Lens guide · updated 5 November 2026

Best lenses for the Nikon Zf

The Zf uses the Nikon Z mount with a full-frame sensor. We picked the best lens in each category from 40 native lenses, plus a cheaper alternative where one is worth having.

Zf specs
Where to start

Pair the Zf with the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S and add the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE) for low light and portraits. When you need reach, the Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD.

CategoryBestBudget pick
Standard zoom
Your everyday lens, from wide to short telephoto.
Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S (24-70mm eq · £880 used)Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S (24-70mm eq · £320 used)
Telephoto zoom
For sport, events, wildlife at a distance and compressed portraits.
Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S (70-200mm eq · £1,570 used)Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD (70-300mm eq · £499 new)
Wide-angle
For landscapes, architecture, interiors and the night sky.
Nikon Z 17-28mm f/2.8 (17-28mm eq · £760 used)Viltrox AF 14mm f/4 Air (14mm eq · £169 new)
Portrait prime
Flattering perspective and blurred backgrounds.
Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 S (85mm eq · £2,999 new)Viltrox AF 85mm f/1.8 II (85mm eq · £349 new)
Fast standard prime
Small, bright and cheap: the best first upgrade from a kit zoom.
Nikon Z 50mm f/1.2 S (50mm eq · £950 used)Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE) (40mm eq · £180 used)
All-in-one travel zoom
One lens for everything when you don't want to swap.
Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S (24-120mm eq · £650 used)—
Macro
Close-up detail: insects, flowers, products and food.
Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD (90mm eq · £799 new)—
Super-telephoto
For birds, wildlife and motorsport.
Nikon Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S (600mm eq · £3,620 used)Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (150-500mm eq · £1,199 new)

Prices: MPB used where listed for Nikon Z, otherwise typical new UK price (5 November 2026). Equivalent focal lengths account for the sensor size.

More for the Zf

Frequently asked questions

What is the best lens for the Nikon Zf?

For most people, a standard zoom such as the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S, plus a fast prime like the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 (SE).

What lenses fit the Nikon Zf?

The Zf uses the Nikon Z mount. Our database lists 40 lenses that fit natively and 24 more with an adapter.

Is the kit lens good enough for the Zf?

Kit zooms are fine to start with. The biggest improvement usually comes from a brighter prime for low light and portraits, or a better standard zoom.

What telephoto lens should I get for the Zf?

The Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S is our top telephoto pick; the Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD is the budget choice.