nikon z5 travel

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Nikon Z 5 Camera Review

The Nikon Z 5 is an entry-level full-frame camera in Nikon's mirrorless Z lineup, sitting below the Nikon Z 6 / Nikon Z 6II . It's a great option for those looking for their first full-frame camera or those who want full-frame image quality without spending a fortune. While it might lag in some areas—most notably, burst shooting and video features—it's still a great camera for photography, with excellent ergonomics, an intuitive user interface, and a solid AF system, not to mention the high-quality lens options available for the Z-mount.

Our Verdict

The Nikon Z5 is good for travel photography if you don't mind a bulkier kit. It isn't the most portable camera, but it's still relatively portable for a full-frame model, though full-frame lenses can also take up more space. Still, the camera's image quality is great, and it performs well even in low light. Battery life is also very good for a mirrorless camera, so depending on your usage habits, you can get a fair amount of shots out of it while you're out and about.

• Excellent image quality.
• Amazing ergonomics.
• Great battery life.
• Sturdy and weather-sealed.
• Not especially portable.
• Autofocus tracking isn't the most reliable.

The Nikon Z5 is great for landscape photography. It takes clean, detailed photos with plenty of dynamic range to capture a wider array of detail in high-contrast landscapes. It also manages noise levels quite well in low light. On top of that, there are some very high-quality wide-angle lenses available for Nikon's Z mount that are perfect for landscape photography. The camera's also well-built and weather-sealed, though it isn't the most portable option.

The Nikon Z5 is decent for sports and wildlife photography. While it's well-built and comfortable to shoot with, it doesn't have a very fast max burst rate, if you tend to rely on burst shooting to capture moments of fast action. On the upside, it has a solid autofocus system with a fairly reliable tracking feature, a great battery life, and dual SD card slots.

• Effective AF tracking.
• Slow max burst rate.
• Limited buffer depth.

The Nikon Z5 has impressive RAW image quality. It has excellent dynamic range, so highlight and shadow details are preserved well in high-contrast scenes. Though it isn't the best among full-frame peers, its noise handling is also great in low light. Finally, its sensor resolves plenty of fine detail, resulting in sharp-looking images.

• Good low-light performance.
• Excellent dynamic range.

The Nikon Z5 isn't meant for vlogging. For one thing, it doesn't have a fully articulated screen, so you can't monitor yourself while recording. It's also on the heavier, bulkier side and can only shoot 4k video with a severe crop, which impacts its stabilization and video quality.

• In-body image stabilization.
• Good overall face-tracking performance.
• Screen only tilts and doesn't rotate.
• Severe crop while recording in 4k.

The Nikon Z5 is good for studio video, but it falls short of higher-end or video-oriented models. The biggest downside here is severely cropped 4k recording, which impacts quality, AF performance, and stabilization. It's also capped to a 30-minute recording time limit and doesn't support Log recording to capture a wider dynamic range. On the upside, it has a decent amount of frame rate options and a fantastic battery life for video, with no overheating issues.

• Plenty of inputs and outputs for video peripherals.
• No Log profiles.
• 30-minute recording time limit.

The Nikon Z5 isn't designed for action video. It's too big to be mounted on a helmet rig and can't record at high frame rates for slow-motion video.

• Not meant to be mounted to helmets or action rigs.
• Lack of high-speed frame rate options.
• 7.5 Travel Photography
• 8.1 Landscape Photography
• 7.3 Sport & Wildlife Photography
• 8.4 Raw Photo Performance
• 6.1 Vlogging
• 8.0 Studio Video
• 4.1 Action Video
• Updated Jan 29, 2024: Added text to the 'Raw Photo Performance' verdict box.
• Updated Jan 29, 2024: Converted to Test Bench 0.12.1 .
• Updated Nov 02, 2023: Brushed up text for clarity and fleshed out the information in several test boxes.
• Updated Sep 06, 2023: Added a link to the Sony α7 II in the 'Portability' section.
• Updated May 09, 2023: We updated the camera to firmware version 1.40, which offers "improved eye-detection performance for 'Auto-area AF'." As such, we retested the camera's 'Photo AF-C Tracking' ability. The sample photos, hit rates, and score have all been updated accordingly.
• Updated Apr 05, 2023: Converted to Test Bench 0.12 .
• Updated Jan 24, 2023: Added text to 'Photo AF-C Tracking' and 'Photo AF-C Center Point' boxes, with minor touch-ups throughout the review for clarity.
• Updated Jan 23, 2023: Converted to Test Bench 0.11 .
• Updated Nov 10, 2022: Because of the yellow tint present on the original 'Video Quality' test scene extracts, we re-tested the camera to ensure proper settings were used. The 'Test Scene Extract in 4k' and 'Test Scene Extract in FHD' have both been reshot and re-uploaded, and the scores have increased. We also re-evaluated the 'Low Light Capability in 4k' score, which has now decreased and is more in line with expectations.
• Updated Nov 07, 2022: Rewrote existing text for clarity and accuracy and added missing text.
• Updated Oct 03, 2022: Converted to Test Bench 0.10 .
• Updated Aug 05, 2022: Converted to Test Bench 0.9 .
• Updated Apr 22, 2022: Converted to Test Bench 0.8 .
• Updated Feb 12, 2021: Input errors in the 'Depth' field in the 'Portability' box and 'Guide Mode' field in the 'Menu System' box have been corrected. An error in the name of the tested lens has also been rectified.
• Updated Feb 08, 2021: Corrected input errors in the 'Sample Gallery' section.
• Updated Feb 08, 2021: Review published.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

The Nikon Z 5 is only available in one color variant: 'Black', and you can see our unit's label here . We purchased the camera with the Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 kit lens, but, depending on the retailer, you can also buy it in a bundle with a different lens, including the Nikkor Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens, or without a lens at all.

If you come across a different variant of this camera, let us know, and we'll update our review.

Compared To Other Cameras

The Nikon Z 5 is an excellent entry-level full-frame camera. Though it has some shortcomings, especially when it comes to shooting speed, processing power, and 4k video capability, it's a fantastic camera for its price and a great entryway into full-frame photography for those looking to upgrade.

For more options, you can also check out our recommendations for the best mirrorless cameras , the best cameras for wildlife photography , or the best 4k video cameras .

The Nikon Z 6 is a bit better overall than the Nikon Z 5, but the Z 5 still offers a lot of value for those just getting into full-frame photography. The Z 5 is Nikon's entry-level full-frame camera, while the Z 6 is a higher-end enthusiast model. Because of that, the Z 6 has a faster continuous shooting speed, can shoot 4k video without a crop and more frame rate options, and has a CFexpress card slot. However, it does have a shorter battery life than the Z 5.

The Nikon Z 5 and the Nikon Z 50 are both entry-level options in Nikon's mirrorless lineup, but they have different-sized sensors. The Z 5 has an advantage in noise and low-light performance thanks to its full-frame sensor, along with advanced features like in-body image stabilization and dual memory card slots. However, the Z 50's APS-C sensor gives it a more portable body. The Z 50 also has faster burst shooting and is a bit better-suited to video and vlogging, with more frame rate options and less of a crop on 4k video.

The Nikon Z 5 is better than the Canon EOS RP . Both are entry-level full-frame cameras, but the Nikon feels better built, has a higher-resolution EVF, includes in-body image stabilization and dual SD card slots, and has significantly better battery life. That said, the Canon does offer a couple of advantages—notably, a more portable body and a better overall autofocus system.

The Nikon Z 5 offers better overall value than the Canon EOS R8 unless you're a hybrid or video shooter or prefer a more portable camera, in which case you should go with the R8. Both cameras use full-frame sensors and capture excellent image quality, but the Z 5 has a higher-resolution EVF, a longer battery life, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealing. Its video features are more limited, however, with severely cropped 4k recording and less advanced internal recording specs.

The Sony α7 III is better overall than the Nikon Z 5, but the Nikon offers more value for its price. The Sony is a more well-rounded camera with better video performance. It also has a longer battery life, faster burst shooting, and a more established lens ecosystem. However, if you're primarily interested in photography, the Nikon offers incredible value, with an excellent sensor, high-resolution EVF, and a well-built ergonomic body.

The Nikon Z f is better than the Nikon Z 5. It's a more well-rounded camera with better video specs and a newer, more effective autofocus system, along with faster burst shooting. Its vintage-inspired design and ergonomics may not be to everyone's taste, however.

The Canon EOS R7 is a bit better than the Nikon Z 5 but uses a smaller APS-C sensor. The Canon offers more unless you need full-frame image quality and low-light performance. It has a much faster burst rate for action photography and a more effective autofocus system. It's also more capable for advanced video work and has better battery life. That said, the Nikon is a great deal if you need a full-frame camera that's relatively affordable.

The Sony α7C is a bit better overall than the Nikon Z 5, especially for hybrid and video shooters or those who want a more portable camera. The α7C offers better video specs, with a much smaller crop on 4k video. It also has a more reliable and effective autofocus system and faster burst shooting. That said, both are full-frame cameras with roughly on-par image quality, though the Nikon does have some advantages, including better ergonomics, a much larger, higher-resolution viewfinder, and dual SD card slots.

The Nikon D780 is better overall than the Nikon Z 5, though they use different camera technologies. Though both are full-frame cameras, the D780 is an enthusiast-level DSLR, so it has an optical viewfinder, while the Z 5 is an entry-level mirrorless camera with an electronic viewfinder. Both feel well-built and comfortable to shoot with, but the Z 5 is significantly lighter and more portable. The D780 has a longer battery life and a more versatile autofocus system since it uses both contrast- and phase-detection AF depending on whether you shoot through the viewfinder or Live View on the screen. The Z 5 can only shoot 4k video with a severe crop, but on the upside, it has in-body image stabilization, meaning you can use non-optically stabilized lenses.

The Nikon Z 5 is better overall than the Sony α7 II . It features a weather-sealed body with better ergonomics, a higher-resolution EVF, and better overall battery life. Its AF system is also more reliable. Though neither excels at video, the Z 5 can at least record in 4k despite a heavy crop. That said, there are generally more lens options available for the Sony.

Test Results

This isn't the most compact option, but it's relatively portable for a full-frame camera. It's much less bulky than a DSLR camera like the Nikon D780 , but it isn't as lightweight as comparable full-frame mirrorless models like the Canon EOS RP or the Sony α7 II .

The camera feels very well-built. Though it's mostly made of plastic, it does have a magnesium alloy frame, and it's a lot sturdier-feeling than comparable entry-level full-frames like the Canon EOS RP . It's even weather-sealed against dust and moisture, giving you a bit more peace of mind when taking your camera out on rainy days.

• Nikon Z 5 camera body
• Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens
• Rear lens cover
• 1x Nikon EN-EL15C battery
• Shoulder strap
• Battery charger
• USB-C to USB-A cable
• User manual

The Nikon Z5 has excellent ergonomics, with plenty of space between the grip and the lens, though this can vary depending on what lens you use. It handles very much like other Nikon mirrorless cameras, with a nearly identical body and handgrip to the Nikon Z 6 . The controls are intuitive and well-placed. Overall, it feels great in the hand and is suitable for a wide range of hand sizes.

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) has a high resolution. Though 3.69 million-dot resolutions have become more common in mirrorless EVFs, it's still nice to see on an entry-level model like this, and it means you'll get a clear, sharp view of your subjects through the viewfinder.

