Nikon Launches Widest Non-S-Line Lens

2022.09.20

The Nikon Z system, which started as a Full-Frame only platform before extending down to APS-C, is generally a high-end system and so Nikon focused its efforts on the premium S-line of lenses. Quickly these spanned a wide range of focal-length from 14-200mm until they announced their first non-S Z-mount lens. This standard series of lenses aims to lower the cost of owning a Nikon Z system with some compromise on optical performance.

Right up to know the widest non-S Nikon lens was the dim Nikkor Z 24-200mm F/4-6.3. It was not until last year that they introduced a bright standard lens, the Nikkor Z 28-75mm F/2.8, a relatively compact and lightweight constant-aperture lens that starts at a more moderate wide-angle.

This morning, Nikon launched the Nikkor Z 17-28mm F/2.8, an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed to exactly extend the 28-75mm F/2.8 into ultra-wide territory while maintaining the same bright F/2.8 maximum aperture. As a Full-Frame lens, this 17-28mm focal-range spans a 104-75° angle-of-view, making it suitable for capturing architecture, cavernous interiors, astro-photography and sweeping landscapes.

The Nikon Z 17-28mm F/2.8 is reasonably compact and virtually the same weight as the Z 14-30mm F/4S which takes in a full-stop of maximum aperture for a wider focal-range. Its barrel is just 75mm wide and allows the use of a common 67mm screw-on filter at the front, which could be used to add a ND filter to achieve long exposures. A wide focus-ring at the front is complimented by a customizable control-ring towards the back.

Nikon boasts that this lens has a high optical performance. It optimized its lens coatings to minimize flare and protect the front element from smudges. Even though this lens is not part of the S-line, it features some level of weatherproofing.

The Nikon Z 17-28mm F/2.8 ships next month for $1200 USD or $1600 CAD. Both Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting pre-orders. Canadian buyers can order from Adorama who can pre-calculate and collect custom clearance.

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