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Nikon Z5 II: two-minute assessment
The Nikon Z5 II often is the ‘entry-level’ mannequin within the model’s most up-to-date lineup of mirrorless our bodies, but it surely’s in no way the stripped-down back-to-basics affair that its predecessor was. Nikon has conspicuously taken the physique up a notch when it comes to efficiency and options – and, for that matter, worth.
It inherits the lion’s share of specs from the excellent Nikon Zf, and subsequently it’s a fully-fledged hybrid shooter that excels in all however probably the most excessive of use circumstances. However its place within the Nikon vary, don’t consider this as an entry-level digicam – it’s something however.
On the coronary heart of the Nikon Z5 II is similar Expeed 7 processor that is within the latest higher-end Z-series our bodies. Topic detection? Verify. Tremendous-sticky 3D monitoring? Verify. By way of autofocus, video, and significant high quality of life adjustments, this digicam blows away the unique Z5 in each space.
If I needed to nitpick, I might say that the virtually 25% worth improve over the Z5 is a obtrusive sore level for this digicam. I do, nevertheless, assume the huge leap in efficiency makes this digicam price each penny; you pay extra, however you additionally get considerably extra digicam. If you happen to’ve been eying up the Zf, however had been postpone by its hipster charms and questionable ergonomics, then the Z5 II is the clear selection right here.
It is also, arguably, the best choice within the entry-level to mid-range full-frame mirrorless market proper now. It is fastidiously positioned just under the Z6 III when it comes to burst charges and video specs, however compares favorably to the likes of the Canon EOS R8, Panasonic S5 II, and Sony Alpha A7 III. All have their deserves, however the Nikon Z5 II provides a compelling mix of worth and efficiency with none obtrusive compromises. In brief, it beats its opponents on both worth or specs – it truly is effectively positioned.
As a stills digicam specifically, it is arduous to fault the Z5 II. You get a tried-and-tested 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor that is able to wonderful outcomes, and 12fps uncooked seize. I would additionally argue that that is certainly one of Nikon’s finest cameras for JPEG shooters but, due to the inclusion of the useful Image Management button and assist for sharing customized JPEG recipes by way of Nikon Imaging Cloud.
The video specs are a little bit weaker contemplating that 4K 60fps video is cropped, however the Z5 II remains to be able to full-width 4K video as much as 30fps – that is considerably higher than the earlier mannequin.
Within the uncommon circumstances the place you want 6K video seize or faster readout speeds, the Z6 III is probably going a worthwhile improve. In any other case, nevertheless, the Z5 II goes to be an absolute winner for many customers. Certain, it isn’t a decision beast just like the Z8, neither is it notably fast just like the Z6 III; however the Z5 II is an outstanding digicam in its personal proper, and one which’s going to have mass attraction, even outdoors the Z-Mount ecosystem.
Nikon Z5 II: worth and launch date
- The Nikon Z5 II body-only prices $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699
- Zoom equipment bundles beginning at $1,999 / £1,899 / AU$3,249
- Roughly 25% costlier than first Z5
At $1,699 / £1,599 / AU$2,699 the Z5 II arrives with a major worth leap over the first-gen mannequin. At launch it’s roughly 25% costlier than the primary iteration, and the value distinction is much more obtrusive contemplating that the Z5 has hit as little as $999 within the US in latest months.
Judged when it comes to specs, nevertheless, the Nikon Z5 II is an aggressively priced physique. I’ll elaborate extra later, however the Z5 II is just in a special league to its predecessor in the case of each efficiency and options, and in my e-book this quantum leap softens the blow of the value hike considerably.
You could possibly simply examine it to the latest choices from Canon R8 or Panasonic S5 II, however I’d argue that the Nikon is the extra absolutely featured digicam for the value. The R8, for instance, is cheaper at $1,499 / £1,629 / AU$2,489, however forgoes IBIS and a second card slot. The S5 II is extra comparable in time period of specs, but it surely’s pricier within the US and UK at $1,999 / £1,699, and the Z5 II inherits the outstandingly refined subject-detect autofocus of the higher-end Z-Mount our bodies.
The Z5 II can also be effectively positioned to compete with older mid-range fashions just like the Sony Alpha A7 III. Sony’s former hybrid king remains to be obtainable for brand new for round $1,799 / £1,679 / AU$2,000, and incorporates a compelling combine of wonderful autofocus, intensive lens selections, and specs that also maintain up for fanatic customers.
