Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S Review 2026: Sharp, Versatile & Still Worth It?

The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S delivers excellent sharpness, fast autofocus, and practical super-telephoto reach in a professional, weather-sealed package. It remains a favourite for Australian wildlife, safari, and sports photographers who want versatility without extreme weight or cost.

With internal zoom, strong VR, and superb optical performance, this lens bridges the gap between flexibility and quality perfectly for many users in 2026.

Watch the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S in Action

Key Specifications

Feature	Specification
Weight	1,435g
Dimensions	98mm × 220mm (internal zoom)
Autofocus	Fast and silent STM motor
Aperture	f/4.5-5.6 – 9 rounded blades
Filter Size	77mm
Vibration Reduction	Up to 5.5 stops
Minimum Focus	0.75m at 100mm
Weather Sealing	Yes – professional level

Key Benefits

• Versatile 100-400mm range in one lens
• Internal zoom for better balance and sealing
• Strong sharpness across the entire range
• Effective 5.5-stop VR for sharp handheld shots
• Fast and reliable autofocus
• Excellent build quality and weather sealing

Who Should Buy This Lens

Wildlife and bird photographers, safari enthusiasts, sports shooters needing flexible reach, and advanced amateurs who want pro-level performance without the size and cost of big primes.

Australian-Specific Use Cases

Excellent for bird photography in Kakadu and the Kimberley, wildlife in the Flinders Ranges, AFL and cricket from the stands, or coastal and marine shooting. The internal zoom and VR make it practical for boat work and long hikes.

Real-World Performance

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent sharpness and contrast
• Internal zoom design
• Effective stabilisation
• Fast and accurate AF
• Professional weather sealing

Cons

• Variable aperture (f/5.6 at long end)
• Heavier than consumer zooms
• Premium price

Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S vs Main Competitors – Which Should You Buy?

Lens	Weight	Zoom Range	Internal Zoom	Price Level	Best For
Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S	1,435g	100-400mm	Yes	Premium	Best overall quality & handling
Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR	1,955g	180-600mm	Yes	Mid-Premium	Maximum reach on a budget

Verdict: The Nikon Z 100-400mm S is the best choice for most photographers who prioritise sharpness, build quality and handling. Choose the 180-600mm if you need more reach.

Best Nikon Z Camera Bodies to Pair With the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S

• Nikon Z9 — Ultimate wildlife and action pairing.
• Nikon Z8 — Excellent balance of size and performance.
• Nikon Z6 III — Great hybrid option.

Recommended Lenses to Pair with the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S

• Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II
• Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II
• Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR

Recommended Lens Filters (77mm)

• Hoya Fusion One Next UV (77mm)
• Hoya HD Nano Mk II UV (77mm)
• B+W MRC Nano Master 010 UV-Haze (77mm)
• B+W MRC Nano Master 007 Clear (77mm)

Why Buy from Cameras Direct?

As Australia’s trusted Nikon specialist for over 25 years, we offer expert advice, genuine stock and fast nationwide delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S still worth buying in 2026?

Yes. It remains one of the best balanced super-telephoto zooms for wildlife, safari, and sports photography.

How does it compare to the Nikon Z 180-600mm?

The 100-400mm is lighter, sharper at the long end, has a brighter aperture, and better close-up performance. The 180-600mm wins if you need maximum reach.

Is the 100-400mm good for bird photography in Australia?

Excellent. The fast AF, effective VR, and sharp optics make it very capable for birds in flight and perched subjects.

Does it have image stabilisation?

Yes. When paired with Z bodies that have IBIS, it delivers up to 5.5 stops of compensation.

What is the filter size of the Nikon Z 100-400mm?

77mm. We recommend starting with the Hoya Fusion One Next UV or B+W MRC Nano filters for protection.

Is it suitable for video?

Yes. The silent AF and internal zoom design make it a strong choice for hybrid shooters.

Can you use teleconverters with the 100-400mm?

Yes. It works very well with the Nikon Z TC-1.4x and TC-2.0x.

How does it handle Australian conditions?

Very well. The professional weather sealing performs reliably in dust, rain, and humidity.

Is it better than third-party alternatives like Tamron?

Yes for most users — superior sharpness, build quality, weather sealing, and handling.

Conclusion

The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S continues to be one of the strongest super-telephoto zooms available. It delivers the perfect balance of reach, sharpness, and usability for Australian wildlife, safari, and sports photography. Highly recommended.

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