Nikon Z 24-70 F4 Vs 24-120: Ultimate Lens Battle!

• Key Points:
  • The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S is compact, sharp, and ideal for low-light and video.
  • The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S offers a versatile zoom range for varied shooting.
  • Both lenses deliver excellent image quality, with the 24-70mm sharper at wider angles.
  • The 24-120mm excels in macro and telephoto scenarios but is slightly heavier.
  • Your choice depends on whether you prioritize portability or flexibility.

Nikon Z 24-70 F4 Vs 24-120 Comparison

Overview

As a seasoned photographer, I’ve spent countless hours shooting with the Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 vs 24-120 lenses. Both are stellar for Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras, but they cater to different needs. The 24-70mm is lightweight with a constant f/4 aperture, while the 24-120mm offers a broader zoom range. This comparison will help you decide which lens suits your style.

Why Compare These Lenses?

The Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 vs 24-120 debate is common among photographers. Each lens has unique strengths, making the choice tricky. I’ll share my experiences to clarify which might work best for you. Expect an in-depth look at their performance, usability, and value.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S vs Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S: A Photographer’s In-Depth Comparison

Hey friends, let’s chat about two lenses I’ve been using extensively with my Nikon Z cameras: the Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 vs 24-120. Both are fantastic, but they shine in different scenarios. The 24-70mm f/4 S is a compact workhorse with a constant aperture, perfect for low-light and video. The 24-120mm f/4 S, with its extended zoom, is a versatile all-in-one option for varied shooting conditions.

I’ve taken these lenses on countless shoots, from city streets to rugged landscapes. Each has unique strengths that make it a go-to depending on the situation. In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience, comparing them across key aspects to help you pick the right one for your photography needs. Let’s dive in!

Physical Characteristics

Weight and Portability

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S weighs just 500g, making it a joy to carry on long shoots. I barely notice it in my bag during travel or street photography sessions. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S, at 630g, is slightly heavier but still manageable. The extra weight comes from its longer zoom range, which adds versatility.

The weight difference might seem minor, but it matters on long hikes. I once trekked through Yosemite with the 24-70mm, and its lightness kept me comfortable all day. The 24-120mm, while heavier, saves me from carrying multiple lenses. It’s a trade-off between comfort and flexibility.

Build Quality

Both lenses feel premium, with solid construction that inspires confidence. They’re designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. I’ve used them in dusty trails and light rain without issues. The 24-70mm’s retractable design makes it even more compact when not in use.

The build quality is evident in their tactile feel. The zoom and focus rings are smooth, with just the right resistance. I’ve dropped the 24-70mm once (oops!), and it survived without a scratch. Both lenses are built to last, giving me peace of mind.

Weather Sealing

Weather sealing on both lenses is top-notch, with dust and moisture resistance. I’ve shot in humid jungles and windy beaches, and neither lens has let me down. The 24-120mm’s fluorine coating on the front element repels water and smudges effectively. You can trust both in challenging conditions.

I recall shooting a coastal sunset with the 24-120mm, where sea spray was constant. The lens performed flawlessly, with no fogging or damage. The 24-70mm has been equally reliable in dusty desert environments. Both are ready for whatever nature throws at you.

Optical Performance

Image Quality

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S delivers exceptional sharpness, especially at wider angles, with minimal distortion. It’s my go-to for landscapes and architecture, where clarity is key. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S is also sharp but may show slight vignetting at longer focal lengths. Still, its image quality holds up well across the zoom range.

During a recent cityscape shoot, the 24-70mm captured crisp details in skyscraper lines at 24mm. The 24-120mm, while excellent, needed minor post-processing to correct vignetting at 120mm. Both lenses produce images that impress straight out of the camera. For critical sharpness, the 24-70mm has a slight edge.

Bokeh

When it comes to bokeh, the 24-70mm f/4 S produces dreamy, creamy backgrounds, perfect for portraits. I love how it isolates subjects at 70mm. The 24-120mm f/4 S offers slightly better bokeh quality at longer focal lengths, creating pleasing out-of-focus areas. Both lenses excel at rendering soft backgrounds.

I shot a portrait session with the 24-70mm, and the bokeh made my subjects pop against blurred park greenery. The 24-120mm shone during a wedding, where its 120mm setting created stunning background blur for candid shots. Your choice depends on the focal length you prefer for portraits.

