The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S and the Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD are both long telephoto zooms for Nikon Z cameras. The Nikon is the more flexible, brighter lens from the camera maker, while the Tamron offers extra reach from a third-party brand.
What each lens is aimed at
The Nikon 100-400mm is a first-party S-line zoom intended for photographers who want one telephoto for a range of subjects: sports, animals, travel, and even portraits at the short end. The S designation marks the maker’s higher-grade lens family.
The Tamron 150-500mm is built for people who want more reach, particularly for birds, wildlife and aircraft, with a focal length that extends beyond 400mm. It comes from an independent lens maker, which can mean different feature support, so check what your camera body supports with third-party lenses.
Main points of comparison
| Point | Nikon 100-400mm | Tamron 150-500mm |
|---|---|---|
| Focal range | 100 to 400mm | 150 to 500mm |
| Aperture range | f/4.5-5.6 | f/5-6.7 |
| Maker | Camera maker | Third-party lens maker |
| Stabilization | Built-in VR | Built-in VC |
| Strength | Flexibility, brighter aperture | Extra reach |
Weights, minimum focus distances and teleconverter compatibility differ, so confirm them on each maker’s page.
Things to weigh
- Reach: 500mm gives a tighter view of distant subjects, which can be the deciding factor for birds.
- Light: a brighter aperture helps in dim conditions and keeps shutter speeds faster.
- Range: a range that begins at 100mm is more adaptable than one that begins at 150mm when subjects come close.
- Integration: first-party lenses usually get the closest feature match with the camera, while third-party lenses may have limits with some autofocus modes or firmware features.
- Carrying: compare size and weight, since a heavy lens tends to stay at home.
Practical shooting guidance
As rough guides, use shutter speeds of roughly 1/1000 and faster for moving wildlife at long focal lengths, and raise ISO as needed rather than risking blur. Use subject-tracking autofocus where your body offers it. Rest the lens on a support when you can, since even good stabilization cannot freeze subject movement.
Before you buy
Read the maker pages for both lenses and note the minimum focus distance, filter size, weight and whether a tripod foot is included. Look at sample images taken by photographers you trust, preferably at the long end wide open, and consider how often you will truly need 500mm compared with a lighter, more versatile lens.
FAQ
Will the Tamron work with all Z cameras?
It is made for the Z mount, but behavior can vary by body and firmware. Check the maker’s compatibility notes before buying.
Is more reach always better?
No. Extra reach helps only if your subjects are far away. Closer subjects and tracking fast action often favor a wider range.
The Short Version
Choose the Nikon for flexibility, a brighter aperture and close integration with Z bodies. Choose the Tamron when you need the extra reach of 500mm. Verify current specifications with the makers before you decide.
