New lenses for the Nikon Z system
3.6.2021
Translation: Veronica Bielawski
Nikon is launching two macro lenses for the mirrorless Z system at the end of June. In addition, two compact and lightweight prime lenses are to be released in 2021.
All four of the lenses announced are compatible with Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless system. All Nikon full-frame lenses can also be used with Nikon APS-C cameras, though the image will be correspondingly cropped. This seems reasonable for three of the four lenses as they’re lightweight, compact and deliver acceptable images. However, Nikon has only one mirrorless APS-C camera – the Nikon Z 50.
Macro #1: Nikkor Z MC 105 mm 1:2.8 VR S
You can tell the most important information about the lens from its name: the Nikkor Z MC 105 mm 1:2.8 VR S has a fixed focal length of 105 mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. VR means it has a built-in image stabiliser, and S designates a group of lenses that, according to Nikon, are of particularly high quality. So the 105 mm macro is a professional lens.
It achieves a maximum reproduction ratio of 1x with a minimum focus distance of 29 cm. The AF actuator quickly focuses on subjects within a range of 29 cm to 50 cm. You can also use manual focus to best suit your needs.
The autofocus is supposedly very quiet, and Nikon claims to have almost completely eliminated focus breathing – the angle of view should remain constant throughout adjusting the focus. Nine rounded aperture blades ensure a harmonious bokeh. To reduce ghosting and reflections, the macro lens has Arneo and Nano Crystal coating.
At 630 grammes, the lens is lighter than its SLR counterpart. Both lenses have a filter size of 62 millimetres.
Macro #2: Nikkor Z MC 50 mm 1:2.8
This lens also achieves a 1x reproduction ratio. The minimum focus distance is 16 cm. This lens also has nine rounded aperture blades. The 50 mm macro lens also has an AF actuator to enable faster focusing. It works for distances between 16 cm and 30 cm. Aperture, ISO and other functions can be controlled using the adjustment ring. The lens is quite light at 260 grammes.
Compact, lightweight prime lenses
Two small and compact prime lenses are also expected to appear sometime in 2021 – one with 28 mm and f/2.8 and a standard lens with 40 mm and f/2. These may be very useful for APS-C cameras. The cropped image there corresponds to 42 mm and 60 mm, respectively. Nikon hasn’t named any prices, but these two lenses presumably won’t be too expensive.
David Lee
Senior Editor
David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.chMy interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.
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