Colors and Contrast

The 24-70mm f/4 S renders true-to-life colors with high contrast, making images pop straight out of the camera. I’ve noticed vibrant yet natural hues in my landscape shots. The 24-120mm f/4 S leans toward bolder colors with a strong dynamic range, great for dramatic scenes. Both handle color beautifully, but in different ways.

On a fall foliage shoot, the 24-70mm captured rich, natural reds and yellows. The 24-120mm, used during a stormy sunset, produced bold, saturated hues that enhanced the drama. Neither disappoints, but the 24-120mm’s punchier colors suit moody scenes better.

Functionality

Autofocus Speed

The 24-70mm f/4 S has lightning-fast autofocus, locking onto subjects like birds or athletes with precision. It’s a lifesaver during fast-paced shoots. The 24-120mm f/4 S is slightly slower but still reliable for most scenarios. I’ve used it for events without missing critical moments.

At a soccer match, the 24-70mm’s autofocus tracked players flawlessly, even in low light. The 24-120mm, while not as quick, handled a concert shoot well, focusing accurately on performers. For action photography, the 24-70mm is my top pick. For general use, both perform admirably.

Image Stabilization

Both lenses benefit from Nikon’s robust vibration reduction (VR) technology, crucial for handheld shooting in low light. I’ve captured sharp images at slow shutter speeds with both. The 24-120mm’s stabilization feels slightly more effective at longer focal lengths. This makes it great for telephoto shots without a tripod.

I shot a nighttime cityscape with the 24-70mm, getting sharp results at 1/15s. The 24-120mm helped me capture distant wildlife at 120mm without blur, even at dusk. Both lenses let me shoot confidently in challenging light. The 24-120mm’s edge at longer focal lengths is noticeable.

Macro Photography

For close-ups, the 24-70mm f/4 S offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.3m, which is decent for macro work. I’ve used it for flowers and small details with good results. The 24-120mm f/4 S, with a 0.35m minimum focus and 0.39x magnification, is even better for macro. It’s my choice for capturing intricate subjects like insects.

I photographed dewdrops on petals with the 24-70mm, and the results were sharp and detailed. The 24-120mm, however, let me get closer to a butterfly’s wings, revealing stunning textures. If macro is your focus, the 24-120mm is the stronger contender. Both are capable for casual close-ups.

Practical Use

Ideal Use Cases

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S is my go-to for travel, street, landscape, and portrait photography. Its constant f/4 aperture excels in low-light and video, delivering consistent results. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S shines for wildlife, sports, and events, where its extended zoom range is a game-changer. It’s also great for varied lighting conditions.

I used the 24-70mm for a street photography workshop, capturing candid moments effortlessly. The 24-120mm was perfect for a safari, letting me zoom in on distant animals. Your shooting style will dictate which lens suits you best. Both are versatile, but their strengths differ.

Travel Suitability

For travel, the 24-70mm f/4 S is a dream due to its lightweight and compact design. I can carry it all day without fatigue. The 24-120mm f/4 S, while heavier, reduces the need to swap lenses, covering wide to telephoto ranges. It’s ideal for trips where versatility matters more than weight.

On a trip to Japan, the 24-70mm was perfect for tight Tokyo streets. The 24-120mm, however, let me capture both cityscapes and distant Mount Fuji without switching lenses. If you travel light, go for the 24-70mm. If you want one lens for everything, the 24-120mm is your pick.

Video Performance

Both lenses are excellent for video, with quiet autofocus and minimal focus breathing. The 24-70mm’s constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure, making it ideal for cinematic shots. The 24-120mm’s zoom range offers flexibility for dynamic video projects. I’ve used both for short films with great results.

During a documentary shoot, the 24-70mm’s fast autofocus kept interviews sharp. The 24-120mm allowed quick zooms for event coverage without adjusting settings. For video, the 24-70mm is slightly better for consistency, but the 24-120mm’s range is a creative advantage.

Value

Price-to-Performance

The 24-70mm f/4 S offers outstanding quality for its price, making it a fantastic value for enthusiasts and pros alike. I’ve been impressed by its performance relative to cost. The 24-120mm f/4 S is pricier but worth it for its flexibility and extended range. It’s a solid investment for those needing a do-it-all lens.

