Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 Review

A flexible wide-angle zoom lens, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens was created exclusively for use with Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras.

The lens has a focal length range of 12-28mm, making it ideally suited for travel photography as well as landscape and architecture photography. This lens has been designed to be both portable and lightweight, making it an ideal accessory for photographers who place a premium on portability yet are unwilling to sacrifice image quality.

$356.95 6 used from $329.00 9 new from $356.95
in stock
NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR

Key Specs

  • Mount Type: Nikon Z Mount
  • Focal Length Range: 12 – 28mm
  • Zoom Ratio: 2.3x
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5-5.6
  • 12mm zoom position: f/3.5 to f/16
  • 28mm zoom position: f/5.6 to f/25
  • Minimum Aperture: f/16-25
  • Format: DX
  • Maximum Angle of View (DX-format): 99° to 53°
  • Maximum Reproduction Ratio: 0.21x
  • Lens Elements: 12
  • Lens Groups: 11
  • VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization: Yes
  • Diaphragm Blades: 7 Rounded diaphragm opening
  • ED Glass Elements: 1
  • Aspherical Elements: 1
  • Autofocus: Yes
  • AF Actuator: STM (stepping motor)
  • Internal Focusing: Yes
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 0.62 ft (0.19 m) at all zoom positions
  • Focus Mode: Auto, Manual (no switch)
  • Filter Size: 67mm
  • Accepts Filter Type: Screw-in
  • Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 2.9 in. (72 mm) x 2.5 in. (63.5 mm) Distance to end of the lens from camera lens mount flange
  • Approx. Weight: 7.3 oz. (205 g)

Design and Build

The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens has a weather-sealed design that protects it from dust and moisture. It also has a sleek and robust construction that makes it ideal for professional photography. Even under difficult shooting situations, the lens barrel is constructed out of high-quality materials, which ensures that its performance will remain consistent over time.

Both the zoom and focus rings are well-damped and have a smooth, consistent feel, which enables fine control over the focal length and other changes. Because of its small size and lightweight construction, it is straightforward to transport, making it a perfect option for photographers who are always on the move.

Performance

The lens captures images that are exceptionally clear and detailed over the entirety of its zoom range, demonstrating excellent optical performance. Because it has a maximum aperture that ranges from f/3.5 to 5.6, it is adaptable to a wide range of lighting situations and enables creative control over the depth of focus.

The lens incorporates cutting-edge optical components and coatings to reduce aberrations, ghosting, and flare. As a consequence, images produced by the lens have high quality, with colors and contrast that are true to life. This lens is capable of producing outstanding results, whether it is used to photograph expansive vistas or minute architectural details.

Autofocus System

The stepping motor (STM) technology that is integrated into the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens enables it to have an autofocus mechanism that is both quick and accurate. Because the focus is so smooth and silent, this camera is excellent for both taking still photographs and capturing videos.

The lens instantly latches onto targets, enabling photographers to maintain precise focus even while working in difficult lighting conditions. Focusing can be achieved smoothly and precisely thanks to the camera’s user-friendly autofocus technology, which can be readily customized using the camera’s control settings.

Vibration Reduction

Vibration Reduction (VR), a technology developed by Nikon, is included in the lens. This technology significantly reduces the amount of shake caused by the camera, allowing for handheld photography at slower shutter speeds. This is especially helpful when there is not a lot of light or while trying to capture things that are moving.

As a result of the VR system’s ability to correct unintended camera movement, the resulting photos are more explicit, and in many instances, the use of a tripod is no longer required. Photographers have the ability to take photographs that are clear and free from blur with the help of the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens.

Build Quality

The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens was designed to resist the rigorous use that is required in the professional photography world. It has a sturdy structure and is made out of high-quality materials, which guarantees both its longevity and its dependability. Because the lens is protected from dust and moisture by a weather-sealing mechanism, photographers are free to take pictures in a wide variety of settings without having to worry about damaging their equipment.

