Nikon 24-120 Z Review: Unboxing And Hands-On With Nikon's Latest Masterpiece

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Post on Mar 14, 2025

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Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S Review: Unboxing and Hands-On with Nikon's Latest Masterpiece

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens has arrived, and it's causing quite a stir amongst professional and enthusiast photographers alike. This versatile zoom lens promises exceptional image quality and build, aiming to be the ultimate all-rounder for the Nikon Z mirrorless system. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive into an unboxing and hands-on review to find out.

Unboxing the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S

The first impression is one of quality. Nikon’s packaging is always premium, and the Z 24-120mm is no exception. The box is sturdy and elegant, hinting at the high-end lens within. Inside, you'll find the lens itself, neatly nestled in protective foam, along with the lens hood, a soft case, and the usual paperwork. The lens feels substantial and well-built, immediately instilling confidence. The metallic finish and textured grip are tactile and pleasing to the touch.

First Impressions: Build Quality and Handling

Holding the Z 24-120mm f/4 S, you instantly appreciate its robust construction. It feels significantly more substantial than many competing lenses in its class. The focusing ring and zoom ring are smooth and well-dampened, providing a satisfying tactile experience. The lens barrel is weather-sealed, offering protection against dust and moisture, a crucial feature for outdoor photography. The inclusion of a customizable control ring adds a level of personalization, allowing for quick adjustments to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation.

Image Quality: Sharpness, Distortion, and Bokeh

The real test, however, lies in the image quality. In our initial tests, the Z 24-120mm f/4 S delivered incredibly sharp images across the entire zoom range. Distortion is minimal, even at the widest focal length, and vignetting is well-controlled. The lens produces beautiful, creamy bokeh, particularly pleasing when shooting portraits. Color rendition is accurate and vibrant, capturing detail with remarkable clarity.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus performance is another key area where the Z 24-120mm f/4 S excels. It's fast, accurate, and incredibly reliable, even in challenging low-light conditions. Tracking moving subjects was smooth and precise, making it ideal for wildlife, sports, and street photography.

How does the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S compare to other lenses in its class?

Compared to similar all-in-one zoom lenses, the Z 24-120mm f/4 S stands out due to its superior build quality, faster and more accurate autofocus, and its consistently sharp image quality throughout the zoom range. While slightly larger and heavier than some competitors, the added robustness and performance justify the size.

What are the best settings for landscape photography with the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S?

For landscapes, using a narrower aperture (f/8 or f/11) will maximize sharpness and depth of field, ensuring both foreground and background elements are in focus. Experiment with different focal lengths to capture a variety of perspectives, utilizing the lens' versatile zoom range to your advantage.

Is the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens worth the price?

The Z 24-120mm f/4 S sits at a premium price point. However, the exceptional build quality, remarkable image quality, and consistently reliable autofocus justify the investment for professional and serious enthusiast photographers who demand the best. Its versatility makes it a worthwhile addition to any photographer's kit bag.

What are the key features of the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens?

Key features include its wide zoom range (24-120mm), constant f/4 aperture, weather sealing, customizable control ring, and exceptionally sharp image quality across the focal range. Its fast and accurate autofocus system and robust build make it a highly versatile and dependable lens.

Conclusion: A Masterpiece in the Making?

The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is more than just a lens; it's a statement. It’s a testament to Nikon’s commitment to crafting high-quality optics that deliver exceptional performance. While the price is a consideration, the combination of build quality, image quality, and autofocus makes it a strong contender for the title of best all-around zoom lens for the Nikon Z system. This lens truly feels like a masterpiece, delivering on its promises of versatility and excellence. Its versatility and exceptional performance solidify its position as a top choice for photographers who demand the best.