Described as "the smallest and lightest 400mm Nikon has ever created," the Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S Lens is a super-telephoto prime mixing unique portability with long reach, advanced optics, and apt AF and VR.

It's a well-rounded lens for the traveling sports or wildlife shooter looking for a handheld design and capable reach for photographing distant subjects. Distinct among super-telephoto lenses, this 400mm f/4.5 is especially sleek and lightweight, making it an ideal companion for travel or other shooting scenarios where handheld shooting is preferred. Sophisticated optical design includes a series of specialized elements that promote a lighter, more compact overall design. Modest f/4.5 maximum aperture offers a practical balance between size, speed, and weight. With a size more akin to a 70-200mm f/2.8, this lens measures just 9.2" long and weighs 2.7 lb. Compared to the Z 400mm f/2.8 lens, this f/4.5 version weighs 3.8 lb less and measures 6" shorter in length.

Helping to virtually eliminate chromatic aberrations, color fringing, and comatic aberrations, this lens features one ED (extra-low dispersion) glass element and two Super ED elements, along with one SR (short-wavelength refractive) element. The SR element features a specialized high-dispersion design that refracts wavelengths shorter than blue; this helps achieve truly accurate colour rendering and also aids in making the lens design more compact. Nano Crystal Coat has been applied for well-rounded anti-glare protection at all angles, helping to suppress ghosting, reflections, and flare for higher contrast and more accurate color response when working in strong lighting and backlit conditions.

Advanced autofocus system uses stepping motors to deliver quick and accurate focusing performance, along with smooth and quiet AF that is well-suited to both stills and video applications.