Nikon Z mirrorless cameras have changed how photographers capture images. These lightweight cameras offer excellent image quality and innovative features. The right lens can make a huge difference in your photography, whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or wildlife.
In 2026, Nikon’s Z-mount lens lineup has grown to include options for every type of photographer. From wide-angle to telephoto, prime to zoom, there’s a lens for every need and budget. These lenses are designed specifically for the Z-mount system, taking full advantage of the wider mount diameter and shorter flange distance.
When choosing a Nikon Z lens, pay attention to three key factors. First, aperture size matters – wider apertures (smaller f-numbers) let in more light and create better background blur. Second, consider the focal length range you need based on what you typically photograph. Third, look at build quality – weather sealing and durable materials are worth the investment for serious photographers who shoot in various conditions.
We tested dozens of Nikon Z lenses throughout 2024 and early 2026 to find the best options for different photography styles and budgets.
Standard Zoom Lenses
The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S remains the gold standard for professional zoom lenses in 2026. This versatile lens delivers stunning sharpness from edge to edge, even at its widest aperture. We love its weather sealing and consistent performance across the entire zoom range.
For photographers on a budget, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S offers excellent value. It’s much lighter than the f/2.8 version while still providing great image quality. The compact size makes it perfect for travel photography.
Prime Lenses
The NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.2 S continues to impress us with its incredible sharpness and beautiful bokeh. This premium lens has lightning-fast autofocus and produces images with a special quality that’s hard to describe. Yes, it’s expensive and heavy, but the results justify the investment.
The new NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 S released in late 2024 has quickly become our favorite wide-angle prime. It’s slightly smaller than previous S-line primes while maintaining exceptional optical quality. Street photographers will appreciate its versatile focal length and bright aperture.
Telephoto Lenses
Wildlife photographers will love the NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S. This lens offers impressive reach with surprisingly manageable weight. The built-in stabilization works wonderfully with the in-body stabilization of Z cameras.
The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S remains the best telephoto zoom for professionals. Its optical performance rivals prime lenses, and the autofocus is both silent and lightning-fast. We found it perfect for sports, wildlife, and portrait photography.
Wide Angle Lenses
Landscape photographers should consider the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S. This compact wide-angle zoom accepts standard filters and delivers excellent corner-to-corner sharpness. The ultra-wide field of view is perfect for dramatic landscapes.
The NIKKOR Z 20mm f/1.8 S offers a great balance between wide-angle view and bright aperture. We found it ideal for astrophotography and environmental portraits. Its close focusing capability also makes it surprisingly versatile.
Budget-Friendly Options
The NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 and 40mm f/2 lenses provide amazing value at under $300 each. These tiny lenses produce sharp images with nice background blur. They’re perfect for beginners or as lightweight backup options for professionals.
The new NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR works wonderfully on both DX and FX cameras. On full-frame bodies, it automatically crops to DX format. We found it to be the perfect all-in-one travel lens for casual photographers.
Best Nikon Z Mirrorless Lenses 2026
We’ve carefully tested and selected the top Nikon Z mirrorless lenses available this year. Our recommendations cover everything from versatile zoom lenses to specialized prime options, helping you find the perfect glass to pair with your Nikon Z camera body for stunning images.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR
The NIKKOR Z 28-400mm is a game-changing all-in-one lens that delivers remarkable versatility for travel, wildlife, and sports photography without breaking your back.
Pros
- Incredible 14.2x zoom range (28-400mm) in a single lens
- Surprisingly lightweight at only 1.6 pounds
- Excellent 5.0-stop Vibration Reduction system
Cons
- Maximum aperture of f/8 at telephoto end limits low-light performance
- Some users report lens creep when walking
- Premium price point compared to using multiple budget lenses
We recently took this lens on a wildlife photography trip, and the flexibility of that 28-400mm range cannot be overstated. One moment we were capturing wide landscape scenes, and with a quick twist of the zoom ring, we were framing distant birds in flight. The convenience of not switching lenses made a huge difference in catching fleeting moments.
At just 1.6 pounds, this is impressively light for its capabilities. We carried it all day without the usual shoulder fatigue that comes with traditional super-telephoto setups. The compact size (about 5.6 inches long) made it easy to pack into a small camera bag, which travelers will especially appreciate.
Image quality exceeded our expectations throughout the zoom range. While most all-in-one lenses compromise sharpness, we found the center sharpness excellent even at 400mm. The VR system works amazingly well – we captured handheld shots at 400mm at relatively slow shutter speeds with no visible camera shake. When paired with a Z camera body offering Synchro VR, the stabilization improves even further.
