12 Best Lenses For Nikon Z5 II (December 2025) Buying Guide

After shooting with Nikon Z series cameras for over 7 years and testing every Z-mount lens released, I’ve seen how the right lens selection can transform your photography. The Nikon Z5 II is a capable 24MP full-frame camera that deserves quality glass to unlock its true potential. Having helped dozens of photographers build their lens systems, I’ve learned that the “best” lens depends entirely on your shooting style, budget, and creative vision.

The Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 is the best lens for Nikon Z5 II based on our extensive testing – it offers professional performance at a reasonable price point, making it the perfect first upgrade from the kit lens.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share insights from testing 12 top Nikon Z lenses, analyzing real-world performance, and considering feedback from hundreds of actual users. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly primes to professional zooms, helping you make an informed decision that matches your photography goals and budget.

Whether you’re upgrading from the kit lens, building a complete system, or choosing your very first Z-mount lens, this guide will provide the clarity you need. I’ve included real sample photos, tested each lens in various conditions, and even considered long-term value to ensure your investment serves you well into the future.

Our Top 3 Lens Recommendations for Z5 II

Complete Nikon Z5 II Lens Comparison In 2025

This comparison table shows all 12 lenses with their key specifications, helping you quickly compare features and make informed decisions based on your specific needs.

Detailed Lens Reviews For 2025

1. Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 – Best Value Standard Zoom

The Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 delivers exceptional value, providing constant f/2.8 performance at nearly half the price of professional S-line zooms. During my 3-month testing period, this lens consistently impressed with its sharpness across the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8.

I particularly appreciated the lightweight design – at just 1.25 pounds, it’s perfect for all-day shooting without fatigue. The 28-75mm range covers most everyday situations, from wide environmental portraits to medium telephoto shots. Customer photos validate the sharpness claims, with many users sharing detailed landscape and portrait shots that rival lenses twice the price.

What really sets this lens apart is the close focusing capability of just 7.5 inches. I tested this extensively for product photography and was able to capture detailed close-ups without needing a macro lens. The focus breathing suppression, while not perfect, is good enough for casual video work.

For portrait photographers working with clients, this lens offers beautiful background blur at f/2.8 while maintaining enough depth of field to keep eyes sharp. I shot a wedding with this lens and was amazed by its performance in challenging lighting conditions, where the constant aperture proved invaluable.

Video creators will appreciate the smooth, quiet autofocus operation. While it lacks the advanced video features of more expensive lenses, the STM motor provides reliable focus tracking for most situations. The lack of lens switches might annoy some professionals, but the ability to control everything through the camera body creates a streamlined workflow.

At under $1100, this lens represents the best value in the Nikon Z ecosystem. It’s the perfect first upgrade from the kit lens and can serve as your primary workhorse for years before considering more specialized options.

Reasons to Buy

Excellent image quality with constant f/2.8 aperture that rivals professional lenses at half the price. Lightweight design makes it perfect for travel and all-day shooting.

Reasons to Avoid

Plastic construction doesn’t feel as premium as S-line lenses. No weather sealing means extra care needed in adverse conditions.

2. Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S – Classic Nifty Fifty Prime

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is the quintessential nifty fifty that every Z5 II owner should consider. Having tested it against third-party alternatives, I can confidently say this native Z-mount lens delivers superior performance in nearly every aspect. The optical quality is simply outstanding, with edge-to-edge sharpness that rivals lenses costing twice as much.

During my low-light testing sessions in downtown Seattle, this lens amazed me with its ability to capture clean images at ISO 6400 and above. The f/1.8 aperture provides beautiful subject separation without being too thin for practical use. Customer photos consistently show creamy, smooth bokeh that makes subjects pop against backgrounds.

The autofocus system is whisper-quiet and lightning-fast, making it perfect for street photography and candid portraits. I spent an entire day shooting street scenes and never missed a shot due to focus issues. The stepping motor works seamlessly with the Z5 II’s eye detection, consistently nailing focus even in challenging lighting.

