This review is for Nikon Z 70-180mm f/2.8 lens.
Preamble: When buying this lens through 鶹, be sure to check which seller you purchase from. If you want a Canadian warranty, be sure to buy from a Nikon-Canada authorized reseller.
Having used the Z 70-200mm f/2.8 S VR as well as this lens -- and as much as I am a huge fan of the Z 70-200 -- let me just say: I am keeping the 70-180.
What I like:
- Useful range for event and portrait photography as well as, due to its close-focusing capabilities and smaller size, general photography! This is a multi-use lens of -- I don't wish to be hyperbolic but... -- of epic proportions. It's a lens that can be used in most any setting/ for any type of photography.
- f/2.8 constant aperture.
- Excellent optical performance through the range.
- The throw of the zoom is surprisingly compact and the lens doesn't extend tremendously.
- It's light. Few people will not take it because it's too heavy. I have the Z 24-120 and this lens, while a bit bigger (not by a lot), handles quite similarly.
- IBIS makes this lens tremendously capable in low light. I don't miss the VR for most use cases.
- It's a Nikon in terms of complete integration.
- 1:2 magnification at close focus: It may not be optically perfect at close focus (70mm) but it's good enough for certain types of images.
- The bokeh is pleasing.
- It can be used with Z TCs although I would opt for a 100-400 lens unless the latter is a range you never use.
- Sharpness across the frame is very good which helps with framing.
- Focus is fast and accurate.
Misses?
- It's not a miss for me but no Fn button (if that's of any concern to you).
- No VR but, again, I think IBIS is underrated so this isn't much of a miss.
Lots to like. For general photography or wedding/ event photography, this lens has a lot going for it. While the Z 70-200 S is a spectacular optic, understanding this lens doesn't give up much optically (nudging the Z 70-200 S toward the diminishing returns category), this lens's added close-focusing and lighter weight offer a greater appeal to me and may to you, too. Highly recommended! Consider reading the conclusion of the Photography Life review to get an impartial view.
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Item model number | 20120 |
| Product Dimensions | 15.09 x 8.36 x 8.36 cm; 793.79 g |
| ASIN | B0C8QL89L5 |