I’ve recommended the 24-70mm to students for its affordability and versatility. The 24-120mm, however, has saved me from buying additional lenses for specific shoots. Both deliver exceptional quality for their respective costs. Your budget and needs will guide your choice.

Resale Value

The 24-70mm f/4 S holds its value well due to its popularity and consistent performance. I’ve seen it retain strong resale prices in the used market. The 24-120mm f/4 S may depreciate slightly more due to its higher initial cost. Still, its versatility keeps it in demand among professionals.

I sold an older 24-70mm and was surprised by its resale value. The 24-120mm, while less common in the used market, appeals to pros needing flexibility. Both lenses are good long-term investments. The 24-70mm’s broader appeal gives it a slight edge in resale.

Comparison Table

Aspect	Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S	Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S
Focal Range	24-70mm	24-120mm
Aperture	Constant f/4	Constant f/4
Weight	500g	630g
Ideal Use	Travel, street, landscape, portraits; low-light, video	Wildlife, sports, events; versatile zoom
Image Quality	Less distortion, sharper at wider angles	Slight vignetting, strong overall sharpness
Bokeh	Dreamy backgrounds	Slightly better at longer focal lengths
Colors/Contrast	True-to-life hues, high contrast	Bold colors, strong dynamic range
Autofocus Speed	Fast, precise, ideal for action	Slightly slower, reliable for most uses
Image Stabilization	Robust VR, great for low light	Robust VR, effective at longer focal lengths
Weather Sealing	Dust and moisture resistant	Dust and moisture resistant
Macro Photography	0.3m min focus, good close-ups	0.35m min focus, 0.39x magnification
Travel Suitability	Light, compact, easy to carry	Slightly heavier, replaces multiple lenses
Price-to-Performance	Excellent quality for price	Pricier, great for versatility
Resale Value	Steady due to popularity	Slightly higher depreciation
Minimum Focusing Distance	0.3m	0.35m

Decision-Making: Which Lens Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 vs 24-120 depends on your photography style. If you prioritize portability, low-light performance, and video, the 24-70mm f/4 S is your best bet. It’s perfect for travel, street, and portrait work, delivering consistent results. If you need versatility and extended reach for wildlife, sports, or events, the 24-120mm f/4 S is the way to go. Its longer zoom range reduces the need for multiple lenses, making it ideal for dynamic shoots. Consider your priorities—compactness or flexibility—and you’ll find the right fit.

FAQ

1. Which lens is better for portrait photography?
The 24-70mm f/4 S is slightly better for portraits due to its constant f/4 aperture, which creates a shallower depth of field and performs well in low light. Its bokeh is smooth and pleasing. The 24-120mm f/4 S is also great, especially at longer focal lengths, but its bokeh shines most at 120mm.

2. Can I use the 24-120mm f/4 S for video shooting?
Yes, the 24-120mm f/4 S is excellent for video, with quiet autofocus and minimal focus breathing. Its constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure across the zoom range. The 24-70mm f/4 S is equally good, offering similar video-friendly features.

3. Which lens is more suitable for landscape photography?
The 24-70mm f/4 S has an edge for landscapes due to its sharper performance at wider angles and less distortion. It’s ideal for capturing expansive scenes. The 24-120mm f/4 S is also capable, especially if you need telephoto reach for distant details.

4. Is there a significant difference in image quality?
Both lenses deliver excellent image quality, but the 24-70mm f/4 S is sharper at wider angles with less distortion. The 24-120mm f/4 S may show slight vignetting but maintains strong sharpness overall. The difference is subtle in most real-world scenarios.

5. Which lens is better for travel photography?
The 24-70mm f/4 S is better for travel due to its lighter weight and compact size, making it easy to carry all day. The 24-120mm f/4 S is great if you want a single lens to cover a wide range of focal lengths. It’s a trade-off between portability and versatility.

6. Can these lenses be used on Nikon DSLRs?
No, these are Z-mount lenses designed for Nikon’s mirrorless cameras. For DSLRs, you’d need F-mount lenses. An adapter can be used, but performance may vary.

7. How do they compare to F-mount equivalents?
Z-mount lenses are lighter and optimized for mirrorless systems, with improved optics. The 24-70mm f/4 S outperforms its F-mount counterpart in sharpness. The 24-120mm f/4 S offers similar advantages over older F-mount versions.