The minimum focus distance of 0.2m at the wide end creates interesting close-up shots with a 0.35x magnification ratio. This versatility means we could photograph flowers up close and then zoom out for environmental context without moving our position. For video work, the linear MF drive provides smooth, precise focusing transitions that look professional.
We found this lens truly shines for travel photography where carrying multiple lenses isn’t practical. While it won’t replace specialized prime lenses in the professional’s bag, it’s quickly become our go-to option for day trips and situations where we need maximum versatility with minimum weight.
Nikon Z 20mm f/1.8 S Ultra-Wide Prime
This remarkable ultra-wide prime lens offers exceptional image quality with its bright f/1.8 aperture, making it a must-have for serious landscape and astrophotography enthusiasts using Nikon Z cameras.
Pros
- Incredibly sharp from center to corners even at f/1.8
- Lightweight design (1.11 pounds) makes it perfect for extended shoots
- Excellent low-light performance with minimal coma for star photography
Cons
- Premium price point might be tough to justify for casual photographers
- Some vignetting at wider apertures (easily corrected in post)
- Slightly bulky compared to the Z 24mm option
We’ve been using this lens extensively over the past few months, and it’s quickly become our go-to for landscape work. The 20mm focal length hits a sweet spot – wider than standard but not so extreme that compositions become difficult to manage. When shooting at dawn along the coastline, we were amazed by how the lens captured both foreground details and distant horizons with incredible clarity.
The f/1.8 aperture truly shines in astrophotography. During a recent night shoot, we could capture the Milky Way with remarkable detail without pushing ISO beyond 1600. This lens handles stars beautifully with minimal stretching at the corners – a common problem with wide-angle lenses that the Z 20mm largely avoids.
Build quality is excellent with weather sealing that held up perfectly during our rainy mountain shoots. The multi-focusing system locks on quickly, even in dim light. For environmental portraits, the lens produces surprisingly pleasant bokeh for a wide-angle, allowing subjects to stand out against softly blurred backgrounds. We’ve found its versatility impressive – from vast landscapes to environmental portraits to architecture, this lens consistently delivers professional results.
Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm VR Telephoto Zoom
We recommend this lens for its lightweight design, impressive stabilization, and versatile zoom range that makes it a perfect companion for Nikon Z DX camera owners.
Pros
- Remarkably lightweight at just 14.2 ounces
- Powerful 5-stop image stabilization
- Excellent sharpness for a kit zoom lens
Cons
- Somewhat slow variable aperture (f/4.5-6.3)
- Some units may have rattling issues
- Limited low-light performance
After using this telephoto zoom extensively, we’ve found it offers impressive value for Nikon Z mirrorless camera owners. The 50-250mm range (equivalent to 75-375mm on full-frame) gives you plenty of reach for wildlife, sports, and portraits. In our real-world testing, the lens produced sharp images with vibrant colors.
The built-in VR stabilization system works incredibly well. We could handhold shots at slow shutter speeds that would normally require a tripod. This feature saved many photos in challenging lighting conditions. The lens also focuses quickly and quietly, making it suitable for both photos and video work.
For its affordable price point, this zoom delivers remarkable image quality. While not as bright as premium telephoto options, the lens compensates with its compact size and versatility. It pairs perfectly with the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm, giving you a complete kit that covers nearly any shooting scenario. If you own a Nikon Z DX camera, we think this lens deserves a spot in your bag.
Nikon Z 100-400mm VR S Telephoto Zoom
The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is a remarkably versatile telephoto zoom that delivers exceptional image quality, reliable stabilization, and fast focusing in a relatively portable package.
Pros
- Incredibly sharp images throughout the zoom range
- Effective 5.5-stop vibration reduction system
- Compatible with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters for extended reach
Cons
- Fairly hefty at over 3 pounds
- Maximum aperture of f/5.6 at the long end
- Premium price point
We recently took this lens out for wildlife photography, and its performance was truly impressive. The 100-400mm range proved perfect for capturing distant subjects with stunning clarity. What surprised us most was how manageable it felt during a full day of shooting. While not lightweight, the balance in hand is excellent compared to similar DSLR lenses.
The vibration reduction is a standout feature that genuinely delivers on its 5.5-stop promise. We captured tack-sharp images of birds at 400mm using shutter speeds as low as 1/60th second—something that would be impossible without effective stabilization. The dual STM motors focus quickly and quietly, making this an excellent choice for both wildlife and sports photography.
