Nikon just dropped some pretty exciting news for those of us using the Z system. They are officially developing a new NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens. This is not just your average constant aperture telephoto zoom; it actually has a built-in 1.4x teleconverter which brings the total focal range coverage to 120-420mm.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f2.8 TC VR S with 1.4x Teleconverter in Development
Also read: Lenses with Built-in Teleconverters in 2025 and Advantages vs External TCl
For anyone who has ever felt like a 70-200mm was just a little too short but didn't want to haul around a massive prime, this might be the perfect middle ground. You get a constant f/2.8 aperture for that great low light performance and bokeh. Then, if you need more reach, you just flip a switch to engage the internal teleconverter and suddenly you have a 168-420mm f/4 lens.
The 1.4x Teleconverter on the Z 120-300mm F2.8 TC
Since it carries the S-Line branding, we can expect the optical quality to be top tier. It is going to be a huge help for people shooting things like football, soccer, or even some wildlife that stays just out of reach. Being able to change focal lengths without physically swapping lenses or messing with external converters in the dust is a massive win for flexibility in the field.
Canon RF 100-300mm f2.8 L IS USM Lens for RF Mount is the closest to the new Nikon in Mirrorless Mounts
Price and Availability
Right now, Nikon has only announced that the lens is in development. There are no official details on the price or a specific release date yet. Judging by similar pro-level glass, it will likely be at the higher end of the spectrum when it finally hits the shelves. For reference, Canon's RF 100-300mm f2.8 L IS USM which has a slightly wider coverage but lacks the built-in Teleconverter has an MSRP of $10,599!
Press Release:
Nikon is developing the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a telephoto zoom lens with a built-in 1.4× teleconverter
MELVILLE, NY (May 7, 2026) -- Nikon is pleased to announce the development of the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a telephoto zoom lens compatible with full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras.
As part of the S-Line* series of NIKKOR Z lenses, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is a telephoto zoom lens offering a focal length range of 120mm to 420mm, enabled by a built-in teleconverter that extends its focal length by 1.4×. The superior optical performance and mobility of this lens will support professional photographers' imaging expression in genres such as sports photography and beyond.
Nikon will continue to pursue a new dimension in optical performance while meeting users' needs, contributing to the development of imaging culture, with the hope of expanding possibilities for imaging expression.
For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the vast collection of NIKKOR Z lenses and the entire line of Z series cameras, please visit nikonusa.com.
*The S-Line is a grade of NIKKOR Z lenses that demonstrate
