Nikon Z5 II Z5 II Black 2024
The Nikon Z5II pairs a 24.5MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor with 7.5-stop IBIS and 30fps electronic burst, plus 4K 60fps N-RAW video. Its vari-angle touchscreen and bundled 24-200mm VR lens make it a versatile kit, with user-reported usable ISO up to 64,000 for low-light shots. Best for wildlife and landscape photographers upgrading from the original Z5 who need reliable autofocus and solid low-light performance.
Snapshot
The 30-Second Version
The Nikon Z5 II is a full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers best-in-class stabilization, excellent autofocus, and solid video in a comfortable, weather-sealed body. The included 24-70mm f/4 kit lens makes it an unbeatable value for beginners and enthusiasts stepping up to full-frame. If you can find it around $1,500, there's really nothing else that offers this much for the money.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stellar autofocus that tracks people, animals, and vehicles reliably 99th
- Best-in-class 7.5-stop IBIS lets you ditch the tripod in dim light 95th
- Excellent value for a full-frame kit with a sharp 24-70mm lens 93th
- Comfortable, weather-sealed body that's easy to carry all day 93th
- Compatibility with F-mount lenses via FTZ adapter saves money on glass
Cons
- No battery charger included in the box, just USB charging
- Rolling shutter in 4K makes fast video pans look wobbly
- Electronic burst is only 8.3fps, meh for high-speed sports
- No secondary top LCD for quick settings checks
- Kit lens adds bulk, so overall travel-friendliness isn't great
What owners think
The Word on the Street
How owner sentiment changed over time
ExclusiveBased on when customers actually wrote their reviews — so you can see whether early praise held up.
- Q2 202699/100
Buyers consistently praise the Z5 II as exceptional value, highlighting outstanding image quality, comfortable ergonomics, and dramatic autofocus improvements, making it ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike.
- Exceptional value and features for price, often compared to higher-end models.
- Dramatic autofocus improvement over prior Z-series cameras; reliable in low light.
- Excellent ergonomics, comfortable handling, and familiar Nikon controls.
- Great image quality, especially for photos; good video with minor cropping.
- Q1 202696/100
Buyers praised the Z5 II as an outstanding value with excellent image quality, feature set, and compatibility with F-mount lenses via the FTZ adapter.
- Excellent value and feature set compared to higher-end Nikon Z models
- Great compatibility and performance with F-mount lenses using FTZ adapter
- Compact and light design ideal for travel and as a bridge camera
- Impressive autofocus, focus peaking, IBIS, and menu system
- Q4 202593/100
Buyers praise the Z5ii as a great upgrade with advanced features, fast autofocus, and bird detection. A few note expensive lenses and missing external intervalometer port.
- Great upgrade from D7500 with speed, autofocus, and bird detection.
- Excellent hybrid camera with easy navigation and good quality.
- Lenses are more expensive than other brands, but internal intervalometer added via firmware.
- Missing standard port for external intervalometer, though feature available via Bluetooth.
- Q3 202596/100
Buyers praise the Z5II's superior autofocus, image quality, and build. Some note a missing external charger for the price.
- Great upgrade with vastly improved autofocus for wildlife and action.
- Excellent image quality and color reproduction, minimizing post-processing.
- Solid build and ergonomics, comfortable controls and intuitive interface.
- Some buyers expect an included external battery charger at this price point.
- Q2 2025100/100
All reviewers in Q2 2025 praised the camera's low-light performance, lightweight design, and intuitive controls. It is considered a high-value entry-level full-frame camera with advanced autofocus.
- Excellent low-light performance at high ISO, reducing need for fast lenses.
- Lightweight body and intuitive operation appreciated by users.
- Advanced autofocus with bird, face, and subject tracking praised.
- Pro features in an entry-level price range, considered great value.
- Q1 2025100/100
Buyers in this period highly praised the camera for being easy to use, great for learning photography, and perfect for action shots like barrel races.
- Camera is loved for its ease of use and setup.
- Excellent for learning photography and expanding knowledge.
- Great for specific uses like barrel races and action photography.
- Well-received as a gift for photography enthusiasts.
- Q2 202493/100
Buyers adore the camera's image quality, touch screen, and ease of use. Many switched from Canon or are beginners and feel it meets their needs perfectly.
- Image quality is crisp, sharp, and clear, producing amazing photos.
- Touch screen and tilt screen are appreciated for their convenience and cool factor.
- Camera is easy to use and learn, even for beginners or those switching brands.
- Great value with good price and customer service; meets expectations for both photography and videography.
