Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S Review

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S is a kit lens that punches above its weight. It lands in the 86th percentile for versatility, which is its main selling point. That 24-70mm range covers most of what you'll shoot day-to-day, from wide landscapes to tighter portraits, all in a compact package.

But you're making some clear trade-offs for that convenience. Its constant f/4 aperture sits in the 29th percentile, so it's not a low-light champ. And its optical performance is just average, sitting in the 34th percentile. This isn't the lens you buy for stunning bokeh or tack-sharp corner-to-corner detail, but it's a solid, reliable workhorse.

Let's talk numbers. That 86th percentile versatility score is the headline. It means this lens can handle more situations than most zooms in its class. But the other scores tell the real story. Its autofocus is middle-of-the-road at the 47th percentile, so it's reliable but not lightning fast. It has no stabilization (39th percentile), so you'll rely on your camera body for that. And for close-up work, forget it. Its macro score is in the 17th percentile, so you'll need a dedicated macro lens for that.

Here's the kicker: the price is all over the map. You can find this lens for as low as $555 or as high as $897, a $342 spread. At the lower end, it's a compelling value as a versatile kit lens. But if you're looking at prices near $900, you should seriously consider if a faster prime lens or a higher-end f/2.8 zoom might serve you better. Shop around, because the right vendor makes a big difference here.

Compared to the prime lenses in its competitor list, like the Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 or Meike 55mm f/1.8, you're trading speed for range. Those primes have apertures in the 80th+ percentile for low light and bokeh, but you're stuck at one focal length. The Nikon gives you flexibility. Against other zooms, its f/4 aperture is the main limitation. If you need better low-light performance from a zoom, you'll have to step up to a heavier, more expensive f/2.8 model. This lens wins on convenience and portability, not outright optical prowess.

This is a classic 'good enough' lens. If you're a new Z-mount shooter who wants one lens to learn on and travel with, and you find it for around $600, it's a sensible choice. Its versatility is legit. But if you're chasing image quality, love shooting in dim light, or want creamy background separation, you'll outgrow it quickly. The data is clear: it excels at being a convenient tool, not a spectacular one.