Nikon Z 40mm f/2
Announced September 14, 2021
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Nikon Z 40mm f/2 is a compact and affordable prime that delivers sharp center images and pleasant bokeh for street or general photography. While it provides excellent value for Z-mount users, the lens relies on a lightweight plastic construction and lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end optics.
Weighted from 12 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight build
- Sharp center resolution and image quality
- Fast and quiet autofocus performance
- Smooth and attractive bokeh
- Budget-friendly price point
Cons
- Susceptibility to flare and coma
- All-plastic construction including the lens mount
- Lack of included accessories like a lens hood
- Soft corner performance and high vignetting at wide apertures
- Missing physical controls like an AF/M switch or customizable ring
- Launch price $299.95 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 40mm f/2
- Mount & coverage Nikon Z Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 29 cm (0.17x)
- Filter thread 52mm
- Autofocus motor STM
- Weight & size 170g · 70 x 45.5 mm (2.76 x 1.79 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 12 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 9/10
For the creative that needs to fill in the gap between their 35mm and 50mm lenses, or a hybrid street photographer looking for something small and discreet, the $297 40mm f/2 prime lens for Nikon Z Mirrorless systems is a useful and very affordable piece of glass.
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This makes the Nikon Z 40mm f2.0 an interesting proposition on Nikon's lens road-map and earns it a clear recommendation.
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Ultimately the Nikon Z 40mm f/2 comes highly recommended, not only to Z system users who don’t already have a native standard prime, but also to those who’d like a smaller and lighter alternative to S-line optics.
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There's not really much more you can ask for a 40mm lens at this price point, and it'll be really useful for all kinds of different photography situations, so it does come recommended.
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Of course it doesn't change the fact that, nevertheless, the Nikkor Z 40 mm f/2 might be a joy to use as it is able to take sharp, crisp photos. Compared to its system 1.8/35 and 1.8/50 brothers it will also allow you to save a lot of money.
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Plenty of folk are going to embrace this muffin of a lens. Nikon has priced it well for what it is and does, and the compact nature adds an important capability to the Z-mount offerings that some will want.
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There is no doubt that the lens delivers an excellent to outstanding performance, and at a very keen price. Add to that the small, light form factor and we have perhaps an ideal travelling companion.
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[T]he Nikon Z 40mm F2 is a brilliant little lens that doesn't cost the earth and is definitely worthy of earning the title of "nifty-forty"!
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A little lens with a big heart, the Z 40mm is a truly versatile prime with a focal length and viewing angle that work really well for street photography, portraiture, architectural shooting and more besides.
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The affordable, background-blurring Nikon Nikkor Z 40mm F2 lens focuses a bit slowly, but we like the characterful look of its images.
- Photo Review 9.0/10
The combination of excellent performance, compact size and an affordable price tag will make this lens worth considering by anyone who owns a Z-mount camera, whether they be full-frame or APS-C Z-mount shooters.
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This lens just strikes a great balance between price, size, and performance.
