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Last Update: November 3, 2026
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is one of Nikon's most significant standard zoom updates for its Z-mount system. Rather than making a few minor changes to the original lens, Nikon redesigned several important aspects of the second generation, introducing an internal zoom mechanism, a lighter body, a new autofocus system, and improvements aimed at both photography and video.
A 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is often the workhorse of a professional camera kit. Its focal range covers everything from wide environmental photographs to tighter portraits, making it useful for concerts, weddings, events, journalism, travel, and commercial assignments.
The original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S was already an excellent lens. That makes the S II an interesting upgrade. The question isn't simply whether the new version performs well. It's whether the improvements are significant enough to justify its premium price, particularly for photographers who already own the original.
This review looks at the lens's design, autofocus, image quality, handling, and video capabilities, with particular attention to what matters to concert and event photographers.
Lens Overview
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is an impressive professional standard zoom. Its internal zoom construction, lower weight, improved autofocus, and more video-friendly design make it a meaningful refinement of an already capable lens.
Best for: Nikon Z photographers who want a premium everyday zoom for professional photography and hybrid work.
Biggest improvements: Internal zoom, approximately 130g lower weight, faster autofocus, a smaller filter size, and improved close-focusing capability.
Main drawback: Its premium price, particularly for photographers who already own the original version.
Upgrade verdict: A compelling choice for new buyers and hybrid creators. Existing owners of the original should consider whether the handling and autofocus improvements justify the cost.
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II at a Glance
| Category | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Image Quality | Excellent |
| Autofocus | Very fast and quiet |
| Low-Light Capability | Excellent f/2.8 constant aperture |
| Build Quality | Professional S-Line construction |
| Video Performance | Excellent hybrid features |
| Portability | Lighter than the original |
| Value | Premium-priced |
Image Quality
Excellent
Autofocus
Very fast and quiet
Low-Light Capability
Excellent f/2.8 constant aperture
Build Quality
Professional S-Line construction
Video Performance
Excellent hybrid features
Portability
Lighter than the original
Value
Premium-priced
Key Specifications
| Feature | NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II |
|---|---|
| Mount | Nikon Z |
| Format | Full Frame (FX) |
| Focal Length | 24-70mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
| Autofocus | Silky Swift VCM |
| Diaphragm | 11 rounded blades |
| Zoom Design | Internal zoom |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.24m at 24mm; 0.33m at 70mm |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.32x |
| Weather Resistance | Dust- and drip-resistant construction |
| Weight | Approximately 675g |
| Filter Size | 77mm |
| Launch Price | $2,799.95 USD |
Why the 24-70mm Focal Range Matters
If you could choose only one professional zoom lens for general photography, a 24-70mm f/2.8 would be a strong candidate.
The focal range is versatile enough to cover a wide variety of subjects without requiring frequent lens changes.
At 24mm, it's useful for:
Landscapes and architecture
Environmental portraits
Venue overviews
Group photographs
Establishing shots at events
Around 35-50mm, it works well for:
Documentary photography
Street photography
Travel
Everyday shooting
Candid event photographs
At 70mm, it becomes useful for:
Portraits
Stage performers
Wedding details
Speaker photographs
Tighter event compositions
The constant f/2.8 maximum aperture is another major advantage. Unlike variable-aperture zooms, the lens maintains the same maximum aperture throughout its focal range. This is particularly useful when shooting in changing light or working with moving subjects.
What's New Compared to the Original?
The original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S remains one of Nikon's strongest standard zooms. The S II improves on that foundation with changes that affect both performance and everyday usability.
The most important updates include:
Internal zoom mechanism
Approximately 130g lower weight
New Silky Swift VCM autofocus system
Faster autofocus and improved tracking during zooming
77mm filter thread instead of 82mm
Updated optical design and coatings
Improved close-focusing capability
11-blade aperture diaphragm
Better video handling and reduced focus breathing
Filter adjustment window built into the lens hood
The changes are more substantial than a simple cosmetic refresh. Nikon has focused on making the lens more practical for photographers who use their equipment extensively, particularly those who switch between still photography and video.
