Nikon Unveils Z5II: A Full-Frame Camera for Aspiring Professionals

Nikon has launched the Z5II, a full-frame camera that boasts significant performance enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Z5. This new model features a 24.5-megapixel sensor, which is paired with a five-axis image stabilizer, promising improved image quality and stability. The camera is powered by the latest Expeed 7 image processor, which is also found in Nikon's high-end models.

One of the key advancements in the Z5II is its autofocus system. Nikon claims that the autofocus is now 68% faster than that of the Z5, achieving focus in as little as 0.075 seconds compared to the previous 0.206 seconds. This is supported by a significant increase in autofocus points, with the Z5II offering 299 points, a notable upgrade from the Z5's 80 points. This enhanced autofocus performance is designed to work effectively in low-light conditions, down to -10 EV, while requiring only 3% of the sensor area for object detection.

The camera's continuous shooting capabilities have also seen a substantial boost. The Z5II can capture 14 frames per second in RAW format with continuous autofocus, a marked improvement over the Z5's 4.5 frames per second. For JPEG images, it can reach speeds of up to 30 frames per second. Additionally, a 'Pre-Release Shutter' feature allows the camera to record images up to one second before the shutter is fully pressed, although this feature is limited to JPEG format.

For videographers, the Z5II offers 4K recording at 30 frames per second, as well as 60 frames per second in a cropped mode and 120 frames per second in Full HD. Nikon has highlighted that this camera is the first in its class to support 12-Bit N-RAW video recording directly onto SD cards, providing enhanced post-production flexibility.

The Z5II's electronic viewfinder boasts an impressive brightness of 3,000 nits, while the 3.2-inch fully articulating touchscreen display has a resolution of 2.1 million pixels. A dedicated Picture Control button on the top of the camera allows quick access to the Nikon Imaging Cloud, enabling users to download photo recipes and activate automatic firmware updates.

Durability is also a focus for the Z5II, which features weather-sealing against dust and moisture along with a magnesium alloy body. It includes dual SD card slots for versatile storage options and can be utilized as a webcam via a USB connection. A Nikon representative described the Z5II as an exciting and affordable full-frame upgrade that integrates advanced technologies from Nikon's professional cameras into a compact design.

A recent hands-on experience with the camera indicated a comfortable grip and an intuitive layout, making it easy for existing Nikon users to adapt quickly. The bright viewfinder and other enhancements have been noted as substantial improvements over the previous model.

The Nikon Z5II is expected to be available in late April 2025, with a suggested retail price of EUR1,900 for the body alone. Bundle options include a kit with the Z 24-50 mm lens priced at EUR2,200, the Z 24-70 mm lens at EUR2,500, and the Z 24-200 mm VR lens at EUR2,700.