Nikon Z5 II: A Game-Changer in Affordable Full-Frame Photography

Moab, Utah – The Nikon Z5 II has made its debut, stepping into the shoes of its predecessor, the widely acclaimed Z5. With innovative upgrades and enhanced features, the Z5 II attempts to maintain the excellent price-to-performance reputation established by the original.

Launched at a price of $1,700, the Z5 II offers improved handling and controls compared to the original model, all while aiming to deliver top-notch image quality. The original Z5, released four years ago, has been praised for its 24-megapixel image precision, excellent controls, and dual card slots, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts seeking affordability.

The Z5 II’s design mirrors that of the Z5, featuring a comfortable deep grip that accommodates longer lenses effectively. It introduces a customizable Picture Control button for quick access to color settings, though it lacks a top-mounted LCD panel. Despite this absence, many users appreciate the familiarity and ergonomic layout of the camera.

Among the significant upgrades, the Z5 II boasts a 7.5-stop In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), which enhances stability for photographers. It comes equipped with dual UHS-II SD card slots, ensuring it is suitable for both amateur and professional photographers alike. Powered by the EN-EL15C battery, the Z5 II can capture approximately 380 CIPA-rated shots.

Its electronic viewfinder (EVF) displays 3.69 million dots, refreshes up to 60Hz, and achieves peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it a valuable tool for capturing stunning imagery. A fully articulating 3.2-inch display also accommodates dynamic shooting angles and video production needs.

In field tests in Moab, known for its breathtaking red rock landscapes, the Z5 II demonstrated remarkable autofocus capabilities, using algorithms from the renowned Z6 III model. The Expeed 7 processor allows it to swiftly lock and track subjects, particularly advantageous in fast-paced environments such as mountain biking.

The Z5 II can shoot at speeds up to 30 frames per second (FPS) in electronic shutter mode. However, for users preferring the mechanical shutter, it can still provide an impressive 11 FPS when shooting RAW images. While the Z6 III may excel in high-speed situations, the Z5 II proves versatile enough for a wide range of photographic endeavors.

Nikon enthusiasts will appreciate the image quality delivered by the 24-megapixel backside illuminated sensor, capable of capturing impressive low-light images, a notable feat when photographing the Milky Way. The Z5 II features full-width, oversampled 4K video capabilities, albeit with APS-C cropping for higher frame rates.

In terms of video performance, the Z5 II competes with more expensive models like the Zf, which shares many video features but comes with a steeper price tag. The camera supports 10-bit H.265 video recording and versatile exposure tools, although initial settings can be a hurdle, requiring manual adjustment.

Although the Z5 II’s stabilization is commendable for static shots, panning requires some finesse. Users may favor the ‘Sport’ VR mode for smoother motion capture during video. Furthermore, while the addition of N-RAW video capture expands creative potential, certain limitations warrant consideration based on the shooter’s needs.

The Nikon Z5 II positions itself as a capable tool for various photography styles, from landscapes to sports. While it may not dethrone models like the Z6 III for dedicated fast-paced shoots, the Z5 II offers a well-rounded experience, suitable for a diverse range of users seeking high-quality performance without breaking the bank.

With the Z5 II on the market, the sub-$2000 full-frame camera landscape grows increasingly competitive. As photographers evaluate their options, they may find that the Z5 II stands out as a compelling choice, poised to attract both new and loyal Nikon users alike.