The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S

Image quality

As a NIKKOR S line lens the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is at the pinnacle of Nikon’s lens engineering, and delivers immersive image quality across the entire focal range. Rendering is superior to the lauded and much-loved AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR zoom and the AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 ED VR II prime. Images are startlingly clean, even when backlit, while Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings minimise reflections for clear, high-contrast results.

Effortless low light performance

With f/2.8 across the focal range (f/4 with the teleconverter) low light situations are an opportunity, not a challenge. Whether it’s sports in indoor arenas or wildlife at dusk, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S handles all light situations beautifully. You can concentrate on the moments in front of you rather than worrying about exposure.

Fast, precise AF and powerful VR

The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is equipped with Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) running the autofocus, giving superfast operation combined with reduced noise and vibration. Scan time is 60% faster than the F mount AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR at the wide end and 30% faster at the telephoto end. Pair the lens with a Synchro VR-compatible camera and you’ll get 6.5 stops of stabilisation, while the EVF features Sport mode for a more stable image while you track subjects. There is also a Recall Focus function, allowing you to save a focus position to the lens using the memory set button and instantly recall it by rotating the Fn ring.

Superb flexibility

The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S can be your go-to lens whatever the event, whether indoor or outdoor sports, winter or summer, in an arena, a stadium or out in the field. Covering everything from tight portraits to wide images of venues, the extended reach of the built-in teleconverter makes the lens suitable for a range of sports where previously a 120-300mm might not have been first choice. And with a high-resolution professional camera such as the Nikon Z9, go to DX crop mode and you can get up to 630mm reach.

For those with a Z9, a firmware update has added support for the lenses with built-in teleconverters, which means you can switch on the TC and change the image area with one action. This also helps prevent unintended shooting in DX crop mode if you forget to switch back to FX when disengaging the TC.

Lightweight and protected for long shoots

At around 2,735g the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is approximately 515g lighter than the F mount AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR (and about 705g lighter than that lens with a teleconverter attached). These significant weight savings have been achieved through new approaches to both mechanical and optical design. The internal zoom mechanism also means the lens is extremely well balanced. The lens is built for professional life on the road, with extensive weather sealing and a fluorine coating to repel dirt and drips.

Easy to use

Complex technology shouldn’t be complicated to use. The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is built for ease of use. An Fn ring, large zoom ring and a control ring (which can also be used as a focus ring) are easy to grip and instantly responsive. Buttons and rings are highly customisable for a truly personalised set-up. The collar is Arca-Swiss compatible for quick release from tripods, and the lens is sized to fit into the Think Tank Airport International series of photo bags, meaning you can take it as carry-on rather than putting it in the hold.