Internal Zoom Design
The most noticeable design change is the internal zoom mechanism.
Traditional zoom lenses often extend as you move from the wide end to the telephoto end. The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II does not. Its overall length remains constant throughout the zoom range.
This has several practical advantages.
Consistent balance: The lens does not shift its center of gravity as you zoom, making handling more predictable.
Gimbal compatibility: Video operators can change focal lengths without significantly changing the balance of their camera rig.
Improved sealing: The internal construction helps reduce the entry of dust and debris during zooming and contributes to Nikon's dust- and drip-resistant design.
No extending barrel: The front of the lens remains in the same position, which is useful when working with accessories and filters.
For still photographers, the consistent balance is a welcome handling improvement. For video creators, it is even more useful because changing focal lengths does not require the same adjustments that can be necessary with an extending zoom.
The internal design does have a trade-off. The S II is approximately 142mm long, compared with about 126mm for the original lens. It is lighter, but not shorter.
Autofocus Performance
Autofocus is one of the most important improvements in the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II.
Nikon replaced the original focusing system with its Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor (SSVCM), combined with a multi-focusing system. This design moves multiple focusing groups with greater precision and is intended to improve speed, accuracy, and operating noise.
Nikon claims that autofocus is approximately five times faster than the original lens and that tracking performance during zooming improves by approximately 60% under its specified test conditions. These are manufacturer figures, but they illustrate the scale of the autofocus changes.
For photographers, the practical benefits include:
Faster focus acquisition
More responsive subject tracking
Very quiet autofocus operation
Improved focus control during video recording
Better support for modern Nikon subject-detection systems
As with any Z-mount lens, the camera body also plays an important role. A newer body with Nikon's EXPEED 7 processor can take better advantage of the lens's autofocus capabilities than an older camera.
Concert Photography Performance
Concert photography is a demanding environment for autofocus. Performers move unpredictably, stage lighting changes constantly, and haze, backlighting, and colored LEDs can make focusing more difficult.
A fast standard zoom is particularly useful because it allows photographers to change framing without switching lenses.
The S II's f/2.8 aperture provides a useful advantage in darker venues, while its updated autofocus system is designed to keep pace with moving subjects.
It is well suited to photographing:
Singers moving across the stage
Guitarists and other musicians
Drummers and performers behind equipment
Candid interactions between band members
Wider stage scenes and tighter performer portraits
The lens works alongside Nikon's subject-detection technology rather than replacing it. In challenging conditions, the camera body, autofocus settings, available light, and subject movement all influence the results.
For concert photographers using a Z6 III, Z8, or Z9, the S II is a particularly appealing standard zoom when versatility and fast focusing are priorities.
Event and Wedding Photography
The same autofocus improvements are useful beyond concerts.
At weddings, corporate events, conferences, and other assignments, photographers often need to move quickly between different subjects and compositions.
The 24-70mm range makes it possible to photograph a speaker at 70mm, then quickly zoom out to capture a room overview or group photograph at 24mm.
The updated focusing system, combined with a constant f/2.8 aperture, makes the S II a strong option for demanding event work.
Image Quality
The original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S already delivered excellent optical performance. The S II builds on that reputation with a redesigned optical construction and updated coatings.
Independent testing has found very strong sharpness, effective control of flare and ghosting, and pleasing background rendering. Performance is excellent for a professional standard zoom, although no lens is completely free of optical compromises.
Sharpness
Sharpness is one of the lens's strongest characteristics.
It delivers excellent detail across much of the frame, including when shooting at f/2.8. This is important for photographers who regularly work in low light and cannot always stop down.
Stopping down to f/4 or f/5.6 can provide additional depth of field and may improve performance in some situations, but the lens is designed to deliver strong results at its maximum aperture.
For concert and event photographers, that means you can work wide open without feeling that you're sacrificing the lens's main optical strengths.
Color and Contrast
The S II produces detailed images with strong contrast and natural-looking color.
This is useful when photographing subjects under difficult lighting. Concert photographers, in particular, frequently deal with intense red, blue, and magenta stage lights that can make color correction challenging.
The lens's optical performance provides a strong starting point for RAW processing, although the final appearance of an image will also depend on the camera sensor, lighting, and editing.
