So, is it worth it to upgrade from Z400mm F4.5 to 500mm F4E FL + FTZ II for the Z8. Or, should I get the 180-600mm instead. All other options are out of budget.
Thank You

Hi there! Thank you for visiting! 🙂

I’d say the 500mm PF is a sizeable upgrade from the 200-500mm in terms of IQ, but there are numerous other factors worth considering over sharpness alone. I’d say the biggest advantage you’d notice in the field with the 500mm PF is its light weight and quick auto-focus. It is an incredible lens for photographing birds in flight. However, the 200-500mm offers the flexibility of a zoom lens which absolutely should not be overlooked. I think any differences in sharpness is overshadowed by the other auxillary benefits these lenses provide so you can’t really go wrong with either of them in reality.

At this point in time, I’d also suggest looking at some of the Z-mount options on the market (if you own a mirrorless camera) such as the 400mm f/4.5 and the 600mm f/6.3 as I’ve heard great things about them. The 180-600mm could be a decent upgrade from your 200-500mm as well.

Hope this helps!
-Adi

Is it worth upgrading from 200-500mm f5.6 to 500mm pf in terms of sharpness and quality? I know other factors are weather sealing, weight, more bokeh effect etc