* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon Nikkor Z 28mm f/2.8 SE FX Autofocus Lens for Z-Mount, Black {52}
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$223.00
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KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear, expertly inspected†
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Nikon's 28mm Z-mount prime built like a classic NIKKOR
At 5.6 oz and 43mm long, the NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) is one of the smallest full-frame primes in the Z system lineup. The Special Edition design is a direct callback to the FM2 era, with knurled control ring detailing pulled from Nikon's original design drawings of that period. It looks the part on any Z body, but the design isn't purely cosmetic, the smooth, programmable control ring can be assigned to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation to match your shooting habits.
Optically, the 9-element, 8-group formula uses a dual stepping motor multi-focus system, which splits focusing work across two element groups. This approach keeps autofocus fast and quiet, and it also reduces edge distortion when shooting close. Speaking of close: the minimum focusing distance is 0.63 ft / 19.2 cm, short enough to pull in subject details that a standard wide-angle would typically push away. Focus breathing is well-controlled, making this a practical choice for video alongside stills.
The 53-degree angle of view reads as classic 28mm on FX bodies and a near-normal 42mm equivalent on DX. a f/2.8 maximum aperture gives you real flexibility in low light without the size penalty of a faster prime. At this focal length, depth of field stays generous even wide open, which suits documentation, architecture, and street work far more than a shallow-focus look would.
Who It's For
Street photographers get the 28mm perspective that has defined the genre for decades, paired with a compact form that disappears into a coat pocket. Videographers working run-and-gun will find the near-silent dual stepping motors and minimal focus breathing genuinely useful on any Z-mount body. Travel shooters who need one lens that handles architecture, interiors, and candid moments without bulk will appreciate the 160g weight alongside full-frame coverage. DX shooters on a Z fc or Z 50 get a 42mm equivalent that functions well as a walkaround focal length for everyday subjects.
Key Features
- Z-mount, full-frame FX prime with 53-degree angle of view
- 5.6 oz and 43mm long, one of Z system's smallest primes
- Dual stepping motor multi-focus system for fast, quiet, low-distortion focusing
- 0.63 ft minimum focusing distance with controlled focus breathing for video
- f/2.8 maximum aperture with f/16 minimum, 9-element 8-group optical design
- Programmable control ring assignable to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation
- Special Edition design with knurled control ring inspired by classic NIKKOR FM2-era details
- 42mm equivalent on DX bodies, classic 28mm perspective on full-frame Z cameras
FAQ
- How does the 28mm focal length perform on DX-format Z cameras?
- It delivers a 42mm equivalent perspective, making it a genuine all-purpose focal length for video, portraits, and general shooting rather than a specialized wide-angle.
- What's the practical difference of the dual stepping motor multi-focus system?
- Two motors split focusing work across different element groups, which speeds up autofocus, reduces distortion at frame edges, and keeps the system nearly silent for video recording.
- Can I use manual focus while autofocus is active?
- Yes. Full-time manual focus override is available, so you can fine-tune focus without toggling modes between stills and video work.
- How does the control ring actually work?
- It's programmable and can be assigned to aperture, ISO, or exposure compensation depending on your shooting workflow. You also use it for manual focus adjustment.
- What's the closest you can focus with this lens?
- 0.63 feet (19.2 cm) minimum focusing distance pulls in subject detail that wider primes would normally push away, and the shallow depth of field at close range is well-controlled for video.
- Is the Special Edition design purely aesthetic?
- The knurled control ring and classic styling are callbacks to Nikon's FM2-era drawings, but they're functional details that integrate with the programmable ring for real ergonomic benefit.
- Does this lens exhibit focus breathing when recording video?
- No. Focus breathing is well-controlled, so autofocus adjustments during recording don't shift the angle of view.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 28mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Mount | Nikon Z |
| Lens Format | Full Frame (FX) |
| Angle Of View | 53 degrees |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.63 ft / 19.2 cm |
| Filter Thread | 52mm |
| Optical Groups | 8 |
| Optical Elements | 9 |
| Length | 1.7 in / 43 mm |
| Maximum Diameter | 2.8 in / 71.5 mm |
| Package Weight | 0.745 lb |
| Box Dimensions | 5 x 4.9 x 4.5 in |
| Weight | 5.6 oz / 160 g |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Focus Type | Autofocus (lens motor) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon Z Mount |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle |
| Max Focal Length | 28mm |
| Min Focal Length | 28mm |
Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .
Exceptions
- New
- New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
- Like New
- Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
- As Is
- Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
Like New Minus
Like New Minus
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent
Excellent
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Ugly
Ugly
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.
