Best Lenses for Nikon Z50 in 2024

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The Nikon Z50 has established itself as a go-to choice for both beginners and enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet high-quality APS-C format mirrorless camera. Packed with a 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor, compact design, rapid burst mode, and stunning 4K30p video capabilities, the Nikon Z50 is poised to deliver outstanding results across various photography and videography realms.

When it comes to selecting lenses for the Nikon Z50, several key factors must be considered. Firstly, this mirrorless camera utilizes an APS-C sensor, meaning that while full-frame Nikon lenses can be attached, a 1.5x ‘crop factor’ comes into play, resulting in a narrower angle of view. While this crop factor may not significantly impact telephoto or macro lenses, it becomes crucial for standard zoom and wide-angle lenses, requiring lenses specifically designed for the Z50’s smaller sensor size. These lenses, marked with ‘DX’ in the Nikon range, ensure the desired field of view is achieved without compromise.

To facilitate your lens selection journey and help you harness the full capabilities of your Nikon Z50, we have meticulously curated a list of the best lenses for Nikon Z50. Our team of experts has rigorously tested and evaluated a wide range of Z lenses on the Nikon Z50, considering crucial aspects such as image quality, autofocus performance, image stabilization, build quality, and price.

Whether you find solace in the vast landscapes, thrive in capturing captivating portraits, or immerse yourself in the world of videography, our comprehensive guide caters to all types of photography. From versatile wide-angle lenses to powerful telephoto companions, we have handpicked the lenses that deliver unparalleled performance, allowing you to explore your artistic vision with confidence.

So, let’s dive in and explore the best lenses for the Nikon Z50 mirrorless camera.

Nikon Z50 Store Links at B&H, Adorama.

If you are a Nikon Z50 owner, you may also be interested in our Nikon Z50 Memory Card Guide and Nikon Z50 Gimbal Guide.

Nikon Z50 Lens Compatibility

The Nikon Z50 is equipped with an APS-C sensor and is designed with Nikon’s Z-Mount. This allows for compatibility with both Nikon Z (APS-C) lenses, as well as Nikon Z (Full-Frame) lenses, providing users with a wide range of options to suit their shooting preferences.

In addition, for those who already own Nikon F-mount lenses, the Nikon Z50 offers the flexibility to use them as well. By simply attaching the optional Nikon FTZ II Mount Adapter, both Nikon F-mount (APS-C) lenses and Nikon F mount (Full-Frame) lenses can be utilized with the Nikon Z50 camera, expanding the lens choices even further.

Best Lenses for Nikon Z50 in 2024

1. Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 12-28mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 18-42mm)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16-25
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.5″ / 19 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.21x
  • Optical Design: 12 Elements in 11 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 67 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.5″ / 72 x 63.5 mm
  • Weight: 7.2 oz / 205 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Versatile ultra-wide zoom range
  • Excellent Optical Image Stabilization (up to 4.5 stops)
  • Weather-sealed
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Variable Aperture
  • Slow Aperture at Tele end

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Lens is a game-changer for content creators, vloggers, and photographers seeking a versatile ultra-wide zoom lens for their APS-C/DX format Z-series cameras. With its compact and lightweight design, powerful zoom capabilities, and advanced features, this lens offers exceptional performance and flexibility.

One of the standout features of this lens is its ultra-wide zoom range, which covers the focal length equivalent of 18-42mm in 35mm format. This range is perfect for single-person productions, day-in-the-life vlogs, and other content creation scenarios, allowing you to capture expansive landscapes, group shots, and immersive scenes. Whether you want to include more of your surroundings or zoom in for a selective view, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm has you covered.

The lens incorporates extra-low dispersion and aspherical elements, ensuring high sharpness and controlled distortion throughout the zoom range. This means you can expect exceptional image quality with minimal aberrations and distortions, allowing you to capture stunning visuals with impressive clarity.

One of the standout features of the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm lens is its Power Zoom (PZ) functionality. Unlike traditional zoom lenses, this lens features a motorized zoom mechanism, allowing for smooth, consistent, and precise zooming. With 11 built-in zoom speeds, you can adjust the zooming rate to suit your subject and shooting style. The PZ function can be controlled using the dedicated ring on the lens, zoom buttons on compatible Nikon Z cameras, or even remotely through the SnapBridge app or optional ML-L7 Bluetooth Remote. This level of control ensures precise framing and adds a professional touch to your videos.

