10 Best Nikon Lens 2025 in the United States

The Nikon Z 8 with its 24-120mm f/4 zoom lens is a professional-grade full-frame mirrorless camera that shines in both photography and video recording. With a 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor and the advanced EXPEED 7 processor, it delivers exceptional image quality, making it suitable for serious photographers and videographers. The autofocus system is particularly impressive, utilizing deep learning technology to track a wide variety of subjects, even in low light conditions, which is a huge plus for wildlife and event photography. The camera also boasts internal 8K and 4K video recording capabilities, catering to filmmakers who require high-resolution footage. Additionally, the lens offers image stabilization, which helps keep your shots steady, especially in dynamic situations.

On the downside, the maximum aperture of f/4 might limit its performance in low-light scenarios compared to faster lenses. While the 24-120mm range is versatile, those looking for extreme telephoto capabilities may need to invest in an additional lens. The camera's size and complexity may also be daunting for beginners, making it less suitable for casual use. Furthermore, the price point reflects its professional status, potentially placing it out of reach for hobbyists.

The Nikon Z 8 is a powerful tool for professionals in photography and videography, offering high-quality images and advanced features. However, it may be more than what a casual user needs, and its relatively heavier body and moderate aperture could be seen as drawbacks for some.

The Nikon Z f with Special Edition Prime Lens is a full-frame mirrorless camera that impressively balances performance for both photography and videography enthusiasts. With a 24.5MP BSI full-frame sensor and the EXPEED 7 processor, it captures high-resolution images and videos, making it versatile for various shooting situations. The inclusion of a fast 40mm f/2 lens is a strong selling point, providing excellent low-light performance and depth of field control, which is ideal for portrait photography and creative shots.

One of the standout features is its autofocus system, which utilizes 273 autofocus points and has advanced subject recognition technology, allowing for precise tracking of moving subjects. This is particularly beneficial for action or wildlife photography. The 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen is another user-friendly feature, allowing for flexible shooting angles and intuitive control, enhancing the user experience.

On the videography side, the camera supports 4K video recording with various options, including internal 10-bit recording, making it suitable for content creators looking for high-quality video output. The camera lacks water resistance, which may limit its use in challenging outdoor conditions. Additionally, while the continuous shooting speed of 14 frames per second is decent, it may not match higher-end models designed for fast-paced action photography. The camera's weight of 2 pounds is also on the heavier side, which might be a concern for users seeking a more portable option.

The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens stands out as an exceptional choice for wildlife and sports photographers, thanks to its impressive super-telephoto reach and advanced features. With a focal length of 600mm, which extends to 840mm with its built-in 1.4x teleconverter, this lens allows for capturing distant subjects with remarkable clarity and detail. One of its key strengths is the vibration reduction technology, which provides up to 5 stops of stabilization, making it easier to shoot handheld without introducing blur, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The Synchro VR feature offers even better results when paired with the Nikon Z 9 camera, appealing to professionals looking for sharp images in action-packed environments.

Autofocus performance is another highlight, utilizing the Silky Swift VCM technology to deliver fast and almost silent focusing. This is particularly beneficial for wildlife photography, where silence is crucial, and for video recording, ensuring smooth operation without distracting sounds. The ergonomic design with customizable controls enhances user experience, allowing photographers to adjust settings easily without removing their eye from the viewfinder.

However, the lens does have some drawbacks. Weighing in at 7.19 pounds, it may be cumbersome for some users, especially during extended shoots. While it's lighter than its predecessor, the heft can still be a challenge for those who prefer a more portable setup. Additionally, as a specialized piece of equipment, it might not be the best fit for casual photographers who don't require such a specific focal length or advanced features.