In a rather low-key announcement this week, Nikon announced its Z 5 mirrorless camera. An entry level model designed for advancing photographers.
The new Nikon Z 5 is powered by an EXPEED 6 processor and takes its images from a full-frame 24.3MP sensor with an ISO range of 100-51200. Autofocus is via a 273 point hybrid system with eye and animal detection capabilities.
The body features five-axis vibration reduction, and it also features a 3690k dot EVF. The rear LCD screen is articulated although it cannot be flipped around for selfie style shots. Dual SD card slots are included, which can be used for backup or to shoot stills and video separately. The camera can be charged or powered via the USB port.
While the Z 5 is not a video powerhouse, it can shoot 4K at up to 30p and up to 60p in 1080 mode. Although the one caveat is that in 4K mode there’s a 1.7x crop.
It’s pretty clear that this is an entry level camera, although it does still feature a magnesium body will full weather and dust proofing, as well as the well thought out ergonomics of its pricier brethren.
In all it is a fairly low-key release, lacking as it does the ‘sexier’ features of some other models. But it mustn’t be forgotten that not everyone covets the video features of every mirrorless camera, and for enthusiast stills photographers there Z 5 might well fit the bill very well.
The Nikon Z 5 will be available in August 2020 priced at US$1399.95 for the body only, US$1699.95 with a 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, and US$2199.95 with a 24-200 f/4-6.3 VR lens.