Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: A Game-Changing Standard Zoom
*This article contains affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on my site at no additional cost to you. You can view my disclaimer page here. Thank you for supporting my website and content creation.
==========
Introduction
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is Nikon’s brand-new flagship standard zoom for the Z-mount system. Announced in August 2025 and shipping as of September 17th, this lens brings a host of improvements over the much-loved Mark I version.
With internal zoom, Nikon’s fastest autofocus system ever, and a lighter build than any rival 24-70mm f/2.8, the new lens is built for professionals and hybrid shooters who demand speed, reliability, and optical excellence.
👉 Buy the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II on AMAZON
👉 Buy the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II on ADORAMA
Key Upgrades Over the Original
Lightweight Design – Around 675 grams (1.49 lb), making it noticeably more portable than its predecessor
Silky Swift VCM Autofocus – Nikon’s fastest AF system yet—up to 5× faster, with 60% improved tracking performance
Video Enhancements – Reduced focus breathing, a de-clickable control ring, and a convenient lens hood filter window for adjustments without removing the hood
Optical Refinements – New aspherical and ED elements, advanced coatings like ARNEO, Nano-Crystal, and an 11-blade rounded aperture for pleasing bokeh
Close Focus Capability – Focuses as close as 0.24 m (24mm) and 0.33 m (70mm), with 0.32× magnification.
Ergonomic Changes – Added L-Fn button, focus limiter, and click-toggle ring while dropping the OLED info panel for a sleeker design.
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II – Who Is It For?
Hybrid Creators: Reduced focus breathing, quieter AF, and stable internal zoom make this ideal for video and gimbal use.
Travel & Event Photographers: Lighter weight and weather-resistant build are perfect for long shooting days.
Sports & Wildlife: The new AF system excels at fast, unpredictable movement.
Portrait & Wedding: The 11-blade diaphragm delivers buttery smooth bokeh with improved subject separation.
Comparison Chart
| Feature | NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S (Mark I) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | September 2025 | 2019 |
| Weight | ~675g (lightest in class) | ~805g |
| Zoom Mechanism | Internal Zoom (fixed barrel) | External Zoom (barrel extends) |
| Autofocus | Silky Swift VCM – 5× faster, 60% improved tracking | Stepping motor – fast, but slower and noisier |
| Optical Design | 14 elements / 10 groups, Meso-Amorphous + ARNEO coatings, 11-blade diaphragm | 17 elements / 15 groups, Nano-Crystal + ARNEO coatings, 9-blade diaphragm |
| Video Features | Reduced focus breathing, de-clickable ring, hood filter window | Focus breathing present, no hood filter window |
| Close Focus | 0.24m (24mm) / 0.33m (70mm), max 0.32× magnification | 0.38m across range, max 0.22× magnification |
| Controls | Extra L-Fn button, focus limiter, click-toggle ring; no OLED panel | OLED display, customizable control ring, single L-Fn button |
| Price | $2,799.95 USD | $1,999 USD |
| Best For | Hybrid shooters, video work, pro photography | Budget-conscious pros needing top stills performance |
The official release for the S II is September 17th, priced at $2,799.95
PURCHASE the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II | stay ahead of the curve
===================
Purchase the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S I | ideal as a budget-conscious alternative
Why It Matters for Photographers & Videographers
Unmatched Speed & Tracking
The upgraded autofocus excels in dynamic scenarios—perfect for action, wildlife, or rapid-fire portrait sessions. The performance boost is especially significant over the already well-regarded predecessor
Ideal for Hybrid Shooters
The de-clicked ring and filter window in the hood cater directly to vloggers and cinematographers, minimizing disruptions during shoots. Fast, silent AF further enhances its appeal for video users
Optical Quality You Can Trust
The lens’s refined optical formula ensures sharpness, contrast, and aberration control are at the top of their class. Nikon’s S-Line legacy continues to impress
Final Thoughts
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II raises the benchmark for standard zoom lenses—combining speed, comfort, video-ready design, and Nikon’s optical pedigree.
It’s a compelling next-gen solution for creators, especially those invested in the Nikon Z ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II worth upgrading from the Mark I?
A: Yes—if you shoot video, need faster autofocus, or want a lighter lens. The S II is designed for hybrid shooters with internal zoom, improved coatings, and Nikon’s fastest AF yet. Still photographers on a tighter budget may still find the Mark I an excellent choice.
Q: What makes the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II different from the original?
A: The S II is lighter, uses an internal zoom system, features the new Silky Swift VCM autofocus motor, reduces focus breathing for video, and includes an 11-blade diaphragm for smoother bokeh.
Q: How much does the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II cost?
A: At launch, the lens is priced at $2,799.95 USD, about $800 more than the original 24-70mm f/2.8 S.
Q: Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II good for video?
A: Absolutely. Nikon designed this lens with hybrid shooters in mind. It has internal zoom for balance, reduced focus breathing, quiet AF, and a de-clickable control ring for smooth aperture transitions.
Q: When will the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II be available?
A: The lens is scheduled to ship starting September 17th, 2025 and is currently available for order.
===================