Furthermore, the lens incorporates Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, providing up to 4.5 stops of compensation for camera shake. This feature is particularly useful when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions, allowing for sharper images and steady video footage. The lens’s autofocus is driven by an STM motor, ensuring fast and silent focusing performance, making it suitable for both photo and video applications.

The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm lens is not only feature-packed but also built to withstand the demands of active shooting environments. It boasts a dust- and drip-resistant design, offering protection against moisture and other elements. This makes it a reliable choice for outdoor shooting and challenging weather conditions.

In summary, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Lens is a versatile and powerful tool for content creators and vloggers. Its compact size, excellent optical performance, motorized Power Zoom, and image stabilization capabilities make it an ideal choice for capturing immersive landscapes, vlogs, and a wide range of creative content. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this lens is a valuable addition to your Nikon Z camera kit.

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Lens at B&H, Adorama.

2. Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 16-50mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 24-75mm)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-6.3
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.87″ / 20 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.2x
  • Optical Design: 9 Elements in 7 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 46 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.76 x 1.26″ / 70 x 32 mm
  • Weight: 4.76 oz / 135 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Outstanding sharpness
  • Approaching zero distortion
  • Fast accurate AF
  • Very low CA
  • Modest vignetting
  • Pleasant, smooth bokeh
  • Fantastic handling
  • Built-in VR optical stabilization

Cons:

  • No AF/MF switch
  • No lens hood supplied as standard
  • No weather resistance
  • Loss of resolution at edges at wide aperture
  • Overly sensitive control ring
  • Feels a bit plasticky

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens is a compact and versatile zoom lens designed for DX-format Z-mount mirrorless cameras. Despite its small size, it delivers impressive image quality and performance, making it an excellent choice for everyday shooting situations.

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact and lightweight design. Being the smallest DX-format lens ever produced by Nikon, it is highly portable and perfect for travel photography or everyday use. The lens retracts into itself when not in use, further enhancing its compact profile and providing added protection.

Optically, the lens performs admirably, thanks to its aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements. These elements effectively reduce various aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images throughout the zoom range. The Super Integrated Coating applied to the lens helps minimize ghosting and flare, ensuring increased contrast and color accuracy even in challenging lighting conditions.

The lens is equipped with Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake and allows for sharper handheld shooting. With up to 4.5 stops of stabilization, you can capture stable videos and sharp photos, particularly in low-light situations.

Autofocus performance is quick, quiet, and precise, thanks to the stepping motor. The lens also offers full-time manual focus override, providing flexibility for both stills and video applications. Additionally, the programmable control ring on the lens allows for intuitive adjustment of various camera and exposure settings.

While the lens has a plastic build, it still offers impressive image quality. It performs well in terms of sharpness, contrast, and colors, making it a reliable option for everyday use. The lens handles ghosting and flare effectively, and its field curvature and focus breathing are minimal. However, it does suffer from distortion, vignetting, and lateral chromatic aberration, although these issues can be automatically addressed by the camera and post-processing software.

Overall, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens offers superb value, especially considering its affordable price, lightweight construction, and compact size. It pairs exceptionally well with the Nikon Z50 mirrorless camera, making it a great choice for a portable travel setup. If you’re in need of a versatile and reliable lens for everyday photography, this lens is definitely worth considering.

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens at B&H, Adorama.

3. Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 18-140mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 27-210mm)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-6.3
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22-40
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.9″ / 20 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.33x
  • Optical Design: 17 Elements in 13 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 62 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.9 x 3.5″ / 73 x 90 mm
  • Weight: 11.1 oz / 315 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact zoom with 7.8x range
  • Outstanding sharpness
  • Fast, quiet autofocus
  • CA virtually banished
  • Attractive bokeh
  • Dust and drip-resistant
  • Excellent close focusing
  • 5 stops VR optical stabilization
  • Distortion close to zero
  • Reasonable vignetting

Cons:

  • Plastic mounting plate and no weather-seals
  • No auto/manual focus or VR switches
  • f/6.3 at the telephoto end
  • Hood sold separately

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens is a compact, lightweight, and versatile all-in-one zoom that is perfect for travel, walkaround, and everyday shooting. Designed for DX-format Nikon Z-mount mirrorless cameras, this lens offers a focal length range equivalent to 27-210mm, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from landscapes to portraiture to distant, fast-moving subjects.

One of the standout features of this lens is its impressive autofocus performance, thanks to the stepping motor. It delivers smooth, quiet, and fast autofocus, making it well-suited for both stills and video applications. Additionally, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of 7.9″ at the wide-angle position, allowing you to capture close-up subjects with ease.

