GEAR OF THE YEAR 2020
PRO/TOP-SPEC
WINNER: BEST STANDARD ZOOM LENS Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
£1999/$1997 Tested in issue 108
WHAT WE LOVE
The Z 24-70mm f/4 S is a phenomenal kit zoom for FX format Z-series mirrorless cameras, but it lacks the fast f/2.8 aperture preferred by many enthusiast and pro photographers. This faster standard zoom puts that to rights, while also adding an extra customizable control ring, customizable L-Fn button and an OLED multi-function display. Suffice it to say that handling is an absolute dream, while image quality and overall performance are sublime.
WHAT’S MISSING?
It lacks an optical stabilizer, but that’s no issue when using any of Nikon’s FX format Z-mount mirrorless cameras, all of which feature IBIS.
WHY UPGRADE?
If you don’t mind the bigger size and extra weight, this is a worthy upgrade over the f/4 lens, with a faster aperture rating and wider-ranging controls, customizable to suit how you shoot.