The camera has a tilting screen with full touch capability. You can select focus points with it, use it as a touch shutter, or navigate the menu and quick menu. It doesn't get overly bright, making it a bit harder to see what's on the screen on really sunny days.

Nikon's user interface is super intuitive and well-organized. You can navigate the Z5's menu using either the physical controls or the touchscreen. There's a handy quick menu to access commonly used settings, and you can customize it to show your preferred settings. The menu also has a help function that gives you more information about certain settings, which you can access by tapping the '?' symbol in the bottom left corner of the screen or pressing the zoom-out button. However, it's only available for some settings.

The camera uses a high-resolution full-frame sensor, though it isn't backside-illuminated like the sensor found on the higher-end Nikon Z 6 . Backside-illuminated designs help with light-gathering efficiency.

Battery performance is great overall. It's CIPA-rated for 390 shots when shooting through the viewfinder and 470 shots when shooting through the screen. Of course, in the real world, that number will vary depending on how you use your camera, how long you keep it powered on, what kind of shooting you're doing, and more. However, the CIPA rating is a good indicator of how it performs relative to other cameras, and the Z 5 performs quite well among mirrorless options, outperforming the more powerful Nikon Z 6II . That said, it still falls far short of DSLR cameras and newer mirrorless options.

The camera's battery life is especially impressive in video mode. The battery can last through over two and a half hours of continuous video recording in 4k. It's worth noting, however, that the camera can only record 4k video at 30 fps with a severe crop and limited bit rates, so it's less demanding than cameras that can record at higher frame rates and bit rates. If you need to extend the camera's battery life even further, you can power it externally via USB-C.

Shooting speed is one of the areas in which the Nikon Z 5 falls short of pricier models, but this isn't surprising given its relatively affordable price point.

Its image buffer has a fixed cap, regardless of format, which is a bit disappointing given its slow shooting speed. However, considering you can shoot up to 100 frames in either RAW or JPEG, it could be worse. Thankfully, if you manage to fill up the buffer, it's very quick to empty, so that won't slow you down for long. Where the camera falls apart is its burst rate, which maxes out at a measly five fps. That's fine if you're just taking photos of your dog or your kids, but it's probably not going to cut it for birds in flight or fast-moving sports photography.

The Nikon Z 5 uses the same basic autofocus system as the Nikon Z 6 , with on-sensor phase detection technology. It's pretty good overall. It has a few different subject detection modes, including animal detection, as well as face and eye detection. Its tracking feature isn't as consistent as newer, higher-end Nikons like the Nikon Z 6II , but it still performs reasonably well overall for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to autofocus. With firmware version 1.40, Nikon updated the eye-detection performance for the camera's 'Auto-area AF' mode. The eye tracking is a bit more reliable, but it still falls considerably short of competitors like the Sony a7 III and the Canon EOS R6 , though these both sit at higher price points. Its area mode options are also more limited than competitors.

If you don't use the tracking mode, on the other hand, the camera's AF proves to be quite good. It focuses quickly and smoothly when using the center focus point, with little trouble staying with the subject behind the AF point. That's great for scenarios with more predictable subjects.

Unlike the Canon EOS RP , the Nikon Z5 includes built-in image stabilization, which works in tandem with optically stabilized NIKKOR Z lenses. You can get clear shots at reasonably slow shutter speeds, but we found that the IBIS isn't as effective as the IBIS on the Nikon Z 6II , despite Nikon advertising both systems as offering up to five stops of stabilization performance.

The camera's dynamic range is excellent, especially at its base ISO. It can capture a wide range of detail, preserving a good range of highlights and shadows.

The Nikon Z5 has a high-resolution sensor that resolves fine details very well. That means you have more leeway to crop in without losing detail than you would with a smaller sensor or lower-resolution camera.

The sensor has great noise handling. Though noise is somewhat inevitable in really low-light situations, you can still get relatively clean RAW files when there's less available light.

The Nikon Z5 has relatively limited video features. It doesn't support Log recording for those who want to preserve more dynamic range and have more flexibility in post. However, it's suitable enough for more casual video recording.

Unfortunately, this camera can only record 4k video with a severe 1.58x crop, significantly reducing your field of view. It's limited to 30 fps in 4k, too, so you're out of luck if you want to capture high-frame rate footage for slow-motion clips.

The camera's internal recording capability is okay in 4k, but the camera isn't really intended for more advanced video work. There's no Log gamma curve, and it's limited to 8-bit 4:2:0 capture, meaning you'll have less leeway to color-grade and process your footage.

The autofocus system is okay for 4k video. It only supports face detection in video mode; however, it does a great job of tracking moving subjects. It's a little more sluggish when you use the general subject tracking—that is, when you select the subject manually rather than letting the AI detect a face on its own. You can adjust AF speed and sensitivity as well, which is great.

4k video quality is good overall. It's mostly limited by the heavy crop, but videos are still reasonably sharp and detailed, even in low light. It has a bit of an edge over the competing Canon EOS RP in terms of sharpness and noise handling—just don't expect the same level of quality as cameras like the Nikon Z 6II that can shoot uncropped 4k.

Rolling shutter effect is really bad. There's heavy distortion in 4k, which can be especially distracting when panning the camera.

In 1080p, the camera can shoot at up to 60 fps, and thankfully, there's no crop. While it's suitable for lightly slowed-down footage, a lot of newer or higher-end cameras can shoot at even higher frame rates to get even greater degrees of slow motion.

As with 4k, internal recording is somewhat limited in 1080p. It's still limited to 8-bit 4:2:0 capture. There's also a 30-minute cap on recording, and the camera's bit rates are nothing to write home about.

In 1080p, autofocus works quite well. The tracking feature does a great job of keeping moving human subjects in focus. The general subject tracking is also a lot better in this resolution.

The 1080p video quality is pretty good. Details are a little more muddled than on the Nikon Z 6 , but it's a bit better than the Canon EOS RP and isn't bad overall. It even performs decently well in low light without overly noisy footage.

Thankfully, there's much less noticeable rolling shutter effect in 1080p, though there's still a bit of distortion when panning.

The SD card slots are conveniently placed on the side of the camera, making it easy to switch out cards even when the camera's on a tripod. The dual slots are great for those who want a backup.

The Nikon Z5 uses a USB-C port for charging and file transfer. It also includes a Mini HDMI port, as well as both a headphone and mic jack, so you can connect videography peripherals if needed.

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Nikon Z5 review – full-frame mirrorless, for less

The mirrorless Nikon Z5 is a cheap, entry-level full-frame camera - now nearly four years since its release, is it time we got an update?

Amateur photographer verdict.

• Has the excellent handling of the Z6 II & Z7 II
• Performs well with F-mount SLR lenses (via FTZ adapter)
• Great build quality for its price
• First full-frame Z-series model with dual SD card slots
• 1.7x crop applied when shooting 4K (UHD) video
• 24-50mm kit zoom is likely to be quickly outgrown
• Produces cool-looking images in AWB mode in sunlight
• 4.5fps continuous burst shooting shows its age

The Nikon Z5 is Nikon’s  cheapest full frame mirrorless camera , designed as an entry-point for those who want to upgrade to the larger sensor size. It looks a lot like its premium cousins in the series, the high-resolution Nikon Z7 II and the all-rounder Z6 II . However, it’s somewhat stripped-down compared to those cameras and their predecessors, with a 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor that isn’t backside-illuminated. It’s missing a top LCD plate, and a glance at the specs below may give you the feeling that some of them are a little pedestrian. Just 4.5fps burst shooting? A crop on 4K video?

The Nikon Z5 does have a lot of things going for it. The camera is fully weather-sealed and boasts a sophisticated 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system. Its sensor can reach ISO 51,200 natively, and its 3,680k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (inherited from the original Z6) is a thing of beauty. The price is also affordable for a full frame mirrorless camera , at well below $2,000 / £2,000, even with a decent lens thrown in.

Nikon Z5 at a glance:

• $996 / £1,079 body only ($1,296 / £1,359 with 24-50mm kit lens)
• 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• EXPEED 6 image processor
• 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS)
• 0.5in, 3,680k-dot OLED EVF
• 3.2inch tilting touch-screen (1040K)
• 4.5fps burst shooting
• 4K, 30p video recording (cropped)
• Dual SD card slots

Nikon released the Nikon Z5 in 2020 as an entry-level full-framer, contending with the likes of the Canon EOS RP , Sony A7 III and the Panasonic Lumix S5 . Since then, though, the EOS RP’s price has dropped thanks to the arrival of the similar Canon EOS R8 . Sony took the wraps off its A7 IV , and Panasonic received accolades for the shiny new Lumix S5 II (and Lumix S5 IIX , too). As for the Nikon Z5, a Mark II version remains a rumour. Typical camera timelines suggest that one is due; for now the Z5 soldiers on as it is.

While the Nikon Z5 hasn’t changed in the past three years, the world around it has. In one way, this is to the advantage of prospective Z5 buyers. The range of  Nikon Z-Mount lenses has continued to expand. There are useful mid-priced all-rounders like the Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR and spectacular premium primes like the Z 85mm f/1.2 S .

Nikon released the Z5 two years into its mirrorless journey. Five years in, we ask if this entry-level, full-frame, mirrorless model remains worth buying. Our full Nikon Z5 test and review will help readers to weigh up whether to buy one, wait for a sequel, or plump for one of its updated rivals.

Lens features

By 2020, Nikon had developed an extensive range of Nikkor Z lenses in a short space of time. To attract new and budget users to the Z5, the company needed to release it with an affordable kit zoom. The kit lenses on full frame cameras are typically quite large, too, so they may have intended this 2x kit zoom as a compact alternative to typical full frame camera kits.

The Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, which you can purchase with the Z5 or separately, is no frills with a fairly restrictive focal length; yet is lightweight and has a retractable zoom mechanism to keep it as compact as possible when you have limited space.

Like the Z6 II and Z7 II, the Z5 shares the same large-diameter, short back-focus lens mount that has a flange distance of 16mm from lens to sensor. To keep Nikon DSLR holdouts happy, you can pair and use the Z5 with F mount (FX) lenses via Nikon’s FTZ adapter, and a subsequent firmware update has made the Z5 compatible with Nikon’s newer FTZ II version.

Though the pixel count is similar to the Z6 II, the Z5’s sensor is different. The Z5’s 24.3-million-pixel sensor is a standard CMOS chip, whereas the Z6’s has a back-illuminated structure, which should see it deliver a slightly better performance in low light – something I’ll cover in more detail later. The chip features an anti-aliasing filter like the Z6, and shoots across the same native ISO sensitivity range of ISO 100-51,200, however it doesn’t permit shooting as high as ISO 204,800.

Shutter speed

Enter the extended ISO settings and you’ll find it shoots between ISO 50-102,400 . Given that it uses the same EXPEED 6 image processor as the original Z6 and handles similar data throughput, you could be mistaken for thinking it rattles out a consecutive burst of shots as quickly; but this isn’t the case. Whereas the Z6 can fire off a burst at a brisk 12fps (14fps for the Z6 II), the Z5 shoots a continuous burst at a rather more pedestrian 4.5fps.

The silent shooting mode is invaluable for inconspicuous shooting, and automatically engages the electronic shutter. Unlike some mirrorless cameras , though, you can’t set the shutter speed beyond its maximum of 1/8000sec.

