Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S Lens Firmware Update v1.20

He NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S maintains a reputation for being a versatile zoom widely used in portrait, street, events and travel due to its agile range and its constant aperture of f/4. With the update of firmware v1.20, Nikon focuses the improvement not only on the on-time performance of the mechanism, but on the predictability of optical and control behavior during actual work. In daily practice, the reliability of the aperture is critical: it prevents unexpected oscillations and guarantees smoother exposure transitions, something especially visible when varying the shutter speed, changing light control or zoom paths in long shots. This review addresses just that layer of stability so that the lens remains predictable over long sessions, reducing pauses for manual readjustments.

From an operational point of view, Nikon specifies that this version improves the reliability of the diaphragm operation and reduces its noise. In photography, this usually translates into cleaner responses when chaining sequences, and in video into less noise distraction during recordings with fine exposure control. It also improves the perceived user experience because aperture changes feel more consistent and less “interrupted”, something highly valued when working with moving subjects or abrupt lighting changes. For those recording with critical audio, the control ring's operational noise reduction and internal mechanical action improve clean captures without forcing editing compensations.

The update is applied from the camera itself with the firmware downloaded from Nikon and properly formatted card media, and is recommended for all lens users who rely on constant switching between photo and video. The manufacturer itself indicates that the process is carried out with the lens attached to a Nikon Z or Z CINEMA body and that the file must be copied to the root of the card for the camera to recognize it, a practical detail that avoids common errors when updating. In summary, v1.20 is a very useful maintenance upgrade for those who value smooth operation and continuity of firing over drastic function changes.