Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II Introduced

Nikon has introduced the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, a redesigned standard zoom that keeps a constant length while zooming, cuts weight, and debuts the brand’s Silky Swift VCM autofocus in a zoom lens. It is available to preorder for $2,796.95 with an estimated ship date of September 17.

A cornerstone tool for stills and video, this second‑generation 24‑70mm targets professionals who need consistent handling on gimbals, improved sealing, and faster AF without giving up optical quality. Nikon says it is the world’s first 24‑70mm f/2.8 with an internal zoom design, a change that stabilizes balance during operation and improves durability. The original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 was already quite a popular lens.

What’s new in Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

The lens maintains a constant overall length when zooming and focusing, thanks to an internal zoom and internal focus construction. Nikon cites a 16% weight reduction compared to the previous model, down to 675g (23.8 oz), and a shorter maximum extension footprint than the earlier lens when fully zoomed. The internal layout also contributes to upgraded dust and moisture resistance and reduces center‑of‑gravity shift by 30%, which benefits gimbal work.

Autofocus and video features

Making its zoom‑lens debut, the Silky Swift VCM drive uses magnets rather than gears for higher initial speeds and smoother motion. Nikon claims up to 5× faster AF than the previous 24‑70mm f/2.8, up to 40% shorter scan times, 60% better focus‑tracking while zooming, and roughly 50% lower perceived operating noise. Focus breathing is greatly reduced, and full‑time manual override is available. (Nikon includes a medical‑device caution due to the use of magnets.)

Optical design and coatings

The revised optical formula drops three elements yet is designed to improve resolution and flare resistance. It now uses 14 elements in 10 groups, including two extra‑low dispersion and three aspherical elements. An 11‑blade rounded diaphragm aims for smoother bokeh, with Nikon noting improved aspherical element fabrication for more natural defocus transitions. Coating updates include Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat to suppress flare and ghosting from both diagonal and vertical incident light.

Close‑focus versatility

Minimum focus distance is 24cm/9.4in at 24mm and 33cm/12.9in at 70mm, delivering up to 0.32× magnification at the long end. A focus‑limiter switch lets users constrain the range to 33.5cm (1.1 ft) to infinity or use the full 24cm/9.4in to infinity span.

Handling and controls

Alongside dedicated zoom and focus rings, a customizable control ring can adjust aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO, with a hardware click on/off switch to choose tactile or smooth rotations. Two L‑Fn buttons sit on the top and left of the barrel for quick function access. The lens accepts smaller 77mm front filters and ships with the HB‑117 hood that includes a filter‑adjustment window for variable ND or polarizers. Weather sealing is described as advanced.

NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II – specs at a glance

• Mount and coverage: Nikon Z, full‑frame
• Aperture: f/2.8 to f/22, 11 rounded blades
• Optical design: 14 elements in 10 groups, 2 ED, 3 aspherical
• Filter thread: 77mm
• Size and weight: 84x142mm (3.3×5.6in), 675g (1.5lb)
• Included: front and rear caps, HB‑117 hood, CL‑C2 soft case, 1‑year warranty

Price and availability

The NIKKOR Z 24‑70mm f/2.8 S II lists at $2,796.95 and is available to preorder, with B&H showing an estimated ship date of mid-September.

The internal‑zoom redesign, faster and quieter AF, and smaller 77mm filter thread suggest Nikon focused on everyday usability for both stills and motion. For more information, visit the Nikon website.

Is this the Z‑mount mid‑range zoom you have been waiting for, or do you prefer the original’s feel and balance? Let us know in the comments.