Nikon Z5 II specifications and in-depth review

Nikon Z5 II

Manufacturer: Nikon

The Nikon Z5 II is a mirrorless camera that offers advanced features for both photography and videography. It boasts a 24.5 MP full-frame sensor and an electronic viewfinder for precise framing. The camera is weather-sealed, ensuring durability in various shooting conditions, and includes a flip-out touch screen for flexible shooting angles.

Key technical specifications of the Nikon Z5 II include a maximum ISO of 64000, continuous shooting at 8 fps, and a high-quality 4K video recording capability. The camera supports dual card slots, offers sensor-shift image stabilization, and has a battery life rated for 330 shots (CIPA). Additionally, it features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making remote control and sharing of content easy.

Pros
  • Weather-sealed design makes the camera suitable for use in various environmental conditions.
  • The 24.5 MP full-frame sensor provides high-resolution imaging for detailed photos.
  • Dual card slots allow for flexible storage options and easier data management during shoots.
  • Supports raw and lossless compressed raw formats, offering more flexibility in post-processing.
  • Includes both Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, enabling easy file transfer and remote control.
Cons
  • The camera lacks a built-in flash, which may limit lighting options in certain situations.
  • Does not support GPS or NFC, which could be a drawback for location-based features or quick sharing.
  • The absence of a tilting viewfinder may limit flexibility in certain shooting scenarios.
Who is this for?

The Nikon Z5 II is ideal for photographers and videographers who require a versatile and reliable camera. Its weather-sealed design makes it a solid choice for outdoor and adventure shooting, while the 24.5 MP full-frame sensor ensures high-quality images in various lighting conditions. With dual card slots for backup and extra storage, it suits professionals who need flexibility in both photo and video capture, including those working in environments where continuous shooting and image quality are paramount.

Who is this NOT for?

This camera may not be the best choice for users who require advanced autofocus or video features for fast-paced action. While it offers phase-detection autofocus for photos and video, its maximum continuous shooting speed of 8 fps may not be sufficient for high-speed or sports photography. Additionally, the lack of a built-in flash could be a limitation for those who often shoot in low-light environments without access to external lighting equipment.

Design:

Type Mirrorless
viewfinder Electronic viewfinder (EVF)
is weather-sealed (splashproof)
screen resolution 2100k dots
Has a flip-out screen
viewfinder coverage 100%
screen size 3.2"
weight 700 g
has a touch screen
Has a hot shoe
volume 969.624 cm³
is a system camera
has a flash
lowest potential operating temperature 0 °C
maximum operating temperature 40 °C
Has a tilting viewfinder
width 134 mm
height 100.5 mm
thickness 72 mm

The Nikon Z5 II is a mirrorless system camera with a weather-sealed body, making it splashproof for use in various conditions. It features an electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and a 3.2″ touch screen with a resolution of 2100k dots. The camera also includes a flip-out screen for versatile shooting angles, and it supports external flashes with a hot shoe. Weighing 700g, it offers a compact design with dimensions of 134mm in width, 100.5mm in height, and 72mm in thickness, ideal for both portability and durability.

Optics:

sensor size Full frame
lens mount Nikon Z
focus points 299
megapixels (main camera) 24.5 MP
maximum ISO 64000 ISO
maximum expanded ISO 204800 ISO
has sensor shift stabilization
continuous shooting (mechanical) 8 fps
has AF tracking
Has phase-detection autofocus for photos
fastest shutter speed 0.0005 s
has manual focus
has touch autofocus
has manual shutter speed
has a built-in HDR mode
has a BSI sensor
has manual exposure
has a two-stage shutter
has a serial shot mode
has a CMOS sensor
has manual ISO
flash sync speed 0.005 s
has manual white balance
exposure time 30 s
Maximum electronic shutter speed 0.000125 s
has a stacked CMOS sensor
image stabilization rating (CIPA) 7.5 stops
can combine image stabilization

The Nikon Z5 II is equipped with a 24.5 MP full-frame sensor and utilizes a Nikon Z lens mount for excellent optical performance. It offers 299 focus points and supports phase-detection autofocus for fast and accurate focusing. The camera features sensor-shift stabilization and has a maximum ISO of 64000, expandable up to 204800, making it well-suited for low-light conditions. Additionally, the camera provides continuous shooting at 8 fps and supports manual controls for focus, exposure, and ISO, giving photographers full creative control.

Videography:

video recording (main camera) 2268 x 30 fps
Has phase-detection autofocus for videos
has continuous autofocus when recording movies
has a microphone input
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack
has a stereo microphone
Has timelapse function
number of microphones 2
has a 24p cinema mode
supports slow-motion video recording

The Nikon Z5 II offers robust videography features, including video recording at 2268 x 30 fps and phase-detection autofocus for smooth focusing during video capture. It supports continuous autofocus while recording, ensuring steady and sharp footage. The camera also features a microphone input, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a stereo microphone setup, allowing for high-quality sound recording. Additional video options include a timelapse function, 24p cinema mode, and support for slow-motion video recording, enhancing its versatility for various video projects.

Battery:

Battery life (CIPA) 330 shots
has a removable battery
has a rechargeable battery
has a battery level indicator
battery power 2280 mAh

The Nikon Z5 II is equipped with a 2280 mAh rechargeable battery that offers a battery life of 330 shots according to CIPA standards. The camera includes a removable battery for convenience and has a battery level indicator to monitor power status during use, ensuring you're always aware of when a recharge is needed.

Features:

release date April 2025
processor Expeed 7
supports Wi-Fi
Has Bluetooth
Has dual card slots
has pixel shift shot
shoots raw
supports lossless compressed raw
Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
supports a remote smartphone
has an HDMI output
has GPS
has an advanced hot shoe
has NFC
has an external memory slot
Has USB Type-C

The Nikon Z5 II is equipped with the Expeed 7 processor, offering fast performance and enhanced image processing capabilities. It supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, while the dual card slots provide flexible storage options. Additionally, the camera features USB Type-C for fast data transfer, an HDMI output for external monitoring, and supports shooting in raw format with lossless compressed raw files for high-quality post-processing.

Miscellaneous:

USB version 3.2

The Nikon Z5 II supports USB 3.2 for fast and efficient data transfer, ensuring quick connectivity with compatible devices and accessories.

Final Verdict

The Nikon Z5 II is a solid choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable, weather-sealed mirrorless camera with a 24.5 MP full-frame sensor and versatile features for both photography and videography. Its robust performance, including dual card slots, continuous shooting at 8 fps, and excellent wireless connectivity, makes it suitable for various shooting conditions. While it may not be ideal for high-speed sports or low-light situations requiring a built-in flash, its overall design and image quality make it a strong contender for users focused on high-resolution imaging and flexibility in their workflows.

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