NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S Lens Review: A Versatile Workhorse for the Z System
The NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S stands as a compelling and highly versatile standard zoom lens within Nikon's growing Z-mount mirrorless ecosystem. Positioned as an upgrade to traditional kit lenses and a more affordable, lighter alternative to professional f/2.8 zooms, this full-frame (FX-format) optic aims to be an excellent all-around choice for a broad spectrum of photographic situations. Its constant f/4 maximum aperture across an expansive 5x zoom range, coupled with premium S-line optics and robust construction, makes it a lens designed for demanding creators seeking flexibility without significant compromise.
Optical Performance and Image Quality
As an S-line lens, the 24-120mm f/4 benefits from Nikon's commitment to high optical standards. The lens incorporates a sophisticated optical formula featuring 16 elements in 13 groups, including three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and three aspherical elements. This advanced design is instrumental in minimizing aberrations and delivering sharp, high-contrast images.
Sharpness is generally excellent across the frame, especially from the wider end up to around 85mm, and at apertures from f/4 to f/8. While there can be a slight fall-off in extreme corners at wider apertures, it remains very good for a zoom lens of this range. Stopping down typically improves corner performance. Chromatic aberrations, both lateral and longitudinal, are remarkably well-controlled thanks to the ED glass and advanced coatings, often being negligible in real-world shooting, or easily corrected by in-camera processing or post-production software.
Distortion is present, particularly at the widest 24mm end (barrel distortion) and some pincushion distortion at the telephoto end. However, Z-series cameras effectively apply lens profiles to correct this automatically, rendering it largely a non-issue for most users. Vignetting is also present at f/4, particularly at wider focal lengths, but it's a common characteristic for such lenses and usually disappears by f/5.6 or f/8, or can be easily corrected.
The lens features Nikon's Nano Crystal Coat (N) and a Fluorine coating. The Nano Crystal Coat significantly reduces ghosting and flare, allowing for confident shooting even in challenging back-lit conditions. The Fluorine coating on the front element repels dust, dirt, and moisture, making cleaning easier and enhancing durability.
Bokeh, while not as creamy or pronounced as what one might achieve with a faster f/2.8 zoom or a prime lens, is pleasing for an f/4 zoom. The nine rounded diaphragm blades contribute to smooth out-of-focus areas, especially when shooting at 120mm and closer to the minimum focus distance of 0.35m, which allows for a respectable maximum magnification of 0.39x. This enables users to achieve some subject separation and artistic blur, particularly for headshots or isolating details.
Autofocus and Vibration Reduction
The autofocus system is driven by a Stepping Motor (STM), known for its quiet, smooth, and precise operation. This makes the 24-120mm f/4 S highly suitable for both still photography and video recording, where silent focusing is crucial to avoid distracting audio. The internal focusing (IF) design means the lens's physical length does not change during focusing, maintaining balance and allowing for consistent filter use. AF speed is generally fast and reliable, capable of keeping up with moving subjects in most scenarios.
Optical image stabilization (VR – Vibration Reduction) is a significant asset, especially at the telephoto end of the zoom range and in lower light conditions. While Z-series cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), the lens-based VR works in conjunction with IBIS (Synchro VR) to provide enhanced stability, allowing for sharper handheld shots at slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible. This synergistic stabilization is particularly beneficial for video work, smoothing out handheld footage.
Build Quality and Handling
The NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S features a robust, weather-sealed construction, offering protection against dust and moisture. This build quality is essential for photographers who shoot in varying environmental conditions. Despite its comprehensive zoom range and constant aperture, the lens is relatively compact and lightweight for a full-frame f/4 zoom, weighing in at 630g (approximately 1.39 lbs). This manageable weight ensures good balance on Z-series mirrorless bodies, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions and travel.
A notable feature is the programmable control ring, which can be assigned to adjust aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. This customizability enhances ergonomics and allows for intuitive, tactile control over key camera settings. The zoom and focus rings operate smoothly with appropriate damping, further contributing to a premium user experience. The 77mm filter thread is a common size, allowing for easy integration with existing filter sets.
Versatile Use Cases
This lens truly excels in its versatility, making it a compelling choice for a wide array of photographic disciplines:
- Travel Photography: Its expansive 24-120mm range means photographers can cover wide landscapes, street scenes, architectural details, and even opportunistic portraits without needing to change lenses frequently, minimizing gear burden.
- Landscape Photography: The 24mm wide end is ideal for capturing expansive vistas, while the S-line optics ensure excellent sharpness and clarity, crucial for detailed landscapes.
- Events and General Purpose: From weddings and corporate events to family gatherings, the consistent f/4 aperture and versatile zoom make it adaptable to various lighting and framing needs. Its quiet AF is also beneficial in sensitive environments.
- Portraiture: While f/4 isn't the fastest for extreme background blur, the 120mm focal length combined with the minimum focus distance allows for pleasing subject isolation and flattering perspectives, especially for environmental portraits or headshots.
- Street Photography: Its relatively discreet size, quick autofocus, and versatile focal range make it adept at capturing candid moments and dynamic street scenes.
- Video Production: The quiet STM motor, constant f/4 aperture (for consistent exposure during zooming), effective VR, and internal focusing make it a strong contender for video creators seeking a flexible all-in-one solution.
Conclusion
The NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S is a testament to Nikon's design philosophy for the Z-mount: combining high optical performance with practical functionality. It strikes an excellent balance between image quality, versatility, and portability. While it may not offer the extreme low-light performance or shallow depth of field of an f/2.8 zoom or a fast prime, its constant f/4 aperture, superb sharpness, effective VR, fast and silent autofocus, and robust build quality make it an exceptionally capable and rewarding lens. For Z-series photographers seeking a single, highly adaptable lens that can confidently tackle most photographic challenges, the 24-120mm f/4 S represents a smart and valuable investment, truly earning its place as a workhorse in any kit.