Nikon has released a new standard zoom lens which features the fastest autofocus and lightest weight in its class. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is designed for full-frame FX-format mirrorless cameras.
Internal zoom
S-Line lenses are Nikon’s flagship NIKKOR Z lenses and are developed to deliver the very highest levels of optical performance. The new standard zoom lens covers the versatile focal length range from wide-angle 24 mm to medium-telephoto 70 mm. It is also the first in its class to feature an internal zoom mechanism. This means that the lens doesn’t change length as you zoom in or out. As a result, the centre of gravity doesn’t shift, which is great if you want to use the lens with a gimbal.
Autofocus
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm S II is the first zoom lens to utilize the Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) for the autofocus drive. This combines a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) and a guide mechanism developed by Nikon. The VCM is a motor in which a coil reciprocates in a strong magnetic field created by a powerful magnet. It also achieves the fastest autofocusing in Nikon history, while still being precise and quiet, which is ideal for video recording. Also, the minimum focus distance is 9.4 inches (24 cm) at 24 mm and 13 inches (33 cm) at 70 mm.
Optical design
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm S II is designed with 14 lens elements in 10 groups. These include a large-diameter double-sided aspherical lens for the front lens element. The lens also features ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass and aspherical lens elements. Plus, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm S II uses a Meso Amorphous Coat, which offers the best anti-reflection performance in Nikon history. The lens’s ARNEO Coat effectively suppresses ghosting and flares, as well, to deliver clear images.
Constant aperture
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm S II zoom lens features a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8. This means that your exposure won’t change as you zoom in and out, which is essential for video use. The iris also has 11 blades, which should give a smooth, rounded bokeh in the out-of-focus parts of your image. Usefully, you can disable the tactile “click” of the control ring used to adjust the aperture for smooth changes in exposure.
Other features
Nikon says that the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm S II zoom lens has been optimized for video recording with a design that suppresses focus breathing. Another benefit of the internal zoom mechanism is that it prevents dust and debris from entering the lens during zooming. This helps to deliver superior dust- and drip-resistant performance. The lens is also equipped with a filter adjustment window so that you can adjust circular polarizing and variable ND filters without removing the lens hood.
Nikon says that the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm lens is the lightest in its class, weighing around 23.8 ounces (675 g).
What we think
Nikon’s new NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a flagship zoom lens that promises the highest quality images. Therefore, it’s great to see that Nikon has thought about video shooters as well as still photographers when designing this lens. The internal zoom mechanism means that you won’t need to rebalance your gimbal every time you change the focal length. Features such as a constant maximum aperture and controlled focus breathing are also essential for video use. The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a premier lens with a premium price tag. But if you make your money shooting video on a Nikon mirrorless camera, it could be a great investment.
Pricing and availability
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II zoom lens is expected to ship around the middle of September 2025. It will retail at $2,796.
