AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II vs AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Nikon Nikkor
AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II
Nikon Nikkor
AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Here we are comparing the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II and the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR. The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II is a 500mm telephoto prime lens with a maximum aperture of f/4, released in 2001. The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is a 500mm telephoto prime lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6, released in 2018.
There is a 17 years difference between the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II and the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR — the newer design may benefit from more recent optical engineering and coatings.
Below you will find a detailed side-by-side comparison of their specifications, features, and key differences.
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| Compare | Fastest Aperture | Lightest Image Stabilization |
|---|---|---|
| Mount | ||
| Sensor Size | Full Frame | Full Frame |
| Best For | Wildlife | Wildlife |
Price & Availability | ||
| Shop | ||
Optical Specifications | ||
| Focal Length | 500 mm | 500 mm |
| Aperture | f/4 | f/5.6 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 | 9 |
Features | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | No | Yes |
| Weather Sealed | No | No |
Close-up Performance | ||
| Min. Focus Distance | 4.6 m | 3 m |
| Max. Magnification | - | - |
Physical Specifications | ||
| Weight | 3430 g | 1460 g |
| Length | 394 mm | 106 mm |
| Diameter | 139.5 mm | 237 mm |
| Filter Thread | 52 mm | 95 mm |
Price & Availability | ||
| Release Year | 2001 | 2018 |
| Shop | ||
Shopping links may contain affiliate codes that support this site at no extra cost to you.
Comparing Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II (500 mm, f/4) and Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR (500 mm, f/5.6).
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is the lightest at 1460 g, Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II weighs 3430 g.
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4D IF-ED II offers the fastest maximum aperture at f/4, allowing for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR can focus closest at 3 m minimum focus distance.
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR includes image stabilization.
Use the detailed comparison table below to see all specifications side-by-side and find the perfect lens for your photography needs.
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