Nikon’s New 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: Lighter, Faster, Smarter

Nikon has updated one of its most important lenses, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II. This is the kind of lens you rely on in every situation, and any changes to it matter. Here's a look.

Coming to you from Matt Irwin Photography, this detailed video explores what Nikon has changed with the new NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens. One of the standout updates is weight: Nikon has shaved off 130 g, making this the lightest full frame 24-70mm f/2.8 lens on the market. Size has also improved, with a shorter design and no telescoping barrel, giving you a sealed, all-internal zoom that’s safer in the rain. Irwin points out that this is not just about convenience but long-term durability, since water and dust can’t work their way in through moving parts.

Nikon has also redesigned the aperture control. The ring now offers a smooth click option, something users have been asking for, and there are two customizable buttons plus three separate rings. The OLED information display has been removed, and while some may miss it, Nikon likely listened to feedback that most people weren’t using it. The new build also includes Nikon’s advanced coatings to cut down flare and fringing, and Irwin demonstrates just how effective they are in real-world shots.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 24 to 70mm

• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8

• Minimum Aperture: f/22

• Lens Mount: Nikon Z

• Format Coverage: Full frame

• Minimum Focus Distance: 9.4 in (24 cm) wide to 1.1 ft (33 cm) tele

• Magnification: 0.32x (1:3 macro reproduction ratio)

• Optical Design: 14 elements in 10 groups

• Aperture Blades: 11, rounded

• Focus: Autofocus

• Image Stabilization: No

• Filter Size: 77 mm

• Dimensions: 3.5 x 5.9 in (90 x 150 mm)

• Weight: 1.5 lb (675 g)

The autofocus has been completely overhauled with Nikon’s new magnetic motor system. According to Irwin, it is five times faster than the previous version and quieter as well. For video, that matters just as much as speed. Combined with the improved balance when zooming or focusing, it works smoothly on lightweight gimbals. That’s a big step forward for hybrid shooters who need stability for both stills and motion.

Irwin also emphasizes how much better the optics are despite having fewer elements than the original. Sharpness, reduced chromatic aberration, and almost no visible flare make the lens nearly distraction-free. If you want clean files that you can edit any way you like, this lens is designed to give you that baseline. In his tests, even handheld shots at slow shutter speeds held up thanks to how well the lens pairs with Nikon’s in-body stabilization.

It’s more expensive than the first version, but Irwin argues the updates justify the increase. The older model will remain available, and the f/4 version and 24-120mm f/4 remain solid alternatives. But if you want the best combination of performance, weather-sealing, speed, and balance, Nikon is making a strong case with this release. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Irwin.