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prime35mmdiscontinued

Nikkor 200mm f/4 AI-S

Nikon · 1981-2005

The Nikkor 200mm f/4 AI-S is a compact, lightweight telephoto that punches well above its weight. Simple 5-element design delivers excellent sharpness from wide open, with beautiful rendering and neutral color. The f/4 aperture keeps it compact while still providing useful subject isolation.

Known for

  • Portraits
  • Sports from distance
  • Wildlife
  • Nature details

Considerations

  • Not as fast as f/2.8 options
  • Manual focus only

Optical Characteristics

Sharpness (wide)
4/5
Sharpness (stopped)
5/5
Contrast
4/5
Flare Resistance
4/5
CA Control
4/5
Vignetting Control
4/5
Distortion Control
5/5

Bokeh: Pleasant, smooth transitions

Rendering: Clean and sharp, excellent micro-contrast

Color: Neutral Nikkor colors

Common Issues

  • Rubber grip can become sticky
  • Aperture ring can become loose

Buying Guide

Look for smooth focus action and clean optics. The later AI-S versions are preferred for their improved coatings.

Specifications

MountNikon F
Focal Length200mm
Max Aperturef/4
Min Aperturef/32
Aperture Blades9
Min Focus2m
Filter Size52mm
Weight510g

Optical Design

FormulaTelephoto
Elements5
Groups5
CoatingNIC (Nikon)

Pricing

£150 - £300

Typical used price

Mint: ~£350

Excellent value telephoto

Adapts To

sony-ecanon-rfnikon-zfujifilm-xmicro-four-thirds
Last verified: Jan 2025 · Needs reviewReviewed: Apr 2026Report an errorSuggest an edit
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