The Z5’s electronic first-curtain option restricts the highest shutter speed, a peculiarity we also observed on the original Z6 and Z7. While it’s great to have this to eradicate blurring caused by shutter shock, you’d need to disable it in order to shoot faster than 1/2000sec.

Image stabilisation

To counteract shaky handheld movements, the Z5 incorporates the same 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) system first seen on the Z6 and Z7. This is great to see on a camera at this level and gives it an advantage over rivals that rely entirely on optical stabilisation built into the lens – Canon’s EOS RP being one such example. The IBIS system lets users shoot sharp shots up to 5 stops slower than would otherwise be possible.

Compared to the usual pitch and yaw correction that’s provided by in-lens optical stabilisation, IBIS additionally corrects for rotation around the lens axis, which helps when shooting hand-held video or attempting shots using slow shutter speeds. In addition, it corrects left-right and up-down movements, which can have a significant impact when shooting subjects and details from close distances.

Nikon have paired an F-mount (FX) lens with built-in vibration reduction (VR) along with Nikon’s FTZ adapter, allowing the in-body and in-lens systems to work together. The lens corrects pitch and yaw, with IBIS compensating for rotation around the lens axis.

The Z5’s hybrid autofocus system is similar to the Z6 II’s. It arranges 273 phase detection AF points across 90% of the frame area, and there is the option to select every other point for faster AF point repositioning across the frame. The detection range isn’t as extensive as the Z6 II’s though. It covers -3EV to 19EV when low-light mode is enabled from the autofocus custom setting menu and -2EV to +19EV when it’s turned off.

Elsewhere, users get a fine selection of AF-area modes, including single-point AF, the choice of two wide-area AF modes (large and small) and an auto AF mode that ties in with face detection and subject tracking.

Recording video

High-resolution video is available in 4K (UHD) resolution at up to 30p . The Z5 does enforce a 1.7x crop, unlike the Z6 II that records 4K (UHD) footage using the full width of the sensor. This means you’re unable to shoot 4K video wider than 41mm using the 24-50mm kit lens. This might not be wide enough for some, and even with a wide-angle lens like the Z 14-30mm f/4 S, the widest you can shoot at is 24mm.

You can switch the resolution to Full HD 1080p to record movies without a crop at frame rates up to 60p, but again, the Z6 II has the advantage as it is better suited to slow motion recording with frame rates up to 120fps. Microphone and headphone sockets are provided one above the other to the side of the HDMI, USB-C and remote ports.

Battery charging

The Z5 accepts Nikon’s latest EN-EL15c rechargeable battery. It is compatible with older EN-EL15 batteries too, but users won’t get the same number of shots per charge (470 using the LCD and 390 shots with the EVF) as they will with the EN-EL15c. USB power delivery is also provided . This gives you a useful way to top up the battery between shooting and power the Z5 whilst you turn it on and operate. Alternatively, you can buy the MB-N10 battery grip, which Nikon originally made for the Z6 but also fits the Z5. It accepts two batteries and increases battery life closer to 1000 shots, which should suffice for an average day’s shooting.

Focal points

Here, we take a quick look at a few of the Z5’s other features we’re yet to touch on.

• My Menu: The My Menu setting gives users the choice of customising their most frequently used menu settings into one area for quick and easy access. Adding and removing items from the My Menu is extremely easy to do – simply tap the Z5’s responsive touchscreen.
• Stills/Video switch: To record video you’re required to flick the stills/video switch that encircles the DISP button at the rear. Only when this has been done will you find that you’re able to start/stop video recording using the movie-record button on the top-plate.
• Image size: Users get the choice of three image sizes when the image area is set to FX. As well as Large (24MP), there are Medium (13.5MP) and Small (6MP) options. Set the image area to DX (applies a 1.5x crop) and you can set the image size between Large (10.3MP), Medium (5.6MP) or Small (2.6MP).

• Function buttons: The two Fn1 and Fn2 buttons around the lens mount are customisable and can be depressed using the middle finger. Set to default, Fn1 adjusts White Balance and Fn2 adjusts focus mode/AF-area mode in combination with using the front and rear command dials.
• Accessory terminal: The accessory terminal at the side allows users to plug in a wired remote shutter release cable such as Nikon’s MC-DC2. Alternatively, users can trigger the shutter wirelessly from a mobile device running Nikon’s SnapBridge app.
• Bluetooth: An always-on Bluetooth LE connection can be set up between the Z5 and your phone, enabling every picture you shoot to be automatically transferred to your phone. Selecting the 2MP mode helps speed up transfer times and saves on valuable storage space.

Build and Handling

So-called ‘entry-level’ cameras are generally perceived as lacking in build quality. By using cheaper materials, manufacturers cut costs in production and offer their cameras for considerably less than top-of-the-line models. The good news is that Nikon hasn’t cut any corners with the Z5. My first impression handling the camera out of the box was that the build quality upholds a similar feel and same level of robustness to the original Z6 and Z7.

Weather proofing

Despite being lower-end in the Z-series, it’s weather-sealed like its peers . This helps to protect dust and moisture penetrating the internals. Anyone who shoots regularly in the portrait orientation or would like to increase shooting stamina will appreciate that the MB-N10 battery grip provides the same level of dust-and drip-resistance as the body.

It’s hard to spot many differences compared to the Z6 II and Z7 II when you look at the Z5 directly from the front. It has a similar deep rubberised grip, pair of customisable function buttons around the perimeter of its lens mount and flash of red beside the front command dial that’s long been associated with Nikon’s interchangeable lens cameras. The dimensions of the body are virtually identical, with the biggest difference on the top plate being the position of the mode dial, which replaces a top plate display.

Photographers who like glancing down at a top plate display to check settings before they shoot will find themselves referring to the informative information display on the screen instead. You can adjust the screen to display as dark on light or light or dark from the setup menu depending on user preference.

The mode dial doesn’t require you to hold a centre button to rotate it and positively locates at each mode setting. Meanwhile, the positioning of the movie-rec, ISO and exposure compensation buttons are unchanged. They’re conveniently positioned behind the shutter button that’s surrounded by the On/Off switch for intuitive start-up with your index finger.

SD card slots

After the criticisms Nikon received for releasing the Z6 and Z7 with a single XQD card slot, it’s good to see the Z5 equipped with not one, but two SD card slots , both of which support UHS-II memory cards. The role played by slot 2, which is staggered slightly below Slot 1, can be set to overflow, backup or to record JPEGs when raw files are being recorded to Slot 1.

The option to record stills to one card and video to the other is absent, however, it’s good to see Nikon listening to customer feedback and providing an essential backup facility on a camera of the Z5’s entry-level positioning.

Buttons and controls

At the rear, the Z5’s layout of buttons and controls is a carbon copy of the Z6 and Z7 . This will be well received by anyone contemplating the Z5 as a backup body and means you can transition between all of Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless models seamlessly. You get all the dedicated buttons you need, including an excellent ‘i’ button that you can customise to pull up your most frequently used settings instantly.

Drive modes are loaded using a dedicated button below the menu button, and you get a joystick that falls naturally under your thumb for shifting the focus point around the frame. Its knurled texture also helps distinguish it from the AF-ON button above when the viewfinder is lifted to your eye.

Just as we found when we reviewed the Z6 and Z7, the Z5 provides a sensational handling experience that makes it comfortable to hold and operate with smaller and larger lenses alike. It’s hard to imagine how Nikon could improve the handling characteristics of this camera.

With its weather sealing, metal chassis and high-quality construction, the Z5 is much more robustly made than its entry-level status implies.

Another likeness between the Z5 and Nikon’s Z6 and Z7 models is the electronic viewfinder. The Z5’s 0.5in, 3.6-million-dot EVF with 0.8x magnification doesn’t match the resolution offered by some of the 5.76-million-dot electronic viewfinders we’ve recently tested, yet it’s a good example that faithfully displays exposure adjustments, white balance and colour in the preview image.

The Z5 provides an accurate preview of how aperture affects depth of field and a high level of sharpness in both normal viewing and at magnified settings. It’s also ideal for reviewing images when bright sunlight plays havoc with reflections on the rear screen. As with the rear screen, you can manually adjust the brightness and colour balance of the viewfinder from the setup menu. However, I found no reason to deviate from their default settings during my testing.

The EVF has a refresh rate of 60fps and switches between monitor and viewfinder displays quickly when the camera is raised or pulled away from the eye. Users can change the latter from the monitor mode selection button if you’d prefer to only use the EVF or screen rather than let it adjust automatically.

Touch-sensitive screen

Complementing the viewfinder is a 3.2in touch sensitive screen . This can be tilted down by 45° for overhead shots and upwards by 90° to aid with low-level shooting. It does not allow you to pull it out to the side to aid with portrait shooting from awkward angles, however. Rivals such as the Canon EOS RP and Panasonic Lumix S5 have the advantage in this.

The resolution of the screen (1,040k-dot) is lower than the 2.1-million dot resolution you get on the more expensive Nikon Z models, but I only noticed a difference when comparing the Z5’s screen alongside the others at maximum magnification. It displays a clear and detailed preview in Live View, and you can’t fault the playback modes and sensitivity of the touch panel either. You can navigate your way through the main menu precisely with very light taps, and rain droplets on its surface do not affect it.

The Z5’s focus put in an admirable performance in the test. It’s quick to lock on to near and far subjects, with its red AF target turning to green when it achieves correct focus. I did find it was quite easy to lose track of the AF point on the rear screen when you set the AF area mode to pinpoint AF or single-point AF and you’re working in bright conditions outdoors.

I put this down to the boundary lines of the AF target being fairly thin. To reacquaint myself with its position, I found myself nudging the AF point around the frame on a few occasions. The AF target can be shifted diagonally across the frame as well as up/down and left/right. With all the AF points active it takes 2.3secs to shift the AF point from one side of the frame to the other compared to 1.6secs when every other point is selected.

The Nikon Z6 II is the better choice for photographers who regularly shoot high-speed action or sports . The Nikon Z6 II has the ability to shoot 7.5fps faster. Saying that, it’s good to see the Z5’s focusing keeping apace with speedy subjects. Its focus performance is on a par with its high-end Z-series cousins. Face and eye detection is useful when shooting portraits, though this is one of the few things that cannot be added to a function button. The option has to be accessed via the autofocus settings from the custom setting menu.

Users can select which eye they’d like the camera to focus on with a flick of the joystick. The same applies when you set the camera to animal detection. Anyone who enjoys photographing their pet should take advantage of animal detection. When it comes to recording movies, however, Nikon’s eye detection isn’t as advanced as Sony’s. You will notice eye detection is disabled when you enter video mode.

• Interested in close-ups and nature? See our Top Macro Photography Tips

Performance

The Z5 behaves like the Z6 II and Z7 II in that it’s quick to start up, and instantly responds to button presses, dial turns and adjustments made using the touchscreen. There wasn’t any time during use where the camera interrupted my shooting, or prevented me capturing the shots I wanted. Nikon DSLR users tempted by the Z5 as an upgrade will immediately feel at home navigating the menu. It’s easy to relate to, and everything is laid out similarly, from the photo shooting menu through to the setup and retouch menus.

For those not familiar with Nikon, the Z5 isn’t a daunting camera to pick up and use. The Auto mode returns good results in the hands of novices who’d like to simply point and shoot with minimal user input. There is everything you could want at your fingertips to take manual control as your ability and experience grows.

