The excellent Nikon telephoto lenses do not have to cost a fortune.
You will see many beauties using large telephoto lenses that cost thousands.
You can get cheaper lenses with the same accessibility. We have selected the best Nikon telephoto lens sports lenses and wildlife fans at all levels.
The first task is to make sure you choose the right lens to match the body of your camera. The best Nikon cameras include DSLRs and no-framed cameras.
Each type comes with APS-C (DX) and a full-frame version (FX), so we are here to guide you in choosing.
They divide the lenses into two categories Nikon F-mount DSLR lenses and Nikon Z non-mirror lenses.
Most telephoto lenses are designed with full-frame cameras and will work in DX Nikons format like the Nikon D7500. A few only work on Nikon in DX format, but we will be sure to point this out if so
There are many telephoto Nikon lenses also available. You may be tempted to stick to Nikon’s first-class lenses.
Still, third-party companies such as Sigma and Tamron make premium optics for all various users. Many of them are often similar or better than Nikon lenses, with the added advantage of being more readily available.
One thing to note when you have an old Nikon body, including the D300s, D3000, and D5000. It compares with the mechanical lever used traditionally in the Nik-Fon mount lens system.
This creates greater flexibility in controlling the hole mainly when shot in continuous speed driving mode.
10 Best Budget Telephoto Lenses for Nikon 2024
Here are the top 10 best budget telephoto lenses for Nikon:
Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S
It works wonderfully, often popular with everything from action sports and exhibitions, weddings and event photography. Nikon design this lens, which includes a high-quality glass party.
It has two aspherical elements, six ED elements (Extra-low Dispersion), a fluorite element, and an elemental wave element. Advanced technology ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coat add a positive rating.
Although usually large and complex in this category of lenses. It manages the benefits from the tripod release ring, two customized L.Fn (Lens Function) buttons, and a multi-mode OLED display.
The lens also has two high-speed autofocus steps and 5-stop optical stabilization. The whole thing wraps in a weatherproof design, solid pro-grade, finishes with a fluorine coat on the front part.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon Z FX
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Stepping motor
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 0.5-1.0m
- Filter thread: 77mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 89 x 220mm
- Weight: 1,440g
Pros
- Amazing image quality and performance
- Strong construction quality
Cons
- It is expensive to buy
- It is usually large and heavy
Nikon AF-P 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR
Nikon’s AF-S 70-300mm features a ‘Pulse’ motor system autofocus that is surprisingly fast, quiet, and efficient.
The only downside is that these systems make the lens incompatible with the number of older Nikon DSLRs.
The VR system works exceptionally well, with a 4.5-stop operation and flexible ‘Sports VR’ mode. It is ready for tracking things that go wrong in the viewer.
The weather-resistant construction feels solid, and the lens is a player that performs well with image management and quality.
Since its launch, the average retail price has dropped by almost a third, making the lens a much better price.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon F
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Stepping Motor
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 1.2m
- Filter thread: 67mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 84 x 146mm
- Weight: 680g
Pros
- New generation automation control and opening control
- The exemplary optical intensity and image quality
Cons
- There is no focal distance range
- Not compatible with a variety of older DSLRs
Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR
The Nikon Z lens range is still light on telephotos, and it will take some time to discover the wide range.
It is available on the Nikon DSLRs so we will extend the point for now and install a 24-200mm ‘superzoom’ lens.
It offers you everything from a wide range of wide-angle combinations to full telephoto access to Flick of the wrist.
This one designs well and is lightweight with a superzoom that fits the frame. That is quite surprising, considering that it can change the range of zoom lenses.
It also has a 4.5-stop optical stabilizer. You get on telephoto to achieve what you lose with wide-angle ability, a ‘functional’ zoom range.
Specifications
- Mount: Z FX
- Autofocus: Pulse (stepping motor)
- Stabilizer: 4.5-stops
- Min focus distance: 0.5-0.7m
- Max magnification: 0.28x
- Filter thread: 67mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 77x114mm
- Weight: 570g
Pros
- Great zoom distance
- Effectively places two zoom lenses
Cons
- Usually, a small opening opens at the far end of the zoom distance.
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Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD
It weighs just over a pound. The lens is sturdy and robust, though lightweight compares with Nikon’s AF-S 80-400mm VR, and incorporates weather markers.
Performance advantages from high-speed autofocus, dual-mode stabilization, and the autofocus limit. You can use it to select short or long focus range.
Best of all, the image quality looks much better than the one from Nikon’s heavy and high-resolution 80-400mm VR.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon F
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Ultrasonic (ring-type)
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 1.5m
- Filter thread: 67mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 86 x 199mm
- Weight: 1,115g
Pros
- Wide range of zoom
- It is simple and inexpensive
Cons
- The 400mm hole slows down f / 6.3
- A triple ring costs more.
Sigma 100-400mm f / 5-6.3 DG OS HSM | C
Compact and slightly lighter than the competitive Tamron 100-400mm lens and somewhat heavier than the Nikon 80-400mm.
It also has dual-mode zoom machines, which you can use by twisting a standard zoom ring or drum-pulling action.
The impressive image quality benefits with the inclusion of four SLD (Special Low Dispersion) components. There are flexible auto / manual-priority methods AF.
Can use two custom settings to customize the autofocus and stabilization programs to suit your needs. It’s a good money lens, though the lack of a tripod mounting ring can be annoying.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon F
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Ultrasonic (ring-type)
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 1.6m
- Filter thread: 67mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 86 x 182mm
- Weight: 1,160g
Pros
- It fits well with 100-400mm zoom
- Clean management and good performance
Cons
- Only a climbing plate with air conditioning
- No tripod mounting collar.
