MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex vs AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR
Nikon Nikkor
MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex
Nikon Nikkor
AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR
Here we are comparing the Nikon Nikkor MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex and the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR. The Nikon Nikkor MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex is a 500mm telephoto prime lens with a maximum aperture of f/8, released in 1968. The Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR is a 500mm telephoto prime lens with a maximum aperture of f/4, released in 2007.
There is a 39 years difference between the Nikon Nikkor MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex and the Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G 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.
Shopping links may contain affiliate codes that support this site at no extra cost to you.
| Compare | Lightest | 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/8 | f/4 |
| Aperture Blades | - | 9 |
Features | ||
| Autofocus | No | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | No | Yes |
| Weather Sealed | No | No |
Close-up Performance | ||
| Min. Focus Distance | - | 4 m |
| Max. Magnification | - | - |
Physical Specifications | ||
| Weight | 1000 g | 3880 g |
| Length | 142 mm | 139.5 mm |
| Diameter | 93 mm | 391 mm |
| Filter Thread | 82 mm | 52 mm |
Price & Availability | ||
| Release Year | 1968 | 2007 |
| Shop | ||
Shopping links may contain affiliate codes that support this site at no extra cost to you.
Comparing Nikon Nikkor MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex (500 mm, f/8) and Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR (500 mm, f/4).
Nikon Nikkor MF 500 mm f/8 Reflex is the lightest at 1000 g, Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR weighs 3880 g.
Nikon Nikkor AF-S 500 mm f/4G ED VR 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/4G 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.
Discover the best lenses for your camera mount and photography style
Top-rated Nikon F lenses optimized for Wildlife Photography
Top-rated Nikon F lenses optimized for Portrait Photography
Top-rated Nikon F lenses optimized for Landscape Photography
Explore all curated lens recommendations by mount and photography type