The focus and zoom rings are both well-engineered and very smooth, which results in a shooting experience that is both pleasant and accurate. This lens was created with the needs of photographers in mind, namely those who expect the highest possible build quality and dependability from their equipment.

Handling and Ergonomics

Because of the lens’ thoughtful ergonomic construction, taking pictures with it is a breeze, and you’ll pick up the basics quickly. Because of its small size and low weight, it may be comfortably carried about for lengthy periods of time without causing muscle strain. The focus and zoom rings have been thoughtfully positioned, making it possible to make adjustments quickly and easily, even while shooting.

In addition, the control buttons on the lens are programmable, giving photographers the ability to tailor the functions that each controller performs to their individual needs. The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, in general, provides great handling and ergonomics, which enables photographers to concentrate on taking photographs that are suitable for the occasion.

Image Stabilization

Vibration Reduction (VR), a technology developed by Nikon, is included in the lens. This technology significantly reduces the amount of shake caused by the camera, allowing for handheld photography at slower shutter speeds. When photographing in low-light circumstances or attempting to capture things that are moving, this feature comes in quite handy.

As a result of the VR system’s ability to correct unintended camera movement, the resulting photos are more explicit, and in many instances, the use of a tripod is no longer required. Even in difficult shooting situations, photographers who are equipped with the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens will have the confidence to take photos that are clear and devoid of a blur.

Shooting Experience

Photographers will have a wonderful experience when they use the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. The camera’s ability to capture huge vistas, architectural intricacies, and immersive sceneries is made possible by its wide-angle focal length range. Due to the lens’ adaptability, it may be used for a wide variety of photographic applications, including travel and interior photography, as well as outdoor and landscape photography.

Photographers that place a premium on mobility and adaptability will find this lens to be an ideal option because of its small size and lightweight construction. This lens gives you the versatility and performance you need to take great photographs, whether you’re shooting in the streets of a metropolis or adventuring across distant regions.

Image Quality

Throughout the entirety of its zoom range, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens produces images of exceptionally high quality. It utilizes advanced optical components and coatings to reduce aberrations, distortion, ghosting, and flare, which ultimately results in pictures that are crisp, detailed, and have actual color and contrast.

The lens has exceptional clarity that enables photographers to express their creative vision by capturing subtle nuances, textures, and small details in their photographs. The photographs are given more depth and character because of the wide-angle lens viewpoint, which also makes them more aesthetically attractive. The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens offers excellent image quality regardless of the subject matter being photographed, be it landscapes, architectural topics, or daily situations.

Teleconverter Compatibility

Because it is compatible with Nikon teleconverters, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens may increase its focal length range and use a wider variety of focal lengths. Photographers are able to expand the effective focal length of their lenses by connecting teleconverters, which enables them to take photographs of subjects that are further away while maintaining the same level of magnification.

The lens’s compatibility with teleconverters increases its adaptability and makes it suited for a wider variety of photographic applications, such as photographing animals and sporting events.

Comparison with Competitors

When contrasted with other lenses in its class, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens distinguishes out thanks to the exceptional mix of picture quality, construction quality, and adaptability that it possesses. Because of its small size, lightweight construction, and wide-angle focal length range, this camera is an excellent option for photographers who place an emphasis on mobility but are not willing to sacrifice performance.

The optical performance of the lens, which includes aspects such as sharpness, color rendition, and contrast, is on par with or even exceeds those of its competitors in its class. The introduction of technology that reduces vibrations adds an additional layer to its allure and makes it possible to shoot handheld in a wider variety of environments. The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, in general, provides an outstanding combination of features, performance, and value for the money.

