Nikon's compact retractable kit zoom for Z-mount, covering a modest 24-50mm range.
The Nikon Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 was released in 2020 as a compact retractable kit zoom for the full-frame Z-mount system, bundled with the Z5 as the accessible entry into Z-mount full-frame photography. The retractable design collapses to approximately 63mm length for transport, enabling a combined body-plus-lens profile compact enough for light travel. Variable aperture from f/4 at 24mm to f/6.3 at 50mm reflects the lighter construction approach compared to the Z 24-70mm f/4 S. On full-frame bodies the 24-50mm provides standard wide-to-normal coverage for travel, landscape, and environmental portrait use.
The optical design uses 11 elements in 10 groups, including three aspherical and two ED elements. Seven rounded aperture blades produce smooth out-of-focus rendering. The 52mm filter thread is a common travel size, compatible with most compact filter collections and enabling carry-over from DX kit lens filter sets. At 195g the lens enables a sub-700g full-frame body-plus-lens combination with the Z5. Minimum focus distance of 0.35m throughout the zoom range enables informal close-up framing. Variable aperture runs from f/4 at 24mm to f/6.3 at 50mm. The retractable barrel extends to the shooting position and includes a lock to prevent accidental collapse during use.
The 24-50mm's practical role is as the most compact full-frame Z-mount kit option for light travel. For everyday photography in good daylight the variable aperture is workable; f/6.3 at 50mm is notably slow for indoor or low-light conditions at the normal end of the range, requiring higher ISO to compensate. The retractable design produces a compact body-plus-lens profile suited to jacket pocket or small bag carry. For photographers prioritising compact size over aperture speed in a full-frame kit, the 24-50mm achieves that goal at significantly lower weight than the Z 24-70mm f/4 S.
On the used market the Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is widely available at low prices as the entry Z-mount full-frame kit lens. Condition checks: retractable barrel extension and lock mechanism, AF response across the focal range, and front element for any marks. The Z 24-70mm f/4 S provides better optical quality and constant f/4 at a substantial premium — the practical upgrade for photographers who outgrow the kit lens's aperture or quality. The 52mm filter thread enables carry-over from Nikon DX kit lens filter collections. Compatible with all Nikon Z-mount full-frame and APS-C DX bodies.