10 Best Lenses For Nikon Z7 II (December 2025) Complete Guide

The Nikon Z7 II with its 45.7-megapixel sensor demands exceptional optics to deliver the stunning detail this camera is capable of capturing. After testing numerous lenses over the past year, I’ve discovered that not all glass is created equal when paired with this high-resolution powerhouse.

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is the best lens for Nikon Z7 II for professionals seeking the ultimate standard zoom with internal zoom stability and class-leading autofocus performance.

As a professional photographer who has shot extensively with the Z7 II, I’ve learned that lens selection directly impacts your ability to leverage that massive 45MP sensor. Through countless hours of field testing, comparing over 20 different options, and analyzing real-world results, I’ve identified the lenses that truly maximize this camera’s potential.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover my top recommendations across all categories, understand which features matter most for high-resolution shooting, and learn how to build the perfect lens kit for your specific photography needs and budget.

Our Top 3 Nikon Z7 II Lens Recommendations

Complete Nikon Z7 II Lens Comparison In 2025

This comparison table shows all 10 lenses I tested, highlighting their key specifications and ideal use cases for the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor.

Detailed Nikon Z7 II Lens Reviews In 2025

1. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II – Ultimate Professional Standard Zoom

The latest generation of Nikon’s professional standard zoom represents the pinnacle of optical engineering for the Z mount. Having tested this lens extensively, I can confirm the internal zoom mechanism is a game-changer for video work and stability. The lens maintains its length throughout the zoom range, which means better balance on your Z7 II and superior weather sealing.

Build quality matches its professional S-line designation with extensive weather sealing throughout. The custom control ring with click on/off switch provides precise adjustments, whether you’re assigning it to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation. What really impressed me during testing was the 5x faster autofocus speed combined with 50% quieter operation – perfect for both wildlife photography and video work.

Customer photos show the actual product in use, revealing the compact profile despite the internal zoom mechanism. The lens maintains excellent balance even when fully extended to 70mm, making it comfortable for handheld shooting sessions.

Optical performance is nothing short of exceptional on the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor. Corner-to-corner sharpness is maintained throughout the zoom range, with virtually no distortion or chromatic aberration. The close focusing capability of just 9.5 inches at 24mm opens up creative possibilities for environmental portraits and detail shots. Suppressed focus breathing to less than half of the previous generation makes this a top choice for videographers who need consistent framing when focusing.

The constant f/2.8 aperture provides beautiful background blur and excellent low-light performance. With 11 rounded diaphragm blades, bokeh rendering is smooth and pleasing, perfect for separating subjects from backgrounds. During my testing, I found this lens particularly valuable for event photography where the versatility of the zoom range combined with the wide aperture covered most shooting situations without needing to change lenses.

While the price is certainly an investment, the combination of professional build quality, exceptional optics, and innovative features like internal zoom make this the definitive standard zoom for serious Z7 II photographers. Customer images validate the premium build quality and weather sealing capabilities that Nikon has engineered into this flagship lens.

Reasons to Buy

Professional photographers will appreciate the internal zoom mechanism that increases stability and provides superior dust and drip resistance. The 5x faster and 50% quieter autofocus system, combined with suppressed focus breathing, makes this lens ideal for both still photography and video work. The close focusing capabilities and beautiful bokeh from the 11 rounded blades add creative versatility to your shooting toolkit.

Reasons to Avoid

The very limited stock availability might make it difficult to purchase, and the high price point could be prohibitive for enthusiast photographers. With very few reviews available due to its recent release, some buyers may prefer to wait for more extensive real-world testing and user feedback before making such a significant investment.

2. Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 – Best Budget Prime Lens

This little lens punches way above its weight class, making it my top recommendation for budget-conscious Z7 II owners. At just 6.1 ounces and measuring under 2 inches, it’s barely noticeable on your camera, making it perfect for everyday carry and street photography. I’ve carried this lens for entire wedding days as a backup, and its lightweight design never caused fatigue.

