Is the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 S II Worth the Upgrade?

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II covers one of the most versatile focal ranges in photography and brings upgrades that matter if you spend long hours shooting. The mix of weight savings, optical improvements, and better handling makes it a serious option if you need a reliable standard zoom.

Coming to you from Julia Trotti, this detailed video looks at the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens in a real-world portrait shoot. Trotti highlights the lens’ ability to deliver sharp, flattering images while maintaining character, showing examples straight from the Nikon Z8. Unlike many standard zooms that only shine at one end of the range, this lens delivers consistent image quality from 24mm to 70mm. Trotti does point out some quirks with Nikon’s autofocus system when shooting portraits, where irises can look softer than skin, but the lens still produces a strong set of usable images. For you, that means the lens handles detail, contrast, and color in a way that can hold up across different scenarios.

The performance section is where things start to separate this lens from its predecessor. Trotti notes that Nikon’s Silky Swift VCM autofocus motors are a major upgrade, keeping subjects locked in focus more reliably. Autofocus is responsive, and while a few frames miss, that’s standard with moving subjects. In the field, this gives you a clearer idea of what to expect from the lens in demanding situations like events or fast-moving shoots. That kind of consistency is valuable if you need gear that won’t slow you down or surprise you when it matters.

Key Specs

• Focal Length: 24 to 70mm

• Aperture: Maximum f/2.8, Minimum f/22

• Lens Mount: Nikon Z

• Coverage: Full frame

• Minimum Focus Distance: 9.4" (Wide) to 1.1' (Tele)

• Magnification: 1:3 macro ratio, 0.32x

• Optical Design: 14 elements in 10 groups

• Aperture Blades: 11, rounded

• Focus Type: Autofocus

• Image Stabilization: No

• Filter Size: 77 mm

• Dimensions: 3.5 x 5.9" / 90 x 150 mm

• Weight: 1.5 lb / 675 g

Nikon has shaved weight down to 675 g, noticeably lighter than the first version’s 805 g. Internal zoom helps with balance and makes the lens easier to use on a gimbal. Nikon added features like a click switch on the aperture ring, customizable buttons, and a focus limiter, which is rare in a standard zoom. For long days of weddings or events, these changes matter because they directly affect comfort and usability.

One of the most interesting points is lens flare and bokeh. Trotti compares it against the original version and shows how much better the Mark II handles ghosting and contrast in backlight. The rounded 11-blade diaphragm produces smooth bokeh without chromatic aberration, though she notes a subtle texture if you zoom in closely. Lens flare is more controlled than the previous version, especially in harsh backlit conditions, making this upgrade clear in side-by-side tests. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Trotti.