A Lighter Load for Long Shoots
Nikon's latest NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II weighs just 675 grams, a 16% drop from its 2019 predecessor. For photographers lugging gear through a full day of events, that 130-gram difference feels like a lifeline. Whether you're shooting a wedding or a music festival, the reduced weight makes it easier to stay mobile without sacrificing durability.
The lens's internal zoom design is a standout, keeping its length fixed at 142 mm no matter the focal length. This constant balance means no awkward rebalancing on gimbals, a relief for filmmakers capturing dynamic footage. Early testers, like a documentary filmmaker at CP Plus 2025, praised how it streamlined their setup for 8K raw video on a Nikon Z9.
Autofocus That Keeps Up With the Action
Speed matters when you're tracking a bird in flight or a sprinter crossing the finish line. The lens's Silky Swift VCM autofocus drive is five times faster than the original, with Nikon claiming 60% better tracking during zoom. This makes it a go-to for sports and wildlife photographers who need precision in chaotic moments.
For quieter settings, like a wedding ceremony, the silent autofocus is a game-saver. Photographers testing the lens noted how it captured vows without distracting motor noise, a small but crucial win for professionals. The lens also focuses as close as 0.24 meters at the wide end, offering a 0.32 times macro-like magnification for detailed close-ups.
Built for Video and Harsh Conditions
Hybrid shooters, who juggle photography and videography, will find this lens a perfect fit. Its internal zoom prevents lens creep and dust ingress, a boon for documentary filmmakers working in unpredictable environments. The sealed barrel offers tougher weather resistance, letting you shoot through rain or dust without worry.
Nikon's Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings cut flare and boost contrast, ensuring crisp visuals even under harsh backlighting. Optical tests show a 10% edge sharpness gain at 70 mm compared to the first-gen lens, making it ideal for high-resolution sensors. A wedding photographer testing the lens praised its silent focus and balanced handling during long ceremonies.
Weighing Cost Against Value
At $2,799.95, the lens costs about $500 more than its predecessor, a steep ask for hobbyists. For professional photographers and filmmakers, though, the upgrades justify the price. The lightweight build, faster autofocus, and video-friendly design cater to pros who rely on gear to deliver under pressure.
Still, some barriers exist. The 77 mm filter thread, smaller than the original's 82 mm, may require new accessories, and the lack of built-in optical stabilization relies on in-body vibration reduction. Competing lenses from Canon and Sony, like the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM or FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, offer similar features, but Nikon's internal zoom sets it apart for gimbal users.