The 40mm focal length hits a sweet spot between classic 35mm and 50mm primes, making it incredibly versatile for everything from environmental portraits to street scenes. During my testing, I found it particularly effective for travel photography where you want quality without the bulk. The f/2 aperture provides beautiful background blur and performs surprisingly well in low light, especially when paired with the Z7 II’s excellent high ISO performance.

Real-world images from buyers show the actual size advantage this lens offers over other options in the Z mount lineup. Customer photos reveal how compact the lens makes the entire Z7 II setup, transforming a professional full-frame camera into a carry-everywhere system that doesn’t compromise on image quality.

Autofocus performance is surprisingly quick and quiet for a lens at this price point. The STM motor focuses silently, making it suitable for video work as well as still photography. I tested it with moving subjects and found the tracking to be reliable, though not as lightning-fast as the S-line lenses. The custom control ring can be assigned to various functions, adding to the lens’s versatility.

Optical quality on the 45MP sensor is impressive for the price. Center sharpness is excellent even wide open at f/2, though you’ll see some softness towards the edges until stopped down to f/4. For most practical applications, especially for social media and prints up to 16×20 inches, this lens delivers more than adequate quality. Distortion is well-controlled, and chromatic aberration is minimal in normal shooting conditions.

The build quality, while primarily plastic, feels solid and well-constructed. After six months of regular use, my review copy shows no signs of wear or looseness. The weather sealing isn’t as extensive as the S-line lenses, but it should handle light rain and dust without issues. For photographers who want quality optics without breaking the bank, this lens offers exceptional value.

Customer-submitted photos confirm the lens’s capability for professional work, with many users sharing impressive portraits and street photography taken with this budget prime. The combination of excellent optics, fast aperture, and incredibly compact design makes this a must-have lens for any Z7 II owner.

Reasons to Buy

Budget photographers will love the exceptional value this lens offers at just $216. The ultra-compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for travel and everyday carry, while the fast f/2 aperture delivers beautiful background blur and good low-light performance. The versatile 40mm focal length works well for various photography genres from street to portraits.

Reasons to Avoid

Professionals might find the plastic housing construction feels less premium than S-line lenses, and the optical performance, while good for the price, doesn’t match the edge-to-edge sharpness of more expensive options. Some softness on the outer edges when shooting wide open might concern pixel-peepers using the Z7 II’s high-resolution sensor.

3. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm VR – Best Travel All-in-One Lens

For travelers who want to minimize lens changes without sacrificing versatility, the 24-200mm is a revelation. This lens covers an impressive focal range that handles everything from wide landscapes to tight telephoto shots, all in a package that weighs just 1.26 pounds. During a two-week trip through Europe, this was my only lens, and I never felt limited by its range.

The 8.3x optical zoom range is truly remarkable, allowing you to capture sweeping vistas at 24mm and then zoom in for distant details at 200mm without changing position. This versatility is invaluable for travel photography where opportunities can be fleeting and you may not have time to switch lenses. The compact design means it won’t weigh down your camera bag, a crucial consideration for long days of sightseeing.

Customer images validate the lens’s travel capabilities, with many users sharing impressive landscapes and telephoto shots taken during their travels. Real-world photos from buyers demonstrate the lens’s ability to capture sharp images throughout its impressive zoom range, confirming its suitability as a one-lens travel solution.

Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system works exceptionally well, providing up to 4.5 stops of compensation. I tested this extensively in low light museums and churches where tripods weren’t allowed, and was able to capture sharp images at shutter speeds as low as 1/15s at the wide end. This makes the lens particularly valuable for travel photography where you often encounter dim lighting conditions.

Optical quality is surprisingly good for a superzoom lens. Sharpness is excellent from 24-150mm throughout the frame, with only minor softness appearing at the extreme 200mm end. The variable aperture (f/4-6.3) is a necessary compromise for the range, and while it limits low-light performance at the telephoto end, the Z7 II’s excellent high ISO capabilities help compensate. Distortion is well-controlled for a lens with this much range, and chromatic aberration is minimal in normal use.

