Z 30
#71
Nikon

Nikon Z 30

Rating

Model: Z 30
$606(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-27
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Product Overview

The Nikon Z 30 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera designed for vloggers and content creators. It features 4K video recording, eye-detection autofocus, and a flip-out touchscreen. Compatible with Nikon's Z lenses, it offers a user-friendly experience for both beginners and experienced users. Its small size and vlogger-centric features make it ideal for on-the-go content creation. The camera also supports USB power and charging for extended use.

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Product Specifications

Image Sensor Size
-"}, {mm

Size & Weight

Weight
0.027 ounces
Hight
5.01 inches
Width
2.89 inches
Depth
2.34 inches

Features

In-Body Image Stabilization Function

The Nikon Z 30 does not have in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Instead, it uses digital image stabilization, which is less effective. Users may need to rely on lenses with VR or external stabilizers for smoother footage, especially in low light or when using longer focal lengths.

Eye Detection Autofocus Function

The camera features eye-detection autofocus, which automatically detects and focuses on human and animal eyes. This ensures sharp focus in portraits and helps track subjects effectively, making it easier to capture clear and expressive shots, especially when vlogging or filming moving subjects.

Tilting LCD Screen Function

The Z 30 has a fully articulating screen that flips out, making it easy to frame photos, videos, and selfies from any angle. This is particularly useful for vloggers and content creators who need to monitor themselves while recording, ensuring they stay in the frame.

External Microphone Input Function

The camera includes an external microphone input, allowing users to connect higher-quality microphones for improved audio. This is essential for vlogging and video recording, as clear audio significantly enhances the overall production quality, reducing background noise and capturing clearer speech.

USB Power Supply Function

The Z 30 supports USB power and charging, allowing the camera to be powered via USB-C. This enables extended shooting sessions without worrying about battery life, making it convenient for streaming, time-lapse photography, and long video recordings. It can be powered by a power bank or wall adapter.

Focus Peaking Function

Focus peaking is not explicitly mentioned in the product information. Therefore, it is assumed that this function is not available on the Nikon Z 30. Users relying on manual focus may find it more challenging to achieve precise focus without this feature.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#71
Ranked #71 out of 99 products in Category
4.2
Overall Rating

The Nikon Z 30 is a capable entry-level mirrorless camera, particularly well-suited for vlogging and content creation. Its limitations include the lack of in-body image stabilization and a viewfinder, which are present in higher-end models. The camera offers good image quality and autofocus performance for its price range. Expect a reasonable lifespan with proper care.

Image Sensor Size and Type
4.0
The 20.9MP APS-C sensor provides good image quality, especially in well-lit conditions. It offers a balance between image quality and camera size, making it suitable for everyday photography and vlogging. The CMOS sensor ensures efficient light capture and processing.
Megapixel Count
4.2
The 20.9MP resolution is sufficient for most users, allowing for detailed images and moderate cropping. It strikes a good balance between image quality and file size, making it practical for both photography and video.
Autofocus System
4.5
The autofocus system includes eye-detection, which is effective for portraits and tracking moving subjects. It provides fast and reliable focusing, making it suitable for vlogging and capturing dynamic scenes. Several AF area modes enhance versatility.
Image Stabilization
3.0
The camera relies on digital image stabilization, which is less effective than in-body stabilization. It helps reduce camera shake to some extent, but users may need to use a tripod or stable surface for optimal results, especially in low light.
Video Capabilities
4.3
The camera supports 4K/30p video recording, providing crisp and detailed footage. It also offers Full HD at up to 120p for slow-motion effects. An external microphone jack enhances audio quality, making it suitable for vlogging and content creation.
Ergonomics and Handling
4.6
The compact and lightweight design makes the camera comfortable to hold and carry around. The flip-out touchscreen is ideal for self-recording and framing shots from various angles. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.8
Nikon is a reputable manufacturer with a long history of producing reliable cameras. The included one-year warranty provides peace of mind and protection against potential defects. Customer support is generally well-regarded.
Cost Performance
4.4
The camera offers good value for its price, providing a range of features suitable for vlogging and content creation. Its combination of image quality, autofocus performance, and user-friendly design makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious users.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Nikon
Nikon: Known for high-quality cameras and lenses, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology for exceptional imaging.

Key Highlights

  • Compact and lightweight design for portability.
  • Excellent autofocus with eye-detection for people and pets.
  • User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.

Considerations

  • No in-body image stabilization, requiring stable hands or a tripod.
  • Limited battery life during extended 4K video recording.
  • Overheating may occur during prolonged streaming.

Recommended For

  • Vloggers and content creators
  • Beginner to intermediate photographers
  • Users needing a compact and lightweight camera

Not Recommended For

  • Professional photographers requiring advanced features
  • Users needing robust weather sealing
  • Those who prefer a viewfinder

Suitable For

  • Vlogging and streaming
  • Travel photography
  • Everyday photography and videography

Not Suitable For

  • Fast-paced sports photography
  • Professional studio work
  • Underwater photography

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.I'm primarily a smartphone user for photos and videos. How much better is the Nikon Z 30?
A.The Nikon Z 30 has a sensor several times larger than a high-end smartphone, capturing incredible details and lifelike colors. It also allows for beautifully blurred backgrounds. Staff confirmation indicates that the image quality is sharp, crisp and vibrant.
Q.I want to use this camera for vlogging and streaming. Are there any known issues?
A.Staff confirmation notes potential overheating in 4K. However, they found 1080p 50fps to work without overheating and praised the 1080p quality. Also it is mentioned that you may need adapters for the ports covering the display.
Q.Can I easily transfer photos and videos to my smartphone?
A.Yes, you can transfer photos and video to your compatible smart device in seconds, using the Nikon SnapBridge app.
Q.I'm new to cameras. Is the Nikon Z 30 easy to use?
A.Yes, according to staff confirmation, the camera is user-friendly with intuitive controls and easy-to-navigate settings. It is also small and easy to carry.
Q.How is the autofocus for video recording, especially for tracking faces and eyes?
A.The Z 30 can automatically detect and focus on human and animal faces and eyes. Staff confirmation mentions the autofocus is lightning fast, and there have been no autofocus problems reported.
Q.I do hiking and want to record videos. Is it suitable for outdoor activities?
A.Yes, it is suitable for outdoor activities. Staff confirmation reported that the camera performed well when taking videos when hiking due to its strong stabilization and clear frames.
Q.I'm considering the Sony ZV-E10 instead. Why should I choose the Nikon Z 30?
A.Based on staff confirmation, the Nikon Z 30 has more realistic colors, uncropped 4k 30p (great for vlogging), decent built-in VR, touch screen, better grip, less crowded ports, tally light, weather sealing and awesome audio quality compared to the Sony ZV-E10.
Q.Is the Nikon Z 30 good for low light conditions?
A.Staff confirmation says low-light performance is better than expected at this price point. However, another staff confirmation mentions it may be a bit noisy in low light because it's a cropped sensor.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

#1

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

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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
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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
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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
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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

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$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