Nikon just announced their newest Z-series lens – and their first ultra-wide entry in the Z DX lineup. It’s the Nikon Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR, a lens that was first added to the roadmap in September of 2022. Here’s what we know about the lens so far.
Nikon Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 Specifications and Features
- Full Name: Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR
- Mount Type: Nikon Z Mount, DX only
- Focal Length: 12-28mm (2.3× zoom)
- Angle of View (DX): 99° to 53°
- Maximum Aperture: f/3.5 at 12mm; f/5.6 at 28mm
- Minimum Aperture: f/16 at 12mm; f/25 at 28mm
- Aperture Blades: 7
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Lens Elements: 12
- Lens Groups: 11
- Special Elements: 1 aspherical, 1 ED glass
- ARNEO Coating: No
- Nano Crystal Coating: No
- Super Integrated Coating: No
- Fluorine Coated Front Element: No
- Electronic Diaphragm: Yes
- Vibration Reduction: Yes
- Internal Focusing: Yes
- Internal Zooming: Yes
- Control Rings: Focus ring and zoom ring, both electronically coupled
- Focus Motor: STM
- Minimum Focus Distance: 0.19 meters (7.5 inches)
- Maximum Magnification: 0.21× (1:4.8)
- Mount Material: Plastic
- Weather/Dust Sealing: Yes
- Dimensions (Length × Diameter): 64 x 72 mm (2.5 × 2.8 inches)
- Weight: 205 g (0.45 lbs)
- MSRP: $359.95 (check current price and availability)
Here’s the lens construction diagram, followed by a depiction of the lens’s weather sealing:
These specifications are about what I’d expect for a basic wide-angle zoom, but a few interesting points catch my eye. Most of all is the weight. At 205 grams (0.45 pounds) and just 64 millimeters long (2.5 inches), this is a seriously light and portable lens that should pair well with any of Nikon’s Z DX cameras so far. Beyond that, at $360, this lens is well-priced for Nikon Z DX shooters on a budget.
Then there’s the “PZ” in the lens’s name, which stands for Power Zoom. This is the first Nikon Z lens to use a power zooming mechanism, and it may turn out to be a polarizing feature. In short, the zoom ring is not mechanically coupled to anything – just like with focus-by-wire, it’s a fully electronic connection.
Power zooming has some advantages in theory, including better weather sealing and cost reduction. Nikon is also advertising its potential for videographers and remote shooters, who can activate the zoom mechanism remotely via Snapbridge or Nikon’s ML-L7 bluetooth remote. Beyond that, you can change the speed of the zooming mechanism from very fast (0.55 seconds) to seriously slow (36 seconds). The latter speed could be useful for interesting video effects.
I’m personally a fan of mechanical buttons and dials rather than electronic coupling, but not everyone will agree. If you’ve ever wanted to zoom your lens remotely, or precisely define the speed of the zoom, now’s your chance.
Prior to the announcement of the Nikon Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR, there had been a clear lack of ultra-wide options for Nikon Z DX cameras. Some photographers dealt with it by adapting F-mount lenses, while others used third-party options from various companies like Viltrox. Now, though – assuming that the performance of the Nikon 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 is up to par – it should be the easy choice for most Z DX photographers instead.
The 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 brings Nikon’s total number of Z DX lenses to four, alongside the 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3, 50-250mm f/4.5-5.6, and 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3. There’s also an unannounced 24mm DX lens under the “compact prime lenses” section of Nikon’s roadmap. Once you consider the FX lenses that pair well with DX cameras (like the Z 40mm f/2 for portraiture), Nikon Z DX is looking increasingly good for most types of photography. But there’s still plenty of room to add more.
Sample Photos
We have some sample photos to share with you from the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 from various situations:
That last photo is noteworthy because it comes with full shooting data, and I have a full-resolution version to demonstrate image quality and sharpness. Here’s a 100% crop from the bottom-right corner of the full-res image (a 960-pixel wide excerpt):
This appears to be impressive sharpness for an inexpensive ultra-wide zoom – although, of course, the Z50’s 20-megapixel sensor is not testing it as much as a 30+ MP DX sensor would. The performance in backlit situations also seems good. I still need to test the 12-28mm lens in our lab and in the field, but from what I can glean from these sample photos, image quality doesn’t look like a problem.
Shipping and Pre-Order
The Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR will start shipping in May 2023 at an MSRP of $359.95. It’s already available for pre-order from the usual suspects:
- Nikon Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Pre-Order at B&H
- Nikon Z 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR Pre-Order at Adorama
I don’t expect this lens to be backordered at the same rate as some of Nikon’s higher-priced, lower-volume specialty lenses. That said, these days I typically recommend pre-ordering any gear that interests you, in order to avoid supply issues.