The lens features Nikon’s advanced optical technologies including aspherical lens elements, ED glass, ARNEO coat, and Fluorine coat. These work together to deliver excellent contrast and color rendition while minimizing ghosting and flare. The Fluorine coat is particularly useful for travel, as it repels water, dust, and smudges, making cleaning easier in field conditions.

While the plastic exterior construction doesn’t feel as premium as Nikon’s S-line lenses, it helps keep the weight down for travel use. The lack of physical switches for VR and AF controls might bother some users, but I found the control ring intuitive to use for switching between functions. For travelers prioritizing convenience and versatility over ultimate optical quality, this lens offers an excellent solution.

Reasons to Buy

Travel photographers will appreciate the incredibly versatile 24-200mm focal range that eliminates the need to carry multiple lenses. The compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for all-day carry, while the built-in Vibration Reduction system provides up to 4.5 stops of stabilization for sharp handheld shots in challenging lighting conditions.

Reasons to Avoid

Professionals might find the variable aperture limiting for professional low-light work, and some softness at the 200mm end when cropping tightly. The lack of physical switches for VR and AF controls may inconvenience photographers who prefer direct access to these functions, and the plastic exterior construction doesn’t match the premium feel of Nikon’s S-line lenses.

4. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S – Professional Workhorse Zoom

This lens represents the gold standard for professional standard zooms in the Nikon Z system. Having used it extensively for weddings, events, and portrait sessions, I can attest to its exceptional optical performance that fully utilizes the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor. The constant f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range provides creative flexibility and excellent low-light capability.

The Multi-Focusing System with two synchronized AF drive units delivers blazing-fast and accurate autofocus performance. During my testing with moving subjects, the lens locked onto targets instantly and maintained tracking even in challenging lighting conditions. Nikon’s Stepping Motor (STM) ensures smooth, quiet operation, making this lens equally suitable for video work where focus transitions need to be silent and smooth.

Customer photos from actual users showcase the lens’s professional capabilities, with many sharing stunning portraits and event photography taken in various lighting conditions. Real-world images demonstrate the exceptional sharpness this lens delivers, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8 across the entire frame.

Build quality matches professional expectations with extensive dust and moisture sealing throughout. I’ve used this lens in light rain and dusty conditions without any issues. The weather sealing, combined with the robust construction, gives confidence when working in challenging environments. The lens feels substantial on the Z7 II with excellent balance that inspires confidence during long shooting sessions.

Optical performance is simply outstanding. Corner-to-corner sharpness is maintained throughout the entire zoom range, even wide open at f/2.8. This is particularly impressive on the Z7 II’s demanding 45MP sensor, which quickly reveals any optical weaknesses. Distortion is minimal, and chromatic aberration is virtually non-existent. The lens renders images with beautiful contrast and color rendition that matches Nikon’s reputation for excellence.

The constant f/2.8 aperture is a game-changer for low-light photography and creative control. Whether you’re shooting dimly lit venues or want to separate your subject from the background with beautiful bokeh, this lens delivers consistently. The 9-blade diaphragm creates pleasing, smooth out-of-focus rendering that enhances the professional quality of your images.

While the price is certainly an investment, the combination of exceptional optical quality, robust build, and professional features makes this lens worth every serious photographer’s consideration. The versatility of the 24-70mm focal range combined with the fast constant aperture covers the majority of professional shooting scenarios, making it a true workhorse lens.

Reasons to Buy

Professional photographers will value the exceptional sharpness across the entire image frame that fully utilizes the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor. The constant f/2.8 aperture provides creative flexibility and excellent low-light performance, while the Multi-Focusing System delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus suitable for both still photography and video work.

Reasons to Avoid

The heavy weight and expensive price point may deter enthusiast photographers, and some users find the aperture ring placement inconvenient for quick adjustments. The high cost could be prohibitive for amateurs or those building their lens collection gradually, especially when considering other lenses in the Nikon Z lineup.

5. Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S – Best Value ‘Nifty Fifty’

This isn’t your grandfather’s nifty fifty – Nikon has completely reimagined what a 50mm prime can be with the Z 50mm f/1.8 S. After spending three months with this lens, I’m continually amazed by its ability to extract maximum detail from the Z7 II’s sensor. Edge-to-edge sharpness is maintained even wide open at f/1.8, something unheard of in traditional 50mm lenses at this price point.

The virtually zero distortion, even when shot wide open, makes this lens particularly valuable for architectural and product photography where straight lines must remain true. During my testing, I found this characteristic invaluable for real estate photography where barrel distortion from wider lenses can be problematic. The lens delivers natural-looking perspectives without the need for post-processing correction.

Customer images validate the lens’s exceptional optical performance, with many users sharing incredibly detailed portraits and landscape shots taken at various apertures. User-submitted photos from actual buyers demonstrate the lens’s ability to produce stunning images with beautiful rendering and excellent contrast, even when shooting wide open.

Low-light performance is outstanding thanks to the bright f/1.8 aperture and Nikon’s excellent high ISO performance in the Z7 II. I’ve shot handheld in dim restaurant lighting at ISO 6400 and still captured usable images with good detail and minimal noise. The lens paired with the Z7 II’s 5-axis Dual detect optical VR provides additional stabilization, allowing me to shoot at shutter speeds as low as 1/15s with acceptable sharpness.

Bokeh rendering is simply beautiful. The 9-blade diaphragm creates smooth, pleasing out-of-focus areas that help subjects pop from their backgrounds. Whether you’re shooting portraits or want to create artistic selective focus images, this lens delivers professional-quality results. There is some cat’s eye bokeh towards the edges when shooting wide open, but this is minimal and doesn’t detract from the overall pleasing rendering.

The ultra-quiet stepping motor provides silent and fast autofocus performance. During my testing with moving subjects, the lens acquired focus quickly and accurately. The virtually non-existent focus breathing makes this lens excellent for videography who need consistent framing when focusing. This feature, combined with the silent operation, makes it suitable for professional video work.

While heavier and more expensive than traditional nifty fifty lenses, the optical performance and build quality justify the premium. The unibody construction feels solid and professional, with weather sealing that provides confidence when shooting in challenging conditions. For Z7 II owners who want a single prime lens that can handle most situations with exceptional quality, this 50mm is an outstanding choice.

Reasons to Buy

Photographers seeking exceptional optical quality will appreciate the edge-to-edge sharpness that fully utilizes the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor, even when shooting wide open at f/1.8. The virtually zero distortion makes it perfect for architectural and product photography, while the beautiful bokeh rendering and excellent low-light performance make it versatile for portraits and creative work.

Reasons to Avoid

The heavier and bulkier design compared to traditional nifty fifty lenses might disappoint those seeking maximum portability, and the higher price point could be a concern for budget-conscious photographers. Some cat’s eye bokeh towards the edges when shooting wide open might bother pixel-peepers, though this is minimal in practical use.

6. Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S – Portrait Photography Specialist

This is the portrait lens that Z7 II owners have been waiting for. The 85mm f/1.8 S combines stunning optical performance with a compact design that makes it practical for all-day use. After shooting dozens of portrait sessions with this lens, I’m consistently impressed by its ability to render skin tones naturally while creating beautiful background separation.

The 85mm focal length provides the perfect perspective for portraits, creating natural-looking facial features without distortion. During my testing, I found this ideal for headshots and environmental portraits where you want to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject while still achieving intimate framing. The flattering compression at this focal length helps subjects look their best.

Customer photos from actual users showcase the lens’s portrait capabilities, with many sharing stunning headshots and environmental portraits taken in various lighting conditions. Real-world images validate the lens’s ability to produce beautiful portraits with creamy bokeh and excellent subject separation, confirming its reputation as a premier portrait lens.

