Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens — image 1
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88%
94%
Image Quality
91%
Autofocus Performance
88%
Low-Light Performance
92%
Build Quality
87%
Vibration Reduction (VR)
70%
Portability/Weight
89%
Ease of Use
85%
Control Ring Customizability
90%
Coatings and Flare Reduction
80%
Value for Money
95%
Compatibility with Nikon Z-Series
91%
Overall Durability
More

Overview

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens is a top-tier telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras. This lens offers the perfect balance of performance and portability, making it ideal for a wide range of photographic needs. Whether you're capturing fast-moving action in sports or wildlife, or framing stunning portraits and event shots, this lens delivers exceptional results. With a versatile focal length and high-quality build, this Nikon lens is an essential tool for professionals who demand sharp, detailed images in any setting.

Features & Benefits

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm is equipped with a fast f/2.8 constant aperture, which ensures excellent low-light performance and creative control over depth of field. The lens also features 5-axis VR (Vibration Reduction) for steady handheld shooting, even in challenging conditions. Additionally, the customizable control ring allows users to adjust settings like focus or aperture easily, enhancing the shooting experience. Its advanced Nano and ARNEO coatings help minimize lens flare and ghosting, ensuring crisp, clear images in diverse lighting situations.

Best For

This telephoto zoom lens is perfect for professional photographers and advanced enthusiasts using Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras. It's particularly well-suited for those who need a versatile lens that excels in various shooting environments, whether capturing action in sports or nature or photographing dynamic events. The lens’s sharp image quality and fast autofocus also make it a great choice for high-quality video capture. If you seek a lens that can handle both stills and video with exceptional detail, this NIKKOR Z 70-200mm is an excellent option.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise this Nikon lens for its sharp image quality and smooth zooming experience, particularly when shooting at wide apertures. Many appreciate its fast autofocus and the quiet, precise focusing system, making it ideal for both stills and video. However, some users mention the lens’s weight, noting that it’s a bit bulkier than expected, which could be a consideration for those seeking a lighter setup. Despite this, most agree that the lens delivers superb performance in a variety of professional settings.

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Pros

  • This Nikon lens delivers excellent sharpness and clarity across the zoom range.
  • The fast f/2.8 aperture is perfect for low-light conditions and creative depth of field.
  • Built-in 5-axis VR ensures stable handheld shooting, even during dynamic action shots.
  • The autofocus is fast, accurate, and nearly silent, ideal for both stills and video.
  • The customizable control ring provides flexibility for manual adjustments during shoots.
  • Nano and ARNEO coatings effectively reduce lens flare and ghosting, even in challenging lighting.

Cons

  • Weighing 3 pounds, this telephoto zoom lens can feel heavy for prolonged handheld use.
  • Its size and weight make it less suitable for photographers seeking ultra-portability.
  • A few users found the price to be on the higher end, limiting accessibility for casual buyers.
  • While generally sharp, there are occasional reports of slight softness at the extreme telephoto end.
  • Some users experienced occasional focus hunting in very low light conditions.
  • The lens may feel bulky for those used to smaller, lighter lenses for quick shoots.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, the ratings for the Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens reflect a well-balanced mix of praise and constructive criticism. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic feedback contributed to the scores. Both strengths, such as its impressive image quality and autofocus performance, and pain points, including its weight, are clearly reflected in the overall ratings for this lens.

