Nikon Corporation announced the upcoming release of the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S. This new lens is a fast telephoto zoom lens compatible with full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras.
What is the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S?
As part of the S-Line *1 series of NIKKOR Z lenses, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a telephoto zoom lens that covers a focal length range of 120mm to 300mm. The lens additionally features a fast, constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 *2 throughout the zoom range. The lens also is the world’s first *3 zoom lens with a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 to feature a built-in 1.4× teleconverter.
The built-in teleconverter gives photographers the flexibility to cover a wide range of sports scenes, from low-light indoor events like figure skating to outdoor sports such as tennis and soccer, where photographers often work at a distance from their subjects.
The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S delivers outstanding rendering performance comparable to that of a prime lens across the entire frame, despite being a zoom. Featuring high resolution and large, natural bokeh, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S captures athletes’ facial expressions and movements in fine detail, creating immersive images that make viewers feel part of the action.
Built-In Teleconverter
The built-in 1.4× teleconverter extends the lens’s reach to a super-telephoto focal length of 420mm with a single action while maintaining superior rendering performance.
Despite its built-in teleconverter, the lens weighs approximately 2,735 g, making it about 515 g lighter than the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR (released in 2020). The reduced weight and time saved switching equipment support photographers capture decisive moments in rapidly changing sports action.
Notes
*2 The maximum aperture is f/4 when the built-in teleconverter is used.
*3 Among interchangeable zoom lenses announced as of October 29, 2026. Statement based on Nikon research.
NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S Primary Features
- Delivers fast, highly precise, and smooth autofocus (AF) control with the Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM)*4 to track rapidly moving athletes.
- Features Meso Amorphous Coat, which offers the best anti-reflection performance in Nikon history*5, and ARNEO Coat to effectively suppress ghosting and flare for clear images, even in situations where light sources are likely to enter the frame.
- Powerful 6.5-stop*6 vibration reduction (VR) performance at the center and edges of the frame when used with a camera that supports Synchro VR.
- Features an internal focusing (IF) system and an internal zoom mechanism that keep the overall length of the lens constant during focusing or zooming.
- Supports Arca-Swiss tripod heads*7 for smoother mounting and removal of the lens.
- The tripod collar features a rubber cushion and integrated finger grip for stable portability.
- Supports both front screw-on filters and rear slip-in filter holders.
- Includes the HB-120 Bayonet Hood, which has no protruding parts and is easy to attach and remove, allowing convenient storage and easy handling.
- Offers high durability using magnesium alloy and superior dust- and drip-resistant performance*8 through extensive sealing.
*5 Among interchangeable lenses for Nikon cameras.
*6 Based on CIPA 2024 Standard. Yaw/Pitch/Roll compensation performance when mounted on the Z6III without a teleconverter enabled (telephoto end, [NORMAL] mode). A camera that supports Synchro VR is required.
*7 The tripod collar of this lens can be attached to Arca-Swiss screw-type quick-release clamps. However, please avoid using lever-type clamps, as they may not fix the lens firmly in place.
*8 Thorough dust and drip resistance not guaranteed in all situations or under all conditions.
