In this Lumoid guide, we look at the best lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras. Like other manufacturers, Nikon has expanded its range of mirrorless devices, and this seems to be a recurring trend. Mirrorless cameras are compact but still have excellent functionality.
Popular examples of Nikon mirrorless cameras include the extremely powerful Z7, the mid-range Z50, and the Z6 which is a fantastic all-round camera. These devices have the Nikon Z-mount as their native lens mount which is different than the standard Nikon AF lenses.
You can use a lens mount adapter to benefit from the full range of Nikon lenses, but there is a great selection of dedicated Z lenses also, as seen below. We look at the best lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras and cover everything from wide-angle, to telephoto zoom and prime portrait lenses:
1. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S (Overall Winner)
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S is the ultimate lens for Nikon mirrorless cameras. Yes, it is expensive, but it is a superb lens that is the perfect kit lens. With a focal range of 24-70mm, it covers many different photographic styles and can be used in lots of situations.
Furthermore, it has an impressive constant aperture of f/4 which carries through from 24mm to 70mm. This gives consistency in shooting and makes it easier to operate.
The lens has a customizable control ring that can be set to different functions. Moreover, it has a stepping motor (STM) and enhanced optical glass. You will notice the amazing quality and versatility when using this device.
2. Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is one of the best lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras due to its versatility and quality. The 14-30mm focal range is ideal for wide-angle street photography or even panoramic landscape shots.
Although the maximum aperture is only f/4, it still provides enough flexibility for the types of shots you will generally take with it.
In addition, the lens has a retractable feature – it collapses when not in use for easy storage. Moreover, it benefits from Nikon’s STM which makes its operation virtually silent. It also looks great and has a textured external grip so it is comfortable to hold and use.
3. Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S
Whilst wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses are brilliant, a prime mid-range focal length lens is also ideal. For the Z-mount cameras, this comes in the form of the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S. This is an excellent prime lens – perfect for portrait shots.
The lens elements have a nano crystal coating that provides excellent clarity and sharpness. Furthermore, the maximum aperture of f/1.8 allows for the creation of an amazing soft bokeh effect.
In addition, the external material is extensively sealed, resisting both drips and dust. It looks fantastic and is relatively lightweight and compact.
4. Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR
Your collection of Nikon mirrorless lenses would not be complete without a telephoto zoom lens. For Z-mount cameras, the best option is currently the Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR. This incredible lens is perfect for wildlife photography and capturing close-up details from afar.
It benefits from VR image stabilization which helps create smooth, clear images even at the 250mm focal range. Moreover, it has a control ring that you can assign different functions.
In relation to a full-frame Nikon camera, the equivalent zoom range is 75-375mm, so you won’t miss any details using this behemoth! Image quality is great, and there is minimal distortion at both ends of the focal range.
5. Nikon NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S
The Nikon NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.8 S is an impressive wide-angle lens with a brilliant aperture. If you want a high-performance wide-angle lens for street photography or landscape shots, this is the best choice available.
It is certainly not cheap, but the higher price tag is worth the investment. It is made from durable materials and features dust and drip resistance like other Z lenses.
Furthermore, it has an ultra-quiet stepping motor which makes the lens operate virtually silently. In terms of functionality, image quality is amazing. In addition to this, the f/1.8 aperture allows for stunning bokeh effects and greater control.
6. Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC (Budget Winner)
Rokinon has a few Z-mount lenses, but the Rokinon 14mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UMC is a top choice. This is a brilliant quality ultra-wide-angle lens that is perfect for almost panoramic landscape shots or fisheye images.
The lens elements are created using multi-coated glass to minimize glare and resist dirt and moisture. Furthermore, the f/2.8 aperture range gives excellent control and allows you to experiment with depth of field.
In addition, this lens has a built-in petal-shape lens hood that helps protect the lens element. It also has a rear holder that allows you to use different light filters and gels easily.
Start Your Collection With the Best Lenses for Nikon Mirrorless Cameras
Like the Canon range of mirrorless lenses, the range of lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras is still expanding. It is nowhere near as versatile as the full range of AF lenses, though there is a sufficient range to suit various photography types like macro, portraits, and landscapes.
We expect Nikon to increase its mirrorless lens range as cameras like the Z7 and Z50 remain popular choices. In addition to this, other manufacturers should eventually start to produce lenses for the Z-mount, as they are doing with the Canon EF-M mount.
To start your Z lens collection, we advise choosing a mid-range kit lens like the 24-70mm. You could then add a wide-angle lens like the 24mm f/1.8 S, or a zoom lens like the impressive 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR. The choice is yours depending on your own style of photography!