The built-in Vibration Reduction image stabilization is another notable feature, reducing the appearance of camera shake by up to 5 stops. This feature ensures sharper handheld shots, especially in low-light conditions or when using longer focal lengths.

The lens also offers a programmable Control Ring that can be customized to adjust manual focus, aperture, or exposure compensation. This adds flexibility and convenience to your shooting experience.

In terms of image quality, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens performs admirably. It produces sharp images throughout most of the focal length range, with well-controlled chromatic aberrations and distortion. The bokeh from the 7-blade aperture is pleasing, and the lens handles flare well even when shooting directly into the sun. The only downside is some vignetting when shooting wide open.

While the lens is constructed with a plastic mounting plate and lacks weather-sealing, it remains a compact and travel-friendly option. Its lightweight design and excellent image stabilization make it an ideal choice for everyday shooting.

When considering purchasing this lens, it’s important to note that it overlaps with the focal range of the Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lenses. If you already own these lenses as part of a kit, the 18-140mm lens may not be necessary. However, for those seeking a single lens solution with extended zoom power, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR offers great value and versatility.

In conclusion, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens is a compact, lightweight, and capable all-in-one zoom lens. It delivers good image quality, smooth autofocus performance, and effective image stabilization. While it may not have the build quality of more expensive lenses, it offers convenience and versatility for photographers who prioritize zoom power and a wide focal range.

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens at B&H, Adorama.

4. Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: APS-C
  • Focal Length: 50-250mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 75-375mm)
  • Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Maximum Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.64′ / 50 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.23x
  • Optical Design: 16 Elements in 12 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 62 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.91 x 4.33″ / 74 x 110 mm
  • Weight: 14.29 oz / 405 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Very compact and light telephoto zoom
  • Excellent resolution and snappy autofocus
  • Effective optical stabilization
  • Retractable barrel takes up less room in your bag
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Plastic build and lens mount
  • No Weather Sealing
  • Slow Aperture at Wide end
  • Slow Aperture at Tele end
  • Variable Aperture

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens is a compact and lightweight telephoto zoom lens designed for DX-format Z-mount mirrorless cameras. With a versatile range of focal lengths equivalent to 75-375mm, this lens is perfect for capturing distant subjects and portraiture. Its optical design features an extra-low dispersion element, which effectively reduces color fringing and chromatic aberrations, resulting in improved clarity and color rendering. The lens also incorporates a Super Integrated Coating that minimizes ghosting and flare, enhancing contrast and color accuracy even in challenging lighting conditions.

One of the standout features of this lens is its Vibration Reduction image stabilization, which minimizes camera shake by up to 5 stops. This stabilization allows for sharper handheld shooting, particularly useful when working with longer focal lengths. The autofocus performance is quick, quiet, and precise, thanks to the stepping motor, which also offers full-time manual focus override for greater control. Additionally, the lens is equipped with a programmable control ring that allows for intuitive adjustment of camera and exposure settings.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens offers more than just zoom power. It excels in capturing portraits with natural rendering and a soft, blurry background. It allows you to fill the frame with interesting compositions and get closer to the action, whether it’s wildlife, sports, concerts, or events. As a companion lens to the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR, it covers a wide range of shooting situations.

Although the lens has a plastic build, it contributes to its lightweight nature, making it easy to carry and travel with. The lens balances well on Z-series cameras and provides smooth zoom and control ring action. Despite the aperture shrinking to f/6.3 at the longest end of the zoom range, the lens maintains excellent sharpness and contrast, even when shooting wide open. The 5-stop optical VR system effectively reduces camera shake.

While there may be some performance compromises, such as a drop in sharpness at longer focal lengths and towards the edges of the frame, the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens offers great value for its price. It is a versatile and lightweight telephoto zoom lens that is perfect for enthusiasts and content creators seeking to explore longer zoom ranges. Whether you’re capturing portraits, sports, or wildlife, this lens delivers impressive results and is an excellent choice for DX-format Z-series camera owners.

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR Lens at B&H, Adorama.

5. Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full Frame
  • Focal Length: 28mm (42mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.5″ / 19 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.2x
  • Optical Design: 9 Elements in 8 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 52 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.7″ / 70 x 43 mm
  • Weight: 5.5 oz / 155 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
  • Surprisingly smooth bokeh
  • Highly portable due to the small size
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • Plastic build
  • No optical VR
  • Not weather sealed
  • No lens hood included

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens is a compact and versatile wide-angle prime lens that offers a broad field of view suitable for various photography applications. Whether you’re capturing architectural details, landscapes, or street scenes, this lens delivers impressive results. With its maximum aperture of f/2.8, it excels in low-light situations and allows for creative depth-of-field control. Additionally, the sleek and portable design makes it a convenient lens to carry around.

The lens features a dual stepping motor AF system, ensuring quiet and smooth focusing performance for both still photography and video recording. It also incorporates a programmable control ring, allowing intuitive adjustments to camera and exposure settings.

While the lens is designed for full-frame cameras, it is also well-suited for Nikon’s APS-C cameras, such as the Z50. Its small size and relatively low cost make it an excellent choice as a standard prime lens for general photography on APS-C cameras. There is even an ‘SE’ version of the lens specifically designed for the Nikon Z fc, featuring a retro makeover with a silver ring and old-school knurling.

In terms of image quality, the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens delivers excellent results, making it great value for money. However, it’s important to note that this lens does not include optical VR (Vibration Reduction), which could be a drawback when shooting with Nikon’s DX bodies that lack IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization).

For travel and everyday shooting, this lens proves to be a favorite due to its compact size and lightweight design. When paired with the Z50, it creates a highly portable kit that is perfect for capturing moments on the go. With a focal length equivalent to 42mm on DX cameras, it offers versatility for various shooting scenarios, including street photography, travel, and social events.

While the Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 may not be the sharpest lens available for the Z system, it still delivers more than enough sharpness for most applications. It has a unique character and renders images with good micro-contrast, colors, and flare resistance. The lens’s flaws, mostly noticeable in the corners and edges, do not detract significantly from its overall performance.

Overall, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens is an excellent travel and hiking lens due to its small size and portability. It pairs well with lightweight telephoto lenses and provides a great combination for all-day shooting and long hikes. Its affordability, combined with its image quality and compact form factor, make it a compelling choice for Nikon Z shooters looking for a versatile wide-angle prime lens.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 Lens at B&H, Adorama.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) Lens at B&H, Adorama.

6. Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 Lens Specifications:

  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full Frame
  • Focal Length: 40mm (60mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 11.4″ / 29 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.17x
  • Optical Design: 6 Elements in 4 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Size: 52 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.8″ / 70 x 45.5 mm
  • Weight: 6 oz / 170 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Fast f/2 aperture
  • Sharp and silent
  • Highly portable due to the small size
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • No optical image stabilization
  • No auto/manual focus mode switch
  • Plastic construction
  • No weather protection
  • No lens hood included

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 is a versatile and compact prime lens that offers a wide-angle to normal field of view, making it an ideal everyday lens. With its bright f/2 maximum aperture, this lens excels in challenging lighting conditions and allows for selective focus shooting and beautiful background blur. It is compatible with both FX and DX-format camera bodies, including the Nikon Z50, where it provides an equivalent focal length of 60mm.

One of the standout features of the Nikon 40mm f/2 Z is its portability and affordability. It is one of the lightest and least expensive lenses in the Nikon Z lineup, making it highly appealing to a wide range of users. The lens features a weather-sealed construction, ensuring its durability and allowing for shooting in various conditions.

Optically, the lens delivers good sharpness and accurate rendering. It incorporates two aspherical elements to minimize spherical aberrations and distortion, resulting in high-quality images. The Super Integrated Coating helps suppress flare and ghosting, enhancing contrast and color fidelity in strong lighting situations.

The autofocus performance of the Nikon 40mm f/2 Z is quick, virtually silent, and smooth, making it suitable for both stills and video applications. The lens also features a programmable control ring that can be customized to adjust manual focus, aperture, or exposure compensation.

While the lens may not match the optical performance of Nikon’s high-end S-line glass, it offers good sharpness compared to other lenses on the market. It may not be the best choice for flat subjects at close distances, but it excels in most other shooting scenarios.

The Nikon Z 40mm f/2 is recommended for travel photographers, landscape photographers, and anyone on a budget seeking a versatile prime lens. It is particularly well-suited for street photography and spontaneous portraiture due to its portability and moderate focal length. It can be paired with other lenses in a prime or zoom kit to create a versatile setup.

