Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Video Lens Review – Pros & Cons – Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Video Lens is a specialized power zoom lens designed specifically for the professional videographer using Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. This full-frame optic covers a highly versatile 4.8x focal range that spans from wide-angle establishing shots to tight telephoto compositions, making it an ideal choice for documentary, event, and solo production work. As Nikon first dedicated FX-format power zoom, it features a constant f/4 maximum aperture that ensures consistent exposure and depth of field throughout the entire zoom range, allowing for seamless transitions without the need to adjust lighting or ISO settings.

Engineered with a focus on cinematic precision, the Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Video Lens incorporates an internal zoom mechanism that maintains a stable center of gravity, which is essential for maintaining balance when mounted on gimbals, drones, or robotic heads. It boasts advanced optical technologies including the Meso Amorphous Coat to significantly reduce ghosting and flare, along with an aspherical ED element to minimize aberrations. The lens provides 11 selectable zoom speeds and supports linear manual focusing for repeatable focus pulls, while its optical design effectively suppresses focus breathing to keep the framing consistent during focus shifts.

Built to withstand the rigors of professional field use, the Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Video Lens features a rugged dust and drip resistant construction complemented by a fluorine coating on the front element to repel water and oil. It includes specialized video-centric hardware such as a built-in zoom lever, customizable L-Fn buttons, and a focus ring with a standard 0.8 MOD gear pitch for direct compatibility with follow-focus accessories. This USA model also comes equipped with a large rectangular lens hood featuring a filter adjustment window, ensuring that filmmakers can easily manage 95mm variable ND or polarizing filters during active shooting sessions.

FEATURES:
– Full-frame pro video lens
– Power zoom functionality
– Z Series mirrorless compatible
– Constant f/4 aperture
– 28-135mm focal range

The Nikon Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Video Lens is a versatile, full-frame power zoom lens designed specifically for the Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras. This professional-grade lens covers a highly functional focal range of 28mm to 135mm, making it an ideal choice for a wide variety of video applications including documentaries, corporate productions, and event coverage. It maintains a constant f/4 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, providing consistent exposure and depth of field control even as the focal length changes. The lens is engineered for high-resolution performance, supporting up to 8K video capture with exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion.

PROS:
– Versatile 28-135mm focal range
– Smooth 11-speed power zoom
– Constant f/4 maximum aperture
– Suppressed focus breathing
– Fixed length internal zoom
– Stable center of gravity
– Fast and quiet autofocus
– Linear manual focus support
– Professional follow-focus compatibility
– Dust and drip resistant
– Meso Amorphous anti-reflection coating
– Customizable L-Fn control buttons
– Removable rotating tripod foot
– Compact for cine-style lens

CONS:
– Starting focal length is not ultra-wide
– Maximum aperture is only f/4
– Large and heavy physical dimensions
– Electronic power zoom lacks mechanical feel
– Relatively high price point
– External zoom increases lens length

The Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ offers a highly versatile focal range and professional-grade video features, including a smooth eleven-speed power zoom, suppressed focus breathing, and a constant f/4 aperture that maintains exposure throughout the zoom. Its design prioritizes stability with a fixed length internal zoom and a stable center of gravity, making it ideal for gimbal work, while advanced coatings and weather resistance ensure high-quality performance in various conditions. However, the lens is limited by its f/4 maximum aperture and lack of an ultra-wide starting point, and users may find its large physical dimensions, heavy weight, and high price point to be significant drawbacks compared to more compact or affordable alternatives. Read more…


Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ VR Lens

Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ VR Lens

A side profile of a professional Nikon camera lens is shown against a plain white background. The lens body is matte black with a distinctive gold ring near the mount. Bold yellow text on the front element reads Nikkor 28 to 135 Power Zoom. It features multiple textured rings for manual control. A power zoom rocker switch is visible on the side marked with T and W. A customizable L-Fn button sits just below the zoom toggle. An A and M switch for focus modes is located near the base. A sturdy black tripod foot is attached to the bottom of the barrel. The build appears robust and designed for high-end video production. The glass at the rear mount reflects a metallic silver finish.


Professional Video Production Rig

Professional Video Production Rig

A camera operator holds a professional video camera setup. The camera is mounted on a heavy duty tripod head. A large zoom lens is attached to the camera body. The lens has a 28 to 135 millimeter focal range. A thick circular filter is visible on the front of the lens. A Rode shotgun microphone sits on top of the rig. The microphone has a black foam windscreen and a red shock mount. The operator uses a leather hand strap for a secure grip. Two black support rods run along the bottom of the camera. The person is wearing a dark blue shirt and grey pants. The background consists of a blurred stone wall.


