Nikon Fills a Major Gap in the Z DX Lineup with the New 16–50mm f/2.8 and 35mm f/1.7

Nikon has announced two new DX-format lenses: the NIKKOR Z DX 16–50mm f/2.8 VR and the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7. Both target APS-C Z-mount users who have been waiting for faster glass, but the real story here is the 16–50mm.

A long-awaited standard zoom

For years, Nikon’s DX mirrorless lineup has been missing one key piece: a fast standard zoom. Until now, Z50 and Z fc users had to choose between compact kit lenses with modest apertures or adapted full-frame glass. The new 16–50mm f/2.8 finally brings a true 24–70mm equivalent with a constant aperture, filling a crucial gap that has kept Nikon’s APS-C cameras from being fully competitive with other systems.

At f/2.8 throughout the range, this lens provides shallow depth of field, stronger low-light performance, and smoother background rendering, all in a compact 330 g package. Nikon has also included 5 stops of VR, a quiet stepping motor, and focus breathing suppression, making it a natural fit for video and hybrid creators.

The price is on the higher side at $899.95, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. Once it settles closer to typical street pricing, it could help position the Z50II as one of the most recommendable APS-C hybrid cameras for both photography and video.

A new fast prime for close-ups

Alongside it, Nikon has also introduced the Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7, a compact prime that doubles as a macro lens. It delivers a life-size equivalent reproduction ratio, letting you get within 6.2 inches of your subject, and the bright f/1.7 aperture makes it equally useful for portraits, food, or street photography.

The lens uses a quiet stepping motor, an internal focusing system, and an aspherical ED element for clean rendering, all at a lightweight and approachable $449.95.

Our take

The 16–50mm f/2.8 VR is one of the most important releases for Nikon’s DX mirrorless system in years. It is the lens that should have launched with the platform, and now that it is here, Nikon finally has a competitive answer to Canon and Sony’s APS-C offerings.

If Nikon continues to focus on compact bodies, fast glass, and hybrid usability, the Z DX lineup could quickly move from underdog to one of the best values in mirrorless today.