With the Nikon 300mm f/2.8G VR II, I was able to hand-hold the lens for longer periods of time and it was very apparent when I did some birding in local parks. Now in terms of size, the Nikon 200-400mm f/4.0G is about 25% longer than the 300mm f/2.8G, which does present a few problems. First of all, not many camera bags can fit the 200-400mm 72 product ratings - Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 24-70mm F/2.8E ED VR Lens. $421.00. glockbag (55) 100% 228 product ratings - Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II I utilize the Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8 as well as the Nikkor 70-200MM F2.8 VR extensively and can say that the 24-70 does not need the VR as it would not make much difference at that low a focal length. The VR on the 70-200 does come in use at the longer focal lengths but I rarely use it for the following reason Call a photography expert: 1-770-333-4200. Description. The Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 G ED IF AF-S VR II is a top of the line professional grade telephoto zoom for Nikon Digital SLR cameras. It's a superior take anywhere, shoot anything lens especially well suited for photographing landscapes, action, sports, portraiture, weddings, and special events. Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures smooth and quiet AF operation. Maximum aperture. f/2.8. Minimum aperture. Lens construction. 11 elements in 8 groups (with 3 ED glass elements and Nano Crystal Coat) Picture angle. 8°10' (5°20' with Nikon DX format) Closest focusing distance. Also theres the 70-200 f4 that goes pretty cheap used. Its smaller and much lighter and the vr system is tested as being far better than the f2.8 ones! Ken rockwell has a great article on it. The downsides are its a mostly plastic (but good plastic) build and the focusing is good but not as speedy as all of the f2.8 versions. Nikon Z6 Nikon Z7 II Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F4G ED VR Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm F1.4G +5 more Reply Reply with quote Reply to thread Complain The new VR, the Nikon VR II, has a lock that prevents this zoom creeping, which is adored by many VR fans. Examples of VR II lenses are the 70-300/4.5-5.6VR and the 18-200/3.5-5.6VR. The earlier VR is also a bit louder when it is in operation compared to the VR II. gtxp9Q.