.
I'm using a Z7II + FTZII+ Tamron 18-400 DX (29mm-640mm equivalents) for my do-it-all travel lens. I'm not getting the benefits of the full frame, but the mirrorless body is way better than my old D7500 DSLR. I do miss the pop up flash, however, and the bigger body fits my big hands better.
Thank you for this video! I ordered a Nikkor Z 180-600 MM. It should arrive today. I look forward to playing with it using My Z7II.
Recently upgraded to the Z8 (from a D500). Using my f mount 500mm f4 & Sigma 150-600mm C. Thinking of upgrading the Sigma to the 180-600mm
I'm happy with the 500PF. I like to know your opinion on the 500PF adapted vs the 180-600.
How does it compare to Nikon 100-400 + 1.4 ?
Thanks for the great review! I’m on a waiting list at my LOCAL camera store for a 180-600! Im going crazy waiting for it!!
Thanks for the review. Clear the Z glass blows the previous iteration away. So grateful to have the 400mm f4.5. I use the 200-500 with my D850 for everything else.
I have both of these lenses but have retired the 200-500 as I didn't want to keep having to fit the FTZ.
I also have the 2xTC to use on the 180-600 or my 70-200. Despite what some might say, the results
using the TC are very good as long as you have good light.
I've had the 200-500mm for years, and for a decade before that the 200-400 f/4 VR1. Weight and cost savings made the 200-500 regret-free, but there are ergonomics issues hopefully the 180-600 addresses. First, is it Internal Focus? (No one complains about the quarter-turn range, which suggests it is, but nobody's said "Internal Focus"). 2nd, is the focusing ring still behind the zoom ring? Last, can the front button(s) be assigned specific AF -on mode (like back focus buttons can, and old 200-400 could do Spot, at least)?
I use Sony and have the 200-600mm...I say...well done Nikon!! They gave their customers the internal zoom...what a game changer.
Now you can rack your zoom and stay on target like never before.
Meanwhile over at Canon...they are humping their customers.
Good show Nikon!!!
Yeah the Canon equivalent lens is 100mm shorter and $1000 more expensive... but Canon has cameras like the R7 that do great with wildlife, whereas with Nikon you really need to spring for a Z8 to get reliable results.
@@TonyAndChelsea I agree about the camera body...but I think in the end...glass is still king. And that Canon has an external throw...frankly unacceptable at that price.
Nikon customers are on a...friendlier path...imo. Great video as usual sir.
Great video; thanks. Comparison to the Nikkor 100-400mm would be great too.
Tony on the Z8/Z9 to get better results in terms of noise after ISO 200 go straight to ISO 500. it has been shown that the Z8/Z9 has a dual gain function which improves performance at ISO 500
Thank you Tony. I already got one and I totally agree with you. It most definitely is an amazing lens which works perfectly when attached to my new Z8. You got yourself a new follower. Kind greetings from Denmark
One of the biggest jumps hands down is the short throw. The old 200-500 is great but for fast moving subjects it is way too much throw to get through the range.
Happy with my Z100-400mm, Z800mm & ZTC.4x. The new lens looks great, but won’t fit in my bag with the Z800mm
Thanks for the comparison, this is definitely the upgrade path I want to take with my Z9, I've really enjoyed using the 200-500 and a 1.4x but these advantages are important to me.
I would love to see video conparison of Z8+180-600mm and D500+200-500mm :-)
Check our comparison of the Z8 and D850, since the D500 is basically an APS-C D850. The DSLRs really feel LOUD compared to the Z8 and Z9, so one of the biggest benefits of mirrorless is the ability to be quiet or silent. Being full-frame with the same pixel density is a HUGE benefit for having a wider field of view to track flying birds, but also getting more detail when you can fill the frame. But, of course, the D500 has an optical viewfinder which I prefer and the setup is WAY cheaper.
sold. Upgrading ASAP. went from D850 to z8 two days ago
So I’m wondering if I should sell my 100-400mm Z
Thanks Tony, nice review for Nikon. I received my Z 180-600 whilst in hospital for 13 days, back home now. I tried it on my Z8 but I must admit after major surgery the body needs to heal before I can physically get out and enjoy what I love most ie. wildlife and landscape. Looking forward to your next review maybe the Nikon ZF?
