Nikon's budget full-frame telephoto zoom — body-driven AF, no VR, but ED glass for improved sharpness.
The Nikon AF Nikkor 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED is a screwdrive autofocus telephoto zoom for Nikon F-mount, providing 70-300mm coverage with one ED element. Autofocus requires a body with a built-in AF drive motor — D40/D60 and D3xxx/D5xxx bodies cannot autofocus this lens. At 505g and 62mm filter thread. Nine aperture blades. 1.5m minimum focus distance.
The optical design uses 13 elements in 9 groups including 1 ED element. Nine aperture blades. The 62mm filter thread is standard. At 505g the lens is moderate. Minimum focus distance of 1.5m. Screwdrive AF — no internal motor; requires in-body AF drive. Variable aperture from f/4 at 70mm to f/5.6 at 300mm. Full-frame coverage.
The D-type AF 70-300mm ED provides the telephoto range for Nikon F bodies with in-body AF drive: full-frame D3/D4 series, D700, D800 series, and DX bodies with AF motors (D90, D7000 series) will autofocus this lens. The ED element targets secondary chromatic aberration at telephoto focal lengths. Without optical stabilisation, a tripod or high shutter speed is required at 300mm.
On the used market the Nikon AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED is very affordable as a vintage Nikon telephoto zoom. Condition checks: screwdrive AF engagement on a compatible body, zoom ring smoothness, 62mm front element for marks, and aperture blade operation. Compatible with Nikon F-mount bodies with built-in AF drive motors.