Finally an expert f/2.8 zoom for Nikon APS-C hybrids!

Here’s finally an f/2.8 zoom! Although very active on its Z system with a 24×36 mm sensor (FX), Nikon has been very slow on its APS-C hybrid optical fleet – we speak of DX format in the jargon. This is why today’s launch of the Nikkor Z DX 16-50 mm f/2.8 VR, its first “serious” zoom, is good news.

Nicknamed the “little dragon” by the Nikon teams during its presentation to the press, this lens has a 24-75 mm equivalent with, therefore, a constant aperture of f/2.8. Making it the brightest zoom in the Z mount in DX format.

Weight as an asset

Before even talking about the optical formula and diaphragm blades, we must talk about what jumps out at you when reading the technical sheet: its featherweight. Weighing only 330 grams on the scale, it is a featherweight for an optic of this type.

It is thus almost 50% lighter than its competitor in the Sony system (E 16-55 mm f/2.8 G), an lens which dates from 2020 and weighs 494 g. It is also lighter than Fujifilm’s second iteration, the XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II PD and its 410 grams. Although here the comparison is more difficult – Fuji’s zoom seems more high-end with its 11-blade diaphragm.

Like the Sony, the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR makes do with a 9-blade diaphragm, which seems enough for Nikon to promise beautiful bokeh.

Integrated stabilization

Since Nikon engineers have still not deigned to integrate mechanical stabilization of the sensor in any of the Z bodies with DX sensor launched since the beginning of this range, their optical colleagues had to do the job. The Nikkor Z DX 16-50 mm f/2.8 VR is therefore given the suffix “VR”, a sign of optical stabilization – a lens which compensates for parasitic movements. Which compensates for movements on 5 axes and up to 5 speeds.

Its 12 lenses (including one in ED glass and two aspherical) are divided into 11 groups and the autofocus motor in charge of focusing is of the step-by-step type – STM in the jargon. Nikon also promises very high speed “when coupled with our Expeed 7 processor”.

Understand that only the Z50 II will take full advantage of it, the first generation Zfc and Z50 being powered by an Expeed 6.

Attractive minimal focus

Another advantage of this zoom, which measures only 88 mm (unfolded), is its minimum focusing distances. Distances respectively from 0.15m to 16mm position (24mm in 24×36 equivalent) and 0.25m to 50mm (75mm eq.). Not enough to do real macro – for that you can count on its brand new Nikkor Z DX MC 35 mm f/1.7 also announced today – but enough to highlight details and highlight the foregrounds.

With a very limited native DX optical fleet, Nikon is strengthening the attractiveness of its system here. Leaving Canon now the only player to have an APS-C system without a “prime” zoom worthy of the name…

The Nikkor Z DX 16-50 mm f/2.8 VR expert zoom will be available from October 30 at a recommended price of €899.

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