Nikon Announces Development of 120-300mm f/2.8 With Built-In Teleconverter
Nikon has revealed that it’s working on a new flagship telephoto zoom for the Z system—the Nikkor Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S. And yes, it comes with a built-in 1.4x teleconverter.
That means with a quick switch, the lens effectively becomes a 168-420mm f/4, giving photographers extra reach without needing to attach anything externally.
A Pro Telephoto for Sports and Wildlife
As part of Nikon’s S-line, this lens is clearly aimed at professionals. Expect top-tier optics, robust build quality, and performance designed for demanding scenarios like sports, wildlife, and outdoor events.
The combination of a fast f/2.8 aperture and long zoom range makes it a versatile tool—especially for photographers who need flexibility without swapping lenses mid-shoot.
On APS-C Z cameras, the effective field of view stretches even further to around 180-450mm equivalent.
A Modern Take on a Classic Lens
This new lens essentially replaces the Nikkor 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR for F-mount DSLRs, which was widely regarded as one of Nikon’s best telephoto zooms.
That lens is still in use today via the FTZ adapter, so expectations are understandably high for its mirrorless successor.
Built-In Teleconverter = Real-World Convenience
The integrated 1.4x teleconverter is one of the biggest highlights here. Instead of attaching an external TC, you can just flip a switch and instantly extend your reach.
That’s a huge advantage in fast-paced shooting situations—especially for sports or wildlife—where you don’t have time to swap gear.
A new lens is coming soon! With superior optical performance, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is the ultimate lens for professional sports photographers and more.
For more information: https://t.co/Sa2X6BIAB9 pic.twitter.com/xjjZJhDw9D
— NikonUSA (@NikonUSA) May 7, 2026
What We Can Expect From the Design
Based on the early preview image, the lens includes multiple customizable buttons, a zoom ring, a manual focus ring, and a control ring.
There’s also a rotating tripod collar, which is pretty much expected for a lens of this size. Nikon’s Vibration Reduction (VR) system will also be onboard, helping stabilize shots at longer focal lengths.
It’s also likely that the lens will support drop-in filters, similar to other high-end Z telephotos like the 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S.
Pricing and Availability
Nikon hasn’t shared a release date yet, and it’s unclear how far along development currently is.
As for pricing—this definitely won’t be cheap. The previous F-mount version launched at around $9,500, and with the added teleconverter and updated Z-mount design, it’s reasonable to expect this one to land well above the $10,000 mark.