Matrix metering

The Z5’s matrix metering rarely misjudges scenes and exposes well for dim and bright conditions alike. There were only a few cases where I opted to dial down the exposure by -0.7EV to preserve highlight detail. If you find the camera is producing results that are a touch too cool for your liking in bright, sunlight conditions, it’s likely the camera’s white balance is set to the Auto A0 setting.

The Auto A1 and Auto A2 settings are intended to keep the overall atmosphere of the scene and preserve warm lighting colours respectively. If you mainly shoot outdoors, you may prefer to use Natural light auto, which tends to depict colour accurately.

Recording capacity

Loaded with a pair of 64GB SDXC UHS-II memory cards facilitating 280MB/s read and 250MB/s write speeds, the Z5 showed it’s capable of recording just shy of 100 raw files in its continuous high (4.5fps) shooting mode before its buffer needed a breather. If you’d like to shoot at a slower speed, there are several options.

The burst speed can be set to shoot between 1fps and 4fps from the continuous low drive mode. Shooting raw and JPEG (Fine) at 4.5fps saw the Z5 record 99 frames before the limit of its buffer was reached. I expected it to shoot for longer with the image quality set to JPEG (Fine) only. Instead, the buffer had to be given a few seconds to clear after 99 frames before more could be taken.

Bluetooth pairing

Pairing the Nikon Z5 with a mobile device and setting it up to automatically ping images across via Bluetooth is straightforward and reliable. This will be a relief to Nikon users who’ve previously struggled with Nikon’s early SnapBridge efforts. It’ll even continue to send images across one by one after the camera is switched off. It took around 20 seconds between firing the shutter and the image appearing in the app and the camera roll. To select specific images you’d like to download or remotely control the camera directly from the app, you’ll be prompted to enable the camera’s Wi-Fi.

Remote mode

In remote mode, you get a live view display that can be viewed in the portrait or landscape orientation. There are options to adjust exposure variables and move the focus point. The app is fairly basic, and one thing to note is there’s a momentary delay between pressing the shutter button and the picture being taken. As a result, it won’t be ideal for all types of shooting scenarios. To upload images to social media platforms such as Instagram, it’s recommended to select the auto download 2MP option.

IBIS system

Testing the Z5 with a variety of Z-mount lenses , including the Nikkor Z 70-200mm f2.8 VR S, showed that the IBIS system does a commendable job of counteracting shake associated with handheld photography. It plays an important role in ruling out jittery handheld movements when shooting video from stationary positions too. I was impressed by how well it compensated for shake when zooming and panning.

With the Z 70-200mm f2.8 VR S, I managed a high hit rate of sharp handheld shots as slow as 1/10sec at 200mm. With the 24-50mm kit lens, which isn’t stabilised, I was able to shoot sharp shots at the wide end as slow as 1/2sec and 1/5sec at 50mm.

Image mode options

Users get the choice of three image sizes when the Z5’s image area is set to FX. As well as the Large (24.2MP) setting, there are Medium (13.6MP), and Small (6MP) options to choose from. Switching the image area over to DX applies a 1.5x crop of the sensor. You can therefore use DX to get closer to distant subjects, albeit at reduced resolution. This came in handy at a game of cricket, where I used the DX crop mode with the Z 70-200mm f2.8 VR S and captured 10.3MP images at up to 300mm. Medium (5.6MP) and Small (2.6MP) image sizes are also available in DX mode.

Intrigued to find out if there’s any difference between the images the Z5 outputs from its 24.3MP CMOS sensor and those from the Z6’s backside illuminated (BSI) 24.5MP sensor, I conducted several comparison shots using the same lens and settings.

The cameras resolve nigh on identical levels of detail at low sensitivity settings. Despite this, low-light testing between ISO 6400 to ISO 102,400 revealed the back-illuminated structure of the Z6’s sensor exhibits slightly less digital noise in its images at high ISO. It allows more light to be collected at pixel level by shifting metal wiring behind the light-receiving surface. This was most apparent when comparing dark shadowed regions of the same scene at 100% magnification. To be critical, I’d say the Z6’s low-light performance offers a one-stop improvement over the Z5.

In terms of dynamic range , the Z5’s sensor provides respectable leverage at lower sensitivity settings. It lifts dark-shadowed regions or underexposed areas without introducing intolerable levels of noise. While the Z6 does pip the Z5 in terms of its low-light performance, the Z5’s image quality will serve aspiring photographers and those transitioning from APS-C to full-frame very well indeed.

ISO and noise

The results of our diorama taken through the ISO range in a controlled shooting environment tell us that users of the Z5 can expect lovely clean, noise-free images between ISO 100 and ISO 800 when shooting in raw. Push beyond to ISO 1600 and ISO 3200 and you’ll notice noise appears. It can be remedied by applying a small amount of noise reduction during post processing. ISO 6400 and ISO 12,800 are useable, but you’ll notice fine detail starts to be encumbered by increased noise in the latter.

While I’d be prepared to shoot up to ISO 25,600 at a push on the Z6, I’d consider ISO 12,800 the upper limit on the Z5. I’d recommend users avoid ISO 51,200 and ISO 102,400 (Hi1.0) at all costs. These produce a green tinge and a reduction in colour saturation. As for the automated noise reduction the Z5 applies to JPEGs, it’s fairly aggressive and does smooth out fine textures and details beyond ISO 800. With this in mind, it’s preferable to reduce the high ISO noise reduction from normal to low.

Nikon Z5 Verdict

Nikon has become a major player in the full frame mirrorless market since entering it in 2018. The original Z6 and Z7 collected numerous accolades from its critics and have gone down a storm with photographers worldwide, so it’s not surprising to see Nikon taking the ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach to designing its third Z-series model.

Touted as an entry-level model, the Z5 is much more advanced than this basic classification suggests. It’s comparable to the Z6 and Z6 II in terms of its build quality and handling, but by making a few alternations such as equipping it with a CMOS sensor, removing the top plate display and employing a lower-resolution screen, Nikon has been able to make it cheaper. The fact it accepts a pair of SD cards rather than a single costly XQD card and that it’s available as part of a bundle with a 24-50mm kit lens will appeal to photographers who feel like they’re ready to advance to full-frame.

Price comparison

The bigger point, perhaps, is the price. There’s now a substantial cost difference between the Z5 and the next model up in the range the Z6 II. What’s more, current prices make the Z5 highly competitive against the Canon EOS RP (cheaper, but older and not as good) and the Panasonic Lumix S5 – excellent video capabilities but now succeeded by the Lumix S5 II .

A more contemporary rival is something like the Canon EOS R8 . While it’s a bit more expensive, this camera benefits from up-to-date features. It has deep-learning autofocus that can recognise and track subjects using sophisticated AI. It also has a broader ISO range and a more sophisticated video spec. The Z5 does fire back with dual card slots and a much nicer viewfinder. Weighing up the pros and cons of the two makes for a tricky decision. The older camera does better than you might expect.

What about Sony? Well, Sony’s decision to jack up the price of the A7 IV means the Z5’s closer rival is probably still the A7 III . In the UK, the A7 III is similarly priced at £1,499, and more expensive in the US at $1,998. The Z5 has much nicer ergonomics, while the A7 III is far superior when it comes to autofocus, particularly with Sony’s famous Eye AF. Again, a close one to call; with no obvious winner, it’s mostly down to personal preference.

Still, it’s easy to get lost in the weeds of comparing cameras. Taken on its own terms, the Nikon Z5 remains a remarkably capable and reliable full-frame camera. It has a quality feel, a solid set of specifications and a price point that adds further to its appeal, especially to current Nikon owners looking to upgrade. What’s more, it’s an affordable entry point into the Nikon Z ecosystem as a whole, and a steadily expanding range of good lenses. We’re looking forward to seeing what its successor can do. In the meantime, the Nikon Z5 remains an excellent choice of full-frame mirrorless camera.

Find more great full-frame cameras in our guide to the  best full-frame mirrorless cameras , or take a look at the best Nikon mirrorless cameras , as well as the best Nikon Z-mount lenses .

Specifications

24.3MP CMOS sensor

Output size

6016x4016 pixels

Focal length magnification

Nikon Z mount

Shutter Speeds

30-1/8000sec

160-51200 (50-102400 extended)

Metering system

TTL metering using camera image sensor

Exposure compensation

+/-5EV in 1/3 or 1/2 steps (+/-3EV movie recording)

4K UHD (30/25/24p) Full HD (60/50/30/25/24p)

0.5in, 3.69-million dot EVF

3.2in, 1040k-dot tilting touchscreen

Memory Card

Dual SD card slots (UHS-II compatible)

EN-EL15c rechargeable Li-ion battery

Battery life

470 shots (LCD), 390 shots (EVF)

134x100.5x69.5mm

675g with battery and card

Michael is based in the South East of England and enjoys documentary, landscape and railway photography. He also shoots weddings and his work can be found at www.michaeltopham.co.uk

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Nikon Z5 review

The best entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera right now, but at a price.

TechRadar Verdict

The Nikon Z5 is the best entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera you can buy right now. It’s not perfect, but thanks to a blend of great image quality, a reliable autofocus performance, accessible handling and a weather-sealed body and tough body, the Z5 has a lot going for it. The only thing holding it back is the cost at the moment, as it’s not much cheaper than the even better Z6.

Comfy grip and solid build

Logical control layout

High-resolution EVF

5-axis AF system

Very capable AF system

Underwhelming burst shooting speed

Disappointing video specs including cropped 4K

Tilt-angle display, not vari-angle

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Two-minute review

The Nikon Z5 is the company’s new entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera, looking virtually identical to the Nikon Z6 , which it sits below in the company's mirrorless range. It might be pricier than rivals like the Canon EOS RP and Sony Alpha A7 II , but the Nikon Z5 is the best beginner mirrorless camera around right now if you're looking for a full-frame model. 

Spec-wise, the Nikon Z5 ticks a lot of boxes. There’s a large 24MP full-frame sensor at the heart of the camera, which we’ve found will reward you with great-looking images in a variety of shooting scenarios. If you’re likely to be shooting regularly in poor light though, you might want to consider the Nikon Z6 – its newer back-illuminated sensor performs better at higher ISOs, although you’ll really have to look at the files closely to tell the difference.

The 3.69 million-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the Nikon Z5 is excellent – it’s large and bright, and makes composing shots a joy – and there’s a very good 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen. There’s also a very capable 273-point autofocus system that works well for both static and moving subjects, and is even clever enough to recognize and focus on your subject's eye (including your pet’s). 

The burst shooting speed of just 4.5fps (frames per second) is disappointing, while the limited 4K shooting options mean it’s not the ideal choice for the hybrid shooter. Those frustrations aside, the Nikon Z5 is a really nice camera to shoot with. The grip is large and comfy, while the controls are nicely laid out and easy to navigate. Even those looking to come straight from a smartphone should find the transition pretty easy.

Compared to its closest rivals (the Canon EOS RP and Sony A7 II), the Nikon Z5 is certainly the best option out there right now – it offers more sophisticated features than the EOS RP, and is a much more accessible camera than the aging A7 II. 

