Nikon has unveiled the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, a cutting-edge professional zoom lens tailored for its Z-mount mirrorless camera system. This advancement, a successor to the highly regarded NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S, is designed as a reliable companion across a multitude of photographic realms, catering seamlessly to landscapes, portraits, weddings, and various events.
Key enhancements include an internal zoom mechanism, reduced weight, and a more rapid autofocus system, providing photographers and videographers with a nimble, dependable tool for their craft.
Key Highlights
- The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II stands as the lightest full-frame 24-70mm f/2.8 lens in its category, tipping the scales at a mere 1.49 pounds (675 grams).
- It boasts Nikon’s innovative Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) autofocus motor, offering a fivefold increase in speed over its predecessor.
- The internal zoom feature ensures the lens maintains a constant length while zooming, enhancing stability for video production on gimbals.
- An upgraded 11-blade diaphragm creates smoother bokeh and a reduced minimum focus distance.
- The lens will hit the market in mid-September, retailing at $2,799.95 in the U.S.
Enhanced Autofocus and Internal Zoom
A notable upgrade lies within the autofocus system. Nikon’s new Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) motor accelerates autofocus to a remarkable five times faster than that of the original model. This enhanced speed and refined tracking are particularly advantageous for capturing swiftly moving subjects, such as wildlife and sports.
Additionally, Nikon reports a 60 percent improvement in focus tracking during zooming, ensuring that dynamic subjects remain sharply in focus while altering focal lengths.
The transition to an internal Zoom configuration represents another pivotal enhancement. This design guarantees a consistent lens size during zooming, which contributes to better balance and alleviates the necessity for constant re-adjustment of a gimbal. Furthermore, the fewer external moving parts bolster dust and moisture resistance, enhancing the lens’s durability.
Design and Optical Enhancements
Weighing 1.49 pounds (675 grams), the lens is lighter than its predecessor by 0.29 pounds (130 grams), qualifying it as the lightest 24-70mm f/2.8 lens available when compared to competing models.
Notably, the filter thread size has been minimized from 82mm to 77mm, which may yield cost benefits for photographers utilizing filters.
The re-engineered optical framework comprises 14 elements arranged in 10 groups, including two ED glass elements and three aspherical elements. These advancements serve to diminish distortion and chromatic aberrations.
Nikon has incorporated an 11-blade rounded diaphragm, resulting in a smoother bokeh and more effective background separation. The lens can now focus as closely as 0.79 feet (0.24 meters) at the wide end and 1.09 feet (0.33 meters) at the telephoto end.
To combat bright or backlit scenarios, Nikon has utilized Meso Amorphous Coating and ARNEO Coating to minimize ghosting and flare. The lens also effectively reduces focus breathing, a common obstacle in video work where the field of view may slightly shift upon refocusing.
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II will become available in mid-September at a recommended retail price of $2,799.95 in the U.S., through authorized Nikon distributors.
FAQs
What distinguishes the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S from the new S II version?
The S II version is notably lighter, features an advanced autofocus system, and incorporates an internal zoom mechanism alongside a redesigned optical structure with an 11-blade diaphragm.
Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II compatible with all Nikon Z cameras?
Yes, this lens is specifically designed for Nikon Z-mount full-frame cameras and is compatible with Nikon DX-format cameras as well.
What advantages does an internal zoom lens offer?
An internal zoom lens maintains a constant size and balance, which is beneficial for video capture using gimbals or rigs. Additionally, it aids in preventing dust ingress.
How does the new Silky Swift VCM autofocus motor function?
The Silky Swift VCM integrates a voice coil motor with an innovative guiding mechanism, allowing for accelerated and quieter autofocusing.
What is the retail price of the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II in the U.S.?
The price of the lens is set at $2,799.95 in the U.S.
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