Bokeh and Background Separation
A 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom is not primarily a portrait lens, but it can still produce attractive background separation.
At 70mm and f/2.8, the lens can isolate a subject against a softer background, making it useful for portraits, stage performers, and event details.
Nikon also increased the diaphragm from nine blades in the original lens to 11 rounded blades in the S II. This helps produce more rounded out-of-focus highlights.
Flare and Ghosting
Flare control is especially important when photographing concerts, where bright spotlights and LEDs can enter the frame from different angles.
The S II uses Nikon's Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat to help reduce reflections, flare, and ghosting.
These coatings are particularly useful when working with strong backlighting or shooting toward bright light sources. They do not eliminate flare entirely, but they help maintain contrast and image clarity in challenging lighting.
Close-Focusing Performance
The S II also improves its close-focusing capabilities.
It focuses as close as approximately 0.24m at 24mm and 0.33m at 70mm, with a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.32x.
This is useful for photographing details, products, food, and smaller subjects without switching to a dedicated close-up lens.
It is not a macro lens, but the additional magnification makes the standard zoom more versatile.
Handling and Build Quality
As part of Nikon's premium S-Line, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is built for demanding professional use.
The lens features a robust construction with dust- and drip-resistant design elements. Nikon also uses protective coatings on the front and rear elements to help repel dirt and moisture.
As with other weather-resistant lenses, this does not make it waterproof. Care is still necessary when working in heavy rain, blowing sand, or other harsh conditions.
Lighter Weight
At approximately 675g, the S II is about 130g lighter than the original lens.
That difference may not sound substantial, but it can matter over a long shooting day.
Photographers covering weddings, festivals, conferences, and other extended assignments often carry their equipment for hours. Reducing weight without sacrificing the constant f/2.8 aperture is a welcome improvement.
The new lens is also slightly slimmer, with a 77mm filter thread instead of the original's 82mm. This can make filter compatibility more convenient, particularly if you own other Nikon lenses that use 77mm filters.
Zoom and Focus Rings
The zoom and control rings are designed for smooth, precise operation.
The internal zoom mechanism makes the handling more consistent because the lens does not extend or shift its balance as the focal length changes.
The lens also includes a control ring click switch, allowing users to enable or disable tactile clicks when adjusting the ring. This is particularly useful for video work, where quieter operation is desirable.
Filter Adjustment Window
Another useful design detail is the filter adjustment window in the lens hood.
It allows photographers to adjust compatible rotating filters, such as circular polarizers and variable ND filters, without removing the hood.
This is a relatively small feature, but it makes working with filters more convenient.
Video Performance
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is particularly appealing to hybrid creators who regularly move between photography and video.
Several of its major design changes directly benefit video production.
Internal Zoom and Gimbal Use
The internal zoom mechanism keeps the lens's length and balance consistent as you change focal lengths.
This is useful when shooting on a gimbal because zooming does not produce the same balance shift associated with extending zoom lenses.
It can also make handheld video work more predictable and reduce the need to readjust accessories when changing focal lengths.
Quiet Autofocus
The Silky Swift VCM autofocus system is designed for fast, precise, and quiet operation.
This helps when recording interviews, documentaries, wedding footage, and live events where autofocus noise could otherwise be distracting.
Focus Breathing
Focus breathing occurs when the framing changes as a lens shifts focus.
Nikon designed the S II to suppress this effect, making it better suited to video recording and focus transitions.
It is not necessary to assume that focus breathing is completely eliminated, but the improved control is a meaningful advantage for hybrid shooters.
Best Nikon Z Camera Pairings
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II works with Nikon Z-mount cameras, but some combinations are particularly appealing for professional photography and video.
Nikon Z6 III
The Z6 III is a natural pairing for this lens.
Its 24.5MP full-frame sensor, fast autofocus, and strong low-light capabilities make it a versatile camera for:
Concert photography
Weddings
Events
Documentary work
Hybrid photo and video assignments
For photographers who need one camera and one professional standard zoom for a wide range of situations, this is a balanced combination.
