Nikon Adds Two New Lenses to Its DX Lineup: The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm F/2.8 VR and NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm F/1.7
Nikon is expanding its APS-C (DX) mirrorless ecosystem with the introduction of two new lenses designed for creators who want fast apertures and versatile focal lengths in compact packages. The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR and the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 are both set to launch in late October and are now available for pre-order.
NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR
NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR on the Nikon Z50 II.
The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR serves as a premium standard zoom for Nikon’s DX-format Z cameras, offering a 24–75mm full-frame equivalent focal range. Its constant f/2.8 maximum aperture makes it ideal for travel, portraits, events, and low-light photography.
The lens includes Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which provides up to 5 stops of image stabilization for handheld shooting. Inside, the optical construction consists of 12 elements in 11 groups, including one ED and two aspherical elements designed to reduce chromatic aberration and distortion. The nine-bladed aperture produces smooth, natural-looking bokeh.
Autofocus is powered by a stepping motor (STM) for quiet, responsive focusing, making it suitable for both stills and video. Nikon has also optimized the lens to suppress focus breathing for more cinematic video output.
Physically, the lens weighs just 330 grams and measures 88mm in length. It’s dust- and moisture-resistant, and includes a customizable control ring that can be assigned to adjust focus, aperture, exposure compensation, or ISO.
When paired with the Nikon Z50 II, the Hi-Res Zoom function expands the range to the equivalent of 16–100mm, maintaining a constant f/2.8 aperture with no loss of resolution — perfect for hybrid shooters who switch between stills and video.
NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7
NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7.
The NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 is a compact prime that doubles as a macro lens, offering a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.67x, which effectively delivers lifesize magnification when accounting for the DX crop factor.
The 35mm focal length provides a natural perspective similar to the human eye, making it ideal for street photography, portraits, and general use. With a fast f/1.7 maximum aperture, it’s well-suited for low-light shooting and achieving shallow depth of field.
Optically, the lens is constructed with 8 elements in 7 groups, including one aspherical ED element that helps minimize chromatic aberrations. It can focus as close as 0.16m, with a working distance of 7cm, making it excellent for close-up and detail shots.
The autofocus system uses a stepping motor for near-silent operation, while its internal focusing design ensures the lens length remains constant during focusing — especially useful when shooting on gimbals or tripods. Like the zoom, it also includes a customizable control ring and weather-sealed build.
Pricing and Availability
The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR will be available in late October 2025 for a suggested retail price of $899.95, while the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 will retail for $449.95.
Both lenses are now open for pre-order from Nikon-authorized retailers, including B&H and Adorama.