Image quality is where this S-line lens truly shines. The sharpness at every focal length exceeded our expectations, even when shooting wide open. We noticed minimal chromatic aberration and beautiful bokeh when isolating subjects. Pairing this with a Z8 or Z9 body creates a powerful combination for any situation requiring telephoto reach.
Traveling photographers will appreciate how this lens extends your creative options without overwhelming your bag. For those seeking even more reach, adding the 1.4x teleconverter gets you to 560mm with minimal image quality loss. We found this combination particularly effective for distant wildlife while maintaining autofocus performance.
Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S Prime Lens
The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is the best nifty fifty available for Z-mount cameras in 2025, delivering exceptional sharpness and beautiful bokeh that outperforms its modest price point.
Pros
- Incredibly sharp images even at wide apertures
- Silent autofocus perfect for video work
- Exceptional low-light performance with minimal distortion
Cons
- Slightly larger than F-mount equivalent
- Higher price than typical f/1.8 primes
- No dedicated focus ring (uses control ring instead)
We’ve spent countless hours testing this 50mm prime on various Z-series bodies, and it continues to impress us in 2025. The lens delivers stunning sharpness from edge to edge, even when shot wide open at f/1.8. This performance simply wasn’t possible with older DSLR lenses.
The autofocus is practically silent thanks to the stepping motor—a game-changer for video creators. During our recent portrait sessions, we found the focus to be both lightning-fast and deadly accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions. The bokeh this lens produces is wonderfully smooth and creamy, making it ideal for isolating subjects.
Build quality is exceptional with a solid feel that balances perfectly on smaller Z bodies like the Z5 or Z50. While it’s not as compact as the old F-mount nifty fifty, the optical quality more than makes up for the slight size increase. For around $600, this lens delivers performance that rivals much more expensive glass. We consistently reach for this lens for everything from portraits to street photography.
Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S Ultra-Wide Zoom
The Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S stands out as the ultimate travel companion for Z-series shooters needing an ultra-wide perspective without sacrificing portability or image quality.
Pros
- Incredibly compact and lightweight for an ultra-wide zoom
- First filter-attachable 14mm full-frame lens design
- Exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness at all focal lengths
Cons
- Fixed f/4 aperture limits low-light shooting compared to f/2.8 alternatives
- Some vignetting at 14mm (though easily correctable)
- Premium price point
After spending several weeks with this lens during a landscape photography trip, we were genuinely impressed by how Nikon packed such excellent optics into such a small package. The retractable design collapses down to just 3.5 inches when not in use, making it far more travel-friendly than typical ultra-wide zooms.
The image quality is where this lens truly shines. We found edge-to-edge sharpness to be remarkable throughout the zoom range, with minimal distortion even at 14mm. The constant f/4 aperture provides consistent exposure while keeping the lens size manageable. Though not as bright as some f/2.8 alternatives, we rarely found this limiting in real-world shooting.
What sets this lens apart is its ability to accept standard 82mm filters – a game-changer for landscape photographers. Most ultra-wide zooms have bulbous front elements that prevent filter use, but we could easily attach polarizers and ND filters without issue. The autofocus is nearly silent and extremely quick, making this an excellent choice for both stills and video work.
In practical use, we found the build quality outstanding with effective weather sealing. The zoom and focus rings operate smoothly, and the lens balances perfectly on Nikon’s Z bodies. For travel, architecture, and landscape photography, this lens offers an ideal combination of range, quality, and portability that’s hard to beat in 2025.
Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S
The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S lens delivers exceptional macro capabilities and portrait performance that makes it a must-have for serious photographers using Nikon Z mirrorless cameras.
Pros
- True 1:1 macro reproduction with stunning edge-to-edge sharpness
- Effective vibration reduction for handheld shooting
- Weather-sealed construction for durability in challenging conditions
Cons
- Slightly hefty at 1.39 pounds for extended shooting sessions
- Premium price point compared to non-S line options
- Autofocus can hunt in extremely low light macro situations
We spent weeks testing this S-Line macro lens, and it quickly became one of our favorite Z-mount options. The ability to capture true 1:1 life-size magnification opens up incredible creative possibilities. Tiny details in jewelry, flowers, and insects appear with remarkable clarity that simply wasn’t possible with our standard lenses.
The lens handles beautifully on Z-series bodies. Its comfortable working distance at 105mm means we didn’t cast shadows or scare away small creatures when shooting. The bright f/2.8 aperture provided wonderful subject isolation with creamy bokeh backgrounds that made our macro subjects pop dramatically.
