Modern Nikon DX telephoto with AF-P stepping motor, ED glass, and VR stabilisation.
The Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR is a modern telephoto zoom for Nikon F mount APS-C cameras, featuring a stepping motor autofocus and VR stabilisation. The AF-P motor provides significantly faster and quieter focusing than older AF-S alternatives, making it particularly suited to video work.
Optical quality is good with the ED glass element controlling chromatic aberration at longer focal lengths. The lens delivers respectable sharpness across the 105-450mm equivalent range, with performance best at moderate apertures. The VR stabilisation provides approximately four stops of correction for handheld telephoto shooting.
Build quality is consumer-grade but well-designed with a retractable barrel that minimises storage size. The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry and handle on smaller Nikon DX bodies. The AF-P stepping motor is notably superior to older AF-S designs for smoothness and silence during video recording.
On the used market, the AF-P DX 70-300mm VR offers modern telephoto performance with excellent AF for Nikon APS-C at very competitive prices. For wildlife beginners, sports shooters, and anyone wanting quiet VR-stabilised telephoto reach on Nikon DX bodies, it provides the most modern affordable telephoto zoom available.