Overall, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 is a superb lens that combines excellent performance, affordability, and portability. Despite some minor drawbacks such as the plastic lens mount and edge performance, the lens delivers impressive image quality and represents a great value for photographers. Whether you’re a travel photographer, landscape enthusiast, or simply looking for a portable and capable prime lens, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 is a compelling option that delivers great value for its price.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 Lens at B&H, Adorama.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (SE) Lens at B&H, Adorama.

7. Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
  • Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 6.3″ / 16 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 1x
  • Macro Reproduction Ratio: 1:1
  • Optical Design: 10 Elements in 7 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9
  • Filter Thread: 46 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.9 x 2.6″ / 74.5 x 66 mm
  • Weight: 9.2 oz / 260 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Sharp optics for detailed macros
  • Focuses very close for 1:1 magnification
  • On-lens focus limiter and toggle
  • Dust, splash, and fluorine protection
  • Works with ES-2 film digitizer
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons:

  • Relatively slow focus speed
  • No stabilization
  • Prone to show longitudinal color aberrations
  • Touchy control ring

The Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is the cheapest of Nikon’s full frame macro lenses and almost certainly the best choice for Nikon Z50 owners thanks to its size and price. Designed for FX-format Nikon Z-mount cameras, it provides a 75mm equivalent focal length on Nikon Z50 DX-format mirrorless camera, and is ideal for spontaneous snapshots, food photography, or exploring the minute details of everyday life.

With a life-size 1:1 maximum magnification and a minimum focusing distance of 6.3 inches, the NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Lens allows you to explore the smallest details with ease. It excels in highlighting textures, shapes, and intricate details, creating a unique and almost three-dimensional effect in your stills and videos. The lens also functions superbly as a portrait lens, thanks to its shallow depth of field and life-size magnification.

The optics of this lens are razor-sharp, providing excellent edge-to-edge sharpness and a rounded nine-blade diaphragm that produces beautiful bokeh and background blur, effectively isolating your subject. Coma and chromatic aberrations are minimized thanks to the inclusion of ED and aspherical lens elements, while a fluorine coating ensures the lens surface remains free from dirt, water, and smudges.

The autofocus system of the NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 is fast, accurate, and virtually silent, offering suppressed hunting and breathing for precise focusing. It also features a focus limiter switch, enabling even more speed and accuracy over a smaller distance range. The lens’s unique front-focusing design keeps its size and weight to a minimum, ensuring comfortable and effortless carrying.

While the lens’s close working distance might be closer than some users prefer, its overall performance, handling, and compact form factor make it an excellent choice for macro photography and general shooting. It is particularly well-suited for tabletop photography and document copying, offering a more manageable working distance compared to longer macro lenses.

In conclusion, the Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens is a valuable addition to the Nikon Z series, providing exceptional optical performance, excellent handling, and a lightweight and compact form factor. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a professional photographer, this lens delivers remarkable results and is worthy of being an Editor’s Choice.

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8 Macro Lens at B&H, Adorama.

8. Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
  • Focal Length: 50mm (75mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 1.31′ / 40 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.15x
  • Optical Design: 12 Elements in 9 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Thread: 62 mm
  • Dimensions: 2.99 x 3.41″ / 76 x 86.5 mm
  • Weight: 14.64 oz / 415 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Super sharp
  • Bright f/1.8 design
  • Nice bokeh
  • No visible distortion
  • Dust and splash protection
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons:

  • Sensitive control ring
  • No fluorine coating
  • Vignette at wide aperture

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens is a compact and versatile prime lens designed for the Nikon Z full frame cameras, and it is also ideal for DX-format bodies (Nikon Z50) and will provide a 75mm equivalent focal length range, making it great for portraiture and low-light. With its bright f/1.8 maximum aperture, it offers excellent performance in various lighting conditions and provides control over depth of field. The lens features an optical design with two aspherical elements and two extra-low dispersion elements, which effectively reduce spherical and chromatic aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images. The Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings further enhance the color fidelity, contrast, and minimize flare and ghosting.

The autofocus performance of the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S is quick, quiet, and precise, thanks to the stepping motor. It also offers full-time manual focus override, making it suitable for both stills and video shooting. Additionally, the lens has a programmable control ring that allows intuitive adjustments for various camera and exposure settings.

The overall performance of the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens is impressive. It delivers outstanding sharpness and performs exceptionally well at full aperture. While there may be better options available for portraiture, this lens stands out for its sharpness and correction of coma and longitudinal chromatic aberration when shot wide open.

