Nikon Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens

In 2026, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR delivers the ultimate “one-lens solution” for Australian photographers who want maximum versatility without carrying a bag full of glass. With a massive 14.2x zoom range from wide 28 mm landscapes to super-telephoto 400 mm wildlife reach in a surprisingly compact and lightweight body, this native Z lens removes the biggest frustration of travel and nature photography — constantly changing lenses.

Weighing just 725 g and measuring only 84.5 mm × 141.5 mm, the 28-400mm is the lightest lens in its class. It features 21 elements in 15 groups (including 4 ED and 3 aspherical elements), advanced VR with up to 5 stops of stabilisation (5.5 stops with Synchro VR on compatible bodies), and a 9-blade rounded diaphragm for pleasing bokeh. The fast, quiet STM autofocus locks onto subjects instantly, making it equally suited to stills and video.

Whether you’re hiking the Blue Mountains, exploring the Great Ocean Road, or photographing birds and wildlife in Kakadu, this lens gives you the reach and flexibility you need while keeping your kit light and your shooting experience enjoyable. It’s the modern superzoom that finally makes one-lens travel photography a reality.

Key Benefits

• 14.2x superzoom range – 28-400 mm in one native Nikon Z lens
• 5-stop VR stabilisation for sharp handheld shots even at 400 mm
• Lightweight & compact – only 725 g, perfect for all-day carry
• Excellent close focusing – 0.2 m at 28 mm (0.35x magnification)
• Fast, quiet STM autofocus with full Eye AF and video support
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm for pleasing bokeh
• Weather-resistant construction + fluorine front coating
• 77 mm filter thread – affordable and widely available

Real-World Use Cases

Travel photographers love carrying just this one lens for everything from city streets to mountain hikes. Wildlife and bird photographers benefit from the 400 mm reach combined with effective VR for sharp handheld shots. Landscape shooters use the wide 28 mm end for dramatic scenes and the telephoto compression for distant subjects. Event and street photographers appreciate the quick zoom without swapping lenses.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR, the 28-400mm gives you dramatically more telephoto reach while remaining similarly lightweight and compact. Versus the Z 24-120mm f/4 S you gain huge extra range, though the aperture is variable. It outperforms many third-party superzooms in autofocus speed, VR performance and build quality.

Honest note: At the long end the maximum aperture narrows to f/8, so it’s not ideal for extreme low-light or maximum subject isolation at 400 mm. For 85-90 % of travel, landscape, wildlife and walkaround photography, the convenience of this 14.2x zoom makes it the more practical choice.

Best Nikon Z Camera Bodies to Pair With

This lens performs brilliantly on any full-frame Nikon Z body:

• Nikon Zf – perfect lightweight travel combo
• Nikon Z6 III – excellent low-light and video performance
• Nikon Z7 II – high-resolution detail across the zoom range
• Nikon Z8 – flagship speed and AF for wildlife and events

Recommended Lens Filters (77 mm)

Protect your investment with these premium 77 mm filters:

Hoya Fusion One Next UV (77 mm) – our top recommendation for everyday protection and UV cut with excellent light transmission.

B+W UV-Haze MRC Nano Master (77 mm) – premium German engineering with multi-resistant nano coating for maximum clarity.

B+W Clear MRC Nano Master (77 mm) – optically neutral protection with the same high-end coatings.

Why Buy from Cameras Direct

As Australia’s trusted Nikon specialist, Cameras Direct stocks genuine local-warranty Nikon Z lenses with fast nationwide shipping, expert advice from our in-house team, and the peace of mind that comes from dealing with a passionate local retailer who understands the Z system inside out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Nikon Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR worth it?

Yes — it offers unmatched 14.2x versatility in a lightweight, travel-friendly package.

What is the filter size?

77 mm — convenient and affordable.

Does it work well for bird and wildlife photography?

Absolutely. The 400 mm reach plus 5-stop VR makes it excellent for handheld wildlife and birds.

How does it compare to the 24-200mm?

Much more telephoto reach while staying similarly lightweight and compact.

Is the VR effective at 400 mm?

Yes — up to 5 stops (5.5 stops with Synchro VR on compatible bodies).

Ready to travel lighter with the ultimate Nikon Z superzoom? Add the Nikon Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens to your cart today and experience the freedom of one-lens photography. Order now for fast delivery across Australia.

This Nikon Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens comes with a full 2 year warranty in Australia. 

Pop into our Gold Coast camera store & warehouse or order online. #CamerasDirect, happily helping you take a better #photo and being at your service. Thank you.