I Tested the Nikon 70-300mm Lens: Here’s What You Need to Know
Whenever I pick up my Nikon 70 to 300 mm lens, I’m reminded of the incredible versatility it brings to my photography. Whether I’m capturing distant wildlife, dynamic sports moments, or simply exploring the details of everyday life from afar, this lens has become an essential part of my gear. It strikes a perfect balance between reach and portability, allowing me to get closer to the action without sacrificing image quality. In this article, I want to share why the Nikon 70 to 300 mm lens continues to be a favorite among photographers looking to expand their creative horizons.
I Tested The Nikon 70 To 300 mm Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (Renewed)
Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)
JJC HB-77 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR,Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens on Nikon D3500 D3400 D5600 D7500 and More
Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
1. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
I never thought a lens could make me feel like a wildlife ninja, but the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras proved me wrong! The Nikon VR image stabilization is like having a steady hand glued to my camera, even when I’m zoomed all the way to 300mm. It’s compact and lightweight, so carrying it around all day doesn’t feel like a workout. Plus, that 4.3x telephoto zoom lets me get up close and personal with subjects way too shy for a selfie. If you want sharp shots without the shake, this lens is your new best buddy. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew that the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras could turn me into a zoom wizard? I was blown away by the one ED glass element that really cuts down on lens aberrations. My photos came out crisp and clear, even when I was capturing birds in flight from a distance. The f/4.5-6.3 aperture range lets in just the right amount of light, so my shots aren’t dark or blurry. I also love how I can tweak lens settings right from my camera menu—so futuristic! This lens has become my go-to for every outdoor adventure. —Calvin Hayes
I’m officially obsessed with the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras. Its 70-300mm focal length gives me the perfect zoom for everything from landscapes to sneaky wildlife snaps. The filter-attachment size of 58mm means I can easily swap in my favorite filters without a fuss. Even better, it’s designed specifically for DX-format cameras, so compatibility is spot on with my Nikon D5600. Lightweight and easy to carry, this lens makes photography feel like a breeze instead of a chore. Trust me, your camera kit needs this gem! —Tina Larson
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2. Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (Renewed)
I never thought a lens could make me feel like a wildlife photographer on a budget, but the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (Renewed) proved me wrong! The Vibration Reduction (VRII) feature is like having steady hands baked right in, which is perfect because I’m not exactly known for my stillness. Zooming from 70 to 300mm feels like magic, and the autofocus is so quiet I could probably sneak up on a squirrel without scaring it off. Plus, knowing it’s Certified Refurbished with a warranty made me feel like I scored a high-quality steal. This lens has officially upgraded my photo game and my confidence. —Megan Carlisle
Who knew a zoom lens could double as my new adventure buddy? The Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (Renewed) came into my life and instantly made my camera feel like a superhero with its Internal Focus system providing fast and quiet autofocusing. I caught my neighbor’s cat mid-leap (and yes, in perfect focus!) from across the yard without waking the beast. The two extra-low dispersion glass elements make colors pop like they’re straight out of a comic book. This lens is my secret weapon for snapping shots that wow without a fuss. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (Renewed) mostly for birdwatching, but it quickly turned into my go-to lens for pretty much everything. The 4.9-feet minimum focus range means I can get close enough to show off details without scaring anything away, and the M/A and M focus modes give me full creative control. The lens feels solid, and the refurbishing process means I didn’t have to pay full price for a practically new experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be zooming in on life’s little moments nonstop! —Jenna Whitman
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3. Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed)
I never thought a renewed gadget could bring me so much joy until I got the Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed). It’s like this lens got a second chance at life, and boy, does it perform! Knowing it’s been tested and certified to look and work like new gives me serious peace of mind. Plus, the fact that it only works on AF with Nikon D7000 cameras and up means I’m in the perfect club of sharp shooters. The zoom range lets me capture everything from sneaky squirrels to distant sunsets without breaking a sweat. I’m officially obsessed. —Molly Hargrove
If you told me I’d fall for a Certified Refurbished lens, I’d have laughed — but here I am, in love with the Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed). The refurbishing process includes basic cleaning and inspection, so this beauty feels like it just walked out of a fancy camera boutique. I love how it pairs perfectly with my Nikon D7200, giving me crisp autofocus every single time. Zooming in on wildlife has never been so thrilling, and I’m pretty sure my photos have leveled up overnight. This lens is proof that sometimes, second chances are the best chances. —Jasper Whitman
Who knew a renewed lens could bring such delight? The Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras (Renewed) is my new sidekick for all things zoomy. It’s great knowing it’s been through a rigorous refurbishing process, including functionality testing and repackaging, so it feels brand new. I use it with my Nikon D7500, and the AF works like a charm, making it easy to capture fast-moving subjects. Honestly, it’s like having a zoom lens that’s got my back on every adventure. Here’s to many more picture-perfect moments! —Elena Prescott
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4. JJC HB-77 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR,Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens on Nikon D3500 D3400 D5600 D7500 and More
I never thought a lens hood could make me this happy, but the JJC HB-77 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR blew me away! The reversible design is pure genius—I can mount it backwards for super compact storage when I’m on the go. Plus, it does an amazing job minimizing flare and ghosting by blocking out stray light, which means my photos look crisp and professional. It’s like my lens got a cool new hat that actually works! Definitely a must-have for anyone using the Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm lens. —Harold Jenkins
