Nikon's pro F4 with MB-23 high-power pack — the F4e, electronic AF, matrix metering, Nikon F, 1991.
The Nikon F4e, introduced in 1991, was the F4 professional body fitted with the larger MB-23 battery pack, giving a higher frame rate and extra power. It belongs to Nikon's flagship F4 line, first released in 1988 as Nikon's professional autofocus SLR. It uses the Nikon F bayonet mount and, notably, retains compatibility with a wide range of manual-focus AI/AI-S lenses as well as autofocus optics.
This is an electronically controlled 35mm SLR on the Nikon F mount, with a vertical-travel focal-plane shutter that is electronically timed with speeds to 1/8000 second plus B, and flash sync at 1/250. Metering includes matrix, centre-weighted and spot patterns; exposure modes are program, shutter-priority, aperture-priority and manual. It has phase-detection autofocus and, as an electronic body, depends on battery power to operate. The MB-23 pack raises the motor-drive frame rate.
The F4e suits photographers wanting a professional autofocus body that still handles a very broad range of Nikon F-mount lenses, from AI manual optics to AF glass. Handling uses conventional dials rather than menus, which many find intuitive. It is large and heavy, especially with the MB-23 pack, and is built for demanding professional use.
On the used market, being electronic it needs working batteries, so test all functions, the meter and the motor drive. Check the MB-23 pack contacts and cells, inspect the LCD for bleed, and try autofocus and exposure modes. Look for perished light-seal foam around the back, verify shutter accuracy across speeds, and check the prism for haze. The F4 meters with AI, AI-S and AF F-mount lenses, one of the more compatible Nikon bodies.