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Home → News → Cameras and Lenses

Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Announced – And Nikon’s Strategy Grows Clearer

By Spencer Cox 24 Comments
Published On September 20, 2022

A second rebranded Tamron lens is coming to the Nikon Z system – this time, an ultra-wide. When the rumors started last week, some photographers hoped that DX would see a bit of love with an adapted Tamron 11-20mm f/2.8, but instead, the lens announced today is the Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8.

Before I explain the details of this lens, here’s a look at its specifications:

Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 Specifications

  • Full Name: NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8
  • Shipping: October 2022
  • Mount Type: Nikon Z mirrorless
  • Focal Length: 17-28mm full-frame
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
  • Minimum Aperture: f/22
  • Aperture Blades: 9, rounded
  • Filter Size: 67mm
  • Lens Elements: 13
  • Lens Groups: 11
  • Special Elements: 3 aspherical, 2 ED glass, 1 Super ED element
  • Vibration Reduction: No
  • Internal Focusing: Yes
  • Internal Zoom: Yes
  • AF Motor: Stepping motor
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 19 cm (7.5 inches)
  • Maximum Magnification: 0.19× (1:5.2)
  • Mount Material: Metal
  • Weather/Dust Sealing: Yes, including front element
  • Dimensions (Length × Diameter): 101 x 75 mm (4.0 x 3.0 inches)
  • Weight: 450 g / 0.99 lbs
  • MSRP: $1200 (pre-order here)
Nikon Z 17-28mm f2.8
The Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8

Is This Going to Be a Useful Nikon Z Lens?

At face value, the 17-28mm f/2.8 may seem like a surprising addition to the Z series, because Nikon already has plenty of good lenses around this mark: the 14-30mm f/4 S for a portable zoom, the 14-24mm f/2.8 S for a near-perfect ultra-wide, and two excellent wide-angle prime lenses in the 20mm f/1.8 S and 24mm f/1.8 S. If anything was missing, it was perhaps a lightweight, variable-aperture zoom to cover the budget segment of the market – something like the F-mount 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5G.

Adding to the question is that the 17-28mm f/2.8 is, as I mentioned in the intro, a rebranded Tamron lens. It has a similar optical construction and specifications as the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD, a Sony E-mount lens. The whole announcement harkens back to the Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8, also a rebranded Tamron. Are these lenses truly useful additions to the Z mount?

They certainly could be. I can see a photographer picking the 17-28mm f/2.8 instead of the Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 if their priority is maximum aperture instead of maximum wide angle. The two lenses are about the same price, so some astrophotographers or event photographers who need to gather a lot of light will certainly prefer the 17-28mm f/2.8. Granted, the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S will certainly outperform the 17-28mm f/2.8, but at $2500, the 14-24mm was never on the radar for a lot of photographers in the first place.

2019-258-21-25-_NZ78982
NIKON Z7 + NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S @ 15.5mm, ISO 64, 1/8, f/13.0

Beyond that, a good way to think about this lens is in the context of the underlying partnership (or whatever it is) between Nikon and Tamron. Viewed from that perspective, the 17-28mm f/2.8 makes more sense as an addition to the Z lineup – and so does the earlier 28-75mm f/2.8. It all goes back to a “problem” of Nikon’s own making: They’ve focused mostly on high-end, top-performance lenses with the Z system so far. Count it up – there are 25 full-frame Z lenses at the moment. Of those, a whopping eighteen are from Nikon’s highest-end “S line”… and two of the others are the rebranded Tamrons! Nikon is practically an S-lens company at this point.

Although every S lens we’ve tested so far has been top-notch, there’s something to be said about depleting the value of a label if most of your lenses carry it. The time had probably come for Nikon to start making more budget lenses, like the well-received 28mm f/2.8 and 40mm f/2 that focus on saving weight over maximizing image quality. Alternatively, Nikon could do something to make the system more attractive to third-party lens companies, which would make the Z system more appealing but wouldn’t give Nikon a cut of those lens sales.

