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 launched in 1999 as a budget telephoto zoom for the Nikon F-mount system. The ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass distinguishes it from even cheaper alternatives, reducing chromatic aberration for improved contrast and sharpness.
Optical quality is modest but improved over non-ED versions — ED glass noticeably reduces purple fringing at 300mm. Centre sharpness is acceptable but edges remain soft. The D-type screw-drive AF requires a body-mounted AF motor — no autofocus on entry-level Nikon DSLRs.
Nikon F mount with 62mm filter thread. Approximately 505g. No VR stabilisation. Full-frame coverage. Minimum focus distance 150cm. Plastic barrel with metal mount. The D designation communicates distance data for improved metering. Push-pull optional macro mode.
Very cheap used. The lack of VR and body-drive AF are significant limitations. The AF-S VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED is vastly superior with VR and built-in motor. Only useful on bodies with built-in AF motor. ED glass is the only advantage over cheaper Nikon telephoto zooms.