It’s a testomony to the A7 III that even in 2025 it stays a aggressive selection, however the Z5 II lastly offers clients a greater possibility than Sony’s seven-year-old digicam on this worth bracket. Sony’s historically killer USPs of autofocus and lens selection are much less lethal to rivals now – and the Z5 II additionally options significant high quality of life upgrades like a improbable EVF, flip display screen, and wonderful IBIS. The Z5 II is so effectively featured that it’s arduous not to suggest it, regardless of the unlucky worth bump.
Nikon Z5 II: specs
|
Sensor: |
24.5MP full-frame |
|
Video: |
4K 60fps (1.5x crop) / 4K 30fps (full width) / FHD 120fps |
|
Cont. taking pictures |
11fps uncooked, 30fps JPEG |
|
Viewfinder: |
3.69m dots, 0.8x magnification |
|
LCD: |
3.2-inch articulated touchscreen, 2.1m dots |
|
Battery (CIPA score): |
330 photographs |
|
Weight: |
700g (physique solely) |
|
Dimensions: |
134 x 101 x 72mm |
Nikon Z5 II: design and dealing with
- Comparable design to the Nikon Z6 III
- Absolutely articulating show
- Image Management button for JPEGs
Regardless of the Z5 II’s inner similarities to the Zf, outwardly the 2 cameras couldn’t be any extra completely different. Nikon has returned to its trendy design language with the Z5 II, and like its predecessor it basically shares the identical physique as the latest higher-end Z6 mannequin, except for that digicam’s high LCD panel.
The Z5 II’s design is often Nikon. It’s operate over kind, though the model has made refined tweaks in comparison with its earlier technology of cameras. For one, the physique is barely thicker, and Nikon has additionally made a couple of adjustments to the EVF housing, which now sweeps round to the generously sized Z mount on the entrance. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it change, however the digicam seems to be extra trendy for it.
The button structure is actually the identical as on the earlier mannequin, however there are some adjustments. The playback button and sequential taking pictures menu have been switched, for instance, and there’s now a useful ‘Image Management’ button to shortly entry JPEG settings. Both manner, every little thing is in the proper place, and if you happen to’re already a Nikon shooter you’ll really feel proper at house. Notably the grip stays the identical; chunky, with loads of buy for if you’re utilizing bigger Z-mount lenses.
Picture 1 of 4
As on the Z6 III, the highest and again plates are product of a sturdy magnesium alloy, and also you additionally get the massive and vibrant EVF that’s typical for Nikon cameras. The EVF is similar 3.69k dot OLED panel as on the earlier mannequin, though Nikon says it will probably now attain as much as 3,000 nits of brightness.
Maybe probably the most significant design change for the Z5 II is the inclusion of a totally articulating show. Beforehand, the Z5 solely featured a tilting show, so it’s good to see the inclusion of a flip display screen that’s notably helpful for talking-head eventualities. There’s some debate round whether or not a tilting display screen remains to be superior, however I a lot desire the absolutely articulating possibility personally when it comes to versatility. Not solely do you get that selfie and talking-head possibility, however the flip-out display screen is nice for getting low-angle photographs in portrait orientation, plus it is not partially obstructed by the viewfinder for waist-level taking pictures just like the earlier display screen.
Picture 1 of 2
Ports-wise, the Z5 II options micro a HDMI port, plus headphone and microphone jacks, and USB-C with charging assist. Not like some finances fashions from the competitors, notably the Canon R8, the Z5 II additionally options two card slots. You get assist for 2 UHS-II playing cards right here relatively than the CFExpress Kind-B mixture that’s widespread on Nikon’s higher-end our bodies, but it surely’s nonetheless a improbable inclusion for an entry-level digicam. It’s additionally a nod to the Z5 II’s supposed fanatic goal market, because the supported playing cards listed here are less expensive than the CFExpress playing cards.
I am greedy at straws to discover a legitimate criticism of the Z5 II’s design, however there are a couple of minor quibbles. The PASM dial, for instance, does not function the same old locking mechanism you discover on higher-end our bodies. It is a minor factor, sure, but it surely’s straightforward to knock the dial out of your mode of selection, and it looks as if a simple factor to rectify. In any other case, the Z5 II is sort of excellent when it comes to operate for a contemporary physique.
Nikon Z5 II: options and efficiency
- Inherits subject-detection autofocus from high-end our bodies
- Now shoots 4K 30fps footage uncropped
- 12fps burst for uncooked / 30fps JPEG with pre-capture
The earlier Z5 was an entry-level digicam via and thru. It was able to capturing beautiful photos, positive, however pedestrian autofocus efficiency and lesser specs meant it was finest consigned to relatively sedentary topics.