Repackaging Tamron glass with Nikon’s electronics and focusing performance is not a bad answer to that problem. This way, Nikon can sell native, non-S versions of some popular categories of lenses, like f/2.8 zooms, with a focus on budget more than optical quality. It will hardly hurt Nikon’s reputation to make a “good but not perfect” f/2.8 zoom if everyone knows it was really Tamron who made it.

Tamron-45mm-f1-8-G-VR-Sample-11
NIKON D780 + Tamron 45mm f/1.8G @ 45mm, ISO 100, 1/8000, f/1.8

The one hiccup is that Nikon should be charging Tamron-level prices for these lenses instead of upcharging the glass by $100-300, as they’ve done so far. To that point, I’m pretty annoyed that the new 17-28mm f/2.8 is launching for $1200 on the same day that the similarly-designed Tamron lens is on sale for $800. In that context, I’m not sure how often I’ll be recommending this lens to people.

But what’s now clearer to me is the potential of the agreement: Nikon can focus their resources on higher-end lenses and pushing the boundaries with the S-line, while another company can design glass that Nikon didn’t really seem thrilled to make in the first place. There’s a huge share of Nikon Z photographers who are on a tighter budget, and perhaps soon they’ll be able to have a set of native f/2.8 zooms for something like $3000 instead of $7500.

We’ll see if the potential of this situation bears out. There’s already a 70-180mm non-S lens on Nikon’s new roadmap that is suspiciously identical to the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 in focal length. Meanwhile, as I’ve discussed before, there are plenty of other Tamron mirrorless lenses that Nikon could adapt for photographers on a budget, including a 20mm f/2.8, 35mm f/2.8, and 150-500mm f/5-6.7. And who’s to say Nikon has to stick to rebranding existing Tamron lenses? They could very well surprise us at some point with a Tamron-designed lens that’s unique to the Z mount (not that they’ll necessarily make that detail public).

Until we know more about the partnership or see more lenses on the roadmap, a lot of this is obviously speculation. But if it means that Nikon is going to split their efforts some in the future, with cheaper Tamron-designed lenses for budget uses while they focus on optically groundbreaking S-line lenses, it could be a very successful effort. (Notwithstanding the fact that the two efforts so far – the 28-75mm f/2.8 and 17-28mm f/2.8 – may not turn many heads until they go on sale during the holidays.)

You can pre-order the Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 at the link below, and it’s scheduled to ship in October. Although most new Nikon products have been hard to find or out of stock if you don’t pre-order them, realistically I doubt the Z 17-28mm f/2.8 will fall into that category. In any case, I could be wrong, and the pre-order link is here if you want it:

  • Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 pre-order at B&H

Press Release

WIDE, BRIGHT AND SUPER-LIGHT: GET MORE OF THE STORY WITH THE NEW NIKKOR Z 17-28MM F/2.8

Capture the Big Picture with Nikon’s Latest Affordable f/2.8 Zoom Lens

MELVILLE, NY – Nikon Inc. has announced the NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8, the latest addition to the growing selection of extremely-capable and very affordable f/2.8 zoom lenses. This new full-frame lens combines the versatility of an ultra-wide angle of field view with the benefits of large fixed aperture, putting low light performance and gorgeous bokeh within reach.

“The amount of NIKKOR Z lenses continues to increase at a rapid pace, giving all kinds of creators mirrorless lenses built with the latest in optical innovation,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “The new NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 is derived from the same mutual concept as the recent NIKKOR Z 28-75mm f/2.8 lens, establishing a series of affordable zooms that open a gateway to fast-aperture performance and absolute versatility.”

The NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 is a lens for storytellers, captivating the viewer with vast landscapes, grand interiors or enveloping their senses with the starry night sky. The combination of the ultra-wide angle perspective and bright constant f/2.8 aperture liberates the creator, turning everyday scenes into impressive images and videos that grab the viewers’ attention or establish the scene. This wide aperture not only enhances the lens’ low light performance, but also creates a gorgeous out-of-focus area to make the subject pop. Scenes that were previously difficult to photograph are easier than ever to capture in vibrant detail, such as a packed dance floor at a wedding reception or a backlit subject within a cityscape.

