Nikon Z 24-70mm F2.8 S II Lens

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II builds on the reputation of Nikon's workhorse standard zoom, offering professionals a versatile lens for countless shooting situations. This second-generation Z-mount lens is the first of its kind to feature an internal zoom design, resulting in improved weather resistance, faster autofocus, and a 16% reduction in weight compared to its predecessor. The internal zoom and focusing system maintain the same overall length during operation, creating a more stable and comfortable handling experience. The design makes the lens 0.5" shorter when fully extended and contributes to better dust and moisture resistance. It also improves balance for video shooters by reducing center of gravity shifts by 30%, a key benefit when using a gimbal. The new optical formula drops three elements while enhancing resolution and image quality, using two extra-low dispersion and three aspherical elements to reduce aberrations and color fringing while delivering greater sharpness, color accuracy, and improved flare resistance. Attention has been given to bokeh quality with smoother transitions between focus regions, aided by improved aspherical element manufacturing and an 11-blade diaphragm that produces more rounded out-of-focus highlights. Close-up performance has been improved as well, with a minimum focusing distance of 9.4" at 24mm and 1.1' at 70mm, achieving a 0.32x magnification at the telephoto end.

To further refine image quality, Nikon has applied its Meso Amorphous Coat, offering top-tier anti-reflective protection and outperforming Nano Crystal Coat in diagonal light scenarios, while ARNEO Coat adds suppression from vertical and angled light to minimize ghosting and flare. For the first time in a zoom lens, Nikon introduces the Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor, which uses magnets rather than gears to move focusing groups with higher precision, smoother operation, and reduced vibration. This focusing system is five times faster than the previous 24-70mm f/2.8, with scan times cut by up to 40% and focus tracking while zooming improved by 60%. It is also significantly quieter, with sound reduced by half, making it ideal for video work. Focus breathing is minimized for better composition when racking focus, and full-time manual focus override is supported through its internal focusing system.

Despite its lighter weight, the lens maintains professional-grade durability with advanced weather sealing. At 1.5 lb, it is easier to carry for extended shoots, while its 5.9" length remains consistent thanks to the internal zoom. The filter thread has been reduced to 77mm for compatibility with smaller filters. For handling, the lens offers dedicated focus and zoom rings along with a customizable Control Ring that can be assigned to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. The Control Ring now features a configurable click, giving photographers the choice of tactile feedback or smooth, silent rotation for video applications. Two programmable L-Fn buttons provide quick access to functions like subject tracking, AF lock, or playback, while a focus limiter switch allows photographers to restrict the focusing range for faster performance. The included HB-117 lens hood integrates a filter adjustment window, making it easier to rotate filters like variable NDs and polarizers without removing the hood.