Still photography with the D500/200-500 is great, 6 years on. Video with the D500 is a real PITA and the reason to upgrade. 200-500 zoom is too long throw, and internal zooming with a short throw a welcome improvement. Had a 200-400 f/4 for a dozen years and what I've missed most was programming the barrel buttons to be the back-focus and VR refresh switch. That worked well for manual fine focus because the focusing ring was the front ring. Not so with either the 290-500:or 180-600. I'll miss sots with minimum focus distance longer than 6.5' because closer subjects just won't be focus-able. (Sometimes you just can't back up from tight quarters). This 180-200 needs a Z6 iii-equivalently affordable APS-C sensor body with not more than 24MP and that new best-in-class EVF.
A really informative review thank you Tony. Specifically for bird photography , which Nikon body would you strongly suggest to go with 180-600?
Thanks Tony for this detailed review. Would you be doing a comparison between Canon, Nokin and Sony telephoto zooms with their wildlife cameras (R5, Z8, a9 or a1) please? I am curious to know which combo is the best or more relevant perhaps is the advantage of each system
Yes, subscribe! That'll be out in the next 4 days because of end-of-month deadlines lol.
I want to buy the 180-600mm. I recently used my Sigma 100-400mm to film a woodpecker. Always too far and the video is shaky handheld. I have Nikon Z 5 and I enjoy nature photography when I can
I would love to see the z8 with the 180-600 go up agaibst the sony a7rv with the 200 to 600 for wildlife video. Taking into acount the stabilization and also things like clear image zoom
Thanks for the great video, I have just upgraded my 200-500 t the new 180-600 today based on your review :)
Yay, lots of 200-500s going up for sale to scoop up! - BTW: If you're starting out, you can get a used D500 and 200-500 lens for less than $2K USD. Just a thought if you don't mind pre-owned gear.
Nice vid -- yes the 200-500 has relatively slow AF motors and a huge throw on the zoom ring.
Obviously there is no point comparing the 200-500 without the FTZ/FTZii to the 180-600 - the FTZ adds back the difference between the small flange depth on the Z bodies vs DSLRs.
Look at the focus distance indicator on the Z9 EVF, which no doubt will come to the Z8 as well.
I note you use/show lenses without lens feet attached -- these must be used when using such lenses on a tripod/monopod.
Anyone out in heavy weather on on boats must use appropriate rain coats on their gear - not least to keep salt/spray out.
I've got the 200-500 which I love and I have the 180-600 on order yet. I am upgrading from a D850 to Z8 and can't wait to offload the D850 with the few lenses I have left. The Z8 is amazing and is a wonderful replacement for the D850. Thanks for the review. I am looking forward to receipt of the 180-600 so I can get out and find something interesting.
I reeeally am interested in this lens, but I need to replace my body first...waiting to see what they come up with for the Z6III.
I originally bought this lens, and it is a good lens, but I upgraded to the 100-400mm S lens. It is a faster, sharper lens, and has very close focusing. It is smaller and lighter, with the added ability to go as wide as 100mm. With the TCs it gives me the ability to zoom from 100mm to 800mm. I found that the 180-600 was so close in size to my 800mm S lens that the 100-400 is a better combination for me. These 2 S lenses cover 100mm-1,600mm and are easily usable handheld.
I'm still on the fence..I've just recently purchased a z8 and im coming from the cropped dinosaur D3300 but i only have 1 FX lens but I've ordered 2 cheaper dslr ones both nikon 70-300 and 28-300 just to help me get a better feel for the z8 but I love sports/wildlife/motorsports/aviation/airshow photography with a few landscape/travel/potrait occasionally but im.still torn between choosing my purchase as I do not shoot professionally but i enjoy seeing things get better with time. I have had the D3300 for about 10 years and I wanted to upgrade...befire it i hsd a P510 for 5 years or so. So I'm slowly learning. Im not gonna say this video tipped the scales in the 180-600mm direction but it has definitely put more weight on that side....i just try to balance value with results and both new or used the price on the 200-500 is more doable for sure. I just cant bring myself to make a decision yet but thanks for this very informative video. This is the first video I've not seen mention how the throw is on the 200-500mm or the 2 different VR modes and how they compare.
