New Nikon 80-400 vs 200-400

merv

merv

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Mervyn
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I know these are different beasties but has anyone any experience of the the new 80-400 in fast stuff, planes cars bikes etc. The 200-400 is a bit of a monster and has a shorter range but obviously has class
merv
:bang:
 
I've had the new 80-400 now for a few weeks & love the versatility of the zoom range.
I find it quick enough for my needs, although not quite as fast as the 300mm F2.8, the images are pretty sharp.

I've not used the 200-400mm so can't comment on that, except to say it larger, heavier & double the price.

This is a 1MB crop.


Fast Formation Flying by Carl B.1, on Flickr
 
My problem is I already own the 200-400 so no doubt would lose quite a bit in selling it. However, if I get limited use from it whats the point in keeping it.
Ken Rockwell, if you believe him, is very flattering about the latest 80-400.
thanks:clap:
 
Carl meant to say lovely shot of the birds.
merv:clap:
 
merv, I suppose it depends how much you use the 200-400 & what your main subject is.

I had a 300 F2.8 + 1.7TC & D7000 mainly for `birding`, but found it a bit heavy to carry around all day, but also wanted something with a bit more flexibility, kids in the park, bit of scenery, buildings etc. I find the new 80-400 ideal for 80% of my use & it aint too heavy to carry around all day. I previously had the old 80-400 up to a couple of years ago. I liked the range, but it was a bit too slow for birds. (this new one is faster & sharper)

If I was solely into wildlife/birds (or could actually afford another big lens as well) I'd love a 600mm or even the 200-400mm, but as an outdoor allrounder, the new 80-400mm is great for me. Using it on the D800E gives plenty of `cropability`.

I did lose nearly £1k on my 300mm prime, but it wasn't a purely financial decision for me.
I guess only you can decide, but if it aint being used (& not likely to be in the future) you possibly wouldn't miss it too much, especially if you can get a good price for it.

Let us know how you go on.
 
I have neither, but the 80-400 is one of two lenses left on my wish list...

If you look over at NikonCafe, you'll find several references to the 200-400 and "everyone" finds the 80-400 sharper at the long end...
Read somewhere, that Randy would replace his 200-400 with this new 80-400 for his upcoming safari.
Easier to travel with and carrying around, but also as great (or greater) image quality.

Happy reading! :D
 
Thanks guys for all that. I use it mostly for planes, fast jets etc but it really is a monster to hold up in the air all day. Cant remember what it cost but can get £3k on trade in from 2 dealers so private sale would get more I hope. Mind you who would pay this amount on a private purchase? Maybe they would who knows. At the 200 end a formation of planes sometimes does not fit in and you cut the noses off and thats why I fancy the 80-400. Some say I would regret selling it as it is in a class of its own.
Have both, now what about that idea?!
:bang:
 
Carlos read the camera labs report. Highly recommended but obviously some criticism. Not good about VR 200-400 end, just where you need it. No such criticisms of the 200-400 so should maybe stick with it
thanks
 
I rarely use VR tbh, but it's certainly better than the MK1 lens.

If my main interest (80%-90%) was fast planes/sport etc i'd probably stick with the 200-400mm. You could always get a 24-70mm, if you don't already have one.

What about a cheap D7000 with your 200-400 & a 24-70 on your D4? (you might need to employ a Sherpa to carry your gear though. lol)
 
PaulButler said:
Not got either lens (yet ;)) but maybe this review will be of use http://www.dslrbodies.com/accessories/lenses-for-nikon/nikon-lens-reviews/nikon-80-400mm-f45-56g-af-s.html
Click to expand...

A good read, thank you for posting that.

A bit of a critique on the financial technicality in the report; when working out which is financially the more viable lens to buy / rent (80-400 vs 200-400) the author didn't take into account the residual value of the lens at the end of its life with the owner.

Personally, I have never lost more than 15% of the lens's value between buying and selling, while many times even sold for equal or more than what I bought for; this makes renting not a viable option unless I am desperately stuck and in need for a lens that I can't buy!
 
Decided to stick with the 200-400. Thanks for all advice.:clap:
 
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