The Z5 II, nevertheless, is a major leap when it comes to efficiency. With an virtually equivalent specs sheet to the mid-range retro-bodied Nikon Zf, the Z5 II is in a totally completely different class to its predecessor.
There’s actually no different strategy to categorical it: the Nikon Z5 II is only a excellent digicam for the overwhelming majority of functions. The 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor together with the Expeed 7 imaging processor means the Z5 II is an especially succesful physique whatever the price ticket.
Readout speeds, whereas less than the extent of the Z6 III with its stacked sensor, are dramatically higher now. The Z5 II helps uncooked burst charges as much as 12fps versus its predecessor’s pedestrian 5fps. If you happen to’re blissful to go together with JPEGs, then you’ll be able to crank that as much as 30fps, with further assist for pre-capture.
Picture 1 of 2
Video specs have additionally been improved considerably. The Z5 II now options full-width 4K footage at 30fps as an alternative of the 1.7x crop of the Z5, and also you additionally now get assist for superior codecs like 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log. Technically, the Z5 II can seize 4K at 60fps, however its 1.5x crop means it is nonetheless far behind the higher-end Z6 III in the case of hybrid capabilities.
The 2 cameras do, nevertheless, share quite a lot of DNA, notably in the case of autofocus. The Z5 II inherits the assorted individual, animal, and car subject-detection capabilities from the higher-end Z Mount cameras, and is all the higher for it.
Particularly when in comparison with the older Z5 and Z6 fashions, the subject-detection autofocus is multitudes simpler right here in all eventualities. On earlier Z-mount our bodies I used to be accustomed to having to manually steering the digicam by way of monitoring factors or outlined AF areas, however that’s not the case with the Z5 II.
Picture 1 of 2
In testing, I discovered myself taking pictures with full-area steady autofocus within the overwhelming majority of eventualities, merely letting the digicam do its factor. The Z5 II has no points selecting out individuals, birds, eyes, and shifting topics in crowded or in any other case demanding scenes. 3D monitoring can also be considerably stickier now, which is useful for the uncommon events when subject-detection fails.
By way of worth relative to efficiency, it’s extraordinarily arduous to fault the Z5 II right here. Certain, it’s not the quickest digicam from Nikon, or the prettiest, but it surely’s an especially succesful physique that’s excellent for a variety of customers. The Z5 II actually is a flexible digicam that’s going to be a improbable device for the overwhelming majority of fanatic shooters.
- Options and efficiency rating: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: picture and video high quality
- 24.5MP back-side-illuminated full-frame sensor
- Now helps customized JPEG recipes
- Inner 12-bit N-RAW and 10-bit N-Log video
The Z5 II’s sensor is a identified amount by now. It’s a sensor that’s been knocking round in Nikon cameras in some kind or one other since 2018. That’s in no way to its detriment, although, since this 24.5MP back-side-illuminated sensor is able to offering unbelievable outcomes throughout a variety of topics and eventualities. You could possibly say it’s an previous favourite, even.
I’ve a good quantity of expertise with this specific sensor, having shot with the older Nikon Z6. So I used to be instantly at house with the Z5 II’s output, and I’m happy to notice that it’s greater than able to producing detailed photos with pleasing coloration straight out of the digicam. It’s arduous to fault a sensor this good – there actually aren’t any limitations except for the comparatively middling 24.5MP decision limiting cropping potential in probably the most excessive circumstances.
Picture 1 of 5
If you happen to can stay with ‘simply’ 24MP, then you definately’ll discover the Z5 II’s output wonderful – JPEGs specifically are improbable. The picture stabilization is rated at a formidable 7.5 stops – this sensor was already referred to as a low-light beast, however the picture stabilization actually provides to the digicam’s night time pictures credentials.
Looping again to the Z5 II’s wonderful JPEG output, it’s price mentioning simply how Nikon has considerably upped its recreation with the Z5 II. The digicam now helps the brand new Nikon Imaging Cloud, which unlocks a a lot smoother picture add workflow and the seamless sharing of picture recipes a la Fujifilm.
Provided that my processing app of selection (Adobe Lightroom) didn’t assist my pre-production Z5 II’s uncooked output, I shortly discovered myself tinkering with quite a few JPEG presets. Switching between presets is extraordinarily straightforward due to the devoted Image Management button on the highest of the digicam, and the interface additionally lets you tweak numerous settings like sharpness, distinction, and readability.
