FASTER, LIGHTER, MORE PRECISE: THE NEW NIKKOR Z 70-200MM F/2.8 VR S II LENS IS ENGINEERED FOR THE PROFESSIONAL IN PURSUIT OF PERFECTION

The Second Generation of Nikon's Renowned Z 70-200mm f/2.8 is the Lightest in its Class 1

MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon Inc. has announced the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II, a premium-grade fast telephoto zoom lens for full-frame/FX format mirrorless cameras. This second-generation version of Nikon's most popular pro-level fast telephoto zoom delivers improved optical performance, faster focusing, and a 26% lighter weight than its first-generation predecessor.

With a fast f/2.8 constant aperture and versatile focal range, the 70-200mm f/2.8 is well established as the essential lens for capturing sports, portraits, weddings, and more, with excellent low light performance and naturally beautiful bokeh. This latest S-Line lens improves upon this classic recipe – specifically created for professional photographers and videographers who will not compromise on image quality and capability.

"This lens is a true demonstration of the optical superiority and expertise that Nikon pours into NIKKOR Z S-Line optics, giving professionals ultimate confidence in performance and reliability, day in and day out," said Fumiko Kawabata, Sr. Vice President of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc.

This evolved 70-200mm f/2.8 employs Nikon's Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) 2 autofocus drive system for highly precise, smooth, and quiet autofocus (AF) control when shooting. Autofocusing is approximately 3.5× faster 3, and AF tracking while zooming is approximately 40% better than its well-regarded predecessor, enabling more accurate focusing on rapidly moving subjects like athletes, animals, and vehicles. The optical formula has been thoroughly revised, with a reduction in the number of lens elements and a more optimal placement of aspherical elements. Additionally, Super Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and aspherical ED elements have been adopted for chromatic aberration correction. This formula achieves both a lightweight design and the highest level of rendering performance. What's more, the lens is exceptionally balanced and features an internal zoom design, making it ideal for gimbal use and comfortable for handheld shooting.

Features of the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens

Price and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens will be available in late March 2026 for a suggested retail price of $3199.95*.

For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit nikonusa.com.

About Nikon

Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z Series mirrorless cameras, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories, Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras and Nikon software products. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web's most comprehensive learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.

Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

1..Among 70-200mm f/2.8 interchangeable lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras available as of February 24, 2026. Statement based on Nikon research.

2 An AF drive actuator that combines a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) and a guide mechanism developed by Nikon. The VCM is a motor in which a coil reciprocates in a strong magnetic field created by a powerful magnet. Warning: Do not use this product if you have a pacemaker or use other medical devices. The magnets in this product could cause medical devices to malfunction.

3. When used with a camera equipped with the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine. Measured in accordance with Nikon standards.

4. Among interchangeable lenses for Nikon cameras.

5. The tripod collar of this lens can be attached to Arca-Swiss screw-type quick-release clamps. However, please avoid using lever-type clamps, as they may not fix the lens firmly in place.

6. Thorough dust- and drip-resistance is not guaranteed under all conditions or in all situations.

7. The Z9, Z8, Z7II, Z6III, Z6II, ZR, Z5II, Z5, Zf, and Z50II support this function (as of February 24, 2026). Update the camera firmware to the latest version.

8. Based on CIPA 2024 Standard. Yaw/pitch/roll correction performance with the Z6III (Synchro VR enabled, telephoto end, NORMAL mode).

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

SOURCE Nikon Inc.