DJI Ronin Camera Gimbal Setup

DJI Ronin Camera Gimbal Setup

A black DJI Ronin handheld gimbal stabilizer stands on a brick surface. It is supported by a small integrated tripod base. A professional DSLR or mirrorless camera is mounted on the top axis. The camera is equipped with a large black lens featuring yellow markings. An external monitor is attached to the side of the gimbal handle for better viewing. A hand is visible adjusting the camera body from above. The background consists of a textured red brick wall. The lighting appears natural and even across the equipment. The entire setup is designed for capturing smooth and stable video footage.



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Best Nikon Nikkor Z 28 135mm F Deals

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ | Full-Frame pro Video Power Zoom Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | USA Model, Black

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ | Full-Frame pro Video Power Zoom Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | USA Model, Black

Product Highlights

  • ✅ One touch zoom. Switch from a sweeping establishing shot to a powerful closeup in a snap with a customizable rocker-style zoom control. Quick punch-in or smooth, slow zoom—with 11 speed options. (Supported by Z9, Z8 and Z6III cameras)
  • ✅ Constant maximum aperture. Maximum aperture of f/4 and minimum focus distance of 0.34m (Minimum focus distance of 0.34m is achieved between 28–50mm) allows for dynamic closeups with cinematic blurred backgrounds.
  • ✅ Balanced design. The internal zoom mechanism ensures that the physical length of the lens stays constant during zooming, with only a tiny change to the center of gravity (Maximum center of gravity shift between 28mm and 135mm is approx. 2mm)—essential for mounting on gimbals, drones and robotic heads.
  • ✅ Autofocus you can trust. When speed and convenience are key, the STM autofocus motor provides fast, reliable

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Power Zoom Lens for Z Mount Bundle

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Power Zoom Lens for Z Mount Bundle

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Nikon USA Authorized. Bundle Includes: Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens (Nikon Z), 3 piece Lens Filter Kit 95mm, Camera Bag
  • ✅ Constant f/4 Aperture Throughout Zoom Range: Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ maintains consistent exposure from wide angle through telephoto perspectives, eliminating brightness shifts during zooming that require mid-shot compensation. This aperture stability supports predictable depth-of-field control and simplifies lighting setups for multi-camera productions where matched exposure across lenses is critical.
  • ✅ Parfocal Optical Design for Video: Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 holds focus when zooming in or out, reducing the need for constant refocusing during recording. Professional videographers working in live environments, documentary production, and narrative filmmaking rely on parfocal behavior to execute smooth zoom movements without interrupting shot composition or losing subject sharpness.
  • ✅ Power Zoom With Customizable Speed Control: Nikon 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens features electronically controlled zoom operation via the focus ring, allowing cinematographers to execute consistent, repeatable zoom movements at adjustable speeds. Two function buttons and a dedicated exposure compensation button provide quick access to frequently adjusted settings, streamlining workflow during fast-paced shoots and reducing reliance on camera menus.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens (20127) Bundle

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens (20127) Bundle

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Items Include: Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens | Versatile Power Zoom for Professional Videography and Photography, UV Filter, Deluxe Cleaning Kit, 5-Inch Lens Pouch, Cap Keeper
  • ✅ Versatile Focal Range: The NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens offers a broad focal length range from 28mm wide-angle to 135mm telephoto, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios, from expansive landscapes to detailed portraits. This all-in-one lens eliminates the need for frequent lens changes, ensuring you capture every moment seamlessly.
  • ✅ Power Zoom Functionality: Equipped with a power zoom mechanism, this lens allows for smooth and precise zoom transitions, essential for professional-quality video production. The zoom lever offers 11 different speed settings, enabling you to match the zoom pace to your creative vision, whether it's a slow, dramatic pull or a quick shift in perspective.
  • ✅ Superior Optical Performance: Constructed with 18 elements in 13 groups, including Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and aspherical elements, the lens minimizes chromatic aberrations and distortions. The Meso Amorphous Coating significantly reduces ghosting and flare, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Covers a broad range of focal lengths—from 28mm to 400mm, with a 14.2x zoom.
  • ✅ A minimum focus distance of 0.2 m at the maximum wide-angle position and a maximum reproduction ratio of 0.35x at 28mm allows users to get closer to their subjects for dynamic expression.
  • ✅ A total length of approx. 5.57 in. (141.5 mm) and a weight of approx. 1.6 lbs (725 g)—the lightest lens in its class—make this an easy lens to carry and shoot hand-held.
  • ✅ Stable VR performance equivalent to a 5.0-stop increase in shutter speed effectively reduces blurring in dimly lit surroundings and with hand-held shooting. When paired with a compatible camera, Synchro VR can be activated to achieve up to 5.5-stop stabilization by combining in-camera VR and lens VR.

Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Professional Power Zoom Lens for Nikon Z Mount Mirrorless Cameras Bundle with 3-Piece Filter Kit, Lens Pen, Dust Blower, Cleaning Kit & Many More (Renewed)

Image of Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Professional Power Zoom Lens for Nikon Z Mount Mirrorless Cameras Bundle with 3-Piece Filter Kit, Lens Pen, Dust Blower, Cleaning Kit & Many More (Renewed)

Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR | Wide-Angle Power Zoom Lens with Image stabilization for APS-C Size/DX Format Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm PZ VR | Wide-Angle Power Zoom Lens with Image stabilization for APS-C Size/DX Format Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Versatile ultra-wide-angle zoom: From immersive and dramatic 12mm views to more natural views of a 28mm.
  • ✅ VR image stabilization: 4.5 stops of built-in optical VR (Vibration Reduction) counteracts shakiness for steadier
  • ✅ Power zoom: Select from 11 speeds—from slow and subtle to nearly instantaneous.
  • ✅ Close focus: Get as close as 11-inches from your subject.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (Special Edition) | Retro-Styled Compact Standard Prime Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (Special Edition) | Retro-Styled Compact Standard Prime Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Special edition: Classic designed 28mm prime lens.
  • ✅ Camera compatibility: Compatible with FX and DX format Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras (42mm equivalent on DX format cameras).
  • ✅ Close focusing: capture images from a min distance of 0.63 feet from your subject.
  • ✅ Custom control ring: Turn the ring on the lens to control focusing, aperture, ISO or exposure compensation.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 | Compact Standard Prime Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 | Compact Standard Prime Lens for Z Series mirrorless Cameras | Nikon USA Model

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Camera compatibility: Compatible with FX and DX format Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras (42mm equivalent field of view on DX format cameras).
  • ✅ Close focusing: capture images from a min distance of 0.63 feet from your subject.
  • ✅ Custom control ring: Turn the ring on the lens to control focusing, aperture, ISO or exposure compensation.
  • ✅ Fast Autofocus: Dual stepping motors operate in near silence, ideal for video.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 Lens

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 Lens

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Painterly bokeh. Background objects can be transformed into compositional elements; points of light into smooth, soft circles.
  • ✅ Video workhorse. The compact size of the lens is ideal for use on a gimbal; the silent STM lens drive minimizes operational noises for fast, silent autofocus and suppressed focus breathing.
  • ✅ Low-light freedom. Capture more details at lower ISO and use faster shutter speeds with a wide f/1.4 aperture.
  • ✅ At home on all Z series mirrorless cameras. The full-frame/FX format NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.4 lens has a 52mm equivalent field of view on an APS-C size/DX format camera.

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens Kit: Memory Card Wallet, 64GB Card, Reader, 3-Piece Filter Kit, 12" Flex Tripod, Photo Editing Software

Image of Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens Kit: Memory Card Wallet, 64GB Card, Reader, 3-Piece Filter Kit, 12" Flex Tripod, Photo Editing Software

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Bundle Items Include:Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Mirrorless Lens, Ultra 64GB Memory Card, Photo Editing Software, Protective Lens Pouch, Memory Card Reader, 3 Piece Filter Kit, 12" Flexible Tripod, Cleaning Kit, Memory Card Wallet, Lens Cap Keeper
  • ✅ Expansive Zoom Range for Versatile Photography: Experience an expansive zoom range with the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR Lens, covering everything from intimate portraits to dynamic events. The versatile focal length allows you to confidently capture a wide variety of subjects, from close-up details to distant action shots. Ideal for both professional photographers and avid hobbyists, this lens is perfect for those looking to explore diverse photographic opportunities.
  • ✅ Superior Image Stabilization with Synchro VR: Achieve sharp, blur-free images even in challenging shooting conditions with the NIKKOR Z 28-400mm's Synchro VR, providing up to 5.5 stops of image stabilization. Paired with a compatible camera, this feature significantly reduces camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld, especially in low light. Whether you're capturing fast-moving sports or wildlife, you can count on this lens for consistently clear and crisp photos.
  • ✅ Compact and Durable for On-the-Go Shooting: Designed for convenience and reliability, this lens features a compact build weighing only 1.6 lb, making it easy to carry for long periods. The weather-sealed construction ensures durability, allowing you to shoot confidently in various environments. With its 7.9" minimum focusing distance at 28mm, you can get close to your subjects while maintaining sharp focus, perfect for detailed close-ups and macro photography.
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