Nikon 80-200mm f4.5 non-N vs f4

[Zang]

Hi there,

Do you think is there noticeable picture quality difference between the two in favor for the later?

Thanks,
Zang

[Birna Rørslett]

Depending upon the actual specimens of each design, the picture quality might well go in favour of the older lens. The f/4 zoom lens does handle slightly better though, as its zooming and focusing are less loose.

[Zang]

Depending upon the actual specimens of each design, the picture quality might well go in favour of the older lens. The f/4 zoom lens does handle slightly better though, as its zooming and focusing are less loose.

Thanks Birna! Your statement surprises me a bit as the whole rest of the Internet is telling differently People are telling f/4 is noticeably better. Please don't understand me wrong, I know expert opinions are not like parliament voting

[Birna Rørslett]

I have owned old non-AI 80-200/4.5 that was super sharp, and my first 80-200/4 was rather bland. My current copies of the two are rather similar, except for the handling as already mentioned.

[Zang]

I got f/4.5 in excellent condition for 55usd equivalent a few months ago. I have found a posting for f/4 that is claimed to be like new for 75usd and was tempted to acquire it. I am a bit reluctant with picking up and dealing with sellers (the rate of having issues of different kinds with used items sold online is 85% in my case). If the two versions have no IQ difference, I would pass it.