The new NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 is ready to go anywhere. This extremely lightweight and portable lens weighs in at only 450 g (15.9 oz), which is approximately 30% lighter than the NIKKOR Z 14-24mm f/2.8. It’s also lighter and more compact than the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 lens, and uses a 67mm threaded mount for circular polarizers or neutral density filters. The lens’ minimal weight and internal zooming make it easy to pack or carry anywhere, and create an ideal partner for gimbals since the balance of the lens never changes.

The lens is constructed for creators who aren’t afraid to go off the beaten path in pursuit of their content. The entire lens is sealed to prevent entry of dust and water droplets, while the front element features an antifouling coating which makes it easy to wipe away dirt, smudges and fingerprints. The NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 puts an emphasis on sharpness, utilizing an optical formula that employs a Super ED glass element for maximum image quality at all focal lengths.

Autofocus speed is blazing fast, thanks to the use of a high-speed stepping motor (STM), working seamlessly with Nikon Z mirrorless cameras to acquire critical focus on faces and eyes within the frame. The STM is also nearly silent, significantly reducing drive noise during video recording. Video content creators will especially appreciate the minimized focus breathing and click-less control ring for smooth exposure transitions. For additional versatility in photos and video, minimum focus distance is a mere 7.56 inches (0.19 m), letting users get close-up for products and beauty shots with a magnificently blurred background.

Pricing and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 17-28mm f/2.8 will be available in late October 2022 for a suggested retail price of $1,199.95*.  For more information about the latest Nikon products, including other NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire collection of Z series cameras, please visit nikonusa.com.

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Filed Under: Cameras and Lenses Tagged With: Announcement, Nikon Lens, Nikon Mirrorless, Nikon Z, Wide Angle Lens

About Spencer Cox

I'm Spencer Cox, a landscape photographer based in Colorado. I started writing for Photography Life a decade ago, and now I run the website in collaboration with Nasim. I've used nearly every digital camera system under the sun, but for my personal work, I love the slow-paced nature of large format film. You can see more at my personal website and my not-exactly-active Instagram page.

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Ray
Ray
October 20, 2022 7:37 pm

I just pre ordered the 17-28 z lens but i also own the 28z lens should i sell the 28

0
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Lee
Lee
September 25, 2022 11:37 pm

Do you think Nikon will rebrand/release the recent Tamron 50-400mm that’s currently only for Sony?

0
Reply
John
John
September 21, 2022 8:15 am

I realize this is photographylife.com and not videographylife.com, but all the “reviews” of this newly announced lens miss the biggest selling point of it: internal zoom mechanics, Nikon’s first Z lens to do so.

I seem to be one of the few video guys that exclusively uses Nikon, and lack of internal zoom lenses is one of the biggest reasons why more folks don’t use Nikon for video work. If you’ve ever balanced a camera on a gimbal, do you know exactly what I’m talking about.

IMO, this isn’t a lens aimed primarily for photography work, it’s aimed more at video work. Regardless, I agree with other folks who’ve commented on the high price tag. Four figures for this lens seems way too much. It is not a price I’m willing to pay, especially since I already own the Z 20mm f/1.8, which is awesome for video.

0
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  John
September 21, 2022 12:13 pm

Good point! I have used the 14-30mm f/4 for some gimbal video work for our YouTube channel, and balancing it each time was rough. (Admittedly a beefier gimbal might have managed it more easily, since the lens is pretty light.) This 17-28mm will be a much better option for that type of work.

0
Reply
UrbexMark
UrbexMark
Reply to  John
September 22, 2022 8:26 am

Isn’t the Z 70-200 2.8 internal zoom? And the 100-400 was designed to have the same center of gravity while zooming for easier use on a gimbal.

AFAIK there is no “standard range” zoom by any company that doesn’t change length at least a little.

0
Reply
bg5931
bg5931
Reply to  John
September 23, 2022 3:49 pm

The 70-200 and to some degree the 14-24 are internal zooms as well.

0
Reply
Richard
Richard
September 20, 2022 9:46 am

Regarding the pricing, I expect this new lens will be discounted soon, similar to the pricing strategy after the Z 28mm-75mm lens was released. Plus the holidays are coming so Nikon will likely have its usual Black Friday sales.