I started with the Tamron 150-600 F5.6-6.3 moved up to the Nikon 200-500 F5.6 several years ago which was a good update, and I've been using it adapted on a Z7. It works well. Yes the Auto focus isn't what you could get with the Z8. I've been waiting for your review for over 2 years since this lens has been on the roadmap for forever and I knew you would give it a fair non-biased review. This lens is on my list to buy due to the lens quality, native Z, focus improvements (which for more of a step will require a body update), weight savings, non telescoping, and shorter zoom throw which I think will be a fairly big deal in usability for me. Would love to have you review it with the new Nikon FC to see how that autofocus performs, but it would be hard to go back to 24MP after using the 45MP Z7 for a while now. Still I think that will tell us what the autofocus in a Z7/Z6 III will be like with the Expeed7 processor. I'll buy the lens now with the hope that in the not to distant future there will be a lower priced 45MP body than the Z8, after all it's just a hobby for me. I was very pleasantly surprised a the $1700 price, I was expecting around $2200-$2500.
So.. the 200-500mm used prices should drop now right? right?! While I would love to move to mirrorless, that isn't going to happen for a while.
It did where I live, went down like 20% as soon as it was announced.
Excited for the influx of used 200-500's that'll be available.
I was using the 200-500 on a D500, excellent combo to be honest & a wildlife snappers dream pairing which gave me first class results.
The zoom on my 200-500 however got stuck when an internal screw came loose (Thousands of users have had this issue) I did however strip the lens and find a fix.
I have now moved to the Z9 and 180-600 combo, the jury is still out as I have been using the Z9 with a Nikon 200-400 f/4 G lens and a Nikon 600 f/4 which would be an unfair comparison. I wanted something lighter though as the 600 is always used on a tripod and the 200-400 is for the most part on a monopod. Having the 180-600 will now mean I can hand hold again just like I was with my 200-500 and D500. Its a pity that the price point of Nikon Z glass is, well, ludicrously expensive to be honest, especially the none pro glass, as you say, the 180-600 is at a fair price point which is why I decided to buy it. I will however be using my "F" glass and the FTZ adaptor for the forseable future as I dont think the pro Z glass offers any real benefit to me.
You didn't mention in this review the difference in using DSLR direct view vs the Z8 or 9 EVF. Looked at a Z8 today and it is clear the viewfinder is not up to DSLR standards at present for active wildlife and flying aircraft., sports, etc. Holding out for better EVF before making the switch. Since Nikon buys sensors from Sony.....wonder if they might buy Sony's higher resolution EVF for their next iterations of the Z8, Z9? Just wish there was a version of this new lens for the DSLRs already out there. Maybe secondary market could design a work around to use this lens with DSLRs?
For a few hundred dollars more, the 180-600 is a no brainer. However, Nikon just dropped the price of the 200-500 by $340! So, for only $1049, the 200-500 is a steal. It's a super sharp lens and I'm glad I just bought it again. For my purpose, it's more than sufficient. Now that leaves me with over $600 in savings to put toward another Z! I think too much emphasis is being put on sharpness. With the improvements in post processing such as Topaz Photo AI 2, what can be brought out from most any lens is incredible. My 200-500 came in today and a series of wildlife shots in RAW were more than acceptable for anyone's standards. After running them through Photo AI 2, I could count the blades of grass at 500 and cropped. Stunning software and lenses.
I'm buying the Nikon 180-60mm. You aided my decision making all i need do now is cash in my son's college fund, he's not very bright in anycase. I'll enjoy the lens more than my son would've enjoyed college
I've pre-ordered the Z180-600 on the morning of the release. I would love to know how I like it but I haven't received it yet. I'm using my Sigma 150-600 until then.
Sign up for Nikon Professional Services and submit your order as a priority. Nikon is REALLY behind on shipping gear so that's basically the only way to get some stuff. We ordered our 600 f4 TC in May and we're still waiting, even with NPS.
Which camera would you recommend between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon Z7 MK2? You have a lot of experience in photography and have use a lot of different cameras.
How does it compare with Nikon z 100-400mm as I’m in between the two. I’m not one for shooting much wildlife but the option of 600mm is appealing and nice to have the reach, especially when will be getting 2.8 trio of lenses covering 14-200mm range. The 100-400 is more versatile at wider range, lower aperture and then being a s line lens.
Steve Perry has a vid comparing the two and put the 180-600 as slightly (very slightly) sharper than the 100-400 . . .
@@imoldgreggboosh3467 are you referring to the sharpness/ auto focus speed video?