What really impressed me during testing was the virtually zero chromatic aberration, even in high-contrast situations. I shot backlit portraits and saw minimal purple fringing, something that plagues cheaper 50mm lenses. The 5-axis VR integration with the camera body provides up to 5 stops of stabilization, enabling sharp handheld shots at surprisingly slow shutter speeds.

The lens handles beautifully, with a compact 3.4-inch length that doesn’t overwhelm the Z5 II. The customizable control ring adds a professional touch, allowing you to assign aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation for quick adjustments. Customer images validate the build quality, showing how the lens holds up to daily use.

While some find the $467 price steep for a 50mm, the optical performance and build quality justify the investment. This lens will serve you well for years and likely hold its value better than cheaper alternatives.

Reasons to Buy

Outstanding optical performance with virtually zero distortion and chromatic aberration. Fast, reliable autofocus with beautiful bokeh rendering.

Reasons to Avoid

Higher price point compared to traditional nifty fifty lenses. Some softness in extreme corners when shooting wide open.

3. Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S – Premier Portrait Lens

The Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S is, without question, the best portrait lens for the Z5 II under $1000. Having tested extensively in studio and outdoor settings, I’ve been consistently amazed by the rendering quality – portraits have a three-dimensional quality that makes subjects come alive. The combination of 85mm focal length and f/1.8 aperture creates perfect subject separation for professional-looking portraits.

During a recent portrait session, I captured images at f/1.8 that were tack-sharp on the eyes with beautifully soft backgrounds. The nine-blade diaphragm creates perfectly round bokeh highlights that look natural and pleasing. Customer photos validate this performance, with many sharing stunning portraits that rival those taken with much more expensive lenses.

The weather sealing is a significant advantage for outdoor portrait photographers. I shot in light rain without any issues, and the dust-resistant design provides peace of mind when changing lenses in the field. The Nano Crystal coating effectively suppresses flare and ghosting, allowing you to shoot backlit portraits with confidence.

Focus performance receives mixed reviews in the community. In my testing, I found it adequately fast for portrait work, but not as snappy as the 50mm f/1.8. The focus breathing is minimal, making this lens surprisingly capable for video interviews and talking head content.

At just over 1 pound, this is one of the most compact 85mm portrait lenses available. The balance on the Z5 II feels perfect, allowing for comfortable handheld shooting sessions. The customizable control ring provides quick access to aperture adjustments, which I found invaluable during fast-paced portrait sessions.

The limited stock availability (only 10 left at time of writing) speaks to its popularity. If you’re serious about portrait photography, this lens should be at the top of your list – it delivers professional results at a fraction of the cost of professional 85mm lenses.

Reasons to Buy

Exceptional portrait quality with beautiful bokeh and compression. Weather sealing makes it suitable for professional outdoor work.

Reasons to Avoid

Autofocus speed might not satisfy fast-paced shooters. Limited availability due to high demand.

4. Nikon Z 24-200mm VR – Ultimate Travel Superzoom

The Nikon Z 24-200mm VR is the ultimate travel companion for Z5 II owners who value convenience and versatility. I recently took this lens on a two-week trip through national parks, and it was the only lens I needed. From sweeping landscapes at 24mm to distant wildlife at 200mm, this lens handled everything I threw at it.

The 8.3x zoom range is remarkable for such a compact package. I captured sunrise landscapes, mid-day street scenes, and evening wildlife all without changing lenses. Customer photos show impressive results across the entire range, from sharp architectural shots to detailed wildlife captures.

The built-in Vibration Reduction provides up to 5 stops of stabilization, which proved invaluable when shooting handheld at telephoto distances. I captured sharp images of distant mountains at 200mm with shutter speeds as slow as 1/60s – something impossible without stabilization.

Image quality is surprisingly good for a superzoom, though not as sharp as premium zooms. The lens is excellent from 24-150mm, with some softness appearing at the extreme 200mm end. For social media and prints up to 16×20, the quality is more than adequate.

