Nikon just announced a successor to their flagship 24-70mm f/2.8 midrange zoom, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II. Among other improvements, the new lens is significantly lighter than the previous version, and it now zooms internally! However, it’s also pricier at $2800. Here’s what you need to know.
Specifications Comparison
Before anything else, let’s take a look at how the two versions of this lens compare:
| Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S | Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture Range | f/2.8-22 | f/2.8-22 |
| Aperture Blades | 9, rounded | 11, rounded |
| Filter Size | 82mm | 77mm |
| Lens Elements | 17 in 15 groups | 14 in 10 groups |
| Special Elements | 4 aspherical, 2 ED glass | 3 aspherical, 2 ED glass |
| ARNEO Coating | Yes | Yes |
| Nano Crystal Coating | Yes | No |
| Meso Amorphous Coating | No | Yes |
| Electronic Diaphragm | Yes | Yes |
| Vibration Reduction | No | No |
| Internal Focusing | Yes | Yes |
| Internal Zooming | No | Yes |
| Control Rings | Zoom, focus, custom | Zoom, focus, custom (clickable + de-clickable) |
| Function Button | One | One (duplicated on top and side) |
| Focus Motor | Dual stepping motors | Silky Swift VCM |
| Minimum Focus Distance (70mm) | 0.38 m (1.3 ft) | 0.33 m (1.1 ft) |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.22× | 0.32× |
| Dimensions (Length × Diameter) | 126 × 89 mm | 142 × 84 mm |
| Weight | 805 g (1.77 pounds) | 675 g (1.49 pounds) |
| MSRP | $2399 | $2799 |
| Lowest Sale Seen | $1996.95 (check current price) | $2796.95 (check price and pre-order) |
It’s already a really interesting comparison, and the specs alone don’t tell the full story. Let’s dive a little deeper into what’s new with Version II.
Optical Changes
The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a totally redesigned lens with different optics from its predecessor. The new lens design is a lot more streamlined: 14 elements in 10 groups, rather than 17 elements in 15 groups. Could this be a sign that Nikon has compromised on optical quality in order to make a lighter lens? Perhaps, but note that Nikon says the new design “brings enhancements to image quality,” so we’ll have to wait and see. The official MTF charts look promising and do show some improvements, especially at the telephoto end, but this is just a theoretical performance at f/2.8 and doesn’t show the full picture – for that, we’ll need to do some detailed lab and field tests once our copy arrives:
At least one area of optics is definitely an improvement, though: close focus distance. The first generation Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S has a so-so maximum magnification of 0.22×, while Version II reaches up to an impressive 0.32×. This isn’t true macro photography territory, but it’s quite good – and a better fit with the 24-70mm f/4 S and the 24-120mm f/4 S (which reach 0.30× and 0.39× respectively).
Bokeh hounds might be excited to see the 11-blade rounded aperture in the new 24-70mm f/2.8 S II. Combined with the more streamlined optical design, I think there’s a good chance of smoother backgrounds on the new lens. But bokeh is about more than just the number of lens elements and aperture blades, so we’ll have to wait until the 24-70mm f/2.8 S II ships to say anything concrete.
Separately, videographers will be pleased to hear that Nikon says this lens has “a design that suppresses focus breathing.” This wasn’t really a concern with the previous version, but you never know what could happen when a lens’s optics get redesigned. And thanks to the internal zoom (more on that in a moment), the new lens should balance better on a video gimbal or other stabilization platform.
Finally, Nikon swapped the Nano Crystal Coating for their more advanced Meso Amorphous Coating. This should improve flare and contrast performance in backlit situations, especially considering the lower number of lens elements and groups. The original Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S has good flare performance as-is, but there’s always room for improvements.
Physical Changes
Although I’m interested in the new optics on the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, I’d say that the most notable changes actually involve the design and handling instead. Big change #1: Nikon trimmed down the weight of the lens significantly. Big change #2: The lens now focuses internally.