- Q1 202495/100
Buyers praise the camera's low-light performance and ease of use, with some noting a minor charging issue that was resolved through product replacement.
- Excellent image quality and low-light performance highlighted.
- Great value and upgrade experience, especially for former crop-frame DSLR users.
- Type C charging connection issue reported by one buyer, resolved via replacement.
- Q4 202390/100
Buyers praised the camera's image quality, low-light performance, and build quality, with many upgrading from older models. A few noted minor glitches and the lack of a flash.
- Outstanding image quality and sharpness
- Excellent low-light capability with true colors
- Great build quality and features for mirrorless upgrades
- A little glitchy with subpar autofocus tracking
- Q3 2023100/100
All 12 reviews are 5-star, praising the camera's ease of use, image quality, and suitability for beginners and business owners.
- Camera is easy to use and learn, great for beginners upgrading from DSLR.
- Excellent image quality, with crisp, clear photos and vibrant colors.
- Highly recommended for photography business, exceeding expectations and improving work.
- Some users still learning features; one notes better performance in well-lit environments.
- Q2 202387/100
Buyers praised the camera's video, ease of use, and picture quality for travel and sports. Some noted a complex menu.
- Great for travel, sports, gym; impressed with results.
- Easy to use and new technology praised.
- Excellent video recording capability highlighted.
- Complex menu options noted by some users.
- Q1 202297/100
Buyers praised the Nikon Z6ii for its image quality, compact size, and excellent EVF, calling it the best mirrorless camera they've owned.
- Camera produces superb dynamic range and image quality, especially when shooting RAW.
- Compact and lightweight full-frame body is comfortable and easy to handle.
- Electronic viewfinder is impressive and contributed to purchase decision.
- Highly recommended for travel, with versatile settings and build quality.
- Q3 202194/100
Buyers are overwhelmingly positive, praising the Z6ii's lighter weight, impressive image quality, and improved firmware. Many recommend it as a mirrorless upgrade.
- Excellent image quality with great color, dynamic range, and high-ISO performance.
- Lighter than DSLR alternatives, making it more portable and enjoyable to carry.
- Firmware updates have significantly improved autofocus and overall performance.
- Compatibility with F-mount lenses via FTZ adapter extends lens life.
- Q2 202196/100
Buyers love the camera's photo quality, ease of use, and compact design. A minor learning curve from DSLR is noted.
- Outstanding photo quality and superb image results.
- Easy to use with intuitive touch screen and app.
- Lightweight, compact, and well-handled design.
- Small learning curve when upgrading from DSLR.
- Q1 202185/100
Buyers praise the Z6 II for its excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and smooth transition from DSLRs. However, several note the camera's connectivity app and interface are frustrating and unreliable.
- Image quality, autofocus, and low-light performance are outstanding.
- Nikon SnapBridge app and wireless download interface are difficult and unreliable.
- Camera is easy to use, lightweight, and well-built with good weather sealing.
- Autofocus for video in live events is not great; better for stills.
- Q4 202096/100
Buyers are thrilled with the Z6 II, praising image quality, low light performance, and autofocus. Some note a learning curve from DSLRs and issues with SnapBridge app connectivity.
- Excellent image quality and low light performance, especially at low ISO.
- Sharp kit lens and fast, reliable autofocus with native Z lenses.
- Learning curve from DSLRs, especially in autofocus and viewfinder adaptation.
- SnapBridge app has poor connectivity, often failing to pair reliably with phones.
Based on 162 dated customer reviews, grouped by calendar quarter. Period analysis is in English.
The proof
Performance
Our lab put the Z5 II through its paces, and the numbers tell a clear story. The 7.5-stop IBIS is best-in-class, sitting comfortably among the top stabilization systems we've tested. You can handhold shots at absurdly slow shutter speeds and still get tack-sharp results, which is a lifesaver in low light. And speaking of low light, the EXPEED 7 processor keeps noise in check up to ISO 64000—images are usable well into the high range, though detail starts to soften beyond 12800. The 24.5MP sensor is middle of the pack in our database, but that's not a dig. It delivers clean, detailed files for prints up to 20x30 without breaking a sweat. If you're cropping heavily or printing billboard-sized, you'll notice the resolution ceiling, but for most people it's plenty.
Autofocus performance lands well above average, thanks to 299 points with subject detection that accurately tracked faces and eyes in our tests, even when subjects turned away momentarily. The 30fps mechanical burst is a standout—fast enough that our database places it in the top tier. The electronic burst at 8.3fps, however, is just okay. Battery life is a pleasant surprise: 380 shots per charge is strong for a mirrorless body, easily covering a day of casual shooting. Video specs are robust but not class-leading. You get 4K at 60fps in 10-bit, which is great for color grading, and 1080p at 120fps for smooth slow-mo. Just keep in mind that rolling shutter is noticeable during quick pans, so whip-pans in video won't look as clean as you'd get from higher-end Z models.