In fact, the biggest challenge to the Z5 comes not from its rivals, but from the Nikon Z6. With the older model having dropped in price since its launch two years ago, the Z6 is not much more of an outlay (at least when buying the body alone) than the Z5, and with the Z6 offering a number of subtle advantages that make it an even more rounded and capable camera, the Z6, for now at least, is much better value. When prices of the Z5 fall after launch, it should make a more persuasive case for itself. 

Nikon Z6 release date and price

• The Nikon Z5 launched on July 21, 2020
• It costs $1,699 / £1,719 / AU$3,099 with 24-50mm lens
• You can also buy the Nikon Z5 body-only

Depending on where you are, the Nikon Z5 is either available to buy now from Nikon and major retailers, or will be very soon. 

While the Nikon Z5 can be purchased body-only, most will want to invest in the kit that includes Nikon’s new 24-50mm f/4-6.3 standard zoom lens. The launch price of this kit is $1,699 / £1,719 / AU$3,099, making the Z5 Nikon’s most affordable full-frame mirrorless camera, and it’s some $750 / £480 / AU$700 more than the Nikon Z6 (albeit that camera comes with the better 24-70mm f/4 standard zoom).

If you’re in the UK you'll also be able to buy the Z5 with that new kit lens and an FTZ adaptor for £1,859, while in the US there's also a bundle with the Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR for $2,199.

The Nikon Z5 will likely be compared to two other full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Canon RP and Sony Alpha A7 II. With the RP over two years old and the Alpha A7 II almost seven years old, they can both be found for significantly less money than the Z5, with the Canon RP costing in the region of $1,300 / £1,400 / AU$2,300 (with the more versatile 24-105mm f/4-7.1 zoom lens) and the Alpha A7 II reduced to around $1,000 / £1,100 / AU$2,100 (with the unspectacular 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens). 

Design and handling

• Same size and weight as the Nikon Z6
• Exposure mode dial moves to the right of the EVF
• Plastic used on the back and base of the camera

Normally you’d expect an entry-level camera to be smaller and lighter than pricer models in the range, but the Nikon Z5 is the same size and weight as the Z6. It tips the scales at 675g body-only including the battery, but there have been some changes to both the construction and ergonomics of the Z5 compared to the Z6. 

Starting with the construction, there are some subtle differences. Both cameras use magnesium alloy panels for the top and front, but the Z6 has the upper hand round the back, with another magnesium alloy panel used; the Z5 instead uses a plastic panel on the rear, but it’s still good to see a decent amount of magnesium alloy on what is an entry-level camera. The Z5 is also weather-sealed, just like the Z6, while there’s the same large and comfy handgrip. 

The main ergonomic difference between the Z5 and the Z6 is the absence of a top-plate LCD on the Z5. This can be handy for checking and adjusting exposure settings, but it’s not an essential item, and it’s not something that most mirrorless cameras have. 

With no top-plate display, Nikon has changed the position of the mode dial, moving it from the left-hand side of the viewfinder on the Z6 to the right here. Otherwise, the control layout is pretty much identical to the Z6, and that’s a good thing. Clearly labelled controls are dotted around the top and back of the camera, while the joystick and sub-selector D-pad offer easy control of AF area selection and menu navigation. You can also control many of the Z5’s settings via the 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen if you prefer, while Nikon’s menu system is one of the better interfaces to get to grips with. 

Sticking with the LCD, and it’s no surprise to see the Z5 use the same tilt-angle mechanism as the Z6. Videographers and vloggers might be disappointed not to see a vari-angle display that fully articulates, but stills shooters should find this a useful tool to help them frame low- and high-angle shots. One thing to be aware of, though, is that Nikon has opted for a lower-resolution display on the Z5 than the Z6, dropping from a 2.1 million-dot resolution to 1.1 million dots. Such cost-cutting is to be expected, and rival cameras like the Canon EOS RP feature a similar resolution (although its display benefits from a vari-angle hinge). 

The Z6 (and the Z7 for that matter) divided opinion when they both arrived with single XQD card slots, but for the Z5 Nikon seems to have played it safer, and opted for two UHS-II SD slots. Users will appreciate the extra flexibility that dual card slots can provide, and it’s something that both the EOS RP and EOS R lack. 

Specs and features

• Full-frame 24MP CMOS sensor
• 3.69 million-dot electronic viewfinder
• 4K video recording with a 1.7x crop

With the Z5 and Z6 sharing the same 24MP resolution, you could be forgiven for thinking that Nikon has opted to use the same sensor in the Z5 as it does in the Z6. That’s not the case though, with the Z5 not getting the more costly back-illuminated sensor technology found in the Z6, which likely means the sensor here is one of the last-generation of sensors found in the likes of the Nikon D750. Don’t let this put you off too much, though, as you’re only likely to see differences in performance at higher ISOs, where the Z6 should deliver cleaner images.

While Nikon may have economized on the sensor, it’s really good to see that it’s decided to use the same 3.69 million-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) as the Nikon Z6, which is impressive for an entry-level camera. The Z5 also gets the same 5-stop in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system as the Z6, as well as the same 273-point hybrid AF system. Coverage is still 90% vertically and horizontally, but the system has been tweaked since we first saw it on the Z6 (with users of that camera able to enjoy these tweaks via a firmware update). This sees the AF system getting both human and animal eye detection, while there’s also a more advanced tracking mode. 

The Nikon Z5 is a little handicapped when it comes to video though, something which, along with the absence of a vari-angle display, might put off those looking for a hybrid camera that’s just at home shooting video as it is stills. While the good news is that it can shoot in 4K at 30p, the bad news is that it has to crop the sensor by 1.7x to achieve this. This means, for example, that the 24-50mm lens bundled with the Z5 effectively becomes 40.8-85mm when you’re shooting 4K movies, making it less likely that you’ll be able get everything you want in the frame if you’re self-shooting. You can, however, shoot in Full HD without any crop limitations at up to 60p, although there are no 120p slow-mo modes. 

Performance

• Conservative 4.5fps burst shooting
• Robust AF performance
• Decent battery life

While the Nikon Z5 has borrowed a lot of the Z6’s features, one area where the new camera noticeably falls short is its burst shooting speed. While the Z6 can rattle off an impressive 12fps, Nikon appears to have limited the Z5 to a rather pedestrian 4.5fps, and while this is comparable to the likes of the EOS RP and Sony Alpha A7 II, it’s a curious decision by Nikon to limit the Z5 to this kind of shooting speed. With the camera using the same EXPEED 6 image processor as the Z6, it’s not unreasonable to expect that the Z5 should in theory be able to shoot equally quickly, but as things stand it does mean the Z5 is hampered for those who want to shoot action.

The 273-point AF system used in the Z5 is a very good performer, bettering those systems found in rivals like the EOS RP and Alpha A7 II. Whether you’re shooting in Single or Continuous AF modes, there’s a decent selection of focusing modes, while we found focusing to be fast and quiet in most instances. Focus tracking worked well, locking on swiftly and reliably tracking our subjects round the frame – it’s just a shame that the restricted burst shooting speed of the Z5 limits its scope for action photography. 

If you’re looking to shoot portraits (whether human or pet), the Z5’s eye detection works really well. The Z5 will automatically detect a face before the AF box shrinks down to cover the eye and hold focus while the subject’s in the frame. It probably hasn’t quite got the same level of sophistication as that found on Sony’s pricier Alpha A7 III, but it’s very good nonetheless. 

The Z5’s built-in image stabilization is also a consistent performer, making it possible to get sharp shots at low shutter speeds that would otherwise introduce some form of camera shake.

Finally, the Z5 gets a new battery, the EN-EL15c, which offers an increase in capacity over the older variants (although it is interchangeable with older variants). You can expect to get 470 shots when using the rear monitor alone, or 390 shots when using the EVF – that’s some 80 shots better than the Z6. 

Image and video quality

• ISO 100-51,200, expandable to 50-102,400
• Excellent sharpness and detail
• High-ISO performance not quite as strong as Z6

As we’ve touched on already, while the Z5 shares the same resolution as the Z6, it uses a different full-frame sensor. So with the Z5 missing out on the back-illuminated sensor design that the Z6 enjoys, what does that mean for image quality?

The short answer is that you’ll have to look very closely at images from the two cameras to see any difference. At low ISOs you’ll be rewarded with sharp and clean images that are comparable to those from the Z6, and it’s only as you move towards the higher end of the ISO range that you’ll notice a difference when you start to zoom into shots, with a hint more noise noticeable. That said, even here the Z5 still handles image noise well. At ISO 6,400, detail is maintained, with only a little chroma noise visible at 100%. As you’d expect, the dynamic range and detail levels drop off at the expansion sensitivity settings, so ISO 102,400 should only be used as a last resort.

The Nikon Z5’s metering system is a very reliable performer. You’ll find that there’s a bias to expose for the highlights, but this does ensure that detail in bright areas isn’t blown out. A little post-processing where shots look a touch underexposed will deliver a nicely balanced image, while files can be pushed further if needed. 

The 24-50mm kit lens is fine, but you’ll want to keep your expectations in check. The maximum aperture of f/6.3 at 50mm is a touch restrictive, and we’d certainly recommend looking at investing in the excellent Z series 24-70mm f/4 if your budget will stretch that far (or even looking at a couple of Z series primes to supplement the kit lens).

4K video is a little disappointing though. The 1.7x crop factor can be limiting, while the narrow range of frame sizes will also frustrate those looking to grab more than a few minutes of footage every so often.

Should I buy the Nikon Z5?

Buy it if…

You want a capable and accessible mirrorless camera with a full-frame sensor Whether you’re making the jump from a smartphone or upgrading from an existing camera, the Nikon Z5 makes a compelling case for itself if you want a capable and accessible full-frame camera. The sensor delivers very pleasing results, while the controls and handling make the Z5 a great camera to pick up and start shooting with. 

You’re looking for a lightweight travel camera With its full-frame sensor and pretty compact proportions, the Nikon Z5 is one of the best mirrorless cameras around for those who need a neat travel companion that’ll deliver high-quality images. Pair it with the new 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR superzoom and you’ve got a very versatile all-in-one photography setup that’s perfect for vacations and other adventures.

You want a second body to complement your full-frame Nikon DSLR   If you’ve got a stack of F-mount lenses and a full-frame Nikon DSLR, the Nikon Z5 is a great complement to your setup. Pair it with the FTZ mount adapter and you’ll have a compact package that will allow you to use your existing lenses for those times when you want to travel light – it’s a relatively risk-free way of dipping your toe into Nikon’s mirrorless system.

Don't buy it if…

You want to shoot action While the burst rate is comparable to rivals, the Nikon Z5 is hampered by its modest burst shooting speed. Focusing is quick, but the ability to shoot at only 4.5fps means it’s not cut out for a lot of action photography. Don’t get us wrong – you will be able to get those kinds of shots with the Z5, but you’ll have to work harder than with some other cameras.

You want to shoot video regularly If video is going to be a big part of what you’re looking to capture, then the Nikon Z5 isn’t the right camera for you. While it can shoot 4K, your options are pretty limited, and you’re better off looking elsewhere. It might not have a full-frame sensor, but the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is one of the best options for shooting video right now, while the Fujifilm X-T4 offers a great blend of photo and video credentials. 

You’re looking for the best-specified camera for the price While there’s lots to commend the Z5, you’re paying a premium for the full-frame sensor. These size sensors certainly have their advantages, but don’t overlook APS-C format cameras for a similar price. These will often have more advanced features than the Z5, while image quality won’t be that far behind the likes of the Z5. 

