Nikon announces compact full-frame Z5II

Nikon takes aim at the creator economy with the impressive new 24MP Z5II, an all-rounder entry in the FX series with features inherited from pro-level Z series cameras.

Nikon’s latest is not the RED tech leverage that everyone is waiting for, but rather another entry into the increasingly competitive hybrid mirrorless space. All of which makes perfect sense for the company as the creator economy continues to expand, but you can’t help hoping there's something a bit more RED-colored lurking in the background.

Nevertheless, theres a lot to like about the Nikon Z5II as it packs a lot of features into a smallish body and then asks only $1699 for it.

It’s based around a 24-megapixel FX IBIS full-frame, backside illuminated sensor which is coupled to Nikon’s EXPEED 7 processing engine, all of which combines to give it excellent low light performance thanks to sophisticated noise reduction. It features a maximum ISO sensitivity of 64000 for stills, and 51200 for video.

The company is proud of faster, sharper, smarter AF. Indeed, the autofocus system is 68% faster than the Z5 and sensitive down to -10 EV for powerful performance after dark. Intelligent multi-subject detection and 3D tracking brings even greater accuracy and Advanced AF-A mode spots even the subtlest movement to switch it from AF-S (for still subjects) to AF-C (for moving subjects) as needed. Meanwhile, it also offers 7.5-stop Vibration Reduction in-body image stabilisation at the centre of the frame and 6.0 stops at the periphery. Focus Point VR prioritises stabilisation around the active focus point.

It shoots Full Frame video in up to 4K/30p or 4k/60p (cropped). It is the first Z-series camera to allow users to shoot N-RAW footage straight to the camera’s SD memory card, while it also allows recording in N-log to get more flexibility for colour grading. A hi-res zoom can extend the reach of the lens by up to 2X when shooting Full HD video. There’s no loss of image quality, and it works with prime and zoom lenses.

A one-touch Picture Control button lets users preview and apply different colour profiles for photos and video in real time. These can be saved using Nikon NX Studio, while additional colour presets can be imported straight from Nikon Imaging Cloud, which also automates photo storage.

A high-luminance EVF has a max brightness of 3000 nits, 3x that of the Z5, and 18 levels of brightness control. There’s also a large, high-resolution vari-angle touchscreen with a 170-degree viewing angle. Image, info displays, and menus auto rotate with the screen for smooth operation.

It is equipped with a 3.5 mm socket for an external stereo mic and a headphone socket, allowing it to capture improved audio, and it also features what Nikon says are improved ergonomics, namely a deeper grip for more stability and an intuitive button layout. It’s also billed as weather-proof, and lightweight at approx. 700 g body only (1.54 lb).

Pricing and availability

Pricing body only is $1699, but the way things stand at the moment with tariffs flying round we have to consider that a bit of a moveable feast. Availability is currently listed as April 24 on.