Specifications

Focal Length Range12 – 28mm
Zoom Ratio2.3x
Maximum Aperturef/3.5-5.6
12mm zoom positionf/3.5 to f/16
28mm zoom positionf/5.6 to f/25
Minimum Aperturef/16-25
FormatDX
Maximum Angle of View99° to 53° (DX-format)
Maximum Reproduction Ratio0.21x
Lens Elements12
Lens Groups11
VR Image StabilizationYes
Diaphragm Blades7 Rounded diaphragm opening
ED Glass Elements1
Aspherical Elements1
AutofocusYes
AF ActuatorSTM (stepping motor)
Internal FocusingYes
Minimum Focus Distance0.62 ft (0.19 m) at all zoom positions
Focus ModeAuto, Manual (no switch)
Filter Size67mm
Accepts Filter TypeScrew-in
Approx. Dimensions2.9 in. (72 mm) x 2.5 in. (63.5 mm) Distance to end of lens from camera lens mount flange
Approx. Weight7.3 oz. (205 g)
Lens TypeZoom

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • A wide-angle zoom range that is ideal for photographing travel scenes, architectural details, and landscapes.
  • For portability, the design is both compact and lightweight.
  • Construction that has been weather-sealed to provide protection against dirt and moisture.
  • A system with a rapid and accurate autofocus.
  • When shooting handheld, effective vibration reduction is essential.
  • Outstanding image quality with only a few distracting distortions.
  • Compatible with teleconverters to allow for an increased focal length range.
  • Control buttons that may be remapped for a more individualized shooting experience.

Cons:

  • When compared to lenses with fixed apertures, lenses with variable maximum apertures may have reduced low-light capability.
  • When the focal length is at its broadest, distortion may become apparent.
  • When compared to some of its rivals, this product has a limited zoom range.
  • Cost and Discretionary Availability:
  • The NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens has a price that is comparable to other lenses in its class and provides outstanding value for its capabilities and design. It may be purchased from authorized merchants who sell Nikon products, as well as online. Due to the possibility that the lens’s popularity and demand will affect its availability, it is advisable to check with local merchants or reliable online vendors to obtain up-to-date information on price and stock.

Price and Availability

$356.95 6 used from $329.00 9 new from $356.95
in stock
NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR

Conclusion

For Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras, the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens is a wide-angle zoom lens that is both flexible and high-performing in its capabilities. Photographers that place a premium on mobility and adaptability may find this camera to be an intriguing option because of its slim and lightweight design, as well as its high image quality and a wide variety of useful functions.

This lens boasts remarkable optical performance, dependable focusing, and good image stabilization, making it an excellent choice for photographing immersive settings, architectural details, and landscapes. Photographers who are interested in broadening their creative horizons will find the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens to be a trustworthy partner due to its affordable price point as well as its exceptional value proposition.

Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 FAQs

Q. Is the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens compatible with full-frame cameras?
A. No, the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens is specifically designed for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras with DX-format sensors. It is not compatible with full-frame cameras.

Q. Does the lens have a fixed aperture throughout its zoom range?
A. No, the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens has a variable aperture. At the wide end (12mm), the maximum aperture is f/3.5, while at the telephoto end (28mm), the maximum aperture is f/5.6. The gap changes gradually as you zoom in or out.

Q. Can I use filters with the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens?
A. Yes, the lens has a filter thread with a diameter of 67mm, allowing you to attach various filters such as polarizers, neutral density filters, or protective UV filters. This gives you the flexibility to enhance your photography and protect the front element of the lens.

Q. Is the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens suitable for low-light photography?
A. While the lens has a variable aperture, it may not be ideal for low-light situations compared to lenses with a wider fixed aperture. However, the lens does offer Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which helps reduce camera shake, allowing you to shoot handheld in dimmer lighting conditions and still achieve sharp results.

Q. Can I use the Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 lens for video recording?
A. Yes, the lens is well-suited for video recording. It features a stepping motor (STM) autofocus system that provides smooth and quiet focusing, ideal for video applications. Additionally, the lens’s wide-angle focal length range makes it versatile for capturing cinematic scenes or vlogs with a broader perspective.

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