Nikon Lenses

Frank Teodosio · Apr 26, 2009

Can anyone tell me what the difference between an 80-200mm F2.8 and
80-200mm F2.8D. What does the "D" signify?? I tried to get the info from Nikon's web site but had no luck.
Thanks

mudman · Apr 26, 2009

D stands for Distance information, it allows for the camera to use distance in its metering information and improves flash photography. Also the older 80-200 was a push pull type without a tripod collar - the D version is 2 ring (focus/zoom) and has a tripod mount. Nikon still makes it even though it got replaced once by the 80-200 AF-S (s stands for silent, the motor is built into the lens).

Karl K · Apr 26, 2009

Ken Rockwell explains the Nikon "D"

You may or may not like what Rockwell says, but here's the link to his explanation. I think he is correct.
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/nikortek.htm#afd

Colin Corneau · Apr 26, 2009

Mudman has it. I've owned all 3 -- AF-S is a very good thing. (have not used the new-new 70/200 although it's more compact and lighter than the 80/200. It's also over $2K but I digress)

Pinholemaster · Apr 27, 2009

70-200 is awesome.

Don't get the first auto-focus model of the 80-200. Poorly engineered focusing mechanism that breaks too easily. Later models do not have this problem.

PhotoJim · Apr 27, 2009

My 80-200 is the first AF version. The focus mechanism still works perfectly. Optically it's amazing. The focusing is very slow, mind... but it works. I bought it for a good price from a friend (I could not justify a newer version of the lens given the cost difference) and haven't needed to upgrade it yet.

mudman · Apr 27, 2009

There are deals out there though on the D version. I bought mine in EX condition off a guy on craigslist for $500. It is a heavy lens though.

Stan160 · Apr 28, 2009

mudman said:
There are deals out there though on the D version. I bought mine in EX condition off a guy on craigslist for $500. It is a heavy lens though.

Too heavy for me. After three years of infrequent use because I mostly couldn't face carrying it around in my rucksack all day I bought a 105/2.5 AI and the 80-200 AF-D is for sale.

Ian

mudman · Apr 28, 2009

It's definitely not my first go to lens for walk about. I too use the 105 f2.5 or an 85f2 when I want portability. But I like the AF and the longer focal length when I need it.

nicefor88 · May 1, 2009

The first member said it all. D for distance.
I'll add this: It makes sense to use D type lenses on cameras that measure distance (of course) but worth saying, I guess. So, if you use such lenses on cameras older than the F4, not to worry about. You might as well buy the previous versions.
The AF D 80-200 2,8 ED is just amazing. I agree. I also agree that it's heavy. It's no fun when you have to carry it the all day long. But there's not much to do about this: fast lens means heavy.:rolleyes:

ann · May 1, 2009

for years the 80-200 was my main lens, walking around or what ever.
it is heavy, but a terrific lens. i used to use a monopod with it as i got older and had less ego involved in hand holding

i have recently got a 70-200 2.8 vr lens so the other is just sitting here waiting for me to sell it.

Nikon Lenses

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