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Nikon Announces Development of NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S with Built-In 1.4× Teleconverter
Nikon has published a development announcement for the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a professional telephoto zoom for the Z system. The lens includes a built-in 1.4× teleconverter that extends the reach to 168-420mm f/4. No price or release date has been confirmed, though early reports suggest a price in the $8,000 range when it ships later in 2026.
Overview
Nikon published a development announcement for the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S on May 6, 2026. Development announcements from Nikon confirm that a product is in active development and will be released, but do not include a specific timeline or final price. The announcement was accompanied by a brief description and a rendered image of the lens.
The 120-300mm f/2.8 zoom range has long been a staple for sports and wildlife photographers who need fast glass that covers both mid-telephoto and longer reach without a lens swap. The F-mount equivalent — the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR — was priced at $9,499.95 when it launched in 2020.
Built-In Teleconverter
The TC in the lens name refers to a built-in 1.4× teleconverter. When activated, the effective focal length range extends to 168-420mm with a maximum aperture of f/4. This design, also seen on the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S, eliminates the need to carry and attach a separate teleconverter while retaining full autofocus performance with the TC engaged.
Having the TC built in also removes any alignment or weather-sealing concerns associated with attaching an external teleconverter in the field — a practical advantage for working photographers who switch between base focal length and extended reach repeatedly during a session.
S-Line Expectations
The VR S designation places this lens in Nikon's highest optical and build quality tier for the Z system. S-line lenses are characterized by Nikon's ARNEO and Nano Crystal Coat anti-reflective treatments, fluorine coating on the front element, and comprehensive weather sealing. Vibration Reduction (VR) in S-line telephoto lenses typically provides 5.5 stops of stabilization or better.
Autofocus on Z-mount S-line telephoto primes and zooms uses a multi-motor design with Nikon's stepping and linear motors. Nikon has not specified the motor configuration for the 120-300mm, but based on the Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a multi-group AF drive system is expected.
Expected Price and Timeline
Nikon has not confirmed a price. Nikon Rumors, citing sources with access to preliminary distributor materials, reports an expected price in the $8,000 range. Given the F-mount predecessor's $9,499.95 launch price in 2020, a Z-mount version with built-in teleconverter in the $8,000-$10,000 range is plausible.
The lens is expected to ship before the end of 2026, though Nikon has not confirmed a quarter or specific date. Development announcements from Nikon typically precede release by six to twelve months.