Image Quality
94%
Users rave about the exceptional sharpness and clarity of images captured with this lens. The ability to capture fine details in both stills and video makes it a favorite for professional photographers and videographers alike. Many highlight the natural color rendering and high contrast as key benefits, especially in dynamic lighting situations.
However, some users have noted a slight softness at the edges of the frame when shooting wide open at f/2.8, which may be noticeable in certain high-detail shots. A few reviewers also pointed out that, while the image quality is outstanding, it can require a bit of post-processing to achieve perfection in some extreme conditions.
Autofocus Performance
91%
The autofocus system on this lens is fast, accurate, and nearly silent, making it ideal for both stills and video. Many users report a smooth, quick focus even in fast-paced environments like sports or wildlife photography. The focus tracking is particularly praised for its reliability and precision in varied conditions.
While most users are satisfied with the autofocus, a few mentioned occasional hunting in low light or when tracking very fast-moving subjects. These issues are generally minor but can be noticeable in specific shooting conditions, leading to slight delays or missed focus in some cases.
Low-Light Performance
88%
Thanks to the fast f/2.8 aperture, this lens excels in low-light conditions, allowing for sharper images with minimal noise. Users consistently note its ability to produce bright, clear shots even in dim environments, making it a great choice for event and indoor photography. The wide aperture also contributes to a pleasing background blur, enhancing subject isolation.
Despite the impressive low-light capabilities, a few users have noted that the lens still shows some signs of chromatic aberration in certain low-light scenes, particularly in high-contrast areas. While this isn't a dealbreaker for most, it's something to consider for those who frequently shoot in very challenging lighting conditions.
Build Quality
92%
The build quality of this lens is top-notch, with a sturdy, weather-sealed design that ensures durability even in harsh environments. Users appreciate the professional-grade construction and the premium materials used. Many photographers feel confident using it in outdoor conditions, from rain to dust, without worrying about damaging the lens.
While the overall build is solid, some users mentioned that the lens feels heavier than expected, making it less comfortable for long shooting sessions, especially for those who prioritize portability. The larger size also makes it more difficult to pack into smaller camera bags.
Vibration Reduction (VR)
87%
The in-camera 5-axis VR system provides excellent stabilization, allowing for sharper handheld shots even at longer focal lengths. This is particularly beneficial for users who prefer shooting without a tripod. Many users highlighted its effectiveness when shooting at slower shutter speeds or in unstable conditions, like walking or in motion.
A small number of users noted that the VR system, while effective, could be slightly inconsistent at very slow shutter speeds. Some experienced minor blurring during handheld shooting in low-light situations or when zoomed in at full telephoto range, although this is relatively rare.
Portability/Weight
70%
30%
This telephoto zoom lens is solidly built and performs exceptionally well for its size, offering the versatility needed for professional work. For users who prefer a robust lens with substantial weight for balance, the heft can feel reassuring during shooting, giving a more stable feel when handling it.
However, many users point out the weight as a significant downside, especially for those doing extended handheld shooting or carrying the lens for long periods. At 3 pounds, it can feel heavy and cumbersome, making it less ideal for travel or street photographers who need something lighter and more portable.
Ease of Use
89%
The lens offers a highly intuitive user experience, with smooth zoom and focus rings that respond well to adjustments. Many users appreciate the customizable control ring, which can be mapped to various functions such as aperture or ISO, providing a more personalized and streamlined shooting experience.
A few users did mention that the control ring can feel a little stiff at times, requiring more effort to adjust than expected. Additionally, some noted that it can take a bit of practice to get used to the different control ring settings, particularly for beginners who may find the interface a bit overwhelming.
Control Ring Customizability
85%
The customizable control ring is a standout feature, allowing for personalized settings based on the user's preference. Users appreciate the ability to assign functions like aperture or ISO to the ring for quicker adjustments while shooting. This flexibility enhances the overall workflow, especially for photographers working in fast-paced environments.
Some users mentioned that the control ring can feel a bit too sensitive for certain functions, leading to unintentional changes in settings. This is particularly an issue when using it for things like aperture control during video, where even small adjustments can have noticeable effects.
Coatings and Flare Reduction
90%
The Nano and ARNEO coatings do an excellent job of reducing lens flare and ghosting, ensuring clear, sharp images even in high-contrast scenes. Many photographers praised the lens for its ability to handle bright light sources without sacrificing image quality. The coatings also help maintain color accuracy, making it ideal for landscape and portrait photography.
Despite the coatings, a small percentage of users noted that some flare can still be present when shooting directly into bright lights or during sunrise/sunset shots. However, this is usually only noticeable in extreme situations and can be minimized with slight adjustments in composition or camera settings.
Value for Money
80%
20%
For professional photographers who demand excellent performance, the lens offers significant value with its high-quality construction, fast aperture, and advanced features like VR and autofocus. Users who have invested in the Nikon Z system feel that this lens is a good match, offering versatility for a wide range of shooting situations.
Some users feel that the lens is quite expensive for those who are just starting out or need a more budget-friendly option. While the performance is impressive, the cost may be prohibitive for amateur photographers or casual users who don’t need all the professional-grade features.
Compatibility with Nikon Z-Series
95%
As a native Nikon Z-mount lens, it integrates seamlessly with Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras, ensuring fast communication between the lens and camera body. Users particularly appreciate the autofocus speed and image quality, which are optimized for Z-series cameras, making it a natural choice for those with a Nikon mirrorless setup.
The lens is exclusively compatible with Nikon Z-series cameras, which means it won’t work with older DSLR models or cameras from other brands. Some users with previous Nikon gear expressed disappointment at not being able to use the lens with their older bodies without an adapter, which could impact performance.
Overall Durability
91%
The lens is praised for its sturdy, weather-sealed build, which makes it suitable for challenging environments. Many users highlight its durability, especially when shooting in demanding conditions like rain or snow, knowing that it can withstand harsh treatment and still perform reliably.
While most users are satisfied with its durability, a few have expressed concerns about the lens's long-term reliability in very extreme conditions. Some noted that while it's durable for most situations, frequent exposure to severe elements without proper care could potentially affect its performance over time.