What surprised us most was its versatility beyond macro work. The 105mm focal length creates flattering portraits with excellent compression and background separation. The VR stabilization system proved invaluable for handheld shooting in challenging light conditions. During a recent wedding shoot, we captured detailed ring shots and then seamlessly switched to capturing emotional candid moments without changing lenses.
The build quality feels substantial but not overly heavy. Every control ring moves with satisfying precision. In rainy outdoor sessions, the weather sealing gave us confidence to keep shooting when other gear had to be packed away. For serious macro enthusiasts or professional photographers, this lens delivers exceptional image quality that justifies its place in Nikon’s premium S-Line.
Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Zoom Lens
The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is an exceptional investment for any Z-series camera owner who wants one versatile lens that delivers outstanding image quality across a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Pros
- Remarkable sharpness throughout the zoom range
- Fast, quiet autofocus performance
- Weather-sealed construction for outdoor shooting
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to the f/4 version
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Plastic exterior may feel less premium to some users
We’ve been testing this lens extensively on our Z6 II, and the results have been consistently impressive. The constant f/2.8 aperture makes this zoom incredibly versatile, allowing us to maintain exposure settings while zooming. This feature proves invaluable in changing lighting conditions or when shooting video where sudden exposure shifts would be jarring.
The Multi-Focus System is a game-changer in real-world use. When photographing moving subjects, the lens tracks with remarkable precision and speed. We found the autofocus virtually silent – a huge advantage for video work where lens noise can ruin audio. The stepping motor delivers smooth transitions between focus points without hunting or pulsing.
Image quality is where this lens truly shines. The sharpness from edge to edge exceeded our expectations, even wide open at f/2.8. We noticed beautiful background blur (bokeh) when shooting portraits at the longer end of the zoom range. Colors render naturally with excellent contrast, and we experienced minimal flaring even when shooting directly into light sources.
While not small, the lens balances surprisingly well on Z-series bodies. The weather sealing gave us confidence shooting in light rain and dusty conditions. For photographers looking to simplify their kit without sacrificing quality, this 24-70mm often means leaving several prime lenses at home.
Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S
We believe this versatile zoom lens is worth every penny for Z-series camera owners who need one high-quality lens that can handle almost any situation.
Pros
- Incredibly sharp images across the entire zoom range
- Versatile 24-120mm focal length covers most shooting scenarios
- Impressive close focusing ability (as near as 1.15 feet)
Cons
- f/4 maximum aperture limits low-light performance
- Somewhat hefty at 1.39 pounds
- Premium price point compared to other Z lenses
After testing this lens over several weeks, we’re convinced the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S deserves its spot in the S-Line premium collection. The build quality immediately stands out – it feels solid and weather-sealed without being unnecessarily bulky for travel.
The zoom range truly makes this an all-purpose lens. We shot everything from wide landscapes at 24mm to tight portraits at 120mm with consistently excellent results. The constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range is a huge advantage when shooting video, as the exposure doesn’t shift when changing focal lengths.
What surprised us most was the close-focusing capability. Being able to get within 1.15 feet of subjects at any zoom position creates incredible versatility. The dual STM motors deliver quick, silent autofocus with virtually no focus breathing – a game-changer for video work. We particularly enjoyed using the custom control ring, which can be set to adjust aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8 Pancake Prime
We believe this ultra-slim pancake lens deserves a spot in every Z-series photographer’s bag for its incredible portability and impressive image quality.
Pros
- Remarkably thin and lightweight design
- Sharp center focus with beautiful background blur
- Versatile 26mm focal length for street photography
Cons
- Lens cap falls off easily
- Makes some noise during autofocus
- Hood design takes getting used to
The NIKKOR Z 26mm f/2.8 is the slimmest lens in Nikon’s Z lineup, and we noticed the difference right away. When mounted on our Z6, the camera felt like it lost half its bulk. This pancake design transforms any Z-series body into something that fits comfortably in a small bag or even a large pocket.
During our street photography sessions, this lens really shined. The 26mm focal length hits a sweet spot that’s slightly wider than the classic 28mm but not as extreme as a 24mm. We found it perfect for capturing urban scenes with just the right amount of context. The f/2.8 aperture might not be the fastest, but it creates lovely background separation when shooting up close.
Image quality surprised us given how small this lens is. Center sharpness is excellent, and we noticed minimal distortion in our architectural shots. The close focusing distance of just 8 inches made detail work enjoyable too. In low light situations, we found it handled well enough for most street photography needs. While not silent, the autofocus noise wasn’t noticeable in our video clips. For photographers wanting to travel light without sacrificing quality, this tiny lens delivers big results.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right Nikon Z lens can be tricky with so many options available in 2025. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect match for your camera and photography style.
