Introduction
The Nikon Z5 is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera that looks and handles almost exactly like its higher-end Z-mount siblings, the Z6 and Z7. It’s built around a stabilized non-BSI 24MP CMOS sensor, which is likely more closely related to the generation of chip found in Nikon’s D750 DSLR, rather than the newer BSI sensor in the Z6.
Slightly stripped down and more stills-focused, the Z5 shares the same 273-point hybrid AF system, Expeed 6 processor and 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder as the Z6. But niceties like a top plate display are absent. Likewise, the Z5’s max burst rate and video capabilities are considerably less than that of the Z6: 4.5 fps vs. 12 fps and heavily cropped 4K vs. un-cropped, oversampled 4K. But from an image quality and handling standpoint, the two cameras are quite similar.
Key Specifications:
- 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor (not BSI)
- Hybrid AF system with 273 phase-detect points covering 90% of the frame
- 4.5 fps continuous shooting with AF
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder
- Dual UHS-II SD cards
- 4K/30p video capture (with 1.7x crop)
- 1080/60p video capture (no crop)
- Headphone and microphone ports
- Dust and moisture sealed
The Nikon Z5 sells for $1399 body-only, $1699 kitted with the new 24-50mm F4-6.3 lens and $2199 kitted with the 24-200 F4-6.3 VR.
What’s new and how it compares
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The Z5 is essentially a stripped down Z6. Here’s what Nikon changed in the camera to keep the price down. |
Body, handling and controls
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The Z5 is the same exact size, weight and shape as the Z6. But there are a few small differences between the two bodies. |
First impressions
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DPR’s Dan Bracaglia has been busy shooting with the Z5. Here’s why he thinks it’s such a tempting camera – and why he may buy one in 12 months’ time. |
Image quality
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How does the Z5’s 24MP sensor stack up against the latest BSI chips? Quite well, in fact. |
Autofocus & Video
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Autofocus performance from the Z5 is quite good, whether shooting moving or static subjects. But video performance is not the camera’s strong suit. |
Conclusion
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The Nikon Z5 is arguably the best bang-for-your-buck stills-oriented camera on the market, which is why it’s earns our gold award. |
Sample gallery
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Pups, mountains and summertime vibes. Check out our initial Z5 sample gallery. |
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