The lens is well-made and performs at a level that justifies its price point. It produces sharp, contrasty images with pleasing colors and excellent bokeh. The distortion control is also excellent, and the lens is built to withstand different weather conditions, thanks to its weather sealing.

Weighing just under 1lb, the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens is lightweight and ideal for street and documentary photography. It also works well with Eye AF, making it suitable for portraits. Considering its solid performance and affordable price, it is a valuable addition to any Nikon Z camera owner’s collection.

In conclusion, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens offers stunning optics, reliable autofocus, and a robust build. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a standard prime lens that delivers exceptional performance without breaking the bank. Whether you shoot street photography, portraits, or other genres, this lens will exceed your expectations and provide solid results.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S Lens at B&H, Adorama.

9. Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Lens

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Lens Specifications:

  • Mount: Nikon Z
  • Lens Format Coverage: Full-Frame
  • Focal Length: 17-28mm (25.5-42mm equivalent focal length on DX-format cameras)
  • Image Stabilization: No
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 7.5″ / 19 cm
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.19x
  • Optical Design: 13 Elements in 11 Groups
  • Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
  • Filter Thread: 67 mm
  • Dimensions: 3 x 4″ / 75 x 101 mm
  • Weight: 15.9 oz / 450 g
  • Store links at B&H, Adorama.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight for an ultra-wide
  • Fast f/2.8 aperture
  • Fast and silent autofocus
  • All internal focusing and zoom
  • Can focus very close
  • Weather sealed
  • Attractive bokeh
  • Reasonable price tag

Cons:

  • No controls on the lens body other than a programmable control ring
  • Control ring is extremely sensitive
  • Not as wide as Nikon’s other ultra-wide zooms
  • Not as sharp as more expensive models

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 lens is a superb lightweight and budget-priced wide-angle zoom lens designed for Nikon Z shooters. Perfect for FX-format Z-mount cameras, this smaller lens is also ideal for DX-format bodies and will provide a 25.5-42mm equivalent focal length range. It offers a compact and portable design, making it an excellent choice for creators who need a versatile lens for various photography and videography applications, including landscapes, architecture, and vlogging.

One of the standout features of this lens is its exceptional performance in video shooting. With its expansive ultra-wide zoom range, suppressed focus breathing, near-silent autofocus, and a 9-rounded-blade iris with a click-less control ring, it delivers outstanding results for all types of videos, from vlogs to cinematic films.

Despite its compact size and lightweight design, the NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 doesn’t compromise on image quality. It offers a fast f/2.8 aperture while maintaining portability, providing creators with creative options and attractive bokeh. The lens is also built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability for adventurous photographers.

Compared to its counterpart, the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, the 17-28mm f/2.8 lens offers a more affordable option for Nikon Z shooters who don’t require an ultra-wide focal length of 14mm or shoot fast-action subjects. The lens produces sharp images, and any chromatic aberration can be easily corrected in post-processing by applying the lens profile.

The lens’s autofocus system is snappy for stills and delivers smooth transitions for video capture. Although it lacks optical VR (Vibration Reduction), it takes full advantage of in-body stabilization found in Nikon’s full-frame Z system cameras.

While wide-open sharpness could be improved, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 lens strikes a balance between quality, price, and features, making it the best overall wide-angle lens for Nikon mirrorless cameras. Its versatile focal length, solid performance, and reasonable price tag make it a compelling choice for photographers and videographers looking for a wide-angle zoom lens.

In summary, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 lens is a fantastic lightweight wide-angle zoom lens that offers excellent image quality, fast aperture, reliable autofocus, and a compact design. It is an ideal travel companion for Nikon Z shooters, providing versatility and performance at a reasonable price. With its exceptional features, this lens deserves the accolade of Editor’s Choice.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Lens at B&H, Adorama.

We appreciate your time spent reading our Nikon Z50 lens guide and we sincerely hope that our recommendations have been valuable in helping you find the ideal equipment for your creative endeavors. Your feedback and suggestions are highly valued as we continuously strive to offer informative and up-to-date guides that cater to your needs.

We understand the significance of personal experiences and perspectives, not only for us but also for our readers. If you have had the opportunity to use any of the lenses we recommended, we would greatly appreciate hearing about your experiences. By sharing your feedback, you can assist others in making informed decisions when it comes to selecting the perfect lens for their photography needs.

Our team of dedicated experts is committed to providing accurate and relevant information to enrich your photography journey. We are grateful for your support and eagerly look forward to serving you in the future, as we continue to provide valuable resources to enhance your photography skills.

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