Nikon Z5II: Entry-level full format with professional functions

Nikon presents the Z5 II, a full-frame camera with significant performance improvements over its predecessor. The 24.5 megapixel sensor, known from the Nikon Zf, is supported by a five-axis image stabilizer. The camera is powered by the latest Expeed 7 image processor, which is also used in the higher-priced models.

Technical improvements for ambitious photographers

According to Nikon, the image stabilizer compensates for up to 7.5 f-stops in the center of the image and 6 f-stops at the edges. The Expeed 7 image processor enables a significantly higher continuous shooting rate of 14 frames per second with continuous autofocus in RAW format. Its predecessor, the Z5, only achieved 4.5 frames per second. With an electronic shutter and JPEG format, even 30 frames per second are possible.

According to Nikon, the autofocus inherited from the Z6III works 68 percent faster than its predecessor. The autofocus time is 0.075 seconds, compared to 0.206 seconds for the Z5. With 299 autofocus fields, the Z5 II clearly surpasses the approximately 80 fields of the Z5. The autofocus is said to work reliably down to a light intensity of -10 EV and requires only three percent of the sensor area for object detection.

The continuous shooting rate has been significantly increased: instead of the 4.5 frames per second of the Z5, the Z5II now achieves 14 frames per second in RAW format with autofocus activated. With an electronic shutter and JPEG storage, even 30 frames per second can be achieved. A "pre-release shutter" can also record images one second before the actual shutter release –, but only in JPEG format.

Video

The camera offers videographers 4K recordings at 30 frames per second, pixel-perfect 60p in crop mode and 120 frames per second in full HD. At the product launch, Nikon particularly emphasized the ability to record 12-bit N-Raw video directly onto SD cards as the first camera in its class.

The electronic viewfinder offers an exceptional brightness of 3,000 nits. The 3.2-inch display can be fully rotated and tilted and has a resolution of 2.1 million pixels. A Picture Control button on the top of the camera provides quick access to the Nikon Imaging Cloud, automatic firmware updates and photo recipes.

The Z5II is sealed against dust and splash water and has a magnesium alloy body frame. Two SD card slots offer flexible storage options. The camera can also be used as a webcam via a USB connection. Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager at Nikon Europe, describes the Z5 II as an "exciting and affordable full-frame upgrade" that combines some of the best technologies from Nikon's professional cameras in a compact body.

During a brief hands-on, the camera impressed us with its secure grip thanks to the non-slip body. Nikon photographers will immediately find their way around the controls. The bright viewfinder, along with the other new features, is a significant improvement on the previous model.

The Nikon Z5 II will be available in stores at the end of April 2025. The recommended retail price for the body is 1,900 euros. In a kit with the Z 24-50 mm lens, the camera costs 2,200 euros, with the Z 24-70 mm 2,500 euros and with the Z 24-200 mm VR 2,700 euros.

(tho)