Nikon has unveiled the latest iteration of its renowned telephoto lens, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II. This new version boasts significant improvements over its predecessor, offering a lighter and more compact design while enhancing image quality and autofocus capabilities. Available for pre-order, this lens is set to become a staple for professional photographers and videographers alike.
The announcement comes as Nikon continues to upgrade its “holy trinity” of lenses, a process that began in August of last year with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II. This lens was the first of its kind to feature an internal zoom design, quickly becoming a favorite for video work when paired with Nikon’s ZR or Z mount KOMODO-X cameras.
Redesign and Technical Enhancements
The first-generation 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S lens, launched six years ago, set a high standard for telephoto lenses. However, Nikon’s engineers have managed to surpass it with the new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II. The updated model measures 208x90mm (8.2×3.6 inches) and weighs 998g (2.2 lbs), making it 12mm shorter and 26% lighter than its predecessor.
This full-frame Z mount lens maintains the classic 70-200mm telephoto range with a constant f/2.8 aperture. It is compatible with Nikon’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, allowing photographers to extend its reach to 100-280mm f/4 or 140-400mm f/5.6, respectively. The internal zoom mechanism ensures that the lens’s length and center of gravity remain unchanged during zooming, making it ideal for use with gimbals or rod-mounted matte boxes.
Autofocus and Stabilization
Internally, the lens features a revamped autofocus system. The STM Stepping motors have been replaced by the SSVCM (Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor) system, which, coupled with a new high-precision optical encoder, delivers autofocus performance that is 3.5 times faster and 17.5 times more precise than the previous model. Focus tracking has improved by 40% during zooming, with near-silent operation, according to Nikon.
The lens also includes built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, offering up to 6 stops of compensation. This feature can be activated from RED camera bodies, enhancing handheld shooting on non-stabilized global shutter sensors like the KOMODO-X or V-RAPTOR.
Optical Design and Bokeh
The lens’s optical design has been refined to include fewer, thinner elements, totaling 18 elements in 16 groups. As part of Nikon’s premium S-Line, it incorporates advanced optical technologies, including fluorite, SD, ED, Super ED, and aspherical elements, along with Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings. This results in superior image quality with edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal aberrations, and negligible focus breathing.
The number of iris blades has increased from 9 to 11, promising even smoother bokeh. The lens also offers improved close focusing capabilities, with a minimum focus distance of 0.38m (15 inches) at 70mm and 0.8m (31 inches) at 200mm, and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.3x at 70mm and 0.25x at 200mm.
Usability and Customization
Despite the removal of the built-in OLED display, the lens retains essential controls, including an AF/MF switch, a focus range switch, and four customizable L-Fn buttons for both horizontal and vertical shooting. A user-assignable control ring and a new switch for adjusting the aperture ring’s feel between stepped and de-clicked modes are also included.
These on-lens controls can be customized when paired with a Z mount KOMODO-X or V-RAPTOR, expanding the number of user-customizable buttons available on RED cameras. The lens is designed with extensive weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture, and features a hydrophobic fluorine coating on the front element.
Physical Design and Accessories
The lens comes with a 77mm front filter thread and a redesigned lens hood with a built-in window for easy access to ND or circular polarizer filters without removing the hood. A removable tripod collar with an Arca Swiss interface is also included, enhancing its versatility for professional use.
Market Availability and Pricing
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II is now available for pre-order at a price of $3,196.95 / €2,859.89, with shipping expected to begin in late March. For more details, prospective buyers can visit Nikon’s official website.
This development represents Nikon’s commitment to advancing optical technology and meeting the evolving needs of photographers and videographers worldwide. As the lens hits the market, it will be interesting to see how it performs in the hands of professionals and enthusiasts alike.
