Why an internal zoom is a game changer

Nikon Team •Tehnologija i znanje•25 nov 2025•4 min za čitanje

A deeper look at the world’s first internal zoom mechanism on a 24-70mm, which has revolutionised the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

Beloved for its creamy bokeh and versatile focal length, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is a staple in the kitbags of professionals and enthusiasts alike. Now, the new NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II has been giving the ultimate face-lift: there’s the world’s first internal zoom mechanism on a 24-70mm,* 5x faster AF speed thanks to Silky Swift VCM System (SSVCM), a de-clickable control ring (a Nikon first), an increase in aperture blades from nine to 11, and the minimum focus distance is now 0.24m (wide-angle) to 0.33m (telephoto).

The crowing jewel? The internal zoom mechanism. Traditionally, zoom lenses such as the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S required an external zoom mechanism where the front of the lens physically extended or retracted as focal length changed. Now, the zoom process happens all neatly inside the lens. Pretty clever, right? Let’s talk benefits.

A deeper look at the world’s first internal zoom mechanism on a 24-70mm, which has revolutionised the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

Nikon Team

What’s in our kitbag?

Z6IIINext level, full-frame camera

NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S IIOne lens. Thousands of stories.

No shift in centre of gravity

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is 130g lighter than its predecessor thanks to the internal zoom mechanism. This innovative design ensures the lens is, in fact, the lightest full-frame 24-70mm f/2.8 in the world.* And with no outward lens barrel movement there’s no shift in the centre of gravity. Attached to a tripod? Weight is evenly distributed. Filming handheld? Smooth movement is guaranteed. On a gimbal? No need to recentre every time you change focal length.

Enhanced portability

As the lens barrel does not extend, a compact and streamlined profile is maintained. This is particularly advantageous for video, where the balance of your rig won’t change as you zoom and the barrel won’t interfere with front-loaded accessories. That also means you won’t have to reposition accessories when zooming.

Whether you’re filming a wedding, discovering a new hiking trail or taking portraits, the enhanced portability is perfect for on-the-go photographers and videographers who need to adjust their set-up quickly in unpredictable environments.

Nikon magazine - Why an internal zoom is a game changer

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Improved weather sealing

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II has the finest weather sealing Nikon offers. Come rain or shine, it’s hugely reliable in tough conditions as there are no moving parts to an internal zoom. The lack of extending elements reduces the amount of dust or debris that can enter the lens, making it is easier to clean, too.

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II features a de-clickable control ring, a Nikon first – easily switch between ratcheted controls and smooth stepless control for video.

Minimal focus breathing for video

The internal zoom mechanism of the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II significantly improves focus breathing. The design ensures that zooming in or out while adjusting focus doesn’t cause noticeable frame shifts. The already minimal focus breathing on the previous version has been reduced by half for super-smooth and natural-looking focus racking that’s essential for videographers.

What’s not to like?

Improved handling, reduced interference with accessories, greater dust and drip resistance and minimised focus breathing come together to provide a seamless experience for photographers and videographers. If you’re looking to sharpen your kitbag or need a versatile lens for both stills and video – the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is for you.

Dive into the stats behind the lens here or make the most of the lens here.

*At time of press

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