Last Updated on 08/19/2025 by Nilofer Khan
Nikon has multiple exceptional lenses in the mirrorless mount. Some examples of this include 35mm f1.4 Z, Z 135mm f1.8 Plena, and Z 600mm f4, all of which have stellar performance and design. Joining this list is another standard zoom lens, which was introduced in 2019: the Z 24-70mm f2.8 S. It now seems that Nikon is planning to introduce a successor to this iconic lens. What will it have? Let’s find out.
What Nikon is Thinking For August
According to Nikon Rumors, the company will announce the successor soon. There is no exact announcement date yet, but as of now, it seems that the end of August, around August 26, is just a few days away. Another reason why it is suggested the lens may be replaced is that the 24-70mm has not been on the list of price increases. Instead, some retailers are giving a $300 rebate, which suggests that it will be replaced soon.
Another reason is that the lens was announced six years ago, which may not seem like a long time, but is a long enough period to introduce a new variety. especially since Nikon announced its mirrorless cameras around that period. Naturally, with faster cameras being launched recently, it is ideal that the company may want a lens that can meet these demands.
The report also states that the company may update other lenses in this trio: the Z 70-200mm f2.8 S and potentially the Z 14-24mm f2.8 S. However, no other details have been provided, including no update on its specifications.
What Can We Expect?
The original 24-70mm lens had some of the greatest performance. For instance, it was exceptionally sharp, had a robust build, had a fast aperture, and the image quality is the best in class. In fact, in our review of the lens, we gave it an Editor’s Choice Award, stating, “The Z mount 24-70 f2.8 was a much more reliable and enjoyable lens to use when stacked up against its f4 cousin. Despite costing more than twice the price of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70 f4 S, the stellar optical performance of the newer and faster f2.8 variant will undoubtedly be its most significant selling point.”
In that regard, we expect the new lens to perform similarly. However, we do expect a brighter lens, perhaps an f2. However, we are aware that this will push the cost up further, and so, with all that is already quite expensive, that will drive many users away. Instead, we do hope the company makes the new lens a bit more cost-effective, as it becomes easier for various genres of photographers to get one if needed. Otherwise, they will stick to third-party options.
There are also handling and autofocus aspects that can be improved. The newer cameras have changed a lot, offering blazing speed even in low light. Naturally, a new 24-70mm lens, one of the common focal ranges that people use, should be able to perform better in low light. Furthermore, better coating or tweaks can also help with flare resistance and make the lens more weather-resistant.
It remains to be seen what Nikon has planned, but this is good news for photographers who shoot weddings, food, portraits, streets, and documentary to have a faster lens. A lower price increase can further add to the whole scene.