Nikon FTZ II Adapter Review: Worth the Upgrade?
A surprising number of Nikon Z camera owners are holding onto their old DSLR glass — and the Nikon FTZ II Adapter earns an 8.5/10 from most of them for keeping that legacy alive without sacrificing usability.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Maintains full AF/AE with 94 AF-S, AF-P, and AF-I lenses | No autofocus for screw-drive AF-D lenses |
| No image quality loss thanks to glass-free design | Can feel awkwardly balanced with certain lenses |
| Improved ergonomics over original FTZ | Price considered high for a "simple" adapter |
| Weather-sealed, magnesium build | Many older lenses remain fully manual |
| Enables VR synergy between lens and in-body stabilization | Limited compatibility list—some lenses won’t fit at all |
| Smooth aesthetic match with Z-series bodies | Less necessary if switching entirely to Z-mount glass |
Claims vs Reality
Nikon markets the FTZ II as the "bridge between legendary Nikkor glass and Z series mirrorless cameras." On paper, it works with around 360 F-mount lenses and keeps image quality at DSLR standards. Digging deeper into user reports, the compatibility claim holds — but only fully for those 94 autofocus lenses with built-in motors.
Reddit user u/Track*** explained: "AF-D won't autofocus, but will range find when manual focusing. Everything else is fully manual. There's no autofocus motor in the FTZ." This means photographers with classic screw-drive primes won't get the ease of autofocus, despite the broad compatibility list.
Another Nikon promise is "improved ergonomics" for vertical shooting, even with gloves. Many users confirmed this, especially those who found the original FTZ awkward. A Reddit contributor who upgraded noted: "I personally prefer the mkII; the first FTZ was really awkward." The lack of the tripod foot makes it easier to mount, but it doesn’t eliminate every handling quirk — particularly for smaller F-mount lenses that shift weight forward when adapted.
On image performance, Nikon’s “no loss of brightness, contrast or speed” claim appears almost universally accepted. A Trustpilot reviewer confirmed: "Autofocus, speed, everything works the same as with the Z lenses I bought." That consistency has helped justify the higher price for some buyers who want maximum quality preservation.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
The glass-free design is a recurring win. A verified buyer on Amazon wrote: "Didn’t want to break the bank on buying Z mount lenses so opted to go for the FTZ II and still be able to use all the lenses I have." This is especially valuable for wildlife and sports shooters hanging onto premium telephotos — avoiding thousands in replacement costs.
Photographers who move between setups appreciate the weather sealing and rugged magnesium construction. The FTZ II’s durability is cited repeatedly, with one Reddit shooter noting they’ve kept it "in case I want to save money and go with some F mount lenses" even after building a Z-mount kit. The adapter’s ability to integrate lens VR with in-camera stabilization for up to 3-axis correction also impressed long-lens users, particularly those shooting handheld.
The improved handling is tangible in vertical orientations, an edge for portrait photographers. Nikon’s redesign accommodates broader tripod plates and the MB-N11 grip, which avoids finger pinching — a common gripe with the first FTZ.
Common Complaints
Autofocus limitations are the top frustration. Screw-drive AF-D lens users feel left out, with many recommending “dumb” adapters for purely manual work. As one Reddit post bluntly stated: “Get a dumb adapter for D series lenses.” This undercuts the 360-lens compatibility pitch, since only 94 enjoy full automation.
The balance issue is less discussed but significant for certain shooters. One Reddit user described how a compact Tamron 35mm f/1.8 felt "weird to hold" on a Z body with the adapter, as the center of gravity shifted forward unnaturally. Street photographers or gimbal operators may notice similar awkwardness.
Price perception also comes up often. Trustpilot feedback includes: "Price was too much for what it is made of and for what it does." Some acknowledge it as “worth it” for avoiding new lens purchases, but others advise buying used FTZ models to save.
Divisive Features
The aesthetic finish — Nikon touts a leather-tone paint to “seamlessly blend” lens and body. Some users find this irrelevant, focusing entirely on performance; others appreciate the visual integration when mixing F and Z glass.
The absence of a tripod foot pleases handheld shooters but frustrates some studio photographers who preferred the older FTZ’s mounting options. This is a classic tradeoff: sleeker and more portable, but less flexible for certain rigs.
Trust & Reliability
Fakespot analysis shows over 80% of reviews appear high quality, with minimal deception patterns. This suggests buyers generally receive what’s promised. Durability feedback aligns — owners use the FTZ II for months without mechanical failure.
Long-term Reddit ownership stories reveal mixed usage patterns: some keep it permanently attached to favorite F-mount lenses, while others eventually “retire” it after transitioning to native Z-mount glass. One comment typifies this arc: "I used it a few times but now it’s collecting dust." This points less to product flaws and more to shifting shooter needs.
Alternatives
A few community members mention the Viltrox NF-Z as a budget-friendly alternative, reportedly costing “just a little more than half” of the Nikon price. While some claim it works well, others admit they haven’t verified its quality.
The original FTZ remains an option — often cheaper used — but lacks the FTZ II’s ergonomic refinements. Users warn about its “stubby bottom” causing interference with certain grips and tripod plates.
Price & Value
Current new prices hover around $229–$249 on eBay, with retail listing at $249.95. Discounts of 8–20% are common, especially from high-feedback sellers. The resale market is active, aided by the adapter’s sturdy build and broad compatibility.
Community buying tips emphasize second-hand FTZ units as a safe way to save, especially if your lens kit doesn’t demand the FTZ II’s ergonomic updates. As one Reddit veteran put it: "Buy it used if you can, there’s tons of the FTZ 1 out there."
FAQ
Q: Does the FTZ II work with AF-D lenses?
A: Not for autofocus. AF-D lenses will only provide metering and manual focusing with rangefinder assist.
Q: How many lenses have full autofocus?
A: Around 94 Nikon F-mount lenses (AF-S, AF-P, and AF-I) maintain full AF/AE capability.
Q: Is there any loss in image quality?
A: No — it’s a glass-free design, so brightness, contrast, and sharpness are unaffected.
Q: Does it help with lens stabilization?
A: Yes. Non-VR lenses get 3-axis in-body stabilization; VR lenses add roll axis correction from the camera.
Q: Is the FTZ II worth the upgrade from the original FTZ?
A: For vertical shooters or those using large grips/tripod plates, many say yes due to the improved ergonomics.
Final Verdict: Buy if you own high-quality F-mount AF-S/AF-P/AF-I lenses you want to keep at full functionality with a Nikon Z body. Avoid if most of your kit is screw-drive AF-D or if you plan to replace all glass with native Z lenses soon. Pro tip from the community: consider a used unit to cut costs without losing performance.
