I position the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II as a pro “do-it-all” full-frame Z-mount zoom for events, portraits, travel, and daily coverage. I also describe it as the first internal-zoom f/2.8 24–70mm that keeps the barrel length fixed. That fixed length maintains steadier balance on gimbals and rigs. The upgrades speak directly to hybrid shooting. I call out faster, quieter autofocus, reduced focus breathing, a refreshed optical formula for higher sharpness and contrast, and close-focus performance that fits product and detail work.
Key takeaways
- Internal zoom design keeps length and center of gravity consistent. I get cleaner gimbal moves and easier matte box alignment. I also see better dust- and drip-resistance since the lens moves less while zooming.
- Nikon claims autofocus is 5x faster and 50% quieter than the prior model. I expect cleaner audio and fewer focus noises in video. Smooth acquisition also helps event coverage.
- Focus breathing is stated to drop to less than half of the previous 24-70mm f/2.8 S. I get steadier framing during pulls, which makes shots look более controlled without extra cropping.
- 11 rounded aperture blades and a constant f/2.8 deliver soft, round bokeh. I can separate subjects well across the zoom range, even in busy backgrounds.
- Strong close-focus specs: 9.5 inches at 24mm and up to 0.32x magnification at 70mm. I can grab tight detail, texture, and small product shots without swapping to a macro lens.
Pro-Grade Versatility with Internal Zoom
I rely on a 24–70mm f/2.8 as my do-it-all full-frame lens for events, portraits, travel, and daily pro coverage. This one’s described as the world’s first internal zoom f/2.8 full-frame 24–70mm, so the barrel length stays fixed as I zoom. That keeps the center of gravity consistent for gimbals, matte boxes, and fast handheld work, while also helping dust- and drip-resistance thanks to fewer external shifts during zooming.
How I’d Pair It in a Z Kit
I round out the range with:
- ultra-wide coverage for interiors and big scenes
- longer walkaround reach when I can’t swap primes
- telephoto punch for sports and wildlife
Check current pricing and availability at Amazon here!
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | The World’s First Internal Zoom f/2.8 Full-Frame 24-70mm Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
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Faster, Quieter Autofocus for Video
I count on autofocus that doesn’t distract from the take. Nikon says AF is 5x faster and 50% quieter than the previous model, so mic placement gets easier and I hear less lens chatter in quiet scenes. Focus transitions look smooth, and Nikon says focus breathing drops to less than half of the prior 24-70mm f/2.8 S, which helps keep framing steady during pulls.
How I’d pair it in a Z kit
For a wider video look, I’d match it with the 14-24mm f/2.8 S or the 17-28mm f/2.8. For reach, I’d jump to the Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S.
Check current pricing and availability at Amazon here!
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | The World’s First Internal Zoom f/2.8 Full-Frame 24-70mm Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
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Optics, Bokeh, and Close Focus
A fresh optical formula pushes sharpness and contrast for high-resolution Nikon Z bodies, while strong anti-glare control keeps blacks clean in backlit scenes. I like pairing it with specialty glass depending on the job, like the 14-24mm f/2.8 S for ultra-wide drama, the 24-105mm for light travel, or the Z 400mm f/4.5 for reach.
What stands out in real use
Here’s what I count on:
- 11 rounded blades plus constant f/2.8 for soft, round bokeh and smooth gradation.
- Close focus to 9.5 inches at 24mm for near-wide detail.
- 0.32x max magnification at 70mm for tight product and texture shots.
Check current pricing and availability at Amazon here!
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | The World’s First Internal Zoom f/2.8 Full-Frame 24-70mm Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
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Controls and Nikon Z Workflow Compatibility
A programmable control ring gives me fast access to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation, and the click on/off switch lets me choose tactile, stepped adjustments for stills or silent, smooth pulls for video.
Nikon lists click on/off compatibility for the Z9, Z8, Z7II, Z6III, Z6II, Z5II, Z5, Zf, and Z50II, so I can keep one muscle-memory workflow across bodies.
Native Z-mount integration also keeps handling consistent when I swap lenses like the 24-105mm everyday zoom, 14-24mm f/2.8 S, 17-28mm f/2.8, DX 16-50mm, 58mm Noct, or 400mm f/4.5.
Check current pricing and availability at Amazon here!
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | The World’s First Internal Zoom f/2.8 Full-Frame 24-70mm Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
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Size, Weight, and Buying Details (Quick Facts)
I like how this pro zoom stays practical in the bag without giving up serious specs. The lens measures 5.59 x 3.31 x 3.31 inches and weighs 1.49 pounds. Nikon lists it as model 20129, with ASIN B0FNCDZW6V, and it first became available on August 22, 2025. For quick market context, it’s currently Best Sellers Rank #65 in Mirrorless Camera Lenses, and it holds a 5.0 out of 5 stars rating across 9 reviews.
What these specs mean in real use
The key usability flags come straight from Nikon’s positioning and the lens-type keywords:
- Internal zoom keeps the barrel length consistent, which I find helps balance on gimbals and reduces dust pumping during fast work.
- 24–70mm on full-frame covers wide angle through standard, so I can move from interiors to portraits without swapping glass.
- f/2.8 stays bright for events and subject separation, while still working cleanly for video.
- Nikon Z mount fit makes it a natural match for pro Z bodies, or a core part of a two-lens kit with options like the 14-24mm f/2.8 wide zoom or 400mm f/4.5 telephoto.
Check current pricing and availability at Amazon here!
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | The World’s First Internal Zoom f/2.8 Full-Frame 24-70mm Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
This image is property of Amazon.com.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I’m a computer engineer, musician, cyclist, and dabbling in photography.
