Comparing the new Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f 4-7.1 lens with the NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S
| Feature | NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 | NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S |
|---|---|---|
| Focal Length Range | 24-105mm (4.4x zoom) | 24-120mm (5x zoom) |
| Maximum Aperture | Variable: f/4 (at 24mm) to f/7.1 (at 105mm) | Constant: f/4 across entire range |
| Minimum Aperture | f/22 (at 24mm) to f/40 (at 105mm) | f/22 across the entire range |
| Angle of View (FX Format) | 84° to 23°10′ | 84° to 20°20′ |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 0.2m (wide end) / 0.28m (tele end) | 0.35m at all focal lengths |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.5x (at 70-105mm) | 0.39x |
| Lens Elements/Groups | 12 elements / 10 groups | 16 elements / 13 groups |
| Special Elements/Coatings | 1 ED glass, 2 aspherical | 3 ED glass, 1 aspherical ED, 3 aspherical; Nano Crystal Coat, ARNEO Coat, Fluorine Coat |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 (rounded) | 9 (rounded) |
| Filter Thread Size | 67mm | 77mm |
| Autofocus System | STM stepping motor (quiet, suitable for video) | Dual STM stepping motors (fast, ultra-quiet, minimal focus breathing) |
| Stabilization | None (relies on camera IBIS) | None (relies on camera IBIS) |
| Build Quality | Lightweight plastic mount; dust- and drip-resistant (not fully weather-sealed) | Premium metal mount; robust weather-sealing; fluorine-coated front element for easy cleaning |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Length) | 73.5mm x 106.5mm | 84mm x 118mm |
| Weight | 350g | 630g |
| Price | $546 | $997 after rebate |
| Other Notable Features | Customizable control ring; strong macro capabilities for close-up work; compact for travel | S-line premium optics for high resolution and bokeh; no zoom creep; excellent flare/ghosting resistance |
The new Nikkor 24-105mm f/4-7.1 lens stands out for its lighter weight, smaller size, lower cost, and impressive close-focus abilities, making it ideal for casual users, travelers, or as a kit lens with cameras like the Z5 II. However, its variable and narrower aperture at the telephoto end may limit low-light performance or subject isolation compared to the constant f/4 of the 24-120mm. The Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 S offers better optical quality, more reach, superior coatings for reduced aberrations and flare, and a more durable build, but it’s heavier, bulkier, and pricier—better suited for demanding shoots where consistency and sharpness are priorities.
NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S MTF chart:
NIKKOR Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 MTF chart:
Nikon announced a new Nikkor Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 standard zoom full-frame mirrorless lens
