Best Pick

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR Lens (Nikon Z)

78.8 Landscape Score
16-50mm f/2.8 Nikon Z IS
Why we recommend this

Its constant f/2.8 aperture and 4.5-stop vibration reduction provide reliable performance in low light and for handheld video. The lens is notably compact and lightweight at 329g, making it a practical everyday zoom for Nikon Z DX cameras. This lens is best for hybrid shooters and vloggers on APS-C bodies who need a versatile, stabilized standard zoom without the bulk.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Nikon Z

64.9 Landscape Score
70-300mm f/4.5 Nikon Z
Why we recommend this

Weighing only 581g, this telephoto zoom stands out as the world's lightest and most compact full-frame mirrorless lens, offering 300mm reach with effective stabilization. Its exceptionally quiet RXD stepping motor is ideal for video, and the lens maintains sharp image quality with a 15-element optical design. This lens is best for photographers who prioritize a lightweight kit for wildlife or sports and need discreet, fast autofocus.

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Laowa Venus Optics Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D AF Lens

60.9 Landscape Score
12mm f/2.8 Nikon Z
Why we recommend this

This 12mm f/2.8 autofocus lens offers an exceptionally wide field of view for full-frame cameras while maintaining a relatively lightweight 408g build. Its standout optical feature is a 5-blade iris designed to produce a distinct 10-point sun-star effect in images. This lens is best for architectural and landscape photographers who need a compact, ultra-wide prime for capturing expansive scenes with dramatic starbursts on light sources.

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Viltrox VILTROX AF 16mm F1.8 Z Full Frame Lens for Nikon

59.2 Landscape Score
16mm f/16 Nikon Z IS
Why we recommend this

Its F1.8 maximum aperture and built-in LCD display for shooting parameters provide a unique combination of speed and on-lens control. The inclusion of three aspherical and four ED glass elements ensures high optical performance with minimal distortion and color fringing. This lens is best for Nikon Z-mount shooters needing a fast, wide-angle prime for astrophotography or architectural interiors where manual aperture control is beneficial.

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