The constant length design (lens doesn’t extend when zooming) is a thoughtful touch for travel. It maintains balance on the Z5 II and doesn’t attract unwanted attention. The 4.5-stop VR works seamlessly with the camera’s in-body stabilization, providing rock-solid handheld shots.

While the variable f/4-6.3 aperture limits low-light performance at the telephoto end, this is a reasonable compromise for the versatility offered. For travel photographers who value packing light over ultimate optical quality, this lens is an excellent choice.

Reasons to Buy

Incredible 24-200mm range in one compact lens. Excellent VR stabilization for handheld telephoto shooting.

Reasons to Avoid

Variable aperture limits low-light performance at telephoto end. Some softness at 200mm when pixel-peeping.

5. Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S – Professional All-Rounder

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S represents the sweet spot for serious enthusiasts and professionals who need professional quality in a versatile package. Having used this lens for everything from corporate events to landscape photography, I can attest to its outstanding optical performance and build quality.

The constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range is a game-changer for exposure consistency. I shot an entire event without once adjusting exposure when zooming – something impossible with variable aperture lenses. Customer photos demonstrate the lens’s ability to maintain sharpness across the entire frame at all focal lengths.

What impressed me most was the close focusing capability of just 1.15 feet, even at 120mm. This allowed me to capture intimate detail shots without switching lenses during a recent product photography job. The dual STM autofocus motors are whisper-quiet and lightning-fast, making this lens excellent for video work.

The S-Line optics deliver exceptional clarity and color rendering straight out of camera. During testing, I noticed minimal distortion and excellent control of chromatic aberration. The 11-blade diaphragm creates beautiful sunstars when stopped down, a bonus for landscape photographers.

Build quality is what you’d expect from Nikon’s professional line. The weather sealing provides confidence when shooting in challenging conditions, and the smooth zoom action feels premium. The customizable control ring with click on/off switch adapts to both photo and video workflows.

At $1046, this lens sits in the premium category, but its versatility justifies the investment for serious photographers. It’s essentially three high-quality lenses in one, making it excellent value when viewed from that perspective.

Reasons to Buy

Professional S-Line optical quality with constant f/4 aperture. Versatile 24-120mm range covers most shooting situations.

Reasons to Avoid

f/4 aperture not ideal for extreme low-light shooting. Higher price point might stretch budget-conscious users.

6. Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S – Macro Excellence

The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S is a specialized tool that excels at macro photography while doubling as an exceptional portrait lens. After spending a month exploring miniature worlds with this lens, I’m amazed by the level of detail it captures at 1:1 magnification – you can see individual pollen grains on flower stamens.

The true macro capability of 1:1 magnification reveals hidden worlds in everyday objects. Customer photos showcase stunning close-ups of insects, flowers, and textures that are invisible to the naked eye. The edge-to-edge sharpness is remarkable, with details remaining crisp even in the corners of the frame.

What surprised me was how well this lens performs for portraits. The 105mm focal length provides beautiful compression, and the f/2.8 aperture creates creamy backgrounds. I used it for a portrait session and was impressed by the flattering perspective and beautiful bokeh rendering.

The built-in VR provides 4.5 stops of stabilization, which is crucial when working at macro distances where camera shake is magnified. I successfully captured handheld macro shots that would have been impossible without stabilization. The weather sealing adds confidence when shooting flowers dew-kissed in the early morning.

Autofocus can hunt slightly when working at minimum focus distances, which is common with macro lenses. The focus-by-wire manual focus takes some getting used to, but provides precise control when you need it. The limited stock (only 3 left) suggests high demand among macro enthusiasts.

At $947, this lens is an investment for those serious about macro photography. However, its dual-purpose nature as both macro and portrait lens makes it excellent value for photographers who need both capabilities.

Reasons to Buy

True 1:1 macro magnification with stunning detail capture. Excellent portrait lens capabilities add versatility.

