Nikon has announced two new APS-C/DX-format NIKKOR Z lenses, the DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR and DX MC 35mm f/1.7. Both lenses are being touted as affordable, lightweight solutions for content creators and entry-level filmmakers using DX-format Nikon cameras.
NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR
The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is a standard DX-format zoom lens that covers a focal length range that is equivalent to wide-angle to medium telephoto.
It features a relatively fast, constant maximum aperture of f/2.8. The lens’s focal range is similar to the popular 24-75mm full-frame/FX-format equivalent.
The built-in lens-shift vibration reduction (VR) mechanism (5.0-stop compensation) reduces the effects of camera shake, even when slower shutter speeds are used in low-light conditions. For video and content creators, the lens also uses a stepping motor (STM) for quiet autofocus, and it also features an optical design that is claimed to minimize focus breathing.
When recording video using the Z50II, the Hi-Res Zoom expands the zoom range to the equivalent of 16-100mm (6.25× zoom) while still maintaining a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 with no loss in resolution.
The optical design of he lens consists of one ED glass and two aspherical lens elements, which are claimed to effectively minimize various lens aberrations. It also has 9 aperture blades and a 67mm front filter diameter.
The DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR is 3.4″ / 8.8 cm long, and it weighs approximately 11.6 oz / 330g.
The lens has a minimum focus distance of 5.9″ / 15cm at the wide-angle end and 9.8″ / 25cm at the long end.
Like most Z lenses, there is a Customizable Control Ring that allows for direct control over focus, aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO sensitivity.
NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7
The NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 is a fast, lightweight standard micro lens. It can be used for macro photography, as well as doubling as an everyday fast prime lens.
It is the first APS-C-size/DX-format NIKKOR Z lens to achieve a maximum reproduction ratio equivalent to life-size with a minimum focus distance of 6.2″ / 16cm.
The optical design of the lens consists of 8 lens elements in 7 groups. There are 9 aperture blades. It has a 52mm front filter diameter.
The DX MC 35mm f/1.7 weighs just 220g / 7.8 oz.
An internal focusing (IF) system eliminates any change in the total length of the lens, and a stepping motor (STM) provides quiet autofocusing.
The customizable control ring allows for direct control over focus, aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO sensitivity.
Pricing & Availability
The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR Lens will be available in late October 2025 for $899.95 USD. The Nikon NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 Lens will be available in late October 2025 for $449.95 USD.