Official Press Release
IMMERSIVE VIEWS AND CREATIVE FREEDOM: THE NIKKOR Z DX 12-28MM F/3.5-5.6 PZ VR POWER-ZOOM ULTRA-WIDE ANGLE LENS IS THE LATEST ADDITION TO NIKON’S GROWING TOOLKIT FOR CREATORS
Nikon’s Super Lightweight Wide Angle Lens Puts a Variable Power Zoom and Amazing Image Quality Within Reach
MELVILLE, NY (April 18, 2023) – Today, Nikon Inc. has announced the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR, the ultra-wide angle lens made for content creators and vloggers. This latest lightweight lens is the widest NIKKOR Z DX-format lens yet1, and has the added benefit of a power zoom (PZ) for more creative versatility and great looking video. The 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is designed to capture sharp and immersive content that lets you get more of what matters in the frame; more friends, more expansive landscapes and more freedom to create without limits.
Featuring an extremely versatile zoom range from an ultra-wide angle 12mm to 28mm2, this lens is a must-have for any vlogger or creator who wants to get the whole story in the shot, and dynamically change-up the frame smoothly and consistently. The ultra-wide angle is also great for everything from larger-than-life landscapes, grand interiors, tabletop photos and group selfies where no one gets left out. Surprisingly small and light for such a wide zoom, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm weighs only approximately 7.3 oz, making it easy to hold with an extended arm. It’s perfectly mated to lightweight cameras such as the ultra-compact and capable Nikon Z 30, Z 50 or the retro inspired Z fc.
“Nikon is committed to equipping content creators with the tools they need to make videos and photos that look great, and we are very excited about this latest addition to our growing system of creator-centric cameras and lenses,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “Whether you’re vlogging or just want a super-lightweight and affordable wide angle for landscapes or street photography, the NIKKOR Z 12-28mm is the lens you have been waiting for.”
The Lens Made for Content Creators
The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is the first NIKKOR Z lens utilizing a power zoom with linear drive, providing smooth optical zoom and other thoughtful features for creators to enhance and simplify their video recording experience. The power zoom function easily and effortlessly zooms in close to a subject, or zooms out to truly establish the scene. To suit any shooting style, the zoom can be activated by twisting the customizable zoom ring on the barrel, with designated buttons on the camera body, or when using the ML-L7 Remote Control3 (included in the Z 30 Creator’s Accessory Kit). The zoom can also be controlled remotely through a PC or phone with the SnapBridge app4. Additionally, the zoom rate can be selected from 11 speed settings, within the range of 0.55 to 36 seconds, for maximum consistency when reframing your shot or adding dramatic creative flair.
Autofocus is sharp, reliable and fast, working flawlessly with the eye-detection AF in Nikon cameras to keep focus on you or your subject. The lens features an STM motor drive, making it extremely silent when focusing, so viewers won’t be disturbed by the sound of camera operation. What’s more, when transitioning to a close-up of a subject, the 12-28mm has a very close minimum focus distance of only 0.19 m(0.62 ft). This lets users seamlessly move the focus from their face to a product in-hand, while the image stays sharp.
Realizing that the best content often happens in real time, the lens is stabilized with Vibration Reduction (VR) that provides an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.5 stops faster5. This function makes it easy to capture run-and-gun footage without the distracting camera shake or shoot in low-light with minimal blur. Because of its small size and versatile angle of view, this lens is also well-suited for creating steady footage with gimbals.
Main Features of the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR:
- Ultra-wide angle lens is ideal for vlogging and wide establishing shots but also landscapes, interior photography and city streets.
- Power zoom function provides smooth, consistent optical zoom that’s fully customizable with varying speeds, which can be engaged with camera buttons, zoom ring or used remotely.
- VR Image Stabilization reduces camera shake with up to 4.5 stops of compensation for stable video and sharp images.
- Close minimum focusing distance of 0.62 ft and maximum reproduction ratio of 0.21x allow for sharp and detailed shots of products, flowers, nature and other intricate details.
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use and carry anywhere.
- The body of the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm has been designed carefully to deliver dust- and drip-resistant performance,6 with a sealing that prevents any dust or water droplets from entering the lens.
Price and Availability
The new NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR will be available in May 2023 for a suggested retail price of $359.95*. 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.
About Nikon
Nikon Inc. is a world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and technologies for photo and video capture; globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for an award-winning array of equipment that enables visual storytelling and content creation. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional Z Series mirrorless cameras, digital SLR cameras, a vast array of NIKKOR and NIKKOR Z lenses, Speedlights and system accessories, Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras and Nikon software products. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers and visual storytellers to the Web’s most comprehensive learning and sharing communities. Connect with Nikon on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram,TikTok, Vimeo and Flickr.
# # #
Specifications, design, product name, and supplied accessories may differ by country or area. Specifications and equipment are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.
- As of April 18, 2023.
- Angle of view is equivalent to that of an 18-42mm lens in Full-frame/FX-format.