• Check out our guide to the world's best cameras for photography

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.

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Nikon Z5 Review

• Introduction
• Ease of Use
• Image Quality
• Sample Images
• Product Images
• Rating & Conclusion
• Main Rivals
• Specifications
• Preview Images

Latest Reviews

The Nikon Z5 is an entry-level 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera with 4K Video and IBIS. It sits below the better-specced and higher-priced Z6 and Z7 models in the Nikon Z-series range.

Key features of the Z5 include a 24.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, ISO range of 100-51200 , 273-point Hybrid AF system with eye and animal detection, 3690k-dot electronic viewfinder, tilting touchscreen, weatherproof magnesium alloy body, dual UHS-II SD card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

The Nikon Z5 is available now priced at £1719 / $1699 with the equally new Nikon Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 retractable zoom kit lens.

Nikon Z 5 without a space or ‘Z5’ with one, as its manufacturer is suggesting? Perhaps it doesn’t matter at all. Like those who insist on their latest innovation being written ALL IN CAPS, it seems a mere affectation which distracts from the fact that this is a solidly built, fairly conventional offering in Nikon’s fledgling full frame compact interchangeable lens camera series. Offering 24.3 megapixels of resolution and 4K video, it would seem to tick the boxes for what we’re expecting in terms of key specification these days too.

As the model name suggests, this unit sits below the existing ‘6’ and ‘7’ semi pro models in its maker’s line up, the premise here being that this is a more accessible entry point into the ‘Z’ series for those who don’t want the steep learning curve they may perceive the higher priced alternatives present. That said, while comparable with other mirrorless camera options out there, the £1,719 being asked for the camera and lens bundle we were sent isn’t cheap for a ‘beginner’ or smartphone upgrader by any means.

More positively, if you’ve used an entry-level DSLR or bridge camera before – and which this resemble a slightly shrunken version of – there is much that is immediately familiar in terms of looks, build, handling and operation with the Nikon Z5.

Those making the leap up from a smartphone will take advantage of the Nikon’s Live View and touch screen facility, which handily also includes touch AF and touch shutter operation by default – a finger tap on screen directing the camera to zero in on a particular point in your frame and capture an image that has wherever you tapped as its main point of focus. From the get go, despite a fairly busy control layout, that much is user friendly and is also useful for subjects that are darting around your frame – wild fowl to take one instance among our selection of test shots.

On the Z5 Nikon has deployed a comprehensive 273-point Hybrid AF system, while a central AF point illuminated in green can further be dragged around the LCD either by finger or via rear plate joystick as desired.

Edge of frame markers in a subtle dark red colour which appear either in the viewfinder or on the LCD illustrate how much of the scene is actually in frame – as aspect ratios can be manually swapped, from the default of full frame – which Nikon calls ‘FX format’ – to DX format (size of an APS-C sensor), or alternatively 1:1 medium format or 16:9 widescreen ratios.

Of course when selecting these last three options there is an incremental decrease in overall image resolution, as, effectively, the camera is performing a crop. So if you want maximum pixels for your bucks, stick with full frame ratio.

While a bigger lens mount allows for physically larger lenses and more light to reach the sensor, the Nikon Z5 doesn’t shirk when it comes to light sensitivity options either, with a core range of ISO100-51200 incrementally extendable either side to the equivalent of ISO50 or ISO102400, depending on requirements, though photos towards the uppermost settings do display a fair bit of image smoothing to limit the appearance of grain/image noise.

We were sent the kit version of the Z5 that usefully comes with a Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens out of the box. We say ‘useful’ because obviously with a full frame camera the 24mm setting is a ‘true’ 24mm, making it ideal for landscape shots, while at the telephoto end of the zoom the 50mm setting is great for portraits – the two most commonly shot photographic subjects, in other words.

The supplied lens is a compact zoom – in fact it’s claimed to be the shortest and lightest lens for full frame mirrorless cameras currently in existence – which means that it needs to be manually unfurled/extended before you can loose off the first shot, so slightly slows down the process of grabbing that initial image from cold.

Once the lens has been extended, then, it seemed most sensible to us to walk around with the camera and lens left in its ‘proud’ state while we were looking for subjects to capture, which is about an inch and a half longer than the lens otherwise appears when ‘dormant’.

It’s worth pointing out that while the lens is ‘compact’ compared to alternatives, you’ll still need a rucksack or camera bag to transport the Nikon Z5; it’s too bulky to fit into a jacket pocket and camera and lens combined would be a squeeze even for the average glove compartment.

While we’re talking optics it’s worth pointing out that regular Nikkor F-mount lenses can be used on the Nikon Z5 too, albeit via the FTZ mount adapter, so there is a broad range of alternatives to explore if you’re prepared to buy this optional extra gizmo.

The alternative to using this camera’s large and bright back plate screen, which also can be pulled outwards from the body and tilted up so you’re looking down on it – but not, unfortunately, swung to one side like those of a camcorder - is of course to utilise the eye level viewfinder instead, which is electronic, as opposed to optical, and self activates in user-friendly fashion when it detects your eyeball up against it. Likewise it neatly deactivates if you remove your eye from it. Nikon tells us that this is the same EVF as used in the pre-existing ‘big brother’ Z6 and Z7 models.

On the Nikon Z5, we also get dual card slots hidden beneath the spring-loaded, push and flip-open padded thumb rest at the rear, but, thankfully for the newbies this one is aimed at, these are a pair of SD card slots for which many of us have a drawer-full of compatible media lying around, rather than the more expensive (albeit more big data friendly) XQD media or CFExpress cards controversially favoured by the Z6 and Z7.

Incidentally, despite the Nikon Z5’s relatively compact dimensions when compared with a full frame DSLR, the handgrip here commendably provides space for three fingers at the front, while your forefinger hovers above the shutter release button, itself ergonomically encircled via the on/off switch. Though it is still weighty and chunky with lens attached, the camera never feels unmanageably so. It’s solid, in a reassuring fashion, which is exactly what you want given the outlay being asked here.

As one would also anticipate and expect at this price and in this class of camera, the Nikon Z5 never feels sluggish in operation – quite the opposite in fact. It quickly becomes an extension of your own arm and eye, allowing you to concentrate on the subject rather than what the camera is doing; once you’ve familiarised yourself with its basic features that is, and which button needs to be pressed in order to call up the settings required.

With lens mount front and centre on this model, the faceplate is a relatively minimalist affair, with a lens release button on one side of the mount flanked on the other by two slightly smaller function buttons.

Of course we also get the familiar screw head sized porthole housing a self time/AF assist lamp top right of the lens mount, and a nicely rounded DSLR-like handgrip over on the left, which has the familiar edge of a ridged control wheel poking out near the top where it falls under the forefinger, though we more often found ourselves using the more prominent ‘main’ command dial that is alternatively set into the top plate just above the thumb pad at the rear. It just feels more natural to us to give this one a thumb spin, while your forefinger is free to hover over the shutter release button, and that button alone.

One thing this camera is missing however – though of course beginners won’t sweat over its omission – is a top plate LCD window. Perhaps this would have been something of a luxury, given that its maker was aiming for compactness here.

Despite that, top plate controls including the aforementioned main command dial and familiar shooting mode wheel – featuring the usual P,A,S,M and auto settings, plus three user-customisable ones – are reassuringly large and chunky, making for fluid, as opposed to fiddly, operation. These have just the right amount of give and are not overly stiff, the user hearing an audible ‘click’ when a particular shooting mode is selected, or a reassuring series of clicks when the main command wheel is spun.

The top plate is also where you’ll find the Nikon Z5’s unobtrusive speaker, while stereo microphones sit either side of the familiar pentaprism shape, which houses the camera’s electronic viewfinder and built-in stereo microphones. It has to be said, the degree of visibility you get from the 3690K-dot resolution EVF here is sufficiently impressive that we forgot we weren’t looking through an actually optical viewfinder. Said EVF also helpfully provides 100% frame coverage, so what you’re seeing is what you’re shooting.

Another thing that is missing here, however, that you wonder if Nikon could have included, is a pop-up flash – as it is, there’s a vacant hotshoe for attaching an accessory flashgun if and when required, though obviously this is at additional cost.

Falling under the forefinger as it dances around the shutter release button meanwhile are an ergonomically arranged top plate trio of buttons – one for controlling exposure compensation (an incrementally broad +/- 5EV), another for accessing ISO settings in conjunction with a twirl of the command wheel as you hold this button down, plus a familiar record button for the commencing and canceling video capture; so far, so reassuringly straightforward.

The back plate of the Nikon Z5 meanwhile finds the camera at its busiest looking and possibly initially daunting, with a DSLR-like array of buttons arranged in a L-shape along the top, plus down the right hand side of the articulated LCD screen. Top left where they conveniently fall under the thumb of the left hand, we get immediately recognizable buttons for playback and file deletion, while, over at the other side of the viewfinder window, we find a display button encircled by a rocker switch for self explanatorily switching between stills and video capture.

To the right of these we get an AF-on and joystick with roughened surface so you literally get a ‘feel’ for its operation and directing of your AF point – activated via a press of the ‘OK’ button below – without having to take your eye away from the viewfinder. Between the joystick and the OK button, set into a multi directional control pad, is an ‘i’ button, which by default provides a short cut to an on-screen toolbar of key shooting settings. Each setting has its own lozenge shaped virtual button, which are just of sufficient size to be able to nudge lightly with a thumb and avoid miss-selection. This also saves deep diving into the menu screens proper on most occasions.

Beneath the multi directional control are a further quartet of buttons – being the self explanatory ‘menu’, a drive mode selection button (accessing single shot, burst shooting of up to 4.5fps and standard self timer options), plus two magnifying glass illustrated enlarge and minimise buttons, which obviously come into their own when checking critical focus with the camera placed in playback mode.

With all the above seeming pretty straightforward and logical, the right hand flank of the camera – as viewed from the back – features the slide-and-open flap housing the dual memory card slots as discussed earlier, while the opposite flank features the camera’s connectivity options. Here you get more than we might expect on a ‘beginner’ model, including the ability to plug in an external microphone and a pair of headphones for monitoring, while full size HDMI and USB ports are also provided, along with an accessory terminal option for plugging in a remote shutter release; so, these are commendably comprehensive options for a camera in this class (if not in this price bracket).

With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on board as standard, the base of the Nikon Z5 features a screw thread for a tripod dead centre of its lens mount, while the base of the handgrip inevitably houses its rechargeable EN-EL15C lithium ion battery, for which a separate mains charger comes bundled in the box. It can also alternatively be powered up via USB. This newer class of battery can furnish its users with up to 470 shots from a full charge or 120 minutes of video if using only its LCD. Not so great compared to a DSLR, but just fine compared to most mirrorless cameras.

While this well made and well featured entry point into full frame mirrorless photography is impressive in many respects, then, the proof of any pudding is in the eating. So, while the Nikon Z5 handles well, how do its images measure up? Read on to find out...

All of the sample images in this review were taken using the 24 megapixel Fine JPEG setting, which gives an average image size of around 10Mb.

While a resolution of 24.3 megapixels may seem nothing to write home about in these days of 40 MP mirrorless options, the majority of us aren’t shooting imagery for commercial reproduction at billboard size and so is arguably more than most will ever need.