Optical performance is exceptional with razor-sharp rendering from center to corners. The combination of 2 ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating effectively eliminates chromatic aberration and flare, even in challenging backlit situations. I’ve shot portraits directly into the sun and was impressed by the contrast and lack of ghosting. The lens maintains excellent sharpness even when shooting wide open at f/1.8, which is crucial for professional portrait work.

Bokeh quality is simply outstanding at f/1.8. The 9-blade diaphragm creates perfectly circular apertures that render smooth, creamy backgrounds. Whether you’re shooting against foliage, city lights, or textured backgrounds, the lens creates beautiful separation that makes your subject pop. The transition from in-focus to out-of-focus areas is natural and pleasing, without harsh edges.

Autofocus performance is generally fast and accurate, though some users report mixed results. In my testing, I found the focus speed adequate for portrait work, though not as lightning-fast as some professional primes. The lens works seamlessly with the Z7 II’s eye AF, consistently locking onto subjects’ eyes even in moderate lighting. For professional portrait work where accuracy trumps speed, this lens delivers reliable performance.

The premium S-line build quality includes dust and drip resistance with extensive sealing throughout. The lightweight design at just 1.04 pounds makes it comfortable for handheld portrait sessions. While the price is premium for an f/1.8 lens, the combination of exceptional optics, beautiful rendering, and professional build quality makes it worth every penny for serious portrait photographers.

Reasons to Buy

Portrait photographers will love the stunning optical quality that delivers razor-sharp performance from center to corners, perfect for professional portrait work. The beautiful bokeh rendering at f/1.8 creates smooth, creamy backgrounds that make subjects pop, while the lightweight and compact design makes it comfortable for all-day shooting sessions.

Reasons to Avoid

Some users report mixed feedback on focus speed, which might concern photographers shooting fast-moving subjects. The 85mm focal length can feel tight for indoor spaces, limiting versatility in small rooms, and the premium price point for an f/1.8 lens might deter budget-conscious photographers.

7. Nikon FTZ II Mount Adapter – Essential F-Mount Adapter

For photographers migrating from Nikon’s DSLR system with an investment in F-mount lenses, the FTZ II adapter is an essential bridge to the Z system. After testing dozens of F-mount lenses with this adapter, I can confirm that it maintains optical quality and autofocus performance with virtually no compromise. This makes it possible to immediately use your existing lens collection while gradually building your Z-mount arsenal.

The adapter’s streamlined design without a tripod foot makes it more compact than the original FTZ adapter. This is particularly useful when mounting on tripods or gimbals, as you can attach directly to the camera body rather than the adapter. The 8.8-ounce weight adds minimal bulk to your setup, maintaining the Z7 II’s balance characteristics.

Customer photos validate the adapter’s build quality and compatibility with various F-mount lenses. Real-world images from buyers show the adapter working seamlessly with both vintage and modern F-mount lenses, confirming Nikon’s claim of broad compatibility. User-submitted photos demonstrate that image quality remains excellent when adapting F-mount lenses to the Z system.

Weather sealing is maintained from mounted lenses, with waterproof construction that prevents dust and moisture from entering the system. I’ve used the adapter in light rain without any issues, giving confidence when shooting in challenging conditions. This attention to weather sealing matches Nikon’s professional standards and protects both your expensive lenses and camera body.

Autofocus performance with compatible lenses is excellent. During testing with recent AF-S and AF-P lenses, focus speed and accuracy were virtually indistinguishable from native Z-mount lenses. The adapter provides full AF/AE support for FX/DX AF-S Type G/D/E lenses, plus AF-P type G/E lenses and AF-I type D lenses. This broad compatibility ensures most modern F-mount lenses will work perfectly with your Z7 II.

The adapter maintains the optical quality of mounted lenses with no degradation in image quality. I tested several high-end F-mount lenses and found they performed exactly as they did on DSLR bodies, with the added benefit of the Z7 II’s superior sensor and processing. For photographers with premium F-mount glass, this adapter allows you to continue leveraging your investment while enjoying the advantages of mirrorless technology.

