Improving an icon, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is Nikon's latest iteration of the workhorse standard zoom used by professional photographers to cover a wide array of subject types in a variety of working scenarios. This version II Z-mount lens is the world's first 24-70mm f/2.8 to feature an internal zoom design, which contributes to upgraded weather resistance, faster AF performance, and a 16% reduction in weight compared to the previous generation.
Unique among other 24-70mm f/2.8s, this lens features an internal zoom design, along with an internal focusing design, that maintains the overall length during use. This reliable and comfortable design has several benefits for photographers:
- Internal design contributes to a 16% (4.5 oz) savings in weight and is also about 0.5" shorter compared to the previous generation lens when fully extended.
- The streamlined design also contributes to improved dust and moisture resistance; with fewer moving pieces on the exterior of the lens, it offers more reliable performance in tough conditions.
- Benefitting video shooters, the internal design also greatly reduces any shifts in center of gravity by 30%, making it significantly easier to use when shooting with a gimbal.
- All "Trinity Lenses" (this 24-70mm f/2.8, the NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, and the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S) now feature an internal zoom design for a matched look and similar handling.
In addition to streamlining the zoom design, version II of this lens also has an improved optical formula that sheds three elements while still improving resolution and image quality.
- Revised optical design features two extra-low dispersion and three aspherical elements; these specialized elements limit various aberrations and color fringing for high sharpness and color accuracy.
- Improved optical design is also inherently more flare-resistant for stronger contrast when working in bright lighting conditions.
- Special attention has also been given to bokeh rendering, with an emphasis on producing smooth and natural transitions between in- and out-of-focus regions for a more three-dimensional look. Aspherical element manufacturing has been improved for a smoother look, and the lens also now has 11 rounded diaphragm blades for a more rounded bokeh appearance.
- Minimum focusing distance has also been significantly shortened compared to the previous generation—9.4" at the 24mm position and 1.1' at the 70mm position, with a 0.32x maximum magnification at the minimum focusing distance from the 70mm position.
