The 70-200mm f/4 ED VR is a smaller, lighter and cheaper alternative to the 70-200mm f/2.8, the compromise being its constant f/4 maximum aperture, which is one stop slower. However its more advanced Vibration Reduction technology (its the first Nikkor lens to feature this third incarnation) may, for many users, more than compensate for that, enabling users to shoot at shutter speeds five stops slower than would otherwise be possible.

The lens offers three VR modes: Normal, Active (for when shooting from moving vehicles and a Tripod Detection mode, which reduces vibration from the shutter release.

Aimed at sports, wildlife and portrait photographers, the new lens also features the company’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for fast and quiet autofocus operation, and Nano Crystal Coating, to reduce ghosting and flare. Constructed from 20 optical elements in 14 groups, it is also compatible with Nikon’s teleconverters, enabling users to double the effective focal length while still retaining use of full AF using the cross type points in the D4, D800 and D600.

The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR will be available from the end of November at a suggested UK launch price of £1117.99 ($1899 in the US). An optional tripod collar will also be available soon.

We’ll be provided a full in-depth review as soon as we can get our hands on a sample.