Regarding point #1, Nikon’s original Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S was already one of the lighter 24-70mm f/2.8 zooms on the market at 805 grams (1.77 pounds). But now it is the lightest 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom on the market at 675 grams (1.49 pounds), and only the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is even close:
| Lens | Size | Weight | Elements | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM | 89x113mm | 805g | 17/15 | $1,899 |
| Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM | 89x126mm | 900g | 21/15 | $2,299 |
| Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G ED | 83x133mm | 900g | 15/11 | $1,799 |
| Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR | 88x155mm | 1070g | 20/16 | $2,399 |
| Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S | 89x126mm | 805g | 18/13 | $2,399 |
| Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | 84x142mm | 675g | 14/10 | $2,799 |
| Panasonic Lumix S PRO 24-70mm f/2.8 | 91x140mm | 935g | 18/16 | $2,199 |
| Pentax HD 24-70mm f/2.8ED SDM WR | 89x110mm | 787g | 17/12 | $1,299 |
| Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art | 88x108mm | 1020g | 19/14 | $1,299 |
| Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM | 88x136mm | 886g | 18/13 | $2,199 |
| Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II | 88x120mm | 695g | 20/15 | $2,448 |
| Sony T* 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA SSM II | 83x111mm | 974g | 17/13 | $2,099 |
| Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 | 88x109mm | 899g | 17/12 | $1,199 |
| Tokina AT-X 24-70mm f/2.8 PRO FX | 90x108mm | 1010g | 17/12 | $1,199 |
Meanwhile, regarding point #2, this is the first mirrorless 24-70mm f/2.8 to zoom internally! A seriously impressive achievement, particularly when considering the lightweight design. An internal zoom is especially welcome in adverse weather, and it’s no coincidence that the owners of 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are often pros who work in very demanding environments. I think this improvement will be very welcome. (That said, it does mean that this lens measures a little longer in length than some alternatives, since it doesn’t retract at the wider focal lengths.)
Another change, though a much smaller one, is the removal of the EL display that was found on the previous version of this lens. Nikon has gradually abandoned the use of these displays on their lenses – probably for cost reasons, but also because most photographers didn’t seem to care about them too much (though I’m sure there are exceptions).
Interestingly, Nikon has added a new switch to this lens not found on any other Z glass: a clicking switch for the control ring. I certainly prefer clicked controls when I’m adjusting aperture or exposure, and that will make this ring a lot more useful for me. I actually disabled the control ring on the original 24-70mm f/2.8 because I occasionally bumped it without realizing, but that shouldn’t be an issue when it’s clicked. (Note that this lens separately has dedicated zoom and focus rings, so the control ring is most likely going to be used for things like exposure compensation or aperture.)
Finally, there’s a new window on top of the lens hood that can be opened for easy access to rotating filters, such as polarizers and variable ND filters. This is a nice touch that we’re starting to see on more lenses these days, and I’m glad that Nikon has gotten in on the trend with this lens.
Autofocus Improvements
This is Nikon’s first zoom to feature their magnetic Silky Swift VCM focus motor – previously found only on the Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 and 600mm f/4 lenses – and Nikon is making some big claims about its performance. They say the new lens achieves “the fastest autofocusing in Nikon history,” approximately 5x faster than that of the original 24-70mm f/2.8 S.
Apparently, any differences could be especially noticeable while zooming; Nikon says that “AF tracking performance during zooming has been enhanced by approximately 60%.” I’m not sure how I’d put that claim to the test precisely, but for event photographers and others who might take fast-paced photos while zooming, it should be a welcome improvement.
That said, the existing Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is no slouch in autofocus speed; it’s already one of Nikon’s fastest focusing lenses. I’m interested to test the two versions of this lens side-by-side on some different cameras (the Z8 and the original Z6, at least) to see if any improvements are relevant in real-world situations.
Initial Thoughts
When I saw rumors of this lens, my first thought was that it was way too early for a Version II of an already great 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom. I didn’t even try to include any gen-2 lenses in my article last week – Which Lenses Does Nikon Z Still Need? – because Nikon’s first generation of mirrorless lenses has been great so far. Plus, there are still enough gaps left in Nikon’s mirrorless lens lineup that I’d rather they spend their resources elsewhere.
I still believe that’s true in general, but after seeing this announcement, I think I understand why Nikon wanted to rush this lens to the front of the line. Some team of engineers must have been very satisfied to figure out a 24-70mm f/2.8 design that is meaningfully lighter than almost everything else on the market and zooms internally.
Frankly, it’s so impressive that I’m going to reserve some skepticism for Nikon’s claims of “enhancements to image quality.” Has Nikon really managed to solve the 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom to such an extent – lighter, internal zoom, and better image quality? It would be pretty incredible, and at least to me, it would justify the early Version II we’re seeing today.
That said, no matter how the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II performs, the steep starting price of $2800 means that there will always be a market for the previous generation Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S. At $2100 with the current sale, that lens doesn’t hit the wallet quite as hard, and it’s a fantastic lens. But I admit that it falls a hair short of the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S and Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S – the two best zoom lenses we’ve ever tested – so maybe Nikon’s new announcement is intended to change that and set a new standard for the 24-70mm f/2.8 world.
