I remember when the Nikon Z50 original came out, I kind of laughed. This was a time when it seems like Nikon was still getting it together but in an odd way similar to how one transitions from middle-age to old-age. But the Nikon Z50 II is, quite honestly, oddly more powerful. They’re packing the latest processor inside of a camera body that seems to share the same sensor as the original Nikon Z50. But they’re also giving it a picture control mode button — which is similar to Fujifilm’s film simulations. And like every camera out there today, it seems to be targeting content creators more than photographers.
Nikon Z50 II Tech Specs
The following information has been taken from Nikon’s press release:
- 20.9-megapixel APS-C/ DX format sensor lets you capture high quality photos and videos, with gorgeous colors and amazing low light ability.
- Dedicated Picture Control button allows for one-touch access to inspiring color presets, Imaging Recipes and custom Flexible Picture Controls, all in real-time.
- EXPEED 7 image processing engine gives users access to powerful features and performance, including an advanced AF system with subject detection and 3D Tracking.
- Bright electronic viewfinder at 1000 cd/m2 (nits), is roughly twice as bright as the one built into the Nikon Z50, allowing users to easily check focus and compose even on the brightest of days.
- Rapid photo burst shooting with up to 30 fps with electronic shutter, or up to 11 fps with the mechanical shutter.
- Features a Pre-Release Capture function capable of recording images buffered up to one second before the shutter-release button is fully pressed.
- Excellent low light capability produces sharp photos in minimal light with less grain thanks to a wide ISO range from 100–512002.
- Features made for all types of video content creators, such as N-LOG recording, product review mode, waveform monitor, microphone and headphone jacks.
- Built-in flash is useful in backlit situations as a fill-flash or in dark surroundings.
- Hi-Res Zoom3 during video recording, which allows users to zoom in on their subject with no loss in image quality, even when using a prime lens.
- An illuminated REC lamp (tally light) notifies the user and the subject when video recording is in progress.
- Support for USB streaming (UVC/UAC) allows plug and play connectivity for online meetings and live video streaming by simply connecting the camera to a computer or smartphone.
- Equipped with a large and clear 3.2-inch vari-angle monitor with a touch screen for intuitive operation and recording yourself and others.
- The new Nikon Z50II will be available in late November 2024 for a suggested retail price of $909.95* for the body only. Kit configurations include the NIKKOR Z 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens for $1049.95* SRP, or a two-lens kit with the 16-50mm and 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lenses for $1299.95* SRP. The MC-DC3 Remote Cord is scheduled for release later in 2024, for $36.95* SRP.
Sure, this is going to be affordable — but for what it’s worth, you can get a lot of these features with other Nikon cameras instead. Truly, I’m not sure if they’re aiming this camera more at enthusiast photographers or YouTubers more. The nice features for photographers are the pre-release capture and the dedicated picture control. Nikon’s high ISO output with this format of camera is also some of the best on the market.
It’s also really, really, amazingly affordable. On the second hand market, the closest camera to this in terms of cost is the old Nikon z6 II. What the Z50 II does better is the pre-release capture addition. That’s really useful if you’re photographing wildlife. But if you’re photographing people, then the z6 II does everything this can do, gives you more megapixels, and a larger sensor.
Which one is better for you?
I can tell you that we’re not going to be reviewing this as we believe that most brands are treating APS-C as something disposable.
Nikon Z50 II Sample Images
The following photos were provided by Nikon.
