Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Review 2026 Australia: Compact Power Zoom Travel Lens

The Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a highly practical power zoom lens designed for photographers who want smooth zooming and a versatile focal range in a compact, lightweight body. In 2026 it continues to be a favourite among travel and documentary shooters who value convenience without sacrificing image quality.

With its 28-135mm range, power zoom mechanism, and solid optics, this lens covers everything from wide landscapes to short telephoto portraits in one package.

Key Specifications

Here’s everything you need to know about this lens, explained in plain English:

Specification	Details
Focal Length	28-135mm
Maximum Aperture	f/4
Minimum Focus Distance	0.35m
Filter Size	95mm
Weight	485g
Power Zoom	Yes

Key Benefits

• Smooth power zoom – ideal for video and smooth transitions
• Versatile 28-135mm range – covers wide to short telephoto
• Compact and relatively lightweight – easy to carry all day
• Constant f/4 aperture – consistent exposure across the zoom
• Sharp image quality throughout the range
• Excellent travel lens – one lens for most shooting situations

Who Should Buy This Lens

This lens is perfect for travel photographers, vloggers, documentary shooters, and anyone who wants a single versatile zoom with smooth power zoom operation.

Australian-Specific Use Cases

In Australia the 28-135mm f/4 PZ excels:

• Travel & road trips – Great Ocean Road, Tasmania, and the Outback
• Landscapes – wide 28mm for dramatic scenes and 135mm for compressed views
• Wildlife & nature – enough reach for birds and animals
• Street & city – versatile range for Melbourne and Sydney

Real-World Performance

Real-world footage and sample images showing how this power zoom lens performs in practical Australian situations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Smooth power zoom operation
• Versatile focal length range
• Compact and relatively lightweight
• Constant f/4 aperture
• Sharp image quality

Cons

• Variable aperture at longer end (f/7.1 at 135mm)
• Not as bright as constant f/4 primes
• Power zoom may feel slow for some stills shooters

Recommended Lens Filters

The lens has a 95mm filter thread. Adding the right filters is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for protection and creative control in Australia’s harsh conditions.

• Sigma 95mm WR UV – Buy Sigma 95mm WR UV Filter (excellent everyday protection with water & oil repellent coating)
• B+W UV-Haze – Buy B+W 95mm MRC Master 010 UV-Haze (premium multi-coated protection)
• B+W Clear – Buy B+W 95mm MRC Master 007 Clear (pure protection with zero colour cast)

Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ vs Main Competitors – Which Should You Buy?

Feature	28-135mm f/4 PZ	24-120mm f/4 S	24-105mm f/4-7.1
Weight	485g	630g	460g
Aperture	Constant f/4	Constant f/4	f/4-7.1
Zoom Range	28-135mm	24-120mm	24-105mm
Power Zoom	Yes	No	No
Best For	Smooth video & travel	High quality travel	Budget travel

Our recommendation: Choose the 28-135mm f/4 PZ if you want smooth power zoom. Go for the 24-120mm f/4 S for superior optics or the 24-105mm f/4-7.1 if you want the lightest option.

Best Nikon Z Camera Bodies to Pair With This Lens

• Nikon Z6 III – Perfect hybrid all-rounder
• Nikon Zf – Retro full-frame beauty
• Nikon Z5 II – Affordable full-frame option

Why Buy from Cameras Direct

As Australia’s leading Nikon specialist retailer, we’re 100% Australian-owned and obsessed with helping you get the most from your Z-system gear. Our team of expert advisors knows these lenses inside-out, and we offer fast nationwide delivery.

FAQ

Is the Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ still worth buying in 2026?

Yes – it remains one of the most practical power zoom lenses for travel and video.

How does it compare to the 24-120mm f/4 S?

The 28-135mm is lighter with power zoom. The 24-120mm offers wider range and superior optics.

Is it weather sealed?

Not exactly but it is dust and drip resistant.

Final Verdict & Recommendation

The Nikon Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a highly versatile and convenient travel zoom in 2026. Its power zoom, compact size, and useful focal range make it an excellent choice for Australian photographers who want one lens for most situations.

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