AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR vs S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM
Nikon Nikkor
AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR
Sigma
S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM
Here we are comparing the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR and the Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM. 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. The Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM is a 500mm telephoto prime lens with a maximum aperture of f/4, released in 2017.
There is a 1 year difference between the Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM 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 | Lightest Image Stabilization | Fastest Aperture 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/5.6 | f/4 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 | 9 |
Features | ||
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Weather Sealed | No | No |
Close-up Performance | ||
| Min. Focus Distance | 3 m | 3.5 m |
| Max. Magnification | - | - |
Physical Specifications | ||
| Weight | 1460 g | 3310 g |
| Length | 106 mm | 144.8 mm |
| Diameter | 237 mm | 380.3 mm |
| Filter Thread | 95 mm | 46 mm |
Price & Availability | ||
| Release Year | 2018 | 2017 |
| 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/5.6E PF ED VR (500 mm, f/5.6) and Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM (500 mm, f/4).
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/5.6E PF ED VR is the lightest at 1460 g, Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM weighs 3310 g.
Sigma S 500 mm f/4 DG OS HSM 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.
Both lenses feature image stabilization for handheld shooting.
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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