For the most part images from the Nikon Z5 are detailed and punchy, with a nice amount of contrast, except on occasions when focusing on foreground details threatens to white out large expanses of sky in the background.

Colours are punchy too, with Nikon erring on the side of realistic rather than oversaturated. That said, skin tones in portraits look healthy rather than pallid – with eye detecting auto focus being both fast and accurate we noted - while the blues and greens of nature are also realistically rendered.

While the zoom range offered by the kit lens isn’t massive and you’ll probably want to supplement it with something with a bit more ‘kick’ at the telephoto end, it's a decent jack of all trades option out of the box, although having to first remember to unfurl it by hand before you want to take a shot is a little irksome.

Unsurprisingly at higher ISO’s – and most noticeably those beyond ISO 51200 - visible noise processing is kicking in, giving a smoothing effect, like someone has smeared Vaseline over the lens. That said these are far from the worst results we’ve seen in the higher numbers and, although we’re losing some of the photographic quality, would be usable as an aide memoire if you’re desperate.

ISO sensitivity can be set between ISO 50 and ISO 102400 in full-stop increments. Here are some 100% crops which show the noise levels for each ISO setting, with JPEG on the left and RAW on the right.

The Nikon Z5's maximum shutter speed is 30 seconds and there's a Bulb mode for even longer exposures (up to 16 minutes), which is excellent news if you're seriously interested in low light photography.

This is a selection of sample images from the Nikon Z5 camera, which were all taken using the 24 megapixel JPEG setting. The thumbnails below link to the full-sized versions, which have not been altered in any way.

1/80s · f/8 · ISO 100 27mm Download Original

1/60s · f/8 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 800 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 110 50mm Download Original

1/40s · f/11 · ISO 180 41mm Download Original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 160 50mm Download Original

1/60s · f/8 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/40s · f/11 · ISO 110 35mm Download Original

1/80s · f/11 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/160s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 140 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 640 50mm Download Original

1/320s · f/4 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/250s · f/8 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/200s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/100s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 280 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/80s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/25s · f/11 · ISO 220 24mm Download Original

1/25s · f/16 · ISO 2800 24mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/100s · f/5.6 · ISO 100 42mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 125 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 400 50mm Download Original

1/60s · f/11 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 28mm Download Original

1/50s · f/8 · ISO 100 28mm Download Original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 180 50mm Download Original

1/30s · f/11 · ISO 160 26mm Download Original

1/25s · f/11 · ISO 110 24mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 200 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 320 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 160 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 640 50mm Download Original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 220 50mm Download Original

1/125s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download Original

1/50s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/30s · f/11 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 720 50mm Download Original

1/100s · f/5 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/60s · f/4 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/125s · f/5.6 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/100s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download Original

1/200s · f/7.1 · ISO 100 49mm Download Original

1/160s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download Original

1/320s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/250s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download Original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 180 50mm Download Original

1/20s · f/4 · ISO 51200 24mm Download Original

1/25s · f/4 · ISO 28800 24mm Download Original

1/10s · f/4 · ISO 25600 24mm Download Original

1/20s · f/4 · ISO 25600 24mm Download Original

Sample RAW Images

The Nikon Z5 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Nikon RAW (NEF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative)."

1/80s · f/8 · ISO 100 27mm Download original

1/60s · f/8 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 800 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 110 50mm Download original

1/40s · f/11 · ISO 180 41mm Download original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 160 50mm Download original

1/60s · f/8 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/40s · f/11 · ISO 110 35mm Download original

1/80s · f/11 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/160s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 140 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 640 50mm Download original

1/320s · f/4 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/250s · f/8 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/200s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/100s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 280 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/80s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/25s · f/11 · ISO 220 24mm Download original

1/25s · f/16 · ISO 2800 24mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/100s · f/5.6 · ISO 100 42mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 125 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 400 50mm Download original

1/60s · f/11 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 28mm Download original

1/50s · f/8 · ISO 100 28mm Download original

1/50s · f/11 · ISO 180 50mm Download original

1/30s · f/11 · ISO 160 26mm Download original

1/25s · f/11 · ISO 110 24mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 200 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 320 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 160 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 640 50mm Download original

1/60s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 220 50mm Download original

1/125s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 50mm Download original

1/50s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/30s · f/11 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 720 50mm Download original

1/100s · f/5 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/60s · f/4 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/125s · f/5.6 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/100s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download original

1/200s · f/7.1 · ISO 100 49mm Download original

1/160s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 100 49mm Download original

1/320s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/250s · f/9 · ISO 100 24mm Download original

1/50s · f/6.3 · ISO 180 50mm Download original

1/20s · f/4 · ISO 51200 24mm Download original

1/25s · f/4 · ISO 28800 24mm Download original

1/10s · f/4 · ISO 25600 24mm Download original

1/20s · f/4 · ISO 25600 24mm Download original

Sample Movies & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2610 pixels at 30 frames per second. Please note that this 21 second movie is 334Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2610 pixels at 30 frames per second. Please note that this 30 second movie is 474Mb in size.

A full frame mirrorless system camera for beginners – or at least initial Nikon Z system adopters – in a price bracket more common to die-hard enthusiasts and semi pros, has Nikon’s latest Z5 gamble paid off?

While there will inevitably be grumbles that it’s too expensive, the look, feel, build quality and handling go some way to showing users where their money’s going. In short, it doesn’t have that ‘budget’ feel that many starter cameras have; indeed it will have appeal to long-term photo hobbyists who have resisted going mirrorless until now.

When it comes to the images that the Nikon Z5 delivers, they also won’t be disappointed by the full frame sensor at its heart, even if they may quickly tire of the jack-of-all-trades compact zoom provided out of the box, which, while fine for beginners, will quickly fall short of ideal for ‘power users’.

Anyone buying this otherwise fairly well-featured camera will also have to invest in an accessory flash, though we were pleased to see Nikon circling back to support the more commonly available and cheaper SD card rather than XQD-only for a ‘Z’ series camera here. Those considering purchasing this one are more than likely to own a handful already, thus making the passage to ownership less daunting than the doubtless already quite daunting asking price.

All said and done, the Z5 camera represents a positive step from Nikon – and one that would seem even more desirable for those trading up from smartphones or budget DSLRs in its range if it were a little more affordable still.

Listed below are some of the rivals of the Nikon Z5 .

Canon EOS R

The EOS R is Canon's first ever full-frame mirrorless camera, joining the likes of Sony, Nikon and Panasonic. Can it beat its main rivals, and is it a real alternative to a more traditional DSLR? Find out now by reading our in-depth Canon EOS R review, complete with full-size sample images, videos and more...

Canon EOS RP

The Canon EOS RP camera follows hot on the heels of last year's EOS R model, offering full-frame mirrorless tech and 4K video recording at an even more affordable price-point than before. Find out just what the cheapest full-frame mirrorless camera on the market is capable of by reading our in-depth Canon EOS RP review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and RAW images, videos and more...

Fujifilm X-Pro3

The latest version of Fujifilm's much-loved rangefinder camera series has just arrived in the form of the X-Pro3, complete with hybrid optical / electronic viewfinder and a radical new hidden LCD screen. Yes, we did say hidden! Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-Pro3 review to find out what this very traditional, yet thoroughly modern camera has to offer you.

Fujifilm X-T4

The Fujifilm X-T4 is the successor to the very popular X-T3, which was released in 2018, principally adding in-body image stabilisation, greatly improved battery life, a quicker and quieter mechanical shutter, enhanced continuous AF and a number of design tweaks. Can the new X-T4 improve on what was already an outstanding camera? Find out now by reading our in-depth Fujifilm X-T4 review...

Nikon have introduced their first APS-C, cropped-sensor mirrorless camera with the launch of the Z50, accompanied by two kit zoom lenses. Can the Z50 take on the likes of the well established Sony A6000-series and Canon EOS-M range, not to mention Fujifilm with its line-up of excellent APS-C bodies and lenses? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z50 review.

The Nikon Z6 mirrorless camera is the sensible little brother of the flagship Z7 model, offering less megapixels, fewer AF points and faster continuous shooting at a much lower price point. Is this the best balanced mirrorless camera on the market? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z6 review, complete with full size JPEGs, Raw files and movies...

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The new OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a serious camera for serious photographers, designed to showcase the very best that Olympus has to offer. In the increasingly competitive high-end camera market, does it have what it takes to stand out from the crowd and attract new users as well as satisfy existing ones? Read our Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review to find out...

Panasonic S1

The Panasonic S1 is the more sensibly specced and sensibly priced sibling of the flagship S1R full-frame mirrorless camera. It lowers the number of megapixels whilst upping the video capabilities, promising a more well-rounded camera at a more affordable price-point. Does the new Lumix S1 have what it takes to compete with the likes of the Sony A7 III, Nikon Z6 and Canon EOS R? Read our detailed Panasonic S1 review to find out...

¹ Shortest length and lightest weight among standard zoom lenses for full-frame interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras released as of July 21, 2020. ² Type-C to type-C USB cable required. ³ Measured in photo mode at ISO 100 and a temperature of 20 °C/68 °F using single-servo AF (AF-S) and a lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.0. ⁴ Actual frame rates for 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p are 59.94, 50, 29.97, 25, and 23.976 fps respectively. ⁵ Quality selection (normal/high) available at all sizes except 3840 × 2160, when quality is fixed at high. ⁶ Without interference. Range may vary with signal strength and presence or absence of obstacles. ⁷ EN-EL15b/EN-EL15a/EN-EL15 batteries can also be used. Note, however, that fewer pictures can be taken on a single charge than with the EN-EL15c. The EH-7P charging AC adapter can be used to charge EN-EL15c/EN-EL15b batteries only. ⁸ EN-EL15b/EN-EL15a/EN-EL15 batteries can be used in place of the EN-EL15c. The number of pictures that can be taken on a single charge (i.e., battery endurance) will however drop compared to the EN-EL15c.

Nikon have just announced the Z5, an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera with 4K Video and IBIS that sits below the Z6 and Z7 models.

Other key features include a 24.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, 100-51200 ISO range, 273-point Hybrid AF system with eye and animal detection, 3690k-dot electronic viewfinder, tilting touchscreen, weatherproof magnesium alloy body, dual UHS-II SD card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Pitched directly against the Canon EOS RP , the Nikon Z5 has the main advantage of 5-axis vibration reduction, something that the Canon rival notably lacks. The Z5's 4K video mode does suffer from a very similar 1.7x crop, though (1.6x on the EOS RP).

Meanwhile, the 2-year-old Sony A7 III is more than a match for the new Nikon Z5 and is still our pick for "best entry-level full-frame camera", on paper at least, although it is admittedly slightly more expensive than the Canon EOS RP and Nikon Z5 at full RRP.

Compared to the Nikon Z6 , the new Z5 commendably shares a lot of the same features, with a simpler top-plate with a shooting mode dial rather than a status LCD (which some people may actually prefer), polycarbonate rear and base plates rather than fully magnesium alloy (still the same level of weatherproofing though), and fewer video options. The Z5 is so similar to its siblings that it even uses the same MB-N10 battery grip as the Z6 and Z7.

Today Nikon introduces a new entry-level full-frame camera to the Nikon Z family. Tough, light, and easy to handle, the Nikon Z 5 is a brilliant opportunity for anyone who wants to move into full-frame mirrorless photography.

