Nikkor Z 17-28mm F.28: Nikon continues the “Tamronization” of its optical fleet

Regularly, Nikon supplies its optical fleet for Z-mount hybrids. This is outside of any framework.

A zoom for landscapes, but not only

Thus, on September 20, 2022, Nikon presents a new wide-angle zoom lens for hybrids, the Nikkor Z 17-28mm F2.8. Note that the Z mount already had two zooms of this type, the Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S and Z 14-24mm F2.8 S, two products from the S range, the highest in hybrid. Very interesting focal lengths for landscape or architectural photos.

This newcomer, relieved of the “S” stamp, is more affordable without compromising on performance. Thus, on the optical construction side, we find a formula of 13 elements divided into 11 groups. Focusing is internal while minimum focus distance is 19cm at 17mm and 26cm at 28mm. The diaphragm has nine blades.

Light and discreet

Regarding the finishes, this 17-28 mm takes up the aesthetic codes of Z-mount optics: black, sober, and with the only coquetry a focus ring that can be reprogrammed for other functions. At 450 g, it is lighter than the Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S and Z 14-24mm F2.8 S, and will therefore be more easily forgotten in a holdall.

A goal that does not come out of nowhere

On paper, the lens is interesting, almost more than the big 14-24mm F2.8 S, and if this new zoom rings a bell, it’s no coincidence. Indeed, it is reminiscent of the Tamron 17-28mm F2.8 Di III RXD launched in 2019 for Sony hybrids. Apart from the external appearance, it takes up feature by feature the specificities of the zoom lens of the Japanese optician.

Tamron to the rescue?

It’s not the first time that Nikon and Tamron seem to be getting closer. Already in December 2021, the firm with the yellow border had presented the Nikkor Z 28-75mm F2.8, which looked deceptively similar to the equivalent Tamron model, still for Sony E.

Between these announcements and the 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD, which Tamron recently unveiled for the Z-mount, its first “official” lens for Nikon mirrorless, we can’t help but think that more and more of Tamron-inspired lenses are coming soon to Nikon.

Price and availability

The Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28mm F2.8 will be available from October 27, 2022 for €1,349. This is less than the Nikkor Z 14-30mm F4 S, displayed by Nikon at €1549 (but which is often found cheaper), or than the Z 14-24mm F2.8 S, sold for €2799 by Japanese optician (also available at a lower price). It is nevertheless much more expensive than the “original” model of Tamron for Sony, marketed under the bar of 900 €

Illustrative images courtesy of Nikon