DxO Analyzer Blur tests of the lens' first-generation VR system (at 200mm) showed an improvement for three users of about 3 stops of extra handheld sharpness at slower shutter speeds; 4 stops are possible with Nikon's VR II system

Just remember, VR is just for camera shake and won't help with slow shutter speeds a even a slightly moving subject

had I relied more on the VR and a slower shutter speed

If you take advantage of the fast shutter technology from your camera, you'll greatly appreciate the wonderful results and impressive boket that makes your work look like a trained professional.

the shutter is slower but that was expected from what I had read.

I was able to handhold at very slow shutter speeds with no sign of camera movement, even at 200mm

I'm especially impressed with the fast shutter

But if your subject is relatively still, you'll have no problem letting in more light at a slower shutter speed to get great photos

It offers image and build quality on par with the 18-55 kit lens, that is to say: sharp images, vibration reduction (which is noticeable at slow shutter speeds), and light weight

VR for high zoom is very helpful since I can use a slower shutter speed to increase the exposure