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Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ specifications and in-depth review

Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ

Manufacturer: Nikon

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a zoom telephoto lens designed for the Nikon Z mount system, covering a versatile focal range from 28mm to 135mm. It features a constant f/4 aperture across its entire zoom range, meaning exposure remains consistent whether shooting at the wide or telephoto end. Weighing 1120g and fitted with a metal mount, the lens also ships with a lens hood included.

Optically, the lens delivers a maximum magnification of 0.25x and a 4.8x optical zoom ratio, with a minimum focus distance of 0.57m. Built-in optical image stabilization helps manage camera shake during handheld shooting. The aperture mechanism uses 9 rounded blades, with the smallest available aperture at the minimum focal length reaching f/22. A built-in focus motor supports autofocus, and full-time manual focus override is available without needing to switch modes. The lens is also capable of focusing to infinity.

Pros
  • Constant f/4 aperture throughout the entire zoom range ensures consistent exposure without adjustment when zooming
  • Built-in optical image stabilization helps maintain sharp results during handheld shooting
  • Full-time manual focus override allows instant focus adjustments without disabling autofocus
  • Nine rounded aperture blades produce a smoother bokeh shape at various aperture settings
  • Includes a lens hood in the box, ready for use without additional purchase
  • Metal mount construction adds durability to the lens-body connection
Cons
  • At 1120g, the lens is relatively heavy, which may cause fatigue during extended handheld use
  • The 95mm filter diameter means compatible filters are large and typically more expensive to source
  • A minimum focus distance of 0.57m limits how close the lens can get to a subject for detail work
  • The maximum aperture of f/4 lets in less light compared to faster lenses, which can be limiting in low-light conditions
Who is this for?

This lens is well suited to videographers and photographers who need a versatile zoom range in a single optic, particularly those working in controlled or moderately lit environments where a constant f/4 aperture is sufficient. The built-in optical image stabilization makes it a practical choice for handheld shooting scenarios where a stable platform is not always available. Users who frequently switch between wide and moderate telephoto framing — such as those covering events, documentary work, or run-and-gun video — will benefit from the 28–135mm coverage without needing to change lenses.

Who is this NOT for?

Photographers who regularly shoot in low-light conditions without supplemental lighting may find the f/4 maximum aperture a limiting factor, as it does not allow the same light-gathering capability as faster optics. The lens is also less suited to users who prioritize portability, given its weight of 1120g and large 95mm filter thread, which add noticeable bulk to a kit. Those needing to work at very close focusing distances for detailed or macro-style photography will also find the 0.57m minimum focus distance restrictive for that type of work.

General info:

lens type Zoom, Telephoto
lens mount Nikon Z
Has a metal mount ✓
weight 1120 g
Includes lens hood ✓
filter size 95 mm

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a zoom telephoto lens built for the Nikon Z mount, featuring a solid metal mount construction. It weighs 1120g and accepts filters via a 95mm filter thread. A lens hood is included in the box, adding convenience for shooting in varied lighting conditions.

Optics:

maximum focal length 135 mm
minimum focal length 28 mm
has built-in optical image stabilization ✓
magnification 0.25x
optical zoom 4.8x

This lens covers a focal range of 28mm to 135mm, offering a 4.8x optical zoom ratio that spans wide-angle to moderate telephoto framing. It achieves a maximum magnification of 0.25x and includes built-in optical image stabilization to help reduce the effects of camera shake during handheld use.

Aperture:

wide aperture (main camera) 4f
widest aperture at maximum focal length 4f
aperture blades 9
Has rounded aperture blades ✓
smallest aperture at maximum focal length 4f
smallest aperture at minimum focal length 22f

The lens maintains a constant f/4 aperture across its entire zoom range, meaning the widest available opening remains f/4 whether shooting at 28mm or 135mm. At the minimum focal length, the aperture can be stopped down to f/22. The diaphragm is constructed with 9 rounded blades, which contributes to a smoother circular opening at various aperture settings.

Focus:

Can focus to infinity ✓
Has focus motor ✓
Has full-time manual focus ✓
minimum focus distance 0.57 m

The lens includes a built-in focus motor and supports focusing all the way to infinity. Its minimum focus distance is 0.57m, defining how close a subject can be before focus is lost. Full-time manual focus is available, allowing the focus ring to be adjusted at any time without switching out of autofocus mode.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a well-specified zoom lens that serves as a practical all-in-one solution for Nikon Z mount users who need flexible framing across a wide-to-telephoto range. Its constant f/4 aperture combined with built-in optical image stabilization makes it a reliable option for handheld shooting in varied conditions, and the inclusion of a focus motor with full-time manual override adds genuine operational flexibility. The trade-offs — notably its substantial weight and the moderate maximum aperture — mean it is best matched to users whose shooting environments align with its strengths rather than those demanding low-light performance or a lightweight kit. Overall, the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a purposeful lens with a clear intended use case, and for the right user, its feature set makes it a coherent and capable choice within the Nikon Z ecosystem.