2
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  Richard
September 20, 2022 10:48 am

You’re exactly right. Nikon almost immediately started discounting the 28-75mm f/2.8, and I’m sure their strategy is going to be similar with the 17-28mm f/2.8.

1
Reply
M404
M404
September 20, 2022 9:21 am

It’s a 799$ wtf?
Nikon is pushing the users out to Sony, same as Canon.

1
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  M404
September 20, 2022 10:49 am

It doesn’t make things much better, but for context, $799 is the sale price of the Tamron. It’s normally $900, so a $300 difference compared to the Nikon.

0
Reply
UrbexMark
UrbexMark
Reply to  M404
September 22, 2022 8:27 am

The Nikon version will get substantial discounts soon, just like the 28-75. It also does has some value add over the Sony; specifically being a first party lens has value, and they did add a control ring which some folks like.

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Reply
FRED BONNETT
FRED BONNETT
September 20, 2022 9:20 am

Nikon’s pricing is even more off the board than suggested. The Yen has decreased in value 20% relative to the dollar, just this year. All Japanese products should be cheaper. Nikon has raised its prices. I guess they figure rich Americans will pay any amount for a lens that has Nikon splattered across its name plate.

1
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  FRED BONNETT
September 20, 2022 10:50 am

I think they designed the lens to be perpetually on sale, and with $200+ discounts during the holidays. I don’t like that strategy, but I’d be very surprised if this remains a $1200 lens for most buyers.

1
Reply
Allan Wood
Allan Wood
September 20, 2022 9:03 am

I doubt that Nikon will do much to make the system more attractive to third-party lens companies, since I suspect as noted in the article, these are not likely to give Nikon a cut of those lens sales (unless Nikon and Tamron have agreements we cannot know). The Tamron for Sony is $800 while the similar Nikon is $1200. That seems a less than subtle flag on strategy. Maybe Nikon will note they have their own electronics and focusing built in, but no matter, the price is not attractive.

0
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  Allan Wood
September 20, 2022 10:51 am

It’s not a great pricing strategy at all (although the Sony version is really $900; it just happens to be on sale today for $800). Hopefully Nikon releases some Black Friday sales for this lens when the time comes.

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Reply
Rogério Peccioli
Rogério Peccioli
September 20, 2022 6:44 am

It’s an interesting lens, but the price isn’t attractive at all. Nikon gets the price wrong.

0
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  Rogério Peccioli
September 20, 2022 10:53 am

Nikon’s pricing has been totally unpredictable on the Z series. The 800mm f/6.3 is possibly the best value for an exotic supertelephoto ever, and then this lens is about 50% overpriced at launch. I wonder if it’s the same group of people at Nikon making the price decisions both times.

0
Reply
Jason Frels
Jason Frels
September 20, 2022 6:19 am

I can’t say I understand the Nikon-Tamron business arrangement, but I sure am glad for it. I think it was going to take a much longer time for Nikon alone to fill out the Z lens catalogue. Now it seems we will have much more choice.

0
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  Jason Frels
September 20, 2022 10:54 am

Hopefully they help ease some of the pressure! There’s easily room for dozens more Z lenses even if all Nikon is trying to do is match the F-mount options.

1
Reply
David
David
September 20, 2022 5:59 am

A Nikon Z5 with the 17-28 and 28-75 lenses makes for an excellent full-frame kit if you are after the low-light performance and/or depth of field, especially if you take advantage of the eventual discounts.

It’s a compelling option for a DX body as well.

0
Reply
Spencer Cox
Spencer Cox
Author
Reply to  David
September 20, 2022 10:56 am

Especially if the 70-180mm on the roadmap turns out to be the f/2.8 Tamron clone, and Nikon puts all these lenses on sale during the holidays, I think I’ll be recommending the trio to a lot of Nikon photographers. (Even if I have gripes about the lens prices compared to the Sony versions, and some decisions like going with the G1 instead of G2 28-75mm.)

1
Reply

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