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Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 DG OS HSM | S
The lens designed with a mindset of precision, and it strikes the mark perfectly.
It has class-leading autofocus speeds and Intelligent OS that provides image-based image algorithms across camera controls.
Waterproof and oil-based fabrics on the front of the lens ensure that it can withstand challenging weather conditions.
There is also a focus limit and an override switch to give you precise control.
These technologies are inexpensive and make the lens even heavier with magnesium-alloy construction, so keep this in mind before buying.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon F
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Hyper Sonic Motor
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 1.2m
- Filter thread: 82mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 94.2 x 202.9mm
- Weight: 1,850g
Pros
- Smart and efficient stability.
- Auto speed.
Cons
- Extensible filter thread.
Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM | S
As one of the ‘Sport’ lenses in Sigma’s Global Vision lineup. Sigma 150-600mm f / 5-6.3 DG OS HSM | The S design for speed and efficiency.
Advanced features include the option to focus on handwriting. You can switch to manual focus by simply twisting the focus ring without waiting for AF to start the key on the object.
It has Dual-mode stabilization has consistent positioning and scrolling modes. The zoom lock switch works for any set length of the barrel.
High-quality construction includes parts of metal drums and lens hood and a complete set of weather markers. The image quality is excellent, and the Sports lens maintains better sharpness at the end of the zoom range.
Slightly reduce the distortion, and autofocus speed is accelerating somewhat.
Specifications
- Mount: Canon EF, Nikon FX, Sigma SA
- Elements/groups: 24/16
- Diaphragm blades: 9
- Autofocus: Ultrasonic (ring-type)
- Stabilizer: 4-stops
- Minimum focus distance: 2.6m
- Maximum magnification: 0.2x
- Filter thread: 105mm
- Dimensions: : 121x290mm
- Weight: 2,860g
Pros
- Good image quality
- Robust construction with advanced features
Cons
- Significant in comparison to survival
- Usually, open ‘slightly’ at 600mm
Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD
This Tamron frame lens is compatible but offers a longer-range zoom in both full-feature Nikon and DX-format DSLRs.
Tamron’s optical image stabilizer works similarly to static shots but much less with panning.
It does not have an ‘active’ switch mode, yet it works best when shooting from an unstable platform. The image quality is not as sharp as that of the Nikon pillar.
The construction includes weather warnings and the installation of a fluorine cleaner on the front part.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon F
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Ultrasonic (ring-type)
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 0.95m
- Filter thread: 67mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 76 x 177mm
- Weight: 850g
Pros
- Premium performance at a great price
- Good quality constructions
Cons
- A slight lack of features compared to the latest Tamron 70-200mm f / 2.8 G2 latest.
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Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8E AF-S FL ED SR VR
If performance is significant and the stellar Nikon’s 120-300mm f / 2.8E lens is in its category. An imposing focus range sits between a reliable combo of 70-200mm and 300mm.
The professional sports shooters are providing a quick and medium-sized solution for shooting medium and long headers.
It has absolutely no weaknesses. It has incredible sharpness across the frame, across the focus range, and throughout the apertures, which pays most.
Its 9K price tag puts it in a place that most people can afford. If you have the money to spend it, you will find a multi-faceted and closest player.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon FX
- Full-frame compatible: Yes
- Autofocus Type: Silent wave motor
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 2.0m
- Filter thread: 112mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 128 x 303.5mm
- Weight: 3,250g
Pros
- Fantastic image quality and performance
- Strong construction quality
Cons
- It is expensive to buy
- It is usually large and heavy.
Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR
The Nikon Z 50 is refreshingly simple, with installation support by plastic rather than a metal inserting plate.
Typically Z-mount Nikon lenses have a ‘pulse’ stepping motor autofocus system that is fast and almost silent.
The hole shrinks to f / 6.3, which is much smaller at the end of the zoom list. It helps keep the size and weight down.
The actual zoom range is approximately 75-350mm in terms of the overall frame. The image quality is compelling in every way and improves the sharpness significantly.
Specifications
- Mount: Nikon Z DX
- Full-frame compatible: No
- Autofocus Type: Stepping motor
- Stabilizer: Yes
- Electromagnetic diaphragm: Yes
- Minimum focus distance: 0.5-1.0m
- Filter thread: 62mm
- Dimensions (WxL): 74 x 110mm
- Weight: 305g
Pros
- Integrated, simple construction.
- 5-stop optical stabilizer.
- Good image quality.
Cons
- There are no signs of the weather.
- The relatively small opening rate
- For APS-C only, not full frame.
Conclusion
As we have discussed, buying a telephoto lens requires balance in dealing.
The Tamron 70-210mm f / 4 Di VC USD is probably budget-friendly, but it has a few drawbacks. It is not suitable for low light.
It’s a good decision if you’re starting or don’t need telephoto skills often. If you need a long lens for a budget you can live with its challenges.
The highest step is the Nikon 120-300mm. It has a good range of zoom and low-light performance. Includes Nikon (VR) image enhancement, which is essential for long-term focus.
If your budget allows and you need to zoom in more, the Nikon Z 24-200mm is the best option. Similar to its Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f / 4.5-6.3 VR, it is ready to shoot in low light.
It also reduces Nikon vibration, which is essential for hand shots at higher zoom levels.
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