Nikon has announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens

Nikon has announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens

Nikon has unveiled the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, a refreshed standard zoom lens that maintains a fixed length during zooming, offers a lighter build, and is the first zoom in the lineup to feature the company’s Silky Swift VCM autofocus system. The lens is open for preorder at $2,796.95, with shipping expected to begin on September 17.

Designed as a key option for both photography and video work, the second-generation 24-70mm is aimed at professionals who require steady performance on gimbals, better weather resistance, and quicker autofocus, all while maintaining high image quality. According to Nikon, this is the first 24-70mm f/2.8 in the world to feature an internal zoom mechanism, which helps keep balance consistent during use and enhances durability. The original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 was already widely regarded as a favorite among users.

What’s New in the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

Thanks to its internal zoom and focus design, the lens keeps the same overall length while zooming or focusing. Nikon reports a 16% reduction in weight compared to the first version, bringing it down to 675g (23.8 oz). It is also shorter than the original model when fully extended. This internal design improves dust and moisture sealing and cuts center-of-gravity shift by 30%, making it more stable for gimbal use.

Autofocus and Video Enhancements

For the first time in a zoom lens, Nikon introduces the Silky Swift VCM drive, which uses magnets instead of gears to deliver faster startup speeds and smoother movement. The company says autofocus can be up to five times quicker than the previous model, with scan times reduced by up to 40%, focus tracking improved by 60% while zooming, and operational noise cut by about half. Focus breathing has been minimized, and users still have access to full-time manual focus override. (Nikon notes a caution regarding the magnetic system for medical-device users.)

Optical Design and Coatings

The updated optical construction reduces the total number of elements by three, while aiming to deliver higher resolution and better flare resistance. The lens now incorporates 14 elements in 10 groups, with two extra-low dispersion and three aspherical elements included. Its 11-blade rounded aperture is designed to produce smoother bokeh, and Nikon highlights advancements in aspherical element production that create more natural defocus transitions. For coatings, the lens adopts both Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat to minimize flare and ghosting caused by light entering from various angles

Close-Focus Versatility

The lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 24cm (9.4 in) at 24mm and 33cm (12.9 in) at 70mm, achieving up to 0.32× magnification at the telephoto end. A built-in focus limiter switch allows photographers to either restrict the focus range from 33.5cm (1.1 ft) to infinity or take advantage of the full 24cm (9.4 in) to infinity range.

Handling and Controls

In addition to dedicated zoom and focus rings, the lens includes a customizable control ring that can be assigned to settings like aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO. A physical click switch lets users choose between tactile or smooth adjustments. Two L-Fn buttons are positioned on the top and side of the barrel for quick access to functions. The lens now uses smaller 77mm front filters and comes with the HB-117 hood, which features a filter-adjustment window for working with variable NDs or polarizers. Nikon also highlights advanced weather sealing for reliable outdoor use.

NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II – Specs Overview

• Mount / Format: 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
• Dimensions & Weight: 84 × 142 mm (3.3 × 5.6 in), 675 g (1.5 lb)
• In the Box: Front and rear caps, HB-117 hood, CL-C2 soft case, 1-year warranty

Price and Availability

The lens is priced at $2,796.95 and is open for preorder, with B&H listing an expected shipping date in mid-September.

With its internal zoom construction, faster and quieter autofocus, and a more compact 77mm filter thread, Nikon appears to have prioritized everyday usability for both photography and video. More details are available on Nikon’s official website.