Consider Your Photography Style
Think about what you photograph most often. Portrait photographers might want fast prime lenses with wide apertures. Landscape photographers typically need sharp wide-angle lenses with good corner-to-corner clarity.
Wildlife and sports photographers should look for telephoto lenses with quick autofocus systems. For videographers, lenses with minimal focus breathing and silent motors are essential.
Key Features to Evaluate
Aperture: Wider apertures (lower f-numbers) let in more light and create better background blur. They’re great for low-light situations but often cost more.
Focal Length: This determines your field of view. Here’s a quick reference:
- 14-35mm: Wide-angle (landscapes, architecture)
- 35-85mm: Standard (everyday, portraits)
- 85mm+: Telephoto (wildlife, sports)
Image Stabilization: Many Z lenses include VR (Vibration Reduction). This feature helps reduce camera shake, especially important when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds.
Build Quality Considerations
Weather sealing is crucial if you shoot outdoors frequently. The construction materials affect both durability and weight – an important factor for travel or all-day shooting sessions.
Size and weight matter too. The perfect lens balances optical quality with practical usability for your shooting style.
Cost vs. Performance
Premium lenses offer exceptional quality but come at higher prices. We recommend setting a budget and finding the best lens within that range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the wide array of Nikon Z lenses can be challenging. Here are answers to the most common questions about Nikon’s mirrorless lens ecosystem in 2025.
What are the top-rated lenses for the Nikon Z series for wildlife photography in 2025?
For wildlife photography, the Nikon Z 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR S stands as the premier choice in 2025. Its exceptional reach and stunning image quality make it perfect for capturing distant subjects.
The Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S paired with the 1.4x teleconverter offers another excellent option with great versatility. Many wildlife photographers praise its lighter weight compared to the 200-600mm.
We’ve also seen the third-party Tamron 150-500mm for Z-mount gain popularity due to its compelling price-to-performance ratio.
Which Nikon Z lenses are considered ideal for street photography as of 2025?
The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S remains the street photography champion in 2025. Its compact size, fast aperture, and exceptional sharpness make it perfect for capturing everyday moments.
The newer Z 28mm f/2 S has become another favorite, offering a slightly wider perspective while maintaining a discreet profile. Its improved autofocus system works wonderfully in busy street environments.
For those wanting versatility, the compact Z 24-70mm f/4 S lets you adjust framing without changing lenses, making it ideal for dynamic street scenes.
How does the 2025 Nikon Z lens roadmap influence lens selection for professional photographers?
Nikon’s 2025 roadmap has prioritized filling gaps in their professional lineup, particularly in specialized focal lengths. This means professionals now have native options for almost every shooting scenario.
The introduction of more compact “SE” versions of professional lenses has given photographers lighter alternatives without significant quality compromises. These options have been especially welcomed by travel and documentary photographers.
We’ve noticed professionals increasingly building their kits around these roadmap releases rather than adapting older F-mount glass.
What third-party manufacturers offer the best performing lenses for Nikon Z mount cameras in 2025?
Sigma leads the third-party market with their “Art” series for Z-mount, offering exceptional image quality that sometimes exceeds Nikon’s native options at more competitive prices.
Tamron has carved out a strong position with their lightweight zooms that balance performance and value. Their 17-28mm f/2.8 and 70-180mm f/2.8 have become particularly popular alternatives.
Viltrox and Laowa continue to provide specialized manual focus options that fill niches Nikon hasn’t addressed, particularly in ultra-wide and macro photography.
What are the must-have Nikon Z lenses for professional photographers in 2025?
The Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S remains the essential workhorse lens for professionals in 2025. Its versatility across portraits, events, and documentary work makes it irreplaceable.
For portrait specialists, the Z 85mm f/1.2 S delivers unmatched subject isolation and bokeh quality that continues to set the standard in the industry.
The Z 14-30mm f/4 S has become essential for landscape and architectural professionals, offering exceptional corner-to-corner sharpness in a surprisingly compact package.
What advancements have been made in Nikon Z lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras by 2025?
Nikon’s latest Z lenses feature significantly improved focus motors that provide near-silent operation and lightning-fast acquisition. These advancements particularly benefit videographers and wildlife photographers.
Optical designs have evolved to include new nano-crystal coating elements that virtually eliminate flare and ghosting, even in challenging backlit situations.
We’ve also seen considerable progress in weight reduction across the lineup, with newer S-line lenses averaging 15% lighter than their first-generation counterparts while maintaining or improving optical performance.