Suitable for:

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens is ideal for professional photographers and videographers using Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras. Its versatility makes it a great choice for various shooting scenarios, from fast-moving sports to wildlife and portrait photography. With its fast f/2.8 aperture, it excels in low-light conditions, providing sharp, high-quality images even in dim environments. The customizable control ring and fast autofocus are particularly valuable for those looking to achieve precise, dynamic shots. If you're a professional looking for a robust, reliable lens that delivers excellent performance in a variety of conditions, this telephoto zoom lens is a solid option.

Not suitable for:

This lens may not be the best fit for hobbyists or those on a tight budget, as its higher price point and substantial weight can be prohibitive for casual users. While it delivers outstanding image quality and performance, its size and weight—around 3 pounds—make it less suitable for photographers who prioritize portability or need a lightweight lens for extended handheld use. Additionally, its premium features are best appreciated by those who already own a Nikon Z-series camera and require a professional-grade lens. Amateur photographers or those just starting out with photography may find it overwhelming for their needs.

Specifications

  • Lens Type: Telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras.
  • Focal Length: 70-200mm, offering a versatile zoom range suitable for various photography needs.
  • Aperture: Fast f/2.8 constant aperture, providing consistent performance in low light.
  • Mount Type: Nikon Z mount, compatible with Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 0.5m at the wide end (70mm), 1.0m at the telephoto end (200mm).
  • Weight: 3 pounds (1.36 kg), offering a sturdy build but may feel heavy for some users.
  • Dimensions: 8.66 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches, a compact size for a professional telephoto lens.
  • Coatings: Nano and ARNEO coatings, reducing lens flare and ghosting for clearer images.
  • Stabilization: 5-axis in-camera VR (Vibration Reduction) for steady handheld shots.
  • Autofocus: Fast and nearly silent autofocus, ensuring smooth performance in both stills and video.
  • Control Ring: Customizable control ring for flexible manual adjustments, such as aperture or focus.
  • Use Case: Ideal for professional sports, wildlife, portrait, and event photography.
  • Lens Element: Features multiple elements with advanced coatings for optimal image quality.
  • Filter Size: 77mm filter size, compatible with various filters and lens accessories.
  • Compatibility: Specifically designed for Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras, ensuring full functionality.
  • Weather Sealing: Constructed with weather-sealed elements for protection against dust and moisture.
  • Focus Type: Autofocus with manual override, providing flexibility for precise adjustments.
  • Construction: Built with a durable, high-quality construction to withstand professional use.

FAQ

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens is a professional-grade telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. It features a fast f/2.8 constant aperture for excellent low-light performance, built-in 5-axis VR for stable handheld shooting, and a customizable control ring for manual adjustments. Nano and ARNEO coatings reduce lens flare and ghosting.

The 5-axis VR system in this lens provides effective stabilization by compensating for camera shake in five directions. This feature is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting, allowing you to capture sharp images even in low light or during fast-moving subjects, reducing the need for a tripod.

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens is designed specifically for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. It is not compatible with Nikon DSLR cameras without an adapter. If you use a Z-series camera, this lens will offer optimal performance, including fast autofocus and image stabilization.

This telephoto zoom lens is ideal for a wide range of photography, including sports, wildlife, portrait, and event photography. Its versatility, combined with the fast f/2.8 aperture, makes it well-suited for shooting both stills and video in diverse lighting conditions.

The f/2.8 constant aperture ensures consistent brightness throughout the zoom range, which is beneficial in low-light situations. It also allows for a shallow depth of field, making it easier to achieve a pleasing bokeh effect for portraits or other creative shots.

Weighing about 3 pounds, this lens is considered heavy for a telephoto zoom. While it offers professional-grade image quality, its size and weight may not be ideal for photographers looking for ultra-portability, especially when carrying it for extended periods or during travel.

Yes, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S Lens is excellent for video shooting. The autofocus is fast, quiet, and precise, and the lens' stabilization ensures smooth footage, making it a great choice for videographers who need a versatile and reliable zoom lens.

To clean the lens, use a soft microfiber cloth and a blower to remove dust. For stubborn smudges, use lens cleaning solution. Avoid touching the lens elements directly with your fingers. Additionally, store the lens in a dry, dust-free environment, ideally in a padded case to protect it from impacts.

Some users report occasional focus hunting in very low light conditions, though this is not a widespread issue. Additionally, the lens is heavy, which might be a concern for those who need something more portable. However, these concerns are generally outweighed by its sharpness and image quality.

The minimum focus distance of this lens is 0.5 meters at the wide end (70mm) and 1 meter at the telephoto end (200mm). This allows for decent close-up shots, but it’s not as suitable for extreme macro photography. It’s ideal for portraits and wildlife but may not capture very fine details at close range.