Nikon Launched Second-Gen Z 24-70mm F/2.8

2025.08.22

Nikon just launched a second-generation bright professional standard-zoom lens for their Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera platform. This new Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8S II has been completely redesigned optically and mechanically.

Full-Frame lenses with a 24-70mm focal-range and a bright F/2.8 constant maximum-aperture are considered workhorse lenses for professionals and they have seen many revisions over the years. The the relatively new Z mount, this is the first second-generation model with a bright aperture. Although the focal-range and maximum aperture are the same, this is an entirely different lens.

The new Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8S II is a completely internal lens which keepts its size at any focal-range and focusing distance. This makes the lens barrel slightly long but Nikon managed to reformulate the optics so that it is narrower and significantly lighter than its predecessor. The second-generation model weighs 675g, compared to 805g, a notable 20% reduction. The 82mm wide barrel allows this model to switch back to more common and cheaper 77mm filters. This lens is also equipped with a focus-limiter plus a second customizable function button.

Expect class-leading optics with the improved lens coatings that would make this lens one of the sharpest. A new 11-blade iris produces a smoother out-of-focus background in images. The new optics allow for a shorter 24cm minimum focus distance. This gives the Nikon Z 24-70mm F/2.8S II a more powerful 0.32X magnification.

Inde the lens is a newly developed type of focus motor which Nikon calls Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor (SSVCM). This is an Ultra-Sonic type motor which is known for speed but not precision. Nikon designed the new type of focus-motor to improve fine motion without compromising on speed with the claim that it is now the fastest.

This professional Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8S II is expected to arrive next month for $2800 USD or $3500 CAD. It can already be preordered at Adorama and B&H Photo.

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