NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S

Reviewers find it sharp corner to corner at f/4 and still excellent at 840mm with the built-in converter, with very little longitudinal or lateral colour. Out-of-focus backgrounds are smooth, and the converter switch is consistently called the feature that sets it apart from Sony's and Canon's 600mm f/4 lenses.

Autofocus is fast and quiet, and VR rated at 5 stops (5.5 with Synchro VR) makes short handheld bursts realistic. Criticism centres on the price and on the 4.3m minimum focus distance, which is long for small subjects. Supply was also tight for a long time after launch.

Owners describe it as two lenses in one and say the built-in converter changed how they work in hides and on safari, where switching lenses is impractical. The balance and the relatively low weight for a 600mm f/4 get frequent praise.

Complaints concern the cost, the long wait many had for delivery, and the size of the hood and case. Some users note that the carry-on claim depends on the bag and that the lens still needs a gimbal for long sessions.