- Camera magnification buttons and 11 speed functionality supported on the Z 30 and the Z fc at time of initial release.
4. These functions will be supported by subsequent software update.- Based on CIPA Standard; this value is achieved when attached to an APS-C size/DX-format camera with the camera’s VR function set. to “NORMAL”, and when zoom is set to the maximum telephoto position.
- Thorough dust- and drip-resistance is not guaranteed in all situations or under all conditions.
*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
Most people miss the point of this lens.
It’s ultralight, power-zoomed, with remote control, and has a constant center of gravity.
=> It’s designed for drones and gimbals. It really hits the sweet spot there.
Additionally, its internal zoom and focus makes it sturdy and weatherproof.
The power zoom is quite well implemented, it took me a little while to accept that zoom wasn’t mechanical, feel is that good. This is light years ahead of for example Panasonic and Fujifilm implementations of power zoom.
This certainly seems like an interesting lens at a good price point. It is clearly designed for the Z30 and it would nice if Nikon provided firmware updates for the Z50 and Zfc, at the very least, so it can be used on all Z DX cameras.
Reading some of the comments here amazes me. Some bitch about Nikon while others don’t take the time to fully read the article or do any further research regarding this or in fact any new product launched. As a famous author once said, “Engage your brain before moving your lips and hopefully something intellectual will come out” There is a good article on YouTube from Ricci Talks. He explains in detail about this lens.
I’ve been waiting for this. It seems like a great lens paired with say the z50 to take hiking and backpacking instead of lugging a full frame.
I’m a little unclear on one point. Can you zoom by hand? If not, and you don’t have a remote control, how would you zoom it?
Yes, you can use the zoom ring to zoom. Although it’s still electronically coupled rather than mechanically coupled.
You can configure one of your buttons to zoom. Watch Ricci Talks on YouTube. He explains all.
Nice addition to the DX-line. Must say!
Would be a bit worried to invest in this lens, though. And it’s not the specs or the price level.
It’s the camera, or better the lack of a line-up of DX-Z bodies.
The only available DX Z body is the Z-50 (not counting Z-30 and Zfc, which are basically Z-50’s). Good camera, but no IBIS, a 20,9 MP sensor and on the market since 2019.
So far I haven’t seen a DX camera line-up happening, like the one that has already materialized in FX. No line-up equals to no choice, and I’m not sure if I like that. Only a serious camera line-up would protect my investment in this lens (or in any lens).
But great specs and would love to use it one day.
I own the Z50 since two years. It is a very capable camera with superb image quality. The fact that it is “old” is not relevant and don’t be scared about it. I would buy the Z50 again today. It is a great little camera with big features. The lack of IBIS is not an issue to me. My main camera is a D850 and that camera doesn’t have IBIS either. While some of my F mount lenses have VR, I never rely on that. I just keep the lowest shutter speed in mind and that works fine.
If you want a very capable DX camera then there is the Z9 and Z7. These cameras support DX mode with very decent pixel counts.
It’s a lens meant for the Z30, which was released last year and different than the Z50 in some key ways, primarily lack of EVF and a more designed for vloggers. It also has a better focusing system than the Z50, which is a few years older but still very capable. Nikon has to appeal to people doing video so the Z30 and future iterations of this camera might be a more important camera for Nikon video users moving forward, and the Z50 might be replaced by a mirrorless D500.
Another thing to note is that Nikon pushed a firmware update in Jan which improved the AF performance in stills and added eye AF in video. That was the main difference between Z30 and Z50 and I was glad they gave that to a 3-year-old camera. I was going to upgrade to a better camera but after the update, I like my Z50 a lot.
Like you, I also wish it had IBIS. The VR lenses are good but the primes dont have it so IBIS is highly required in some cases.
Plenty of people will complain about the power zoom or other aspects of this lens, but I think it’s fine for the intended purpose which is low-end video and vlogging. There’s a place for that even if most people aren’t interested. I’ll probably get one for my Z30.
That said, like many others I wish Nikon would clearly signal that they’re serious about DX for still shooting. Put out a better camera (a D7500 equivalent with IBIS, or better) and brighter DX zooms.
I have to hand it to Nikon. No matter how long or hard they sh** on their APS-C customers, they will silently take it and pretend that it’s chocolate :-D
Masochism is a strange, strange disease…
Clearly written by a Canon ambassador.
I don’t understand that comment. Nikon has very decent DX capable camera. The Z9 and the Z7 are three examples of that.
Seems like a pretty nice offering. Wonder how the optics compare to the F mount 10-20 AF-P lens (hopefully this new lens is significantly better).
I also wonder how much lag there is when manual zooming.
Posted MTF curves look pretty good.
Better late than never! I’m excited to finally see a wide angle option for z mount crop frame. I’d been using the 10~20 AF-P on an adapter, but it’s just awkward.