While the price is certainly premium for an adapter, the build quality and performance justify the cost for photographers with significant investments in F-mount lenses. The ability to immediately use your existing lens collection while transitioning to the Z system makes this adapter an essential purchase for migrating Nikon photographers.

Reasons to Buy

Photographers with existing F-mount lens investments will appreciate the ability to seamlessly adapt their lenses to the Z-mount system without image degradation. The adapter maintains weather sealing and autofocus performance, while the classic Nikon quality construction ensures durability and reliability for professional use.

Reasons to Avoid

The high price for an adapter might deter budget-conscious photographers, especially those just starting their Z-mount journey. Some customers find the value proposition mixed, particularly if they only have a few F-mount lenses or plan to transition quickly to native Z-mount optics.

8. Nikon NIKKOR Z 70-180mm f/2.8 – Compact Telephoto Alternative

This lens offers a compelling alternative to the larger and more expensive 70-200mm f/2.8, delivering constant f/2.8 performance in a more compact and lightweight package. After testing this lens for sports and wildlife photography, I found it an excellent choice for photographers who want f/2.8 telephoto performance without the bulk and weight of traditional 70-200mm lenses.

At just 1.75 pounds and under 6 inches in length, this lens is significantly more manageable than its 70-200mm counterparts. This makes it ideal for handheld shooting and travel photography where weight is a consideration. During a recent wildlife photography trip, I carried this lens all day without fatigue, something I couldn’t say about heavier 70-200mm options.

Customer images from actual users demonstrate the lens’s capability for professional telephoto work, with many sharing impressive wildlife and sports photography taken with this compact telephoto. Real-world photos validate the lens’s ability to produce sharp images throughout its focal range, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8.

Optical performance is excellent throughout the zoom range, with sharp images even at maximum aperture. I tested this lens extensively in various lighting conditions and was consistently impressed by the detail it resolved on the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor. Corner-to-corner sharpness is maintained, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. The lens performs particularly well for portraiture at the 135-180mm range.

The constant f/2.8 aperture provides excellent low-light capability and beautiful background separation. Whether you’re shooting indoor sports or want to create compressed portraits with creamy backgrounds, this lens delivers professional results. The combination of f/2.8 and the Z7 II’s excellent high ISO performance allows for handheld shooting in surprisingly dim conditions.

Close focusing capabilities are particularly impressive, with the ability to focus as close as 0.68 meters at 70mm, providing 1:2 magnification. This makes the lens surprisingly versatile for close-up photography and detail shots. During testing, I was able to capture intimate flower and insect shots that would typically require a macro lens.

The lens is compatible with Nikon’s Z Teleconverters 1.4x and 2.0x, extending the reach to 252mm or 360mm respectively while maintaining autofocus. While there’s no built-in Vibration Reduction, the lens pairs beautifully with the Z7 II’s in-body image stabilization, providing up to 5 stops of compensation in my testing. The suppressed focus breathing makes this lens excellent for video work as well.

Reasons to Buy

Photographers seeking f/2.8 telephoto performance without the bulk will appreciate the lightweight and compact design that makes it comfortable for all-day handheld shooting. The excellent optical performance throughout the range, combined with useful close-focusing capabilities and teleconverter compatibility, makes this a versatile telephoto option.

Reasons to Avoid

The lack of built-in Vibration Reduction might concern photographers who rely on lens-based stabilization, though the Z7 II’s IBIS compensates well. Some users report the zoom barrel can be stiff, which might affect quick zoom adjustments, and the limited 180mm maximum reach might leave wildlife photographers wanting more.

9. Viltrox 85mm f/1.8 STM – Budget Portrait Alternative

For photographers who want 85mm portrait performance without the premium price of Nikon’s offering, this Viltrox lens presents an attractive alternative. After testing this lens extensively against Nikon’s 85mm f/1.8 S, I found it delivers 80% of the performance for less than half the price, making it an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious photographers.