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If I’ve a criticism, it’s that the assorted in-camera JPEG sliders are nonetheless relatively primary, and the default profiles lack the polish of the likes of Fujifilm. The Nikon Z5 II, nevertheless, has a secret weapon in that it will probably retailer as much as 9 further customized coloration profiles from the NX Studio app. This app absolutely helps coloration grading and different superior choices, so it’s excellent for actually tailoring your JPEGs to match your uncooked workflow.
I imported a few presets onto my Z5 II, and was immediately in a position to get some excellent outcomes proper out of the digicam. The method is extraordinarily clean, and Nikon’s wonderful in-camera retouch choices simply can help you check out your profiles on the assorted uncooked recordsdata already saved to your card.
Beneath are a couple of photos showcasing what’s attainable with these in-camera presets.
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These presets may also be used for in-camera coloration grading, though superior videographers will doubtless need to make use of the digicam’s new inner N-Uncooked and N-Log codecs for max flexibility and dynamic vary. Typically talking, video output is great right here – particularly with the oversampled 4K footage at 30fps.
If the Z5 II has any weaknesses in the case of video, they’re usually all the way down to the sensor’s middling readout speeds. Except for the 1.5x crop at 4k 60fps you additionally get some rolling shutter when panning shortly, as with most our bodies and not using a stacked sensor. If you would like a extra fully-featured and trendy video platform, it may very well be price investing within the higher-end Nikon Z6 III.
Whereas we’re right here, it’s price mentioning the variety of wonderful lenses which might be able to pair up with the Z5 II. Whereas the Z-Mount helps loads of high-end glass, even modest selections just like the Nikkor 24-50mm f/4-6.3 equipment lens are able to offering nice outcomes. My favourite lenses for the Nikon Z5 II specifically are the super-lightweight Nikkor 40mm f/2 and Viltrox 85mm f/1.8, each of that are nice lower-cost lenses that pair completely with the Z5 II.
A lot of the instance photos you’ll be able to see right here had been shot with both these two lenses or the Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom, which is one other equipment possibility for the Z5 II.
- Picture and video high quality rating: 4.5/5
Nikon Z5 II: testing scorecard
|
Attributes |
Notes |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Worth |
Costlier than the earlier mannequin, however the upgrades greater than justify the hike |
4.5/5 |
|
Design |
Sturdy, stable, and ergonomic. The Nikon Z5 II is a great-handling digicam |
4.5/5 |
|
Efficiency |
Inherits the superb autofocus of the higher-end Nikon our bodies and vastly improved video specs |
4.5/5 |
|
Picture and video high quality |
Solely 24.5MP decision, however able to wonderful outcomes with new customized JPEG choices |
4.5/5 |
Ought to I purchase the Nikon Z5 II?
Purchase it if…
Do not buy it if…
Nikon Z5 II: additionally contemplate
The Lumix S5 II is one other competitively priced full-frame physique that gives a viable various to the Nikon Z5 II if you happen to’re in search of one thing extra video-centric. The S5 II is able to open-gate 6K / 30p recording at 10-bit, which supplies it the sting for decision and cropping video. That stated, the Z5 II is cheaper at full checklist worth, and inherits the excellent autofocus from the higher-end Nikon Z-Mount our bodies.
Learn our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 II
On paper the Nikon Z5 II and Nikon Zf are extraordinarily related cameras when it comes to efficiency. In kind, nevertheless, the 2 could not be extra completely different, with the Zf sporting a beautiful retro design. If you happen to’d desire the identical specs in a extra traditional, nostalgia-themed physique, the Nikon Zf is the apparent selection. Anticipate to pay a little bit further for the pleasure although.
Learn our in-depth Nikon Zf
How I examined the Nikon Z5 II
- Nikon loaned me the Z5 II and a few lenses for 2 weeks
- I examined it with the 24-50mm and 24-200mm equipment zooms
- I additionally used the Nikon 26mm and 40mm and Viltrox 85mm primes
- I carried the digicam day by day, testing its video and picture capabilities
- I shot over 1,000 photos with the digicam
I used the Nikon Z5 II as my on a regular basis digicam over a two-week interval, which gave me the possibility to shoot greater than 1,000 photos and movies. I used to be in a position to check the topic monitoring, low-light efficiency, and picture stabilization successfully due to utilizing the digicam in a various vary of environments, each indoors and outside.
Nikon despatched me the Nikkor 24-50mm and f/4-6.3 Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 zoom equipment lenses to strive, in addition to the Nikkor 26mm f/2.8. I additionally made positive to make use of the digicam with a third-party lens, on this case the Viltrox 85mm f1/.8.
First reviewed April 2025