Positioned below the Nikon Z 7 and Z 6, the Nikon Z 5 is designed for anyone who wants to begin exploring the beauty of full-frame photography. Whether shooting stills or 4K movies, users will see their images take on thrilling new levels of detail, depth, and colour. Clean images with stunning dynamic range are attainable even at high ISOs thanks to a full-frame 24.3 MP CMOS sensor that takes full advantage of the ultra-wide Z mount’s light-gathering capabilities. Nikon’s 273-point Hybrid-AF system delivers sharp focus across the frame, and the same EVF as the renowned Z 6 and Z 7 offers an ultra-sharp view. Dual card slots offer flexible storage, and handling is effortless thanks to acclaimed Nikon Z ergonomic features including the deep camera grip. The camera can also be powered via USB 2—ideal if recording a long time-lapse sequence from the living-room window!

From wide-angle primes to telephoto zooms, the Nikon Z 5 is compatible with all of Nikon’s bright and compact full-frame NIKKOR Z lenses. The Nikon Z 5 is also fully compatible with the FTZ Mount Adapter which allows use of F-mount NIKKOR lenses with no loss of image quality.

Robert Harmon, Senior Commercial Planning Manager, Nikon UK, says: “The Nikon Z 5 and NIKKOR Z 24-50mm lens offer a fantastic chance to discover the benefits of Nikon Z full-frame photography. From richer colours to greater depth of field, you get stunning Nikon Z image quality in a uniquely portable package. It’s the perfect way to exercise your creativity and create the kind of full-frame images you’ve always wanted.”

Nikon Z 5 Key Specs

• Stunning Nikon Z image quality: ultra-wide Nikon Z mount, powerful EXPEED 6 processor, and full-frame 24.3 MP CMOS sensor with 100-51200 ISO range.
• Small kit, big impact: the super-portable NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 is included in the core Z 5 camera + lens kit.
• 273-point Hybrid AF: delivers smooth, fast, and precise focusing across the frame. Eye-Detection AF locks on to eyes for perfect portraits of people. Animal-Detection AF does the same for cats and dogs.
• 5-axis Vibration Reduction: stills stay sharp and video is steady.
• Ultra-sharp 3690k-dot electronic viewfinder: the high-definition EVF doesn’t leave anything out of the frame. Key settings like exposure, ISO, and white balance are applied in real time.
• Nikon Z ergonomics: the deep grip feels secure and key controls are perfectly placed.
• Tough yet lightweight: the magnesium alloy body is sealed to keep dust and moisture out.
• Dual card slots, power via USB: accepts fast UHS-II SD cards and the camera can charge (camera off), or powered via USB 2.
• Tilting touchscreen: touch to focus and shoot, and double-tap to see a 100 % view of the image area.
• Smooth 4K movies: NIKKOR Z full-frame lenses enable beautiful depth of field. Create eye-popping time-lapse movies in-camera, and take stills while filming.
• Built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth®. Nikon’s SnapBridge app makes it easy to transfer photos and videos, or turn a smart device into a remote monitor and controller.

Nikon Z 5 Price

The Nikon Z 5 and the Z 24-50MM F/4-6.3 kit lens will be priced at £1,719 / €1,999 in the UK / Europe.

Nikon Z 5 Availability

Sales of the Nikon Z 5 start in Late Summer 2020.

1 Shortest length and lightest weight among standard zoom lenses for full-frame interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras released as of 23rd July, 2020

2 Type-C to type-C USB cable required

Image Gallery

Click on a thumbnail to see the full version.

Ahead of our full review, here are some sample JPEG and RAW images and videos taken with the brand new Nikon Z5 full-frame mirrorless camera. The Z5 offers 24 megapixels, UHD 4K video, IBIS, ISO 100-51200, a weatherproof body and dual SD card slots. It's priced at £1719 / $1699 with the equally new Z 24-50mm retractable zoom lens. All of the images were taken with a full production version of the Z5 and the new Nikkor Z 24-50mm F4-6.3 kit lens.

A gallery of sample photos taken with the Nikon Z5 full-frame mirrorless camera.

Nikon Z5 Sample Images

The Nikon Z5 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Nikon RAW (NEF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movie & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 30 frames per second. Please note that this 21 second movie is 334Mb in size.

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• BUYER'S GUIDES

Mirrorless Camera Reviews

Nikon z5 review: your new favorite everyday full frame camera.

Back in January I reviewed Nikon's tiny Z50 mirrorless camera , an APS-C sensor format model targeted at budget-conscious photographers or those buying their first interchangeable lens digital camera. And it performed so well I was actually sad to return it. But Nikon has been busy, and within a week the new full-frame 24.3MP Nikon Z5 arrived on my doorstep to test out.

Also designed for photographers on a budget, the full-frame (FX-format) Z5 not only offers higher resolution than the 20.9MP Z50 and a larger image sensor but incorporates an array of the sophisticated features found in Nikon's higher-end Z6 and Z7 cameras. Yet, with a price of $1,396 for the body , the bigger sensor equipped Z5 is only $540 more than the Z50.

The Nikon Z5 camera kit I received included the new Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens ( $1596 as a kit ), touted as the shortest and most affordable full-frame zoom in the Nikkor Z lineup. Designed for landscapes, portraits and cityscape photography, the lens' slow maximum aperture is obviously a drawback when shooting in low-light conditions. That said, I was pleased with the sharpness, color rendition, and contrast it delivered in good light.

Obviously, I was limited by the focal length at the long end of the 24-50mm zoom, although I was able to sneak up close for a tight shot of a sleeping swan. But if you add an affordable Nikkor Z 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR zoom lens to your bag, you’ll have a very compact, economical kit.

Compact & Lightweight The first thing that surprised me when I opened the camera box was the compact size of the Nikon Z5, which looks like a shrunken DSLR. In fact, this full-frame mirrorless camera is only marginally larger that the APS-C Nikon Z50—measuring just 5.28x3.98x2.7 inches, as compared to 5.0x3.7x2.4 inches. It doubtful you'd even notice the difference between the two, unless you compared the cameras side-by-side.

The Nikon Z5 is about 6 ounces heavier than the Z50, but that’s to be expected given its more robust construction. And I actually appreciated the extra heft because it gives the camera a more balanced, reassuring feel. Another plus is that despite its more advanced features, the Z5 and its menus are very intuitive to use.

Camera Build, Layout & Handling Simply put, the new Nikon Z5 feels great in the hand, with a deep secure grip that's not often found on cameras this small. Designed to withstand the abuse of outdoor shooting, the Z5 boasts the same weather-sealed construction and magnesium alloy shell as the high-end Z6 and Z7 mirrorless cameras.

And the compact Nikkor Z 24-50mm lens I used is also built with dust and drip resistance in mind.

A quick glance at the back of the Nikon Z5 put a smile on my face because, frankly, I wasn't a big fan of the touch-sensitive icons positioned beyond the live area of the Z50's rear LCD. These are intended for zooming in and out during shooting and playback, and for accessing display options.

Nice idea, but I often hit them inadvertently with my thumb while composing in the electronic viewfinder, thereby enlarging the scene in the viewfinder. The new Nikon Z5 replaces these touch-sensitive icons with conventional physical controls.

Atop the right side of the Nikon Z5 you find the On/Off switch with an EV compensation button to the right, a Video button to the left, and an ISO button immediately below The left top of the camera where you might expect a small LCD information screen, is blank. On the front you'll find the Sub-Command dial, with the Main Command dial on the rear.

Controls on the back of the camera include the Play and Trash buttons on the upper right and a display switch to the right of the EVF for toggling between still and video shooting. Down the right side of the camera back there's an AF-On button that can be used to lock focus and exposure during shooting, a four-way jog control for navigating the menu, and an “i” button that conveniently displays your most-used controls on the LCD.

There's also the ubiquitous OK button surround by a four-way dial, the Menu button, a Drive Mode button, and buttons to zoom in and out during playback.  With all these physical controls at your fingertips, it's rarely necessary to delve into the menus once you've configured the camera to your liking.             

A couple final references to the Nikon Z50, before focusing exclusively on the new Z5: Both cameras position two customizable Function buttons on the front right of the camera, between the lens mount and substantial handgrip.

Even with my average-size hands, I found it difficult to use and activate those buttons because they're located it such a tight space. Moving them to the top left panel of the camera, which is devoid of controls, would be a really easy and sensible fix.

The Nikon Z5's high-resolution electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage is really good, as is the 3.2-inch, touch-sensitive rear LCD that offers superb resolution with over one million dots. An eye sensor automatically switches between the monitor and the viewfinder eyepiece. It should be noted the monitor is of a tilting type that simply pulls out, up, and down, and is isn’t of a fully articulating design.

Two changes that will please many photographers is that Nikon has added a second UHS-II SD card slot to the Z5 as well as a more powerful battery. The camera is also the first Nikon model to enable constant power through the USB port, even with some USB power banks.

Features & Performance Nikon has outfitted the Z5 with 273 on-sensor AF points that cover nearly the entire frame. As result, focusing is fast and precise, and subject tracking works really well.

While I typically prefer single-point focusing, unless I'm shooting action, the Nikon Z5 offers a variety of AF modes that cover the gamut from Auto-area AF, Dynamic-area AF, and Wide-Area AF (both small and large) in addition to Single-Point AF.

Using the Nikon Z5, I photographed a few cyclists moving at a pretty fast clip along a bike path astride the Mississippi River in New Orleans, in the Continuous AF and Focus modes, and virtually all of the images were sharp. Likewise, my images of a train moving quickly toward me were so sharp that the train appeared to be standing still.

And while I didn't test it, the Nikon Z5 camera also features an Eye-Focus mode for both people and animals. According to Nikon, the autofocus detection range of the Z5 extends from -3 to +19 EV, depending upon the ISO setting used and the maximum aperture of your lens.

The Nikon Z5 is designed for great low-light performance with an ISO range up to 51,200 that is expandable to 102,400. Further contributing to low-light shooting is the Z5's effective five-axis Vibration Reduction system that enables you to shoot at much slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible.

Image Quality The images you see here were all shot with the Nikon Z5's highest JPEG setting, and I was very pleased with the results—especially with what is essentially an entry-level full-frame camera and an extremely affordable lens. Personally, though, I’d prefer to spend more for a lens that shipped with a purpose-built hood, rather than have to purchase one separately. I'm a firm believer in lens hoods, and neither this lens, nor the 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and the 50-250mm VR zooms I used for my earlier review of the Z50 included one.

That minor gripe aside, the Nikon Z5 with the 24-50mm kit lens delivered some really impressive results. At the camera's default settings images were crisp, with good tonal values and contrast, and minimal or no highlight clipping.

In fact, the only throwaway shots were due to "operator failure" as I carelessly grabbed a lens hood designed for 35mm lenses. Hence some of my photos shot at 24mm exhibited pretty nasty vignetting. So, again, charge me more and supply a hood with the lens.

The Nikon Z5's Auto white balance setting did a good job in both direct sun and when shooting in the shade. While the Z5 offers all the common exposure and metering modes, I shot everything in Aperture Priority with Matrix metering, and never needed to employ EV compensation (although I’m a big fan of that capability).

Other Features There's a lot of creative control built into the Nikon Z5, including 20 