The ultimate super-wide zoom lens for Nikon mirrorless cameras
I recently got my hands on the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8S super-wide zoom lens for FX format Nikon Z mount mirrorless cameras, and I’ve spent the last few weeks putting it through its paces. This pro-level lens features a constant f/2.8 aperture, and is an entirely updated design from it’s F-mount predecessor.
First impressions & Design
See my Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8S unboxing video here
The first thing you’ll notice about this lens is that it’s extremely well-built. The focus and zoom rings are silky smooth. The 14-24mm f/2.8S features an illuminated LCD panel that can be configured to display aperture, focus distance (and hyperfocal distance), or focal length. There is also the traditional A/M switch for quickly switching from autofocus to manual focus, and a Lens Function (L-Fn) button which can be customized in your camera to provide additional functionality, such as AF-ON or auto exposure lock (and much more). This lens also includes a multi-function control ring that can be configured to control aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO setting using custom menu f2 in the Nikon Z6 & Z7 cameras.
Unlike the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G lens, which has a huge, bulbous front element, the new 14-24mm f/2.8S has a more traditional front element design. Although there is a small integrated lens hood, the 14-24mm f/2.8S includes two different bayonet mount lens hoods. The standard hood is fairly compact, and works with the supplied pinch-front cap. The larger hood is much wider and contains a 112mm front filter thread, and uses a front cover cap similar to that of the 14-24mm f/2.8G. The 14-24mm f/2.8G also accepts gel filters via a slot in the rear lens mount; a useful feature for videographers or those looking to use neutral density filters.
One thing I noticed and appreciated about the new hood design is that because they are removable, it makes packing the lens much easier. You aren’t forced to have the huge front cap on when putting this lens into your bag.
The Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8S incorporates 16 elements in 11 groups, three of which incorporate an aspherical design to reduce lens aberrations. Four elements are designed using Nikon’s extra-low dispersion glass to improve clarity and reduce color fringing, and the lens incorporates ARNEO and Nano-Crystal coatings to reduce flare and ghosting.