Nikon Z8
The Z8 is a strong choice for photographers who need high resolution and speed.
Its 45.7MP sensor provides plenty of detail for commercial, portrait, landscape, and event photography. Combined with the S II, it creates a versatile professional setup.
Nikon Z9
The Z9 is Nikon's flagship full-frame mirrorless camera and makes an excellent pairing for photographers who prioritize speed, autofocus performance, and professional reliability.
The combination is particularly useful for demanding event, sports, and commercial assignments.
Nikon Zf
The Zf offers a different shooting experience, with a retro-inspired design and full-frame sensor.
Pairing it with the S II creates a capable setup for documentary, travel, street, and general photography. However, the lens is still a relatively substantial professional zoom, so the combination is not as compact as a smaller prime-lens setup.
Best Uses for the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II
The versatility of a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is its greatest strength. It can cover a wide range of assignments without requiring frequent lens changes.
Concert Photography
The constant f/2.8 aperture, fast autofocus, and flexible focal range make the S II an excellent option for concert photography.
It can handle wider stage compositions at 24mm and tighter performer photographs at 70mm. This flexibility is especially useful when photographers have limited access to the stage or cannot move freely around a venue.
However, 70mm may not provide enough reach for larger venues or distant performers. A 70-200mm f/2.8 remains a valuable companion for those situations.
Event Photography
Corporate events, conferences, award ceremonies, and private functions benefit from the flexibility of a standard zoom.
You can move between room overviews, candid moments, speaker portraits, and group photographs without changing lenses.
Wedding Photography
Wedding photographers often rely on a 24-70mm f/2.8 throughout much of the day.
The focal range is useful for preparations, ceremony coverage, portraits, reception details, and candid moments. The lighter design is also welcome during long assignments.
Travel Photography
Although it is not a compact travel lens, the S II can cover a wide variety of subjects with one lens.
For photographers who prefer to travel with fewer lenses, it can handle landscapes, architecture, environmental portraits, and everyday scenes.
Commercial and Documentary Photography
The combination of a constant aperture, professional autofocus, and versatile focal range makes the S II well suited to commercial and documentary assignments.
It can adapt quickly to changing subjects and shooting conditions without requiring a different lens for every situation.
NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II vs. the Competition
S II vs. Original NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
The most important comparison is between the two Nikon generations.
The original lens remains an excellent professional zoom. The S II improves several areas, but the difference is more about handling, autofocus, and hybrid usability than a dramatic change in what the lens can photograph.
| Feature | Original 24-70mm f/2.8 S | 24-70mm f/2.8 S II |
|---|---|---|
| Zoom Design | Extending zoom | Internal zoom |
| Weight | Approx. 805g | Approx. 675g |
| Filter Size | 82mm | 77mm |
| Autofocus | Stepping motor system | Silky Swift VCM |
| Diaphragm | 9 blades | 11 blades |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.22x | 0.32x |
| Video Handling | Good | Improved |
Choose the S II if you want:
Internal zoom construction
Lower weight
Faster autofocus
Improved tracking during zooming
Better video handling
Increased close-focusing capability
A smaller filter size
Keep the original if:
You primarily shoot still photographs
You're happy with its autofocus and image quality
You rarely use video
The cost of upgrading is difficult to justify
For existing owners, the original remains a very capable lens. The S II is a more refined tool, but it isn't an essential upgrade for every photographer.
S II vs. Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II
Sony's FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II is one of the strongest alternatives in the professional standard zoom category.
Both lenses offer excellent optical performance, fast autofocus, and relatively lightweight construction.
Nikon's main differentiator is its internal zoom mechanism, which maintains consistent balance while changing focal lengths. Sony's lens uses an extending zoom design and is also notably compact and lightweight.
For most photographers, the camera system they already own will be the deciding factor.
S II vs. Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon's RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM offers a major advantage in one area: built-in optical image stabilization.
The Nikon S II does not include optical stabilization and instead relies on in-body image stabilization when paired with a compatible camera.
Nikon counters with its internal zoom construction, lighter weight, and updated autofocus system.
