Nikon Introduces Two Bright Telephoto Zoom Lenses

2020.01.07

Both Nikon interchangeable lens platforms are getting new lenses for CES 2020. The Z-mount used in Nikon mirrorless and F-mount used in their DSLR cameras get expanded telephoto capabilities with Full-Frame compatibility.

For mirrorless cameras, the new addition is the Nikkor Z 70-200mm F/2.8S VR. This workhorse lens required by nearly every action photographers provides an F/2.8 maximum aperture for short to medium telephoto reach. For the first time in a Full-Frame Z-mount lens, Nikon includes image-stabilization, signifying that they expect this lens to also be used on their APS-C mirrorless for greater reach, given that the Z7 & Z6 Full-Frame Mirrorless cameras do not need stabilization in lenses since they both offer a state-of-the-art 5-axis image-stabilization system which is also rated to 5-stops, just like the new 70-200mm F/2.8S lens.

The new optical formulation of the Z 70-200mm F/2.8S VR allows it to offer a 0.2X maximum magnification by focusing down to 50cm at wide-angle and 1m at telephoto. This lens features a customizable control-ring and two assignable buttons on its weatherproof body. The entire lens is designed with only internal moving parts, allowing for greater stability and more efficient focusing. This lens is expected to ship next month for $2600 USD or $3600 CAD. See the Nikkor Z 70-200mm F/2.8S VR specification page for pre-ordering options.

Nikon already has several 70-200mm lenses for their DSLRs, so this time they are introducing a longer Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm F/2.8E FL SR VR with 50% more reach. This high end lens is aimed at professional sports photographers and is particularly highly anticipated for shooting at the Olympics where distances are greater than typical sport events. Although not required when capturing fast motion, Nikon equipped their new lens with image-stabilization for when the lens gets used hand-held to capture slow moving subjects, possibly wildlife when they stay calm.

The new Nikon 120-300mm F.2.8 is built to withstand the elements with a weatherproof design with internal focusing and zooming, also optimizing balance. It offers an ultra-sonic AF motor with Quick-Shift AF and a number of switches to control focus and stabilization, plus a customizable button. Given that his lens weighs 3.2kg, one does not expect much hand-held shooting and its image-stabilization system is only effective to 4-stops. February is also the month this lens is expected to ship for $9500 USD or $13,000 CAD. Visit the Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm F/2.8E FL SR VR specification page for pre-ordering options.

• CES
• Lens