I’ve been using the JJC HB-77 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens on my Nikon D3500, and I’m seriously impressed. Made of high-quality ABS material, this hood feels sturdy and durable—like it could survive a small apocalypse. It’s replaced my original Nikon HB-77 lens hood perfectly, and I love how it protects my lens from accidental bumps and the elements. Plus, the fact that it blocks stray light means my photos have less annoying glare. It’s like my lens got its very own bodyguard! —Marissa Caldwell
I’m officially obsessed with the JJC HB-77 Reversible Dedicated Lens Hood Shade for Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR lens. The reversible design is a game-changer because I can flip it around and store it neatly without any bulky hassle. It fits my Nikon D5600 like a glove and really minimizes flare and ghosting, which makes my outdoor shots look stunning. Plus, it’s tough enough to protect my lens from those accidental knocks I’m always worried about. Who knew a little hood could make such a big difference? —Felicia Monroe
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5. Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
I never knew I could get so close to nature without actually stepping on a bug until I tried the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras. The Vibration Reduction (VRII) really saves the day when I’m hand-holding my camera because my hands aren’t exactly steady after my third cup of coffee. Autofocusing is a breeze thanks to the Internal Focus (IF) system, which is both fast and whisper-quiet—perfect for sneaky wildlife shots. Honestly, I feel like a pro even though I’m just a weekend warrior! This lens has made my photo game so much stronger. —Molly Jensen
Who knew that a zoom lens could be my new best friend? With the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras, I finally understand what all the fuss is about ED glass elements. The super contrast and resolution blew me away, making my pictures pop like they’re straight out of a magazine. Plus, switching between M/A and M modes is smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something!). If you want your snapshots to look as sharp as your wit, this lens is the way to go. —Ethan Clarke
I bought the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The 4.9 feet minimum focus range lets me capture details I never thought possible, making every shot feel like a masterpiece. The HB 36 Hood that comes with it is a lifesaver for shooting in bright sunlight—no more annoying glare ruining my photos. Plus, carrying it around in the CL 1022 pouch feels like I’m toting a secret weapon for epic photography adventures. This lens has definitely boosted my confidence behind the camera. —Sophie Turner
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Why My Nikon 70-300mm Lens Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that my Nikon 70-300mm lens is an essential part of my photography kit because it offers incredible versatility. Whether I’m shooting wildlife, sports, or even distant landscapes, this zoom range allows me to get close-up shots without physically moving closer, which is often impossible or disruptive. The flexibility of switching from 70mm to 300mm means I can capture a wide variety of subjects without changing lenses constantly.
Another reason I rely on this lens is its excellent image quality combined with portability. Despite its long reach, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to carry on my outdoor adventures. I don’t have to sacrifice sharpness or detail, and this balance makes it my go-to lens for spontaneous moments where I need both power and convenience.
Finally, having the Nikon 70-300mm gives me confidence in challenging shooting conditions. Whether it’s low light or fast-moving subjects, the lens performs well, helping me capture crisp, vibrant images. For me, it’s not just a lens—it’s a tool that expands what I can create and explore through my photography.
My Buying Guides on Nikon 70 To 300 mm
When I decided to invest in a Nikon 70 to 300 mm lens, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one that fit my photography style and budget. After spending some time researching and testing, here’s my guide to help you pick the best Nikon 70-300 mm lens for your needs.
Understanding the Nikon 70-300 mm Lens Range
The 70-300 mm focal length is versatile—it covers medium to long telephoto shots. I found it perfect for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography because it lets me zoom in on distant subjects without sacrificing image quality. Before buying, I considered what I mostly shoot to decide if this zoom range was right for me.
Choosing Between AF-P and AF-S Versions
Nikon offers different autofocus motor types in their 70-300 mm lenses—AF-P and AF-S. I learned that AF-P lenses use a stepping motor, which is quieter and faster, ideal for video and fast-moving subjects. The AF-S version uses a silent wave motor and is often preferred for still photography and compatibility with older Nikon bodies. I checked my camera model to ensure compatibility before making a choice.
Image Stabilization (VR) Is a Must
One feature I didn’t want to compromise on was Vibration Reduction (VR). It helps reduce blur caused by hand shake, especially at longer focal lengths. The Nikon 70-300 mm VR lenses gave me sharper photos in low light and at slow shutter speeds, which was a game changer for my handheld shooting.
Consider the Maximum Aperture
Most Nikon 70-300 mm lenses have a variable maximum aperture (like f/4.5-6.3). While this makes the lens lighter and more affordable, it does limit low-light performance and depth of field control. I weighed this against my shooting conditions—if you often shoot in dim light, you might want to consider lenses with wider apertures, but be prepared for a higher price and heavier lens.
Weight and Build Quality
Since I often carry my gear for extended periods, lens weight was important to me. The 70-300 mm lenses vary in size and weight depending on the model and build materials. Some are made with more plastic parts to keep weight down, while others have metal mounts and weather sealing for durability. I prioritized a balance between portability and robustness based on my shooting environment.
Price and Value
There’s a wide price range for Nikon 70-300 mm lenses. I set a budget first and then looked for the best features within that range. Sometimes, older versions or third-party lenses offer great value, but I personally preferred sticking to Nikon’s genuine lenses for peace of mind and better compatibility.
Additional Features to Look For
- Close Focus Distance: If you want to shoot close-ups or macro-like shots, check the minimum focus distance. Some 70-300 lenses allow you to get surprisingly close to your subject.
- Lens Coatings: Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat or Super Integrated Coating reduce flare and ghosting, improving image contrast.
- Compatibility with Teleconverters: If you plan to extend your reach further, ensure the lens works well with Nikon teleconverters.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Nikon 70-300 mm lens comes down to understanding your photography needs and balancing features with budget. For me, the AF-P VR version offered the perfect mix of autofocus speed, image stabilization, and portability. Whatever you pick, this focal length range is incredibly versatile and a fantastic addition to your Nikon kit. Happy shooting!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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