Official NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S product photo. Image: Nikon.
Nikon has officially announced the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, bringing its professional fast telephoto zoom to the Z mount with a built-in 1.4× teleconverter. Nikon USA lists the lens at $13,999.95, with preorders available at B&H Photo Video and Adorama.
The lens combines a 120–300mm f/2.8 zoom range with a switch-operated teleconverter that changes it to 168–420mm f/4. Nikon is positioning it for professional sports photography, where subject distance can change quickly and switching lenses can mean missing a shot.
A 420mm f/4 option without changing lenses
The built-in teleconverter is the defining feature. Photographers can work at f/2.8 for indoor sports or engage the converter when they need more reach across a field.
There is a one-stop light penalty: the maximum aperture becomes f/4 with the teleconverter engaged. The lens does not maintain f/2.8 at 420mm. Nikon describes it as the first constant-f/2.8 interchangeable zoom with a built-in 1.4× teleconverter, according to its research as of October 29, 2026.
Key specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mount | Nikon Z; FX and DX compatible |
| Native focal range | 120–300mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.8; f/4 with built-in teleconverter |
| Teleconverter range | 168–420mm |
| Optical construction | 30 elements in 24 groups |
| Approximate weight | 2,735g |
| Approximate dimensions | 128 × 353.5mm |
| Filters | 112mm front; 46mm slip-in with supplied holder |
The lens uses internal focusing and internal zooming, so its overall length stays constant during operation. Its filter options include both front screw-on filters and a rear slip-in holder.
Autofocus is driven by Nikon’s Silky Swift VCM system. Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings are included to reduce ghosting and flare. Nikon rates stabilization at up to 6.5 stops with Synchro VR, measured on a Z6III at the telephoto end, in Normal mode, with the teleconverter disengaged. That rating should not be assumed for every camera and shooting configuration.
At approximately 2.735kg, this remains a substantial lens. Its practical appeal is the combination of a fast aperture, zoom flexibility and instantly accessible extra reach. Whether its tracking and image quality justify the price will need independent testing.
Price and release date
The U.S. price is $13,999.95, and Nikon USA currently accepts preorders at B&H Photo Video and Adorama.
Nikon Japan specifies a November 13, 2026 release, with Japanese preorder acceptance starting November 5 at 10 a.m. Those dates apply to Japan; buyers elsewhere should check their local Nikon retailer for delivery estimates.