New NIKKOR Z DX Lenses Expand Nikon’s DX Lineup
Nikon has expanded its APS-C Z-mount lineup with two practical, creator-friendly lenses designed to boost speed, stability, and versatility for DX-format shooters. The NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR standard zoom and the NIKKOR Z DX 35mm f/1.7 prime arrive as preorder offerings, with shipping expected around October 30. These lenses aim to deliver pro-level performance for both video and stills without the bulk often associated with faster glass.
What the 16-50mm f/2.8 VR Brings to DX Cameras
The 16–50mm f/2.8 VR covers a 24–75mm full-frame equivalent range on DX bodies, maintaining a constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom. This consistency is valuable for filmmakers and photographers who want reliable exposure and shallow depth of field as they zoom, whether shooting indoors, outdoors, or in mixed lighting. Nikon notes up to 4.5 stops of Vibration Reduction to help handheld footage look steadier, especially when paired with gimbals or run-and-gun setups.
Optical performance benefits from a rounded 9-blade diaphragm, which aims to produce smoother, more natural bokeh in backgrounds. Focus breathing is minimized and focusing is powered by a quiet stepping motor, a crucial detail for video where stable, silent AF helps maintain clean sound in post.
In terms of practicality, the lens focuses as close as 15 cm (5.9 inches) at the wide end, and 25 cm (9.8 inches) when zoomed toward tele. A user-assignable control ring adds tactile control over exposure or other settings, and the 67 mm front filter thread keeps accessory options straightforward. The lens is designed to be travel-friendly with a compact size and manageable weight.
Design for Creators
Beyond specs, Nikon emphasizes ease of use for creators who often shoot on the move. The 16–50mm f/2.8 VR is compatible with on-camera stabilization workflows and looks to deliver quicker, more confident focus transitions during run-and-gun shoots. It also pairs well with open-reel or mirrorless rigs that prioritize lightweight, balanced handling.
The 35mm f/1.7: A Compact Everyday Prime
On DX bodies, the 35mm f/1.7 translates to a natural 52.5mm field of view — an ideal perspective for portraits, street photography, and product shots. The fast f/1.7 aperture offers improved low-light performance and the potential for a shallow depth of field that flatters skin tones and subject separation.
Internal focusing keeps the lens length steady during focus pulls, aiding balance in handheld shots and videography. The 35mm prime also benefits from quiet STM autofocus for smooth operation around on-camera mics, and it accepts 52 mm front filters, making it a convenient everyday lens for a broad range of shooting scenarios. The minimum focus distance is 16 cm (6.3 inches), enabling semi-macro work without additional equipment.
Video and Still-Image Performance
Both lenses are designed with creators in mind: the 16–50mm f/2.8 VR offers stabilized, consistent exposure and smoother focus transitions, while the 35mm f/1.7 delivers fast performance and discreet, quiet autofocus for on-camera mics. The combination empowers videographers to cover a wide range of scenes—from intimate table-top shots to dynamic street footage—without swapping lenses frequently.
Availability, Pricing and Inclusions
As of press time, both lenses are available for preorder, with an estimated ship date of Thursday, October 30. The NIKKOR Z DX 16–50mm f/2.8 VR carries a suggested price of $896.95 USD. The NIKKOR Z DX 35mm f/1.7 is priced at $446.96 USD. Each lens includes front and rear caps; the 16–50mm kit adds the HB-118 lens hood for added front-end protection and shading.
What This Means for Nikon DX Creators
With these two lenses, Nikon reinforces its DX road map by offering fast, stabilized zooms and bright primes that remain portable for everyday use. For creators who shoot both photos and video, the new lineup promises cleaner handheld footage, more controlled depth of field, and fewer compromises when working in less-than-ideal lighting. As screen resolution and video expectations rise, having reliable, high-performance glass in the DX category becomes increasingly important for content creators who want professional results without switching to full-frame gear.
Bottom Line
The NIKKOR Z DX 16–50mm f/2.8 VR and the NIKKOR Z DX 35mm f/1.7 offer practical, high-value options for Nikon DX shooters. With constant fast aperture, built-in stabilization, quiet autofocus, and thoughtful features like close focus and a user-assignable control ring, these lenses are positioned to appeal to creators who prioritize speed, stability, and flexibility in a compact kit.