@@DaniReader Yes. He compares to quite a few diff lenses.
dear Tony I love my 200 500 very much . I am old school person . I dont see very different be honest with you . sometimes I feel like some of cameras and lenses are like paper
the old dslr rs like soviet tanks . even I compare my old Nikon d3x with z9 it wasn't too much different I keep my d3x . it's not too much expensive at the moment but I know the d3x the best one
Thanks for an okay review. Anyone who has played with the Nikon 200-500 knows that there is a lot of variation between individual lenses - also regarding chromatic aberration. It's nice to see that the Nikon 150-600 is sharper, but considering the price - one can get a 200-500 today for 878 EUR or less. Nikon's 150-600 costs 2,027 EUR in Europe... that's also worth considering.
I'd like to ask you about Nikon Z9 + Nikkor 180-600. When VR is on in Normal mode the target shifts every time you release shutter. I read in Internet and many people confirms the same
I think that happens with every (super telephoto?) lens on the Z8/Z9, at least it also happens with my 800 PF.
Can be annoying in some situations, specifically when using single point AF, but I think this jumping is what allows you to get sharp images at 600+ mm with shutter speeds below 1/50th of a second. You can always go with sports mode, in that mode it doesn't jump, and you can still get sharp shots at pretty slow shutter speeds.
the 180-600 is next on my list to buy.
My 200-500 mm is still the best! Still going strong!
Need to know how the 180-600 works with the Z50II.
Has anyone tried the 180-600mm with the Z6ii?
Gracias me ayudo a tomar la desiciòn y ya lo compreeeee. Tanks
Tony, if you made a video like you did back in the day that you referred to in this video of the best combos for different price ranges, would the Z8+180-600 be above the Canon R5+100-500 or the Sony a7rV+200-600? It seems like it would, with a stacked sensor and a great lens that reaches to 600mm while being reasonable priced.
We're working on a broad wildlife comparison this week and it'll be up before the end of the month.
I'm an amateur photographer, looking to upgrade from a Z6 with S AF 70 - 200....what do think about combining the new nikon ZF with the Z 80 - 600 ??
Tamron's 150-500 is coming to Z mount soon. Price aside, I think the more compact size of that lens will hold some value to photographers hiking into the backcountry. Both the length and weight are big considerations in that scenario.
Not an easy lens to get due to limited availability - but I finally got one, should be here tomorrow just in time for the Long Beach air show. I guess I'll find out just how good it is with the Z9. Thanks for taking the time to review it for us ;-)
Is Nikon 80-400mm lens with Nikon D500 body
Good for bird photography?
I know the Sigma 60-600mm is much heavier but the image quality seems better yeah?
Nice! That's the kind of specs you want for a wildlife lens. 600mm on fullframe is a great range. And living in the Netherlands: the 6.3 is also greatly appreciated. And being 180, that also beats the sony 200-600. And it surely beats the 100-500 from Canon because of the 7.1
So yeah: good job Nikon!
I’ve done the Nikon and Canon long lens thing. Now I just crop in with medium format.
Good info, Tony. What would you say about focusing SPEED? Did you see an advantage in either lens? THANKS!
Tony, Thank you taking the time & effort to provide the comparison review of the lens. I'm planning to get the 180-600mm when available.
If shooting the Nikon Z9, which brand & size CFexpress Type B Cards would you use for wildlife still photography and would you use a different size card for wildlife video work? THANK YOU
I'm going to Africa soon and hope Nikon starts delivering!
Hello sir , I want to know about Tamron 150-500 mm z mount lens vs nikon 200-500 mm F mount lens .
Which one is the better ?
While I'm happy with my D500/200-500 kit's performance, I'm done with mirrors. Except for long distance wildlife, I've fully switched over and my new 180-600 arrives today. The other rig will be sold in the near future.
Tony's got that dynamic Keynote slide background
haha yeah i just discovered it
Does this mean that prices of used 200-500s will come down a bit?
I believe that some variation of quality is caused by the adapter.
I would have like to see the difference from a DSLR with the 200/500 instead of using the z adapter ? That is the reason why they made this lenses for z mount again spending money on gear instead of spending the time to become better photographer!!
Great video! Thank you.
My current favorite Super tele is my (manual) Nikkor 500mm f/4 P ED, though it is much harder to get consistently clear shots (need to stop down and increase iso to deepen the focus range) but it is an amazing lens.
I just ordered a new Zf to replace my Leica SL, so perhaps this 180-600 will be added to my quiver of lenses :)