CP+ 2019: Hands-on with Nikon Z 14-30mm F4 S
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Announced earlier this year, Nikon’s new Z 14-30mm F4 S is a compact wideangle zoom lens for Nikon’s Z-series mirrorless cameras. We just got our hands on a working sample at CP+. Click through for more details and some initial handling impressions.
Locking zoom mechanism
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Shown here on a Nikon Z6 (one of two cameras capable of mounting it, the other being the ergonomically identical Z7) this compact lens weighs just 485g (17oz). Like the Z 24-70mm F4, the 14-30mm is most compact when ‘locked’ (indicated by a white dot on the zoom ring).
Size and weight
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Unlocking the zoom ring and moving the ring to the 14mm position increases the overall length of the lens, but this is as long as it gets. When zoomed in toward 30mm, the zoom extension is gradually reduced. Compared to the AF-S 14-24mm F2.8 for F-mount, the Z 14-30mm F4 S is a good deal smaller and lighter, and very nicely balanced on the Z6/7.
We’d expect a degree of size and weight reduction considering its more modest continuous aperture, and for many (probably most) photographic purposes, the more portable form factor, and the option of adding a conventional protective filter, will outweigh the penalty in brightness.
Compared to Z 24-70mm F4 S
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Shown here alongside an Z 24-70mm F4 S (on the right) the new lens is almost indistinguishable at a casual glance. The biggest difference – literally – is the 82mm filter ring. While in no way unreasonable for a wideangle lens of this kind, it’s substantially larger than the 72mm ring on the front of the Z 24-70mm F4.
Neither lens features the control ring found on the forthcoming Z 24-70mm F2.8 S, but the focus ring can be customized to provide direct control over various functions if required.
Optical construction and 82mm filter thread
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The front element of the Z 14-40mm S is only slightly domed, which is what allows for a filter to be attached in the first place. If you take a look at the reflections in this image though, you’ll see the telltale curves of at least one aspherical element in the foremost optical group. In total, the Z 14-30mm contains no fewer than four aspherical elements, and four ED (extra low-dispersion glass).
Lenshood and coatings
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While pleasantly compact overall, the Z 14-30mm S comes with a large, shallow hood to help protect against flare. Inside the lens, Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat provides another layer of defense.
Weather-sealed construction
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As with all of Nikon’s Z-mount lenses released so far, the 14-30mm F4 is sealed against dust and moisture. It will be available soon for $ 1299.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)