Nikon’s new sports zoom pairs a constant f/2.8 aperture with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter. It weighs 2735 g (6.03 lb) and costs a whopping $13,999 from November.
Nikon has unveiled the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, which it says is the world’s first telephoto zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in 1.4x teleconverter.
Designed for professional sports photographers, Nikon first announced development of the lens back in May, when we assumed it would be north of $10,000. And at $13,999, we certainly got that part right.
It’s a beast. The built-in teleconverter extends the focal-length range from 120-300mm to 168-420mm, while photographers can go to 630mm in DX crop mode. Optics include Super ED and SR glass, with Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings. The built-in teleconverter reaches 420mm at f/4, and Nikon says image quality is comparable to that of a prime lens with the teleconverter engaged.
In-lens Vibration Reduction is rated at up to 6.5 stops. AF uses a multi-focus system with Silky Swift voice coil motors and what Nikon says is a new control algorithm that should keep pace with the fastest continuous shooting speeds whatever you’re throwing at it.
The lens is lighter than before, weighing approximately 2735 g (6.03 lb), about 515 g (1.14 lb) less than its F-mount predecessor, even with the built-in teleconverter. At 353.5 mm (13.9 in), Nikon says it will fit into international-standard carry-on bags, which is good as it would be a brave person that sticks a lens like this in the hold. The internal zoom keeps the center of gravity consistent, which is useful when corralling something with that amount of heft.
The control ring can also be used as a focus ring, and functions can be assigned to two L-Fn buttons or the Fn ring. Sealing protects against dust, dirt, and moisture, though Nikon says the lens is not guaranteed to be dust- and drip-resistant in all situations and conditions. The front element has a fluorine coat.
The tripod collar is Arca-Swiss compatible with screw-type clamps; lever-type clamps may not provide sufficient holding strength and are not recommended. Front screw-in and rear drop-in filters are supported.
The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S costs $13,999, with sales starting in November 2026.