If ever there was one Nikon lens to rule them all, the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S would be top of my list. It’s not the most versatile Nikon Z lens out there, but I think it offers the best balance between image quality, portability, and versatility. The Nikon 24-120mm is so sharp that it essentially matches the performance of the Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 S, while offering a further 50mm of headroom. Which begs the question, why would anybody bother with the latter? Extra portability and budget (although prices aren't that different) are the only viable answers.The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S isn't particularly compact for its focal length, weighing in at 630g and measuring 84 x 118mm (3.4 x 4.7in), but it’s inherently a lot smaller than the Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR and Nikon Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR. And that’s important to me. The Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR is a fantastic lens that boasts excellent image quality. But versatility isn’t the be-all and end-all. A versatile lens is only worth it if you’re prepared to live with it on a regular basis – and that’s where I think the Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S shines.
