Nikon has officially announced the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens, the second generation of its flagship professional telephoto zoom for Z-mount cameras.
This new model is lighter, faster, and more precise, making it a must-have for sports, portrait, and event photographers. With advanced coatings, improved autofocus, and a redesigned optical formula, the lens sets a new benchmark in Nikon’s S-Line. It will be available in late March 2026 for $3199.95.
For those considering an upgrade, Amazon listings and B&H Photo search results provide current pricing and availability.
Design and Build
The new lens is 26% lighter and 12mm shorter than the first-generation model, weighing just 998g. Its internal zoom design ensures stable operation and balance, making it ideal for gimbal setups and handheld shooting. Nikon has also introduced Arca-Swiss tripod head compatibility, a first for NIKKOR lenses, simplifying mounting and dismounting during professional workflows.
Autofocus and Performance
At the heart of the lens is Nikon’s Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) autofocus drive system, delivering autofocus that is approximately 3.5× faster and tracking performance that is 40% better than the previous generation. This makes the lens particularly effective for sports, wildlife, and fast-moving subjects.
Optical Formula and Image Quality
The optical design has been thoroughly revised, now incorporating six types of lens elements: Super ED, aspherical ED, ED, fluorite, and SR elements. Nikon’s Meso Amorphous Coat and ARNEO Coat deliver industry-leading anti-reflection performance, suppressing ghosting and flare. The adoption of 11 rounded diaphragm blades ensures smooth, circular bokeh for portrait and event photography.
Features and Handling
- Minimum focus distance: 0.38m (wide) / 0.8m (tele)
- Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.3× (wide) / 0.25× (tele)
- Control ring clicking switch for tactile or smooth operation
- Dust- and drip-resistant design with fluorine-coated front element
- Compatibility with Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4× and TC-2.0×
- 6.0-stop vibration reduction (VR) performance with Synchro VR support
Specifications
Here are the official specifications for the Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 70-200mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 constant |
| Lens Construction | Revised optical formula with Super ED, aspherical ED, ED, fluorite, SR elements |
| Aperture Blades | 11 rounded |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.38m (wide) / 0.8m (tele) |
| Max Reproduction Ratio | 0.3× (wide) / 0.25× (tele) |
| Weight | 998g |
| Design | Internal zoom, Arca-Swiss tripod compatibility |
| Coatings | Meso Amorphous Coat, ARNEO Coat, fluorine coating |
| VR Performance | 6.0-stop Synchro VR |
| Price | $3199.95 |
| Availability | Late March 2026 |
For those comparing options, you can also check Amazon search results and B&H Photo listings for related Nikon Z telephoto zooms.
Buy the Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II
Check Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II Prices on Amazon
Buy Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II at B&H Photo
View Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II Prices on Adorama
Tip: Best choice if you want a lighter, faster telephoto zoom for Nikon Z full-frame cameras.
Conclusion
The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II represents Nikon’s most advanced telephoto zoom to date, combining portability, speed, and optical excellence. With its lighter build, faster autofocus, and enhanced coatings, it’s a lens designed to meet the demands of professional photographers and videographers across genres. Available in March 2026, it reinforces Nikon’s commitment to delivering pro-level optics for the Z system.
