Z 5
#46
Nikon

Nikon Z 5

Rating

Model: 1649
$869(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26
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Product Overview

The Nikon Z 5 is a compact and lightweight full-frame mirrorless camera featuring a 24.3MP CMOS sensor and Nikon’s Z mount. It delivers sharp, detailed imagery and excellent low-light performance. The camera records 4K UHD video at 30p and 1080p at 60p. It includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization, eye-detection autofocus, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control. The Z 5 is designed for both stills and video, offering a blend of performance and portability for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

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Product Specifications

Image Sensor Size
35.9 x 23.9mm
Effective Pixels
24.3MP
ISO Range
100-51200 (expandable to 50-102400)
Shutter Speed
1/8000 - 30sec
Image Stabilization
Sensor-shift
Continuous Shooting Speed
4.5fps
Video Resolution
4K/30p
Mount Type
Nikon Z
LCD Screen Size
-inch
Weight
590g

Size & Weight

Weight
1.3 pounds
Hight
5.3 inches
Width
2.8 inches
Depth
4 inches

Features

In-Body Image Stabilization Function

The 5-axis VR image stabilization provides up to five stops of image stabilization, reducing camera shake for sharper images and smoother videos. This is particularly useful in low-light conditions or when using longer lenses.

Eye Detection Autofocus Function

The eye-detection autofocus automatically locks onto the eyes of people, dogs, and cats, tracking them as they move around the frame. This ensures that your subject's eyes are always in sharp focus, making it ideal for portrait and pet photography.

Tilting LCD Screen Function

This camera does not have a tilting LCD screen function, limiting flexibility when shooting from high or low angles. Users may need to rely on external monitors or alternative viewing methods in such situations.

External Microphone Input Function

The external microphone input allows for connecting an external microphone for improved audio quality when recording videos. This is beneficial for vlogging, interviews, and other situations where high-quality audio is essential.

USB Power Supply Function

The USB power delivery allows the camera to be powered via USB, enabling extended shooting sessions without worrying about battery life. This is particularly useful for time-lapse photography or when recording long videos.

Focus Peaking Function

This camera does not have a focus peaking function, which assists with manual focusing by highlighting areas in focus on the LCD screen or viewfinder. Users may find manual focusing more challenging without this feature.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#46
Ranked #46 out of 99 products in Category
4.5
Overall Rating

The Nikon Z 5 offers a solid entry into full-frame mirrorless photography, balancing performance and affordability. While it lacks some advanced features of higher-end models, it provides excellent image quality and reliable performance for enthusiasts.

Image Sensor Size and Type
5.0
The full-frame CMOS sensor provides excellent image quality, wide dynamic range, and great low-light performance, making it suitable for professional-quality photography and videography.
Megapixel Count
4.5
The 24.3MP resolution is sufficient for most users, providing ample detail for large prints and cropping while maintaining manageable file sizes. It strikes a good balance between resolution and performance.
Autofocus System
4.3
The autofocus system is fast and accurate, featuring eye-detection AF for both humans and animals. It ensures sharp focus on the subject, making it ideal for portraits and capturing spontaneous moments.
Image Stabilization
4.7
The 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) provides up to five stops of shake correction, enabling sharp handheld shooting in low-light conditions and smooth video recording.
Video Capabilities
4.0
The camera records 4K UHD video at 30p, delivering crisp and smooth videos. However, the 4K video is cropped, which may limit wide-angle shooting. It also supports 1080p at 60p for high-quality video recording.
Ergonomics and Handling
4.5
The camera is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The intuitive touchscreen interface and well-placed buttons provide easy access to important settings.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.8
Nikon has a strong reputation for producing reliable cameras, and the included warranty provides peace of mind in case of any issues. Their customer support is generally well-regarded.
Cost Performance
4.3
The Nikon Z 5 offers excellent value for its price, providing a full-frame sensor, in-body image stabilization, and eye-detection autofocus at a competitive price point. It's a great option for enthusiasts looking to upgrade to full-frame.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Nikon
Nikon: Known for high-quality cameras and lenses, delivering exceptional image quality and innovative technology.

Key Highlights

  • Excellent full-frame image quality at a competitive price.
  • Effective in-body image stabilization for sharper handheld shots.
  • User-friendly interface and comfortable ergonomics.

Considerations

  • 4K video is cropped, limiting wide-angle shooting.
  • Continuous shooting speed is relatively slow.
  • SnapBridge app can be unreliable for image transfer.

Recommended For

  • Enthusiast photographers looking for a full-frame upgrade
  • Videographers needing reliable 4K recording
  • Users wanting a compact and lightweight mirrorless system

Not Recommended For

  • Professional sports or wildlife photographers
  • Users requiring uncropped 4K video
  • Photographers needing extremely fast continuous shooting

