Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR 20082 500mm

39.9 Street Score
500mmf/32Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A Phase Fresnel element and magnesium alloy build shrink this 500mm prime to just 3.2 lbs, enabling handheld shooting with 4-stop Vibration Reduction. Its Nano Crystal Coat and three ED elements deliver high contrast and sharpness across the frame, even wide open at f/5.6. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need a lightweight, full-frame super-telephoto for extended field use.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Sigma 185955

32.7 Street Score
500mmf/32Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The constant f/4 aperture combined with two FLD and one SLD element delivers exceptional clarity and chromatic aberration correction, while the magnesium alloy body provides a dust- and splash-proof build at 3310g. Its optical stabilization offers a 4-stop advantage, and the Hyper Sonic Motor provides fast, accurate autofocus that excels in challenging low-light conditions. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers who need a durable, hand-holdable 500mm prime with full-frame coverage and reliable weather sealing for extended outdoor shoots.

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Sigma 185955 lens
Price $6,599

Zeiss Otus 100mm f/1.4 ZF.2 100mm

31.2 Street Score
100mmf/16Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The apochromatic Sonnar design incorporates 9 low-dispersion and 1 aspherical element, minimizing color fringing at f/1.4 with Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating. Its anodized metal barrel, 1336g weight, and long manual focus throw provide deliberate, vibration-free control ideal for tripod-based work. This lens is best for portrait and product photographers who will sacrifice autofocus and weather sealing for maximal sharpness across the frame.

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