Nikon Unveils NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II Lens: Faster, Lighter Telephoto Zoom
Nikon releases its second-generation telephoto zoom lens for Z-mount cameras.
Top Summary
- What happened: Nikon has launched the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens, the second installment in its professional-grade "Holy Trinity" zoom lens series.
- Why it matters: This lens offers improved performance, reduced weight and size, and enhanced image quality, making it a valuable tool for professional photographers and videographers.
- What changes for people: Users can expect faster autofocus, better image stabilization, lighter weight, and improved optical performance, including enhanced bokeh and reduced ghosting.
- Who is affected: Professional photographers and videographers using Nikon Z-mount cameras, particularly those specializing in multimedia creation, stand to benefit the most.
Nikon's New Telephoto Powerhouse
Nikon has introduced the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens, a second-generation telephoto zoom lens designed for its Z-mount mirrorless camera system. This lens succeeds its predecessors with a focus on speed, portability, and optical enhancements. It is the latest addition to Nikon's "Holy Trinity" of professional lenses.
B&H Photo Video is sharing news of the new lens. According to Nikon, the lens is designed as a professional workhorse for multimedia creators.
Key Features and Benefits
The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II boasts several improvements over previous models. It is 26% lighter and 0.5 inches shorter. This is due to a redesigned optical arrangement that incorporates thinner lens elements and new glass materials.
Here's a quick look at some key features:
- Full-Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
- Versatile, Fast Telephoto Zoom
- 26% Lighter Weight, 0.5" Shorter Length
- Silky Swift VCM Multi-Focus AF System
- 6-Stop VR Image Stabilization
- ED, Aspherical, SR, & Fluorite Elements
- Meso Amorphous and ARNEO Coatings
- Control Ring with Click/De-Click Switch
- Removable Arca-Style Tripod Foot
- Rounded 11-Blade Diaphragm
The updated optical design includes 18 elements in 16 groups. These specialized elements improve sharpness, color accuracy, and contrast. Nikon has also focused on enhancing the lens's bokeh rendering, creating a smoother, more dimensional effect.
Enhanced Performance and Functionality
The lens's autofocus system, driven by Nikon's Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor, offers improved speed, accuracy, and noise control. The system minimizes focus breathing, making it ideal for video recording.
"Another professional’s workhorse... Faster, lighter, smaller, and more refined than its F- and Z-mount predecessors, this S-line workhorse is an S-tier choice for professional multimedia creators in a broad range of applications."
The Vibration Reduction (VR) system compensates for up to six stops of camera shake, aiding low-light photography at longer focal lengths. The lens is also compatible with Nikon Z-series 1.4x and 2x teleconverters.
Durability and Design
The lens features advanced weather sealing, customizable buttons and rings, a redesigned lens hood with a filter adjustment window, and an Arca-type tripod foot. The lens also functions as a makeshift macro option due to reduced minimum focusing distances.
The "Holy Trinity"
The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II joins the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S as part of Nikon's "Holy Trinity" lens collection. This epithet refers to the combination of wide-angle, standard, and telephoto zoom lenses with a constant, wide maximum aperture. These lenses provide comprehensive focal length coverage for professional use.
B&H Photo Video: Your Source for Imaging Needs
B&H Photo Video is a renowned retailer of photography, video, and audio equipment. With over 50 years of experience, B&H is known for its knowledgeable sales force, excellent customer service, and extensive product selection. They also offer educational resources, including videos and articles, through their YouTube channel and Explora blog.
The B&H Photo SuperStore is located at 420 Ninth Avenue in Manhattan.
What to Watch Next
Expect reviews and real-world tests of the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II to surface soon, providing detailed insights into its performance. Keep an eye on Nikon's official channels and B&H's Explora blog for further updates and comparisons with competing lenses.