To begin with, this was a bold move by Nikon to introduce a successor to arguably one of the most popular and sharpest lenses in their lineup. I am sure this did not come without some reservations on their part. Having shot with the F-mount 24-70 f/2.8, the mirrorless version Z 24-70 f/2.8 S lens, version one, this lens was going to have to impress. Its predecessors were a workhorse lens for me and incredibly sharp. So, how does this lens stack up.

The new lens is significantly lighter than the previous version, and it now zooms internally! However, it’s also pricier at $2800 which is not necessarily Nikon’s fault given at the time of this posting, their are governmental tariffs in place forcing their hand I’m sure with pricing. That aside, let’s look at the specifications. Here’s what you need to know.

Comparison version 1 versus version 2:

Photographers might be excited to see the 11-blade rounded aperture in the new 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, as well as a smaller filter at 77mm. Combined with the more streamlined optical design, I think there’s a good chance of smoother backgrounds on the new lens.

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.

Physical Changes:

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.

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. The first big difference is that Nikon trimmed down the weight of the lens significantly. The second redesign modification is that it now has an internal zoom.

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).

Compared to competition:

The size may seem odd compared to the competitors, but the original Nikon Z 24-70 S, the Canon 24-70 and the Sony 24-70 do not have internal zoom, so the new Nikon Z 24-70 S II is actually smaller once the other barrels are extended.

Personal Impressions:

After having shot with this lens versus the original version, for me, the benefits justify the cost. This lens takes up less space in my camera bag, is lighter than its predecessor and with the new optics, it is incredibly sharp with responsive focus and well balanced when on my Nikon Z8 or Z9 bodies. I also found the buttons and focus rings well thought out and easy to use.

Nikon has added a new switch to this lens not found on any other Z glass called a clicking switch for the control ring. This is customizable and clicked controls are nice when adjusting aperture or exposure, and that will make this ring a lot more useful for me. Also, 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.

Overall, this lens has thus far lived up to its predecessors in my eyes and it has been a nice addition to my Z lineup of lenses that I require to shoot. If you have the Nikon Z system, this lens would be a worthwhile addition to your photographic kit. Would love to hear your comments and experiences if you have shot with this lens. Leave your comments below.