Nikon has taken the wraps off its updated Z5 II, a mid-range full-frame mirrorless camera that boasts impressive specs and features at an affordable price. Compared to its predecessor, the Z5 II offers a more advanced sensor, improved autofocus capabilities, faster burst rates, and enhanced video features.
One of the standout features of the Z5 II is its excellent image quality. The 24-megapixel sensor delivers a claimed dynamic range of over 11 stops, allowing for remarkable recoveries from underexposed images. This is comparable to Sony's A7RIV at nearly twice the price point. Additionally, the camera's base ISO is a respectable 100, making it suitable for low-light photography.
The Z5 II also features improved autofocus capabilities, thanks in part to its processor upgrade from the original Z5. This allows for faster and more accurate focusing, as well as enhanced subject detection – including birds, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trains, and planes. Burst rates have been increased to 14 frames per second with the mechanical shutter and 20 fps with the electronic shutter.
In terms of video features, the Z5 II offers impressive specs, including support for 4K/30 fps using the full width of the sensor or 4K/60 fps in APS-C 1.5X crop mode. The camera also supports shooting in N-Raw, N-Log, and HLG.
The design of the Z5 II hasn't changed significantly from its predecessor, but it still packs a punch with its weather-resistant body, solid battery life (rated to 330 shots), joystick for controlling autofocus points, dual SD card slots, and more.
While Nikon's lens system is fantastic, with everything from massive wildlife lenses to surprisingly capable pancake lenses, there are other cameras available that may suit specific needs better. However, for those looking for a well-rounded full-frame mirrorless camera with impressive specs at an affordable price, the Z5 II stands out as a compelling option.
Compared to its competitors – such as Canon's EOS R8 and Panasonic's S9 – the Nikon Z5 II offers features like in-body image stabilization, which sets it apart. Sony's entry-level full-frame camera, the A7 III, is completely outdated compared to these newer models but remains on the market for those looking for a budget option.
Ultimately, if you're in the market for a good full-frame mirrorless camera with nearly all the features most people need without breaking the bank, the Nikon Z5 II is an excellent choice.
One of the standout features of the Z5 II is its excellent image quality. The 24-megapixel sensor delivers a claimed dynamic range of over 11 stops, allowing for remarkable recoveries from underexposed images. This is comparable to Sony's A7RIV at nearly twice the price point. Additionally, the camera's base ISO is a respectable 100, making it suitable for low-light photography.
The Z5 II also features improved autofocus capabilities, thanks in part to its processor upgrade from the original Z5. This allows for faster and more accurate focusing, as well as enhanced subject detection – including birds, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trains, and planes. Burst rates have been increased to 14 frames per second with the mechanical shutter and 20 fps with the electronic shutter.
In terms of video features, the Z5 II offers impressive specs, including support for 4K/30 fps using the full width of the sensor or 4K/60 fps in APS-C 1.5X crop mode. The camera also supports shooting in N-Raw, N-Log, and HLG.
The design of the Z5 II hasn't changed significantly from its predecessor, but it still packs a punch with its weather-resistant body, solid battery life (rated to 330 shots), joystick for controlling autofocus points, dual SD card slots, and more.
While Nikon's lens system is fantastic, with everything from massive wildlife lenses to surprisingly capable pancake lenses, there are other cameras available that may suit specific needs better. However, for those looking for a well-rounded full-frame mirrorless camera with impressive specs at an affordable price, the Z5 II stands out as a compelling option.
Compared to its competitors – such as Canon's EOS R8 and Panasonic's S9 – the Nikon Z5 II offers features like in-body image stabilization, which sets it apart. Sony's entry-level full-frame camera, the A7 III, is completely outdated compared to these newer models but remains on the market for those looking for a budget option.
Ultimately, if you're in the market for a good full-frame mirrorless camera with nearly all the features most people need without breaking the bank, the Nikon Z5 II is an excellent choice.