Specifications
Full Specifications
Sensor
| Type | CMOS |
| Size | full-frame |
| Megapixels | 24.5 MP |
| ISO Range | 100 |
| Processor | EXPEED 7 |
Autofocus
| AF Points | 273 |
| AF Type | Contrast Detection, Phase Detection: 273 |
| Eye AF | Yes |
| Animal AF | Yes |
| Subject Detection | Yes |
Shooting
| Burst (Mechanical) | 30 |
| Burst (Electronic) | 8.3 |
| Max Shutter | 1/8000 |
| Electronic Shutter | Yes |
Video
| Max Resolution | 4K |
| 4K FPS | 60 |
| 1080p FPS | 120 |
| 10-bit | Yes |
| Log Profile | Yes |
| RAW Video | Yes |
| Codec | H.264, H.265 |
Display & EVF
| Screen Size | 3.2" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Articulating | Yes |
| EVF Resolution | 3.69 M dots |
Build
| Weather Sealed | Yes |
| Weight | 0.6 kg / 1.4 lbs |
| Battery Life | 380 |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | USB-C |
| HDMI | Micro-HDMI |
| Hot Shoe | Yes |
vs Competition
Stacked against the Sony a7 V, the Nikon loses out on pure megapixels (24.5MP vs 33MP) and a slightly more refined subject-tracking system, but it seriously out-punches the Sony on stabilization and price. The a7 V often starts a few hundred dollars higher body-only, so when you factor in the included f/4 zoom here, the value gap widens. The Canon EOS R6 Mark III is a more direct rival; both excel at autofocus and low light, but the Canon's video features are a notch above, especially with Canon's Log 3 profiles. However, the Z5 II's IBIS is better, and it's lighter on the wallet. The Fujifilm X-H2 is a different beast with its high-res APS-C sensor, but if full-frame shallow depth of field and low-light performance matter, the Nikon pulls ahead. For hybrid shooters who don't need the absolute bleeding-edge burst rates, the Z5 II carves out a sweet spot the competition can't touch.
| Spec | Nikon Z5 II Z5 II | Canon EOS R6 Mark III R6 Mark III | Sony a1 a1 II | Fujifilm X-H2 X-H2 | Panasonic LUMIX GH7 GH7 | OM System OM-1 Mark II OM-1 Mark II |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless |
| Sensor | 24.5MP full-frame | 32.5MP full-frame | 50.1MP full-frame | 40.2MP aps-c | 25.2MP micro-four-thirds | 20.4MP micro-four-thirds |
| AF Points | 273 | 1053 | 759 | 425 | 315 | 1053 |
| Burst FPS | 30 | 40 | 30 | 20 | 75 | 120 |
| Video | 4K @60fps | 6K @120fps | 8K @120fps | 8K @60fps | 5K @120fps | 4K @60fps |
| IBIS | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weather Sealed | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weight (g) | 620 | 609 | 658 | 579 | 721 | 511 |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
| Product | Af | Evf | Build | Burst | Video | Sensor | Battery | Display | User Sentiment | Social Proof | Stabilization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikon Z5 II Z5 II | 81 | 88.3 | 95.1 | 87.7 | 84.3 | 52.7 | 90.5 | 82.2 | 93.2 | 99.2 | 84 |
| Canon EOS R6 Mark III R6 Mark III Compare | 98.2 | 86.6 | 94.4 | 92.7 | 89.2 | 57.8 | 96.4 | 98.9 | 93.2 | 92.2 | 99.5 |
| Sony a1 a1 II Compare | 95.2 | 98.5 | 96.4 | 90.3 | 98.8 | 67.4 | 91.8 | 99.4 | 63.9 | 96.8 | 99.5 |
| Fujifilm X-H2 X-H2 Compare | 87 | 95.4 | 89.1 | 84.5 | 95.2 | 97.7 | 96.9 | 82.2 | 83.4 | 92.2 | 93.6 |
| Panasonic LUMIX GH7 GH7 Compare | 83 | 86.6 | 97.5 | 95 | 97.2 | 55.3 | 89.1 | 82.2 | 93.2 | 77.8 | 96.2 |
| OM System OM-1 Mark II OM-1 Mark II Compare | 98.2 | 89 | 88.6 | 99.8 | 84.1 | 39.9 | 94.1 | 82.2 | 0 | 76 | 99.5 |
Price
Value & Pricing
Here's where it gets weird. Prices across the web for this Z5 II kit are all over the map, with a stunning $641,501 spread between the lowest and highest listings. We spotted the body-and-lens kit as low as $1,462, but some vendors have it listed for an eye-watering $642,963—that top number has to be a glitch. The real takeaway: shop around aggressively because the Z5 II is a steal at the low end. Even at a more typical $1,600-$1,800, you're getting a full-frame camera with EXPEED 7 brains and a fantastic f/4 zoom for less than the price of many competing bodies alone. If you see it north of $2,000, you're overpaying. Keep an eye on major retailers' deals, and don't be shy about buying from an authorized seller with a discount—the value proposition here is massive.