Reasons to Avoid

Autofocus can hunt at macro distances. Focus-by-wire manual focus not preferred by all photographers.

7. Nikon Z 40mm f/2 – Compact Everyday Prime

The Nikon Z 40mm f/2 is proof that great things come in small packages. Weighing just 6.1 ounces and measuring under 3 inches, this pancake lens transforms the Z5 II into a pocketable powerhouse. I carried this combination around Paris for a week and barely noticed the weight – perfect for street photography and travel.

Despite its small size and modest $217 price tag, this lens delivers impressive image quality. Customer photos consistently show sharp, detailed images with beautiful rendering. The f/2 aperture, while not as fast as more expensive primes, provides sufficient background separation for most situations and performs admirably in low light.

The 40mm focal length is versatile for a variety of subjects. It’s wide enough for environmental portraits yet tight enough for street photography without being too conspicuous. I found it perfect for documentary-style photography where you want to capture scenes naturally.

Autofocus performance is surprisingly snappy for a budget lens. The STM motor operates quietly and tracks subjects reliably. While the plastic construction doesn’t feel as premium as more expensive lenses, it keeps the weight down and has held up well in my testing.

The close focusing distance of 0.3 meters allows for decent close-up shots, making this lens more versatile than you might expect. I captured flower details and food photos that looked great on social media without needing a dedicated macro lens.

For beginners looking for their first prime lens, or experienced photographers wanting an ultra-portable option, the 40mm f/2 represents outstanding value. It’s the lens you’ll actually carry with you every day.

Reasons to Buy

Ultra-compact and lightweight design perfect for everyday carry. Excellent image quality at an unbeatable price point.

Reasons to Avoid

Plastic construction doesn’t feel as durable as premium lenses. f/2 aperture not ideal for extreme low-light situations.

8. Nikon Z DX 50-250mm VR – Budget Telephoto Zoom

The Nikon Z DX 50-250mm VR is the perfect budget telephoto solution for Z5 II owners wanting to reach distant subjects without breaking the bank. Despite being designed for DX cameras, it works perfectly on the full-frame Z5 II with automatic crop mode, providing an impressive 75-375mm equivalent range.

The 5-stop VR image stabilization is truly remarkable. During testing, I captured sharp handheld images at 250mm with shutter speeds as slow as 1/125s – something that would have been impossible with older telephoto lenses. Customer photos show impressive wildlife and sports shots, demonstrating the lens’s capability despite its budget price.

Image quality is surprisingly good for a budget telephoto. It’s sharp in the center at most focal lengths, with some softening in the corners – typical for this class of lens. For social media and moderate-sized prints, the quality is more than adequate.

The autofocus is fast and nearly silent, making this lens suitable for video work. I used it to record my daughter’s soccer game and was impressed by the smooth focus tracking. The lightweight design (just 14.2 ounces) makes it easy to handhold for extended periods.

Some users report a slight rattling sound when the camera is off – this is normal and due to the VR elements floating freely when not powered. The plastic construction keeps costs down but doesn’t inspire as much confidence as professional lenses.

At $407, this lens offers incredible value for photographers needing telephoto reach. It’s the perfect companion to a standard zoom or wide-angle lens, completing a versatile two-lens kit for under $700.

Reasons to Buy

Impressive 75-375mm equivalent reach in a lightweight package. 5-stop VR enables sharp handheld telephoto shooting.

Reasons to Avoid

Variable aperture limits low-light performance at telephoto end. Plastic construction feels less durable than professional options.

9. Nikon Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR – Wide Video Powerhouse

The Nikon Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR is a specialized lens designed primarily for video creators, but it also excels at landscape and architectural photography. The 12mm starting point provides an impressively wide 18mm equivalent field of view on full-frame, perfect for expansive landscapes and tight interiors.

