Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II Lens (Nikon Z)

Telephoto Zoom Optimized
Chasing a lighter, smaller design, faster autofocus, and improved image quality, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II is an update to the workhorse telephoto zoom of the pros, featuring optical and external refinements that make it easier to use and a better all-around performer for multimedia creators working in event, portraiture, landscape, and sports scenarios.

Nikon's Lightest 70-200mm f/2.8
Rendering the lens more usable in more situations, a revised optical design gives way to Nikon's lightest 70-200mm f/2.8 lens ever. This version II lens is 0.5" shorter and weighs 26% less than the previous generation.

This version II lens weighs 2.2 lb without the foot or protective cover attached, which is noticeably lighter than the 3 lb weight of the former generation. When the protective cover is installed, the lens weighs 2.3 lb; when the tripod foot is installed, it weighs 2.6 lb.

When paired with the 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens, the combined total weight savings is over 1 lb compared to the first-generation zooms.

A number of changes to the optical design have contributed to an impressive 12.7 oz weight reduction compared to the previous version: three elements have been removed from the design, more aspherical elements have been used, some glass elements have been "thinned", the front group now has a convex-first configuration, and there are fewer moving lens groups.

S-Line Optics
In addition to benefitting the size and weight of the lens, the updated optical design also realizes improved image quality, higher resolution, better flare resistance, and smoother bokeh.

Revised optical design features one extra-low dispersion (ED) element, one Super ED element, two aspherical elements, one aspherical ED element, one fluorite element, and one short-wavelength refractive (SR) element; these specialized elements limit various aberrations and color fringing for high sharpness and color accuracy.
Improved optical design is also inherently more flare-resistant for stronger contrast when working in bright lighting conditions.

Special attention has also been given to bokeh rendering, with an emphasis on producing smooth and natural transitions between in- and out-of-focus regions for a more three-dimensional look. Aspherical element manufacturing has been improved for a smoother look, and the lens also now has 11 rounded diaphragm blades for a more rounded bokeh appearance.

Minimum focusing distance has also been shortened compared to the previous generation—1.25' at the 70mm position and 2.6' at the 200mm position, with a 0.3x maximum magnification at the minimum focusing distance from the 70mm position.