Both are excellent professional lenses. The best choice depends primarily on which camera system you use and which features matter most to your workflow.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Excellent image quality throughout the zoom range
Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
Internal zoom design
Approximately 130g lighter than the original
Fast and quiet Silky Swift VCM autofocus
Improved subject tracking during zooming
Strong flare and ghosting control
11-blade aperture diaphragm
Improved close-focusing capability
Dust- and drip-resistant construction
Useful video features and consistent gimbal balance
77mm filter thread
Cons
Premium purchase price
Existing owners of the original may not need to upgrade
No optical image stabilization
Longer physical length than the original lens
Still a substantial lens compared with smaller standard zooms
Who Should Buy the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II?
The S II is an excellent choice for photographers who want a premium standard zoom and regularly depend on the 24-70mm focal range.
It is particularly well suited to:
Professional concert photographers
Wedding photographers
Event photographers
Commercial photographers
Documentary shooters
Hybrid photo and video creators
Nikon Z photographers building a professional lens kit
It is also a strong option for photographers upgrading from older F-mount equipment who want a modern standard zoom for their Z-mount system.
Who Might Want to Skip It?
You may want to keep your existing lens or consider a more affordable alternative if:
You already own the original 24-70mm f/2.8 S and are satisfied with it.
You primarily photograph landscapes using a tripod.
You rarely shoot video.
You don't regularly need an f/2.8 aperture.
Your budget is a major consideration.
The original 24-70mm f/2.8 S remains an excellent lens, and its lower used-market price can make it a particularly attractive option.
Photographers who prioritize reach over a constant f/2.8 aperture may also want to consider the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S.
Final Verdict
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is an impressive update to one of Nikon's most important professional lenses.
Its optical performance is excellent, autofocus is faster and quieter, and the internal zoom mechanism makes it more appealing for photographers who regularly switch between stills and video. The reduction in weight and improved close-focusing capability are also welcome changes.
For photographers building a professional Nikon Z system, the S II is one of the strongest standard zoom options available.
For existing owners of the original lens, the decision is more complicated. The improvements are meaningful, particularly for hybrid creators and photographers who work with moving subjects, but the original remains highly capable.
Ultimately, the S II is less about dramatically changing image quality and more about improving the experience of using a professional 24-70mm f/2.8 lens every day. If those refinements address limitations in your current setup, the upgrade is easier to justify. If not, the original remains a very good investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II worth upgrading to?
It depends on how you use your current lens. The S II offers internal zoom, lower weight, faster autofocus, improved tracking during zooming, and better video handling. These improvements make it attractive for professional event photographers and hybrid creators. If you primarily shoot still photographs and are happy with the original version, upgrading is less essential.
Is the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 S II good for concert photography?
Yes. Its constant f/2.8 aperture, fast autofocus, excellent image quality, and versatile focal range make it an excellent lens for concert photography. The 24-70mm range can cover wide stage compositions and tighter performer photographs, although a 70-200mm lens provides more reach for larger venues.
Is the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 S II good for weddings?
Yes. Wedding photographers benefit from its versatile focal range, constant f/2.8 aperture, fast autofocus, and professional construction. Its lighter design is also useful during long shooting days.
Does the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II have image stabilization?
No. The lens does not include optical image stabilization. It relies on in-body image stabilization when paired with a compatible Nikon Z camera.
Is the internal zoom really useful?
Yes. Internal zoom keeps the lens the same length and maintains consistent balance while changing focal lengths. This is particularly useful for video creators using gimbals, but it also makes handling more predictable for still photographers.
Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sharp wide open?
Yes. The lens delivers excellent sharpness at f/2.8 throughout much of its zoom range. Stopping down can provide additional depth of field and improve some aspects of image quality, but photographers can confidently use the maximum aperture when working in low light.
Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II good for video?
Yes. Its internal zoom mechanism, quiet autofocus, reduced focus breathing, and consistent balance make it particularly appealing for hybrid creators. The ability to zoom without changing the lens's physical length is especially useful when working with gimbals.
Is the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II worth the price?
For photographers who rely on a professional standard zoom every day, the improved handling, autofocus, and hybrid features may justify the premium. Casual photographers and existing owners of the original version may find better value in a less expensive alternative.
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