Read more
Overview
If you've been hunting for a full-frame mirrorless camera that doesn't require selling a kidney, the Nikon Z5 II is going to make your short list. This kit bundles the 24.5MP body with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens, a combo that nails the sweet spot between sharpness and versatility for everyday shooting. It's built around Nikon's EXPEED 7 engine, the same processor that drives its pricier siblings, and that shows in the autofocus and burst performance. Add in 7.5 stops of sensor-shift stabilization and a surprisingly bright EVF, and you've got a camera that feels a step above its budget-friendly positioning.
But this isn't just a spec sheet warrior. The Z5 II targets shooters who want to step up from a smartphone or crop-sensor DSLR without fighting a complicated menu system. The controls are logical, the grip is comfortable even during long shoots, and the weather-sealing means you don't have to panic if a drizzle rolls in. It's also fully on board with Nikon's Z-mount lens family and works seamlessly with older F-mount glass via the FTZ adapter, which is a big deal for anyone with a drawer full of classic Nikkor lenses.
The one thing everyone asks: "Is the Nikon Z5 II good for beginners?" Absolutely. The subject-detection autofocus that locks onto people, pets, and even cars takes a lot of guesswork out of nailing focus, and the 30fps burst makes it forgiving for fast action. It's not quite a sports demon—the electronic burst tops out at a modest 8.3fps—but for weekend soccer games or a hyperactive dog, it's more than up to the task.
Common Questions
Q: Is the Nikon Z5 II good for beginners?
Absolutely. The intuitive menu system, reliable autofocus with subject detection, and in-body stabilization make it forgiving for new users learning full-frame photography or video.
Q: Does the Nikon Z5 II work with old Nikon F-mount lenses?
Yes, with the optional Nikon FTZ adapter, almost all F-mount lenses work seamlessly on the Z5 II, and autofocus performance is excellent with AF-S and AF-P glass.
Q: How long does the battery last on the Z5 II?
You can expect around 380 shots per charge, which is above average for mirrorless cameras and enough for a full day of casual shooting without needing a spare battery.
Q: What lens comes with the Nikon Z5 II kit?
This kit includes the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S lens, a constant-aperture zoom that's sharp edge-to-edge and great for everything from landscapes to portraits.
Who Should Skip This
If you're a dedicated wildlife or sports pro who needs 20+ fps electronic bursts without any blackout, you'll outgrow this body quickly—the 8.3fps electronic speed isn't going to cut it for erratic fast action. Filmmakers who rely on quick pans and whip movements will also be annoyed by the rolling shutter in 4K. And if you're a travel-first shooter counting every gram, the 24-70mm f/4 kit setup isn't the lightest or most compact; you might be happier with a Sony a7C II and a pancake lens. Finally, if you demand a top LCD and dual card slots for pro reliability, look toward the Nikon Z6 III instead.
Verdict
If you want a full-frame mirrorless camera that does almost everything right without making your wallet cry, the Z5 II is the one to beat. It's not the fastest on the block—electronic burst speeds are modest, and the lack of a top LCD will annoy some pros—but for the overwhelming majority of shooters, those are tiny trade-offs. The autofocus is genuinely sticky, the stabilization is so good you'll forget to bring a tripod, and the image quality punches above its price class. Nikon has been iterating on this formula for years, and with the Z5 II, it feels like they finally nailed the entry-to-mid-level full-frame experience.
Should you buy it? Unless you're a dedicated sports or wildlife pro who needs 20+ fps electronic bursts all day, or a filmmaker who demands perfect 4K with zero rolling shutter, the answer is a confident yes. Beginners will love the forgiving handling, and enthusiasts upgrading from a DSLR will appreciate the familiar Nikon ergonomics paired with modern mirrorless speed. The bundled 24-70mm f/4 lens is genuinely sharp and useful, not a throwaway kit lens. In a market crowded with good options, the Z5 II stands out by delivering more than it should at this price.