Suitable For

  • Travel photography
  • Portrait photography
  • Everyday video recording

Not Suitable For

  • Fast-paced sports photography
  • Professional wildlife photography
  • Underwater photography without appropriate housing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.I'm hesitant about switching to a mirrorless camera. How does the Nikon Z 5 compare to traditional DSLRs?
A.The Nikon Z 5 offers several advantages over traditional DSLRs, including a more compact and lightweight design, in-body image stabilization, and advanced autofocus features like eye autofocus. Staff confirmation indicates that the Z 5's performance, particularly its autofocus and image quality, often exceeds expectations, even for long-time DSLR users. The transition is made easier with the FTZ adapter, allowing continued use of existing F-mount lenses.
Q.I'm concerned about the low-light performance of mirrorless cameras. How does the Nikon Z 5 handle low-light conditions?
A.The Nikon Z 5 excels in low-light conditions. Its 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor and EXPEED 6 image processing system produce clean, detailed images even at high ISO settings. Staff confirmation highlights the camera's impressive low-light capabilities, making it suitable for shooting in challenging lighting situations. The in-body image stabilization also helps capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds in low light.
Q.I'm not a professional photographer. Is the Nikon Z 5 too complicated for a beginner?
A.No, the Nikon Z 5 is designed to be user-friendly for both beginners and experienced photographers. It offers a range of automatic and manual modes, allowing you to start with simple point-and-shoot photography and gradually explore more advanced settings as your skills develop. Staff confirmation notes that the camera is easy to use straight out of the box, with an intuitive touchscreen interface and customizable controls.
Q.I'm worried about the battery life of mirrorless cameras. How long does the Nikon Z 5 battery last?
A.The Nikon Z 5 offers impressive battery life, capable of lasting through a full day of shooting without needing a recharge, according to staff confirmation. It uses the EN-EL15c battery, which is the newest variation of the EN-EL15 battery from Nikon. Battery life can vary depending on usage, but overall, it provides sufficient power for most shooting scenarios.
Q.I need a camera for both stills and video. How does the Nikon Z 5 perform for video recording?
A.The Nikon Z 5 is a capable video camera, offering 4K UHD video recording at 30p and 1080p video at 60p. Staff confirmation mentions that it delivers crisp, smooth videos with shallow depth of field. It also features USB power delivery and HDMI output for added versatility. While it does cropped 4K video, it can do uncropped 1080p HD video.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

#1

Canon

EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera

$2,999(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26

The Canon EOS R5: a full-frame mirrorless camera with 8K video, 45MP sensor, and advanced autofocus.

Image Sensor Size- mmEffective Pixels45 MP
ISO Range100-51200Shutter Speed- sec
Image StabilizationSensor-shiftContinuous Shooting Speed12 fps
Video Resolution8KMount TypeRF
LCD Screen Size- inchWeight- g
In-Body Image Stabilization FunctionEye Detection Autofocus FunctionTilting LCD Screen FunctionExternal Microphone Input FunctionUSB Power Supply FunctionFocus Peaking Function
4.9Overall Rating
5.0Image Sensor Size and Type
5.0Megapixel Count
5.0Autofocus System
5.0Image Stabilization
5.0Video Capabilities
4.8Ergonomics and Handling
4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.5Cost Performance
#2

Sony

Alpha 1 ILCE1/B Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera

$5,398(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26

The Sony Alpha 1: high-resolution, high-speed full-frame mirrorless camera for creators capturing the impossible.

Image Sensor Size- mmEffective Pixels50.1 MP
ISO Range50Shutter Speed- sec
Image StabilizationSensor-shiftContinuous Shooting Speed30 fps
Video Resolution8k 30pMount TypeSony E
LCD Screen Size- inchWeight- g
In-Body Image Stabilization FunctionEye Detection Autofocus FunctionTilting LCD Screen FunctionExternal Microphone Input FunctionUSB Power Supply FunctionFocus Peaking Function
4.8Overall Rating
5.0Image Sensor Size and Type
5.0Megapixel Count
5.0Autofocus System
5.0Image Stabilization
5.0Video Capabilities
4.8Ergonomics and Handling
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.5Cost Performance
#3

Canon

EOS R5 Mark II RF24-105mm F4 L is USM Lens Kit

$5,199(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.

Image Sensor Size- mmEffective Pixels45 MP
ISO Range-Shutter Speed- sec
Image StabilizationSensor-shiftContinuous Shooting Speed30 fps
Video Resolution8KMount TypeCanon RF
LCD Screen Size- inchWeight- g
In-Body Image Stabilization FunctionEye Detection Autofocus FunctionTilting LCD Screen FunctionExternal Microphone Input FunctionUSB Power Supply FunctionFocus Peaking Function
4.8Overall Rating
5.0Image Sensor Size and Type
5.0Megapixel Count
5.0Autofocus System
4.7Image Stabilization
5.0Video Capabilities
4.8Ergonomics and Handling
4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.5Cost Performance
#4

Canon

EOS R1 Body

$6,799(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26

The Canon EOS R1 is a top-tier full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professional action photography.

Image Sensor Size36 x 24 mmEffective Pixels24.2 MP
ISO Range50-51200Shutter Speed- sec
Image StabilizationSensor-shiftContinuous Shooting Speed40 fps
Video Resolution6K/60pMount TypeCanon RF
LCD Screen Size- inchWeight1134 g
In-Body Image Stabilization FunctionEye Detection Autofocus FunctionTilting LCD Screen FunctionExternal Microphone Input FunctionUSB Power Supply FunctionFocus Peaking Function
4.8Overall Rating
5.0Image Sensor Size and Type
4.8Megapixel Count
5.0Autofocus System
4.7Image Stabilization
5.0Video Capabilities
4.7Ergonomics and Handling
4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.5Cost Performance
#5

Canon

EOS R5 Mark II Body

$3,999(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.

Image Sensor Size36 x 24 mmEffective Pixels45 MP
ISO Range50- -Shutter Speed- sec
Image StabilizationSensor-shiftContinuous Shooting Speed30 fps
Video Resolution8KMount TypeCanon RF
LCD Screen Size- inchWeight680 g
In-Body Image Stabilization FunctionEye Detection Autofocus FunctionTilting LCD Screen FunctionExternal Microphone Input FunctionUSB Power Supply FunctionFocus Peaking Function
4.8Overall Rating
5.0Image Sensor Size and Type
5.0Megapixel Count
5.0Autofocus System
4.7Image Stabilization
5.0Video Capabilities
4.5Ergonomics and Handling
4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.5Cost Performance