Nikon's affordable DX telephoto zoom for the Z-mount mirrorless system, covering 75-375mm equivalent.
The Nikon Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR was launched in 2019 alongside the Z 50 as the companion telephoto to the 16-50mm kit lens. It provides a 75-375mm equivalent range on Nikon's DX-format Z-mount bodies, covering wildlife, sports, and travel telephoto needs in a remarkably compact and affordable package.
Image quality is impressive for a kit-class telephoto. Sharpness is good in the centre throughout the range and acceptable in the corners when stopped down. The VR system provides around 5 stops of stabilisation, critical given the slow variable aperture. Autofocus is driven by a stepping motor — quiet and accurate for both stills and video.
Nikon Z mount, DX format only. Filter thread is 62mm. Weight is just 405 grams, making it one of the lightest telephoto zooms in any system. The lens extends significantly when zoomed to 250mm. No weather sealing. The retractable design requires unlocking before shooting, similar to the DX 16-50mm.
Widely available used as many Z 50 and Z fc owners sell the twin kit. Check for smooth zoom and focus operation. The slow f/6.3 aperture at 250mm demands good light or high ISO. Excellent value for casual telephoto work — serious wildlife shooters will want the Z 100-400mm or Z 70-200mm f/2.8 instead.