The fast STM autofocus motor provides quick and accurate focusing with eye detection support on the Z7 II. During my testing, the lens acquired focus quickly and reliably, though not quite as silently as Nikon’s offering. The inclusion of eye AF support is particularly valuable for portrait photography, ensuring consistent focus on your subject’s eyes even when they move slightly.

Customer images validate the lens’s portrait capabilities, with many users sharing impressive headshots and portraits taken with this budget alternative. Real-world photos from buyers demonstrate that this lens can produce professional-quality portraits with beautiful background separation, confirming its value as a budget portrait option.

Build quality exceeds expectations at this price point, with an all-metal body structure that feels solid and durable. The 2.03-pound weight is substantial, providing good balance on the Z7 II. The metal electronic contacts ensure reliable EXIF transmission and communication between lens and camera. While not weather sealed, the construction feels robust enough for regular use.

Optical quality is good for the price, with sharp center performance even when shooting wide open at f/1.8. There is some corner softness when shooting wide open, but this improves significantly when stopped down to f/2.8. For portrait work where center sharpness is most important, this lens delivers excellent results. Vignetting in corners at large apertures is noticeable but can be corrected in post-processing or used creatively.

The 9-blade aperture diaphragm creates reasonably smooth bokeh, though not quite as creamy as Nikon’s offering. Background separation is still excellent at f/1.8, creating beautiful portrait compression that flatters subjects. The illuminated settings window is a thoughtful touch for low-light shooting, allowing you to check settings without additional light.

One limitation is that aperture control is only via the lens ring, not through the camera body. This might take some getting used to for photographers accustomed to controlling aperture from the camera. However, the included USB port for firmware updates shows Viltrox’s commitment to improving performance over time.

Reasons to Buy

Budget-conscious photographers will appreciate the excellent value this lens offers, delivering 85mm f/1.8 performance at a fraction of the cost of Nikon’s offering. The fast and accurate STM autofocus with eye detection support, combined with solid metal construction, makes this a compelling alternative for portrait photography on a budget.

Reasons to Avoid

Professionals might find the corner softness when shooting wide open limiting for critical work, and the vignetting in corners at large apertures may require post-processing correction. The aperture control only via the lens ring (not camera) might inconvenience photographers accustomed to camera-based aperture control.

10. Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 Z-Mount – Ultra-Wide APS-C Option

This ultra-wide angle lens offers APS-C shooters an affordable entry into wide-angle photography on the Z7 II. While designed for APS-C sensors, it works in DX mode on your full-frame Z7 II, providing a 19.5mm equivalent field of view. After testing this lens for architectural and landscape photography, I found it delivers excellent performance for its price point.

The bright f/1.4 maximum aperture makes this lens particularly valuable for astrophotography and low-light wide-angle shooting. During my testing of night sky photography, the lens performed admirably, capturing bright stars with good detail. The fast aperture also provides creative control for selective focus in wide-angle photography, though this is less commonly used.

Customer images showcase the lens’s wide-angle capabilities, with many users sharing impressive landscape and architectural photography taken with this ultra-wide option. Real-world photos from buyers demonstrate the lens’s ability to capture expansive scenes with good detail and minimal distortion, confirming its suitability for wide-angle work.

Optical performance is excellent for a third-party ultra-wide, with impressive sharpness even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. The 14 elements in 11 groups design effectively controls distortion and chromatic aberration, which are common challenges in ultra-wide lenses. During testing, I found center sharpness excellent across all apertures, with corner performance improving when stopped down to f/4.

The STM motor provides quick, quiet linear autofocus with eye focus support. While eye detection is less relevant for landscape photography, it’s useful for environmental portraits where you want both subject and surroundings in focus. The autofocus performance is generally reliable, though not quite as silent as Nikon’s native lenses.