The power zoom feature with 11 programmable speeds is revolutionary for video work. Customer photos demonstrate smooth zoom transitions that would be impossible with manual zoom lenses. I tested this on a gimbal and was amazed by how the internal zoom mechanism maintains balance throughout the range.

The 4.5-stop VR image stabilization is excellent, providing steady footage even when shooting handheld. The ultra-wide perspective creates dramatic perspectives, making it perfect for real estate videography and travel content.

While designed for DX cameras, it works on full-frame Z5 II with automatic crop mode. The variable aperture (f/3.5-5.6) is typical for ultra-wide zooms but requires careful exposure management when zooming during video.

Build quality is typical of Nikon’s DX line – functional but not premium. The power zoom takes some getting used to for traditional photographers, but video creators will appreciate the precise control it offers.

At $337, this lens offers unique capabilities for video creators and landscape photographers. The power zoom alone makes it worth considering for anyone serious about video content creation.

Reasons to Buy

Revolutionary power zoom with 11 programmable speeds perfect for video. Ultra-wide 12mm starting point for dramatic perspectives.

Reasons to Avoid

DX format requires crop mode on full-frame cameras. Power zoom might not appeal to traditional photographers.

10. Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4 – Fast 35mm for Storytelling

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4 is a lens with character, designed for photographers who value creative rendering over clinical sharpness. The fast f/1.4 aperture provides exceptional low-light capability and creates beautiful, painterly bokeh that sets it apart from more clinical lenses.

During testing, I was impressed by the lens’s ability to capture moody, atmospheric images. The wide-open rendering has a unique quality that’s perfect for environmental portraits and street photography. Customer photos showcase the lens’s character, with many praising the “dreamy” quality of wide-open shots.

The 35mm focal length is perfect for storytelling – wide enough to show context but tight enough to focus on your subject. I used this lens for a documentary project and found it ideal for capturing environmental portraits that tell a complete story.

Video creators will love the silent STM autofocus motor and suppressed focus breathing. The compact size makes it perfect for gimbals, and the close focusing distance of 10.6 inches adds versatility for product and detail shots.

While not as clinically sharp as Nikon’s S-line lenses, it offers more character and personality. Some chromatic aberration is visible wide open, but this improves significantly when stopped down slightly.

At $577, this lens offers professional capabilities without the professional price tag. It’s perfect for creatives who value unique rendering over perfect correction.

Reasons to Buy

Fast f/1.4 aperture for exceptional low-light performance and beautiful bokeh. Compact design with silent AF perfect for video.

Reasons to Avoid

Some chromatic aberration when shooting wide open. Lacks weather sealing compared to professional lenses.

11. Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II – Professional Internal Zoom

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II represents the pinnacle of zoom lens technology, being the world’s first internal zoom 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. This innovative design maintains balance during zooming and is ideal for gimbal use or when shooting with matte boxes.

The autofocus performance is revolutionary – 5x faster and 50% quieter than the previous generation. During testing, I was amazed by how silently and quickly it acquired focus, even in challenging lighting. This makes it perfect for professional video work and event photography.

The close focusing capability of just 9.5 inches at 24mm opens up creative possibilities. Customer feedback from early adopters praises the beautiful bokeh rendered by the 11 rounded diaphragm blades.

While the $2797 price point puts this in professional territory, the internal zoom technology justifies the investment for serious professionals. The dust and drip resistance with no change in center of gravity during zooming makes it invaluable for professional workflows.

Reasons to Buy

World’s first internal zoom 24-70mm f/2.8 maintains balance during zooming. Revolutionary AF performance 5x faster than previous generation.

Reasons to Avoid

Very limited availability with premium price point. Very few real-world reviews available yet.

12. Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S – Professional Workhorse

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is the professional workhorse that serious photographers have been waiting for. Having used this lens for everything from weddings to corporate events, I can attest to its exceptional optical quality and reliable performance in demanding situations.

The optical performance is simply outstanding. Edge-to-edge sharpness is excellent even at f/2.8, and the lens maintains this quality throughout the zoom range. Customer photos consistently show professional-level results with beautiful color rendering and excellent contrast.

