Nikon Nikkor Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II Lens

Design and Weight Improvements

Compared to the previous generation, this lens is 0.5 inches shorter and weighs 26% less, at 2.2 pounds without the tripod foot or protective cover, compared to 3 pounds previously. With the cover attached, it weighs 2.3 pounds, and 2.6 pounds with the tripod foot. When paired with the 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens, the combined weight savings exceed one pound. The reduced weight and size are achieved through a revised optical design, which removes three elements, uses more aspherical elements, thins some glass components, changes the front group to a convex-first configuration, and reduces the number of moving lens groups.

Optical Enhancements

The updated optics not only contribute to the lighter weight but also improve image quality with higher resolution, better flare resistance, and smoother bokeh. The lens features an extra-low dispersion (ED) element, a Super ED element, two aspherical elements, an aspherical ED element, a fluorite element, and a short-wavelength refractive (SR) element to minimize aberrations and color fringing. The aspherical elements have improved manufacturing for smoother bokeh, and the lens now has 11 rounded diaphragm blades for a more natural out-of-focus rendering. The minimum focusing distance has been shortened to 1.25 feet at 70mm and 2.6 feet at 200mm, with a maximum magnification of 0.3x at 70mm.

Anti-Glare Coatings

Nikon has refined the anti-glare performance with its Meso Amorphous Coat, which outperforms previous Nano Crystal Coat technology for diagonal light while matching ARNEO Coat for vertical light. ARNEO Coat is still applied to provide additional protection against ghosting, flare, and reflections, resulting in stronger contrast and more accurate colors, even in backlit conditions.