I'm about to replace my stolen gear (just got my ins. settlement) and notice that nearly all Nikkor (FX) lenses are "AF-S." But, a couple (incl. the 70-300 F4-5.6 that I want) is "AF-P." Could someone explain the difference between S and P?
Many thanks.
They have different types of motors. The AF-S is more compatible. The AF-P is not fully compatible to some cameras although I think Nikon has introduced firmware update for all current cameras to fully support AF-P. Older cameras still may have some problems.
I believe the AF-P version although newer are less expensive. Nikon said it works better but I think they only tried to cut cost.
Thanks. I'll be putting it on my new D850, which I hope to pick up Saturday, in Oregon (no sales tax).
RichinSeattle wrote:
I'm about to replace my stolen gear (just got my ins. settlement) and notice that nearly all Nikkor (FX) lenses are "AF-S." But, a couple (incl. the 70-300 F4-5.6 that I want) is "AF-P." Could someone explain the difference between S and P?
Many thanks.
AF-P is the newest type of focusing motor, and is not supported by many of the older camera bodies. I'd choose the body you want, and then check to see which lenses will work with it. Plenty of AF-S lenses around that will work with most of the available Nikon bodies. Newest bodies like D500, D7500 and D850 will work with AF-P.
For your D850, Nikon only makes the AF-P 70-300 FX. The other AF-P lenses are all DX, and not as high a build quality. I would not hesitate to get the FX AF-P 70-300 lens, as it focuses quickly, is silent, and very sharp, not to mention only weighing 24 ounces.
Thanks all, for your very helpful comments. I just bought a used AF-S 70-300 on eBay and saved a couple hundred bucks.
RichinSeattle wrote:
Thanks all, for your very helpful comments. I just bought a used AF-S 70-300 on eBay and saved a couple hundred bucks.
Hope you got the VR version. The AF-P FX lens has great image quality.
Yep, I definitely got VR. I went AF-S because that's what my tele-converter is, and I expect to use it often at air shows.
RichinSeattle wrote:
Yep, I definitely got VR. I went AF-S because that's what my tele-converter is, and I expect to use it often at air shows.
Pretty sure your converter will work with AF-P lenses. They don’t change the contacts.
I have a D810 and did not like the IQ of the Nikkor AF-S 70-300mm lens.
RichinSeattle wrote:
Yep, I definitely got VR. I went AF-S because that's what my tele-converter is, and I expect to use it often at air shows.
If you have bought the Nikon 70-300mm f4.5-5.6 AF-S lens, then check that your tele-converter is compatible with the lens. Nikon specifically states that no Nikon branded tele-converter is compatible with the Nikon 70-300mm lens because the tele-converter will make contact with the rear lens element of the 70-300mm lens.
However, if your tele-converter is a non-Nikon product then it may be compatible but be sure to check.
I own both the Nikon 70-300 and the f1.4 Nikon tele-converter and can confirm those two items are NOT compatible!
NCMtnMan
Loc: N. Fork New River, Ashe Co., NC
Correct comments. Some of the P series lenses do not have a switch to turn VR off. Must be done in camera body, and some bodies don't have that menu option. Like my D7200. So be sure to check all the features on the lenses.
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