Build quality exceeds expectations with all-metal construction that feels durable and professional. The 15.8-ounce weight provides good balance on the Z7 II, even when used in DX mode. The compact size of 74 x 90mm makes it portable for travel photography where wide-angle capability is desired. The pure copper electrical contacts with electroplated surface ensure reliable communication with the camera.

One limitation is the lack of optical stabilization, though the Z7 II’s in-body image stabilization provides adequate compensation for handheld shooting. There’s also no weather sealing, so care should be taken in adverse conditions. The lens requires firmware updates for optimal performance, which can be done via the USB port. Some users report a noisy control ring, though this doesn’t affect optical performance.

Reasons to Buy

Photographers seeking an affordable ultra-wide option will appreciate the excellent sharpness even when shooting wide open at f/1.4, combined with fast autofocus and eye detection support. The compact size and excellent build quality make it portable for travel photography, while the bright aperture opens creative possibilities for low-light and astrophotography.

Reasons to Avoid

The lack of optical stabilization might concern handheld shooters, though the Z7 II’s IBIS compensates well. There’s no weather sealing for protection against elements, which might limit use in challenging conditions. The lens requires firmware updates for optimal performance, and some users report the control ring can be noisy during operation.

Understanding Your Nikon Z7 II’s Lens Requirements

The Nikon Z7 II’s 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor represents one of the highest resolutions available in a full-frame mirrorless camera. This massive pixel density places exceptional demands on lens quality to achieve optimal performance. Not all lenses can resolve the fine detail this sensor is capable of capturing, which is why selecting the right optics is crucial for maximizing your investment.

The Z-mount’s wider 55mm diameter and shorter 16mm flange distance provide optical advantages over traditional F-mount lenses. This design allows for superior optical designs with fewer compromises, particularly in corner performance and wide-angle corrections. Native Z-mount lenses take full advantage of this design, which is why they typically outperform adapted F-mount lenses on the Z7 II.

Professional photographers working with the Z7 II should prioritize lenses with proven resolving power capable of exploiting the sensor’s full potential. This means looking for lenses with excellent MTF performance, minimal distortion, and corner-to-corner sharpness. Budget lenses that perform adequately on 24MP sensors may reveal their limitations when paired with the Z7 II’s demanding 45MP sensor.

Buying Guide for Nikon Z7 II Lenses

Choosing the right lenses for your Z7 II requires careful consideration of your photography needs, budget, and quality requirements. After testing dozens of lenses with this camera, I’ve developed a framework to help you make informed decisions that maximize your investment in this high-resolution system.

Solving for Versatility: Look for Standard Zooms

For photographers who need one lens to handle most situations, standard zooms in the 24-70mm or 24-120mm range offer the best balance of quality and versatility. The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S provides exceptional optical quality with the flexibility of a zoom range, while the Z 24-120mm f/4 S offers greater reach at the expense of maximum aperture. Consider your primary subjects: portraits and events favor f/2.8, while travel and landscape work benefits from the extended range of f/4 options.

Solving for Sharpness: Prioritize Prime Lenses

Maximum sharpness for the Z7 II’s 45MP sensor comes from prime lenses with simpler optical designs. The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S and Z 85mm f/1.8 S both deliver exceptional resolving power that fully utilizes the sensor’s capabilities. Prime lenses typically offer wider maximum apertures, better low-light performance, and superior optical quality compared to zoom lenses at similar price points. Professional photographers often build their kit around 2-3 high-quality primes rather than compromising with zooms.

Solving for Budget: Consider Strategic Options

Building a complete Z-mount system doesn’t require unlimited funds. Strategic choices can deliver excellent results without breaking the bank. Start with the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 for exceptional value and quality, then add the Z 50mm f/1.8 S as your primary prime. Consider third-party options like Viltrox for specialized focal lengths, and don’t forget the FTZ II adapter if you have existing F-mount lenses. Remember that one excellent lens provides better value than three mediocre ones.

Frequently Asked Questions