Nikon Reveals f/2.8 Zoom for DX-Format Mirrorless Systems
Nikon has introduced the Nikkor Z DX 16–50mm f/2.8 VR, its first APS-C zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture, for the mirrorless Z mount. The lens expands Nikon’s DX-format lineup, offering a faster, stabilized standard zoom for cameras. It covers a 24–75mm full-frame equivalent focal range and includes optical stabilization rated up to five stops, addressing the lack of in-body stabilization on Nikon’s current APS-C cameras.
The lens construction consists of 12 elements in 11 groups, including one extra-low dispersion (ED) and two aspherical element. It is Nikon’s first APS-C Z-mount lens to use a 9-blade aperture diaphragm instead of seven, producing smoother out-of-focus rendering. Focusing is handled by a stepping motor for quiet and precise operation, and focus breathing is minimized to suit both stills and video recording. The minimum focusing distance is 0.15 meters at the wide end and 0.25 meters at telephoto.
The optical vibration reduction system provides up to five stops of compensation, improving handheld performance in low light. Nikon also notes compatibility with the Hi-Res Zoom feature on the Z50II, which digitally extends zoom reach to an equivalent of 100mm while maintaining the f/2.8 aperture.
Physically, the lens weighs 330 grams and measures 88 millimeters in length, maintaining a compact profile consistent with Nikon’s DX camera bodies. It accepts 67mm front filters and includes a programmable control ring that can be customized for aperture, ISO, or exposure adjustments. A petal-type hood (HB-118) is supplied.
Nikon positions the 16–50mm f/2.8 VR as a higher-end alternative to the existing 16–50mm f/3.5–6.3 VR kit zoom. While the earlier version was noted for its compactness, it lacked brightness and depth-of-field control: the new lens aims to fill that gap for photographers seeking a faster and optically superior standard zoom without moving to full-frame lenses.
The release of this lens marks a significant step for Nikon’s DX lineup, which until now has lacked fast zoom options. The absence of third-party APS-C zooms for the Z mount has indeed limited user choice, making this lens an important development for the system; its introduction may signal further investment in higher-quality DX-format lenses in the future.
Here are some sample pictures, courtesy of Nikon:
The Nikkor Z DX 16–50mm f/2.8 VR will be available for order beginning October 16, priced at $899 in the United States.
