Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens reimagines one of the most essential pro zoom lenses in the Z-mount lineup. Nearly seven years after the first edition, the updated Mark II introduces an internal zoom with more stability, faster and quieter autofocus, and a declickable control ring for tactile adjustments. Its 14-element f2.8 optical design retains the same high-end formula, delivering greater hybrid performance in Nikon’s Pro Zoom Trinity range.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens Key Features:

• Second-generation zoom lens for full-frame Nikon mirrorless cameras
• Part of Nikon’s high-end S-Line for superior build and optics
• Internal zoom keeps the barrel at a fixed length for easier operation
• Well-suited for events, commercial, editorial, and hybrid work
• Constant f2.8 aperture for low-light control and shallow depth of field
• 14 elements in 10 groups, including ED and aspherical elements
• Includes 3 aspherical, 2 ED, and 1 SR elements for control of aberrations
• ARNEO, Meso Amorphous, and SIC coatings reduce flare and ghosting
• Rounded 11-blade aperture for smooth bokeh and rendering
• Minimum focus distance of 0.24m at 24mm, 0.33m at 70mm
• SSVCM motor with multi-focusing groups for 5x faster, quieter AF
• Reduced focus breathing and zoom shift for stable video when rigged
• De-clickable control ring for tactile adjustments and smooth operation
• 2 customisable L-Fn buttons with both horizontal and vertical placements
• Weather sealed with a fluorine-coated front element to resist smudges
• 77mm front filter thread with an upgraded hood and filter window
• Weighs just 675g, making it the lightest lens build in its class

What’s New?

Seven years after Nikon’s original Z 24-70mm f2.8 S set the standard for mirrorless pro zooms, this Mark II version arrives with significant structural and handling upgrades. The most noticeable change is the transition to an internal zoom design, which maintains a fixed barrel length throughout the range. This attribute improves weather resistance, maintains accessory positioning, and keeps the centre of gravity stable, especially when mounted on gimbals or rigs. Despite the added mechanics, Nikon has reduced the lens's weight to just 675g, making it the lightest in its class.

Refined Optics and Coatings

Internally, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens utilises a valuable formula of 14 elements in 10 groups, including three aspherical elements, two ED elements, and a Short-Wavelength Refractive (SR) element to manage chromatic aberration and edge sharpness. The rounded 11-blade diaphragm helps preserve smooth bokeh throughout, and Nikon’s Meso Amorphous, ARNEO, and Super Integrated Coatings work together to minimise flare and ghosting. The minimum focus distance stands at just 0.24m at the wide end and 0.33m at 70mm, enabling a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.32x - more than enough for close-up detail work or product photography.

Responsive Autofocus for Dynamic Subjects

The Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II is the first to implement Nikon’s Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor (SSVCM), with two focus groups that move together for smoother, more accurate focusing. This upgrade delivers autofocus speeds up to five times faster than the previous version, while also reducing motor noise by 50% and cutting scan time at 70mm by 40%. Tracking performance during zooming is 60% more consistent, making the lens highly dependable for subjects in motion, especially across genres like events, portraits, or fast-paced documentary shoots.

Stability and Control for Video Production

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens is purpose-built for hybrid photo-video creators, with a fixed-length barrel and dramatically reduced focus breathing to preserve consistent framing during focus pulls or zooms. The lens relies on in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) from compatible Nikon Z cameras, helping to keep weight down without compromising handheld performance. The front element remains stationary for easy use with accessories such as matte boxes and filters, while the HB-117 hood includes a rotating filter window for ease of access. With silent AF, smooth aperture transitions, and no centre-of-gravity shifts when zooming, the lens remains stable and quiet across gimbal, rig, and handheld configurations, making it ideal for video production.

Hardware Features

This second-generation lens introduces Nikon’s first de-clickable control ring, with a physical switch to alternate between tactile clicks and smooth, silent adjustments. The lens features a pair of L-Fn buttons for easy access in both horizontal and vertical orientations with assignable commands. The included HB-117 hood also features a filter window for easy ND rotation, ideal for hybrid creators moving between handheld, tripod, and rig-based shooting. The focus limiter switch can lock the range to 0.33m and beyond, suitable for situations where close focus isn’t needed. These features ensure the lens is well-equipped for daily demanding use in a variety of conditions.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens
• 1 x Lens Hood HB-117
• 1 x Lens Cap LC-77B
• 1 x Rear Cap LF-N1
• 1 x Lens Case CL-C2

FAQs:

What is a Nikon S-series lens?

S-Line lenses are part of Nikon’s premium NIKKOR Z lineup, designed to meet higher standards for resolution, build quality, and optical performance. They often include features like advanced coatings, weather sealing, custom controls, and superior rendering across the frame. The Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II belongs to this series and reflects its emphasis on professional-grade imaging.

Is the Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II compatible with full-frame and APS-C Z cameras?

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens is designed for Nikon’s FX-format full-frame mirrorless cameras but is also fully compatible with DX-format Z models. On an APS-C body, it provides a 36-105mm equivalent focal length, maintaining the same internal zoom and build quality benefits.

Can I use filters with the Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens?

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II uses a 77mm front filter thread, widely supported by both circular screw-on filters and matte box adapter rings. The supplied HB-117 lens hood also features a filter window, allowing users to rotate circular polarisers or variable NDs without removing the hood - especially helpful for video and landscape work.

Is the lens’s close focus distance suitable for macro photography?

While not a dedicated macro lens, the Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II offers a minimum focus distance of just 0.24m at 24mm and 0.33m at 70mm. This MOD allows for frame-filling shots of small subjects, with a maximum magnification ratio of 0.32x. It’s suitable for detail work, product photography, or capturing textures up close, though it doesn’t provide a 1:1 reproduction.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f2.8 S II Lens - Sample Images