Regardless, I can’t wait to put it to the test in our lab. Our copy is already on order, and I will test it in the lab the day it arrives. Keep an eye out on our Member Page for those early results, followed by a comprehensive review here as soon as I’ve tested it in the field!
Pre-Order Information
You can pre-order this lens at B&H using the following link. It will be available in mid September:
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Official Sample Photos
Press Release
NIKON ANNOUNCES THE NIKKOR Z 24-70MM F/2.8 S II LENS DELIVERING THE FASTEST AF AND LIGHTEST WEIGHT IN ITS CLASS
Engineered for Reliability and Agility, This Next-Generation Zoom Lens Sets a New Benchmark for Performance in the NIKKOR Z Lineup
MELVILLE, NY (August 22, 2025) – Nikon Inc. has announced the release of the new NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, a standard zoom lens that is compatible with full-frame/FX format mirrorless cameras. This second generation of the acclaimed NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S brings enhancements to image quality, speed and handling, further improving upon a lens that was already a popular choice for all types of imaging professionals.
As part of the S-Line*1 of NIKKOR Z lenses, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a standard zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, covering the versatile focal length range from wide-angle 24mm to medium-telephoto 70mm for full-frame/FX format cameras. It features a first in its class*2 internal zoom mechanism, and it’s also the lightest in its class*2, weighing approx. 675g (1.49 lbs.). Additionally, the internal zoom mechanism increases zooming stability as well as dust- and drip-resistant performance.
It is the first zoom lens to adopt Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM)*3 motors for the AF drive, achieving the fastest*4 autofocusing in Nikon history with extremely precise and quiet AF control. Autofocus is approximately 5x faster than that of the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S, and AF tracking performance during zooming has been enhanced by approximately 60%, making it even easier to capture decisive moments with fast-moving subjects such as athletes in action.
As a new-generation f/2.8 standard zoom lens that combines outstanding image quality and superior agility, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is the lens for those seeking high levels of performance in both still image and video recording, even when shooting in a variety of conditions or harsh environments.
Primary features
- The multi-focusing system*4, incorporating Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) technology for the first time in a zoom lens, achieves the fastest autofocusing in Nikon history, delivering extremely precise and quiet AF for both still image and video recording.
- A compact design with the lightest weight (approx. 675g) in its class*5 and a 77mm filter attachment size makes it easy to carry and reduces fatigue when shooting handheld.
- The first lens in its category*5 to feature an internal zoom mechanism that prevents dust and debris from entering the lens during zooming, providing superior dust- and drip-resistant performance*6. Even when zooming, it maintains its balance for flexible use of a variety of video accessories.
- A newly developed 11-blade diaphragm enables very circular bokeh.
- Optimized for video recording with a design that suppresses focus breathing.
- Equipped with a control ring clicking switch, allowing the tactile “click” of control ring operation to be turned on or off as needed.
- The lens supports a minimum focus distance of 0.24 m at the wide-angle end and 0.33 m at the telephoto end, with a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.21× at the wide-angle end and 0.32× at the telephoto end, allowing users to get closer to their subjects for dynamic expression.
- Includes Meso Amorphous Coat, which offers the best anti-reflection performance in Nikon history, and ARNEO Coat for effective suppression of ghosting and flare, resulting in clear images.
- The lens hood features a filter adjustment window, enabling users to adjust circular polarizing and variable ND filters without removing the lens hood.
Price and Availability
The new Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens will be available in mid-September for a suggested retail price of $2,799.95*. For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit nikonusa.com.
About Nikon
Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z Series mirrorless cameras, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories, Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras and Nikon software products. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
# # #
1 The S-Line is a grade of NIKKOR Z lenses that demonstrate outstanding optical performance, adhering to a high standard of design principles and quality control.
2 Among interchangeable zoom lenses for full-frame/FX format mirrorless cameras with a focal-length range from 24mm at the wide-angle end to 70mm at the telephoto end, and a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, available as of August 22, 2025. Statement based on Nikon research.
3 An AF drive actuator that 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.
4 Multiple AF drive units work together to control the position of multiple focus lens groups with great precision for superior image formation performance regardless of shooting distance.
5 Among interchangeable zoom lenses for full-frame/FX format mirrorless cameras with a focal length range from 24mm at the wide-angle end to 70mm at the telephoto end, and a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, available as of August 22, 2025. Statement based on Nikon research.
6 Thorough dust- and drip-resistance is not guaranteed in all situations or under all conditions.
*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