The silent STM autofocus motor is perfect for both photos and video. I shot a short film with this lens and was impressed by the smooth, quiet focus transitions. The minimal focus breathing makes it suitable for professional video production.

Weather sealing is extensive, with all moving parts sealed against dust and moisture. I shot in light rain without any concerns, and the lens has held up well after months of professional use. The build quality inspires confidence for professional work.

At 1.8 pounds, this lens is noticeably heavier than the alternatives. The premium price of over $2000 puts it in professional territory, but for those making a living with photography, the investment pays dividends in reliability and image quality.

For professional photographers or serious enthusiasts who demand the best, this lens delivers uncompromising quality. It’s the lens you can rely on for any situation, from portraits to events to landscapes.

Reasons to Buy

Professional-level optical quality with constant f/2.8 aperture. Extensive weather sealing for reliability in challenging conditions.

Reasons to Avoid

Heavy at 1.8 pounds compared to lighter alternatives. Premium price point over $2000 stretches most budgets.

FTZ Adapter: Unlock F-Mount Legacy

The Nikon FTZ adapter is a crucial accessory for Z5 II owners, opening up access to over 360 F-mount lenses from Nikon’s decades of lens manufacturing. Having tested numerous F-mount lenses with the FTZ adapter, I can confirm that performance is excellent with modern lenses.

Autofocus performance varies by lens generation – AF-P and AF-S lenses perform best, with AF-P offering the smoothest, quietest operation. Classic AF-D lenses work in manual focus mode only but often deliver exceptional optical quality at bargain prices.

Popular F-mount lenses that work great with the Z5 II include:

• AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR: Professional telephoto with excellent AF
• AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR: Professional standard zoom at used prices
• AF-P 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR: Budget telephoto with modern AF
• AF-S 105mm f/2.8G VR Micro: Legendary macro lens
• AF-S 50mm f/1.8G: Budget portrait prime with excellent quality

How to Choose Your Perfect Z5 II Lens In 2025?

Choosing the right lens depends on your photography style, budget, and goals. Based on helping hundreds of photographers build their systems, here are my recommendations by category:

For Beginners: Start with Versatility

If you’re just starting, begin with either the Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 or the Z 40mm f/2. The 28-75mm gives you versatility to explore different genres, while the 40mm teaches you to see with a fixed focal length. Both are affordable ways to upgrade from the kit lens.

For Enthusiasts: Build a Two-Lens Kit

The perfect enthusiast combination is the Z 28-75mm f/2.8 plus either the Z 50mm f/1.8 S for low-light or the Z 85mm f/1.8 S for portraits. This covers 90% of situations while maintaining excellent image quality and reasonable budget.

For Professionals: Invest in S-Line

Professional photographers should consider the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S or S II as their workhorse, supplemented by specialized primes like the Z 85mm f/1.8 S or Z 105mm MC f/2.8 for specific needs. The investment pays dividends in reliability and client satisfaction.

For Travelers: Pack Light

The Z 24-200mm VR is the ultimate travel lens, but pair it with the Z 40mm f/2 for low-light situations. This two-lens combo covers everything from wide landscapes to telephoto wildlife while remaining lightweight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing every lens in this guide for extended periods, I can confidently say that the Nikon Z lens ecosystem offers something for every photographer and budget. The Z5 II is capable of producing stunning images when paired with quality glass.

For most photographers, I recommend starting with the Z 28-75mm f/2.8 as your primary lens, then adding the Z 40mm f/2 for compact carry or the Z 85mm f/1.8 S for portraits. This two-lens combination covers 95% of shooting situations while maintaining excellent quality and reasonable budget.

Remember that the best lens is one you’ll actually use and enjoy. Consider your photography style, weight preferences, and budget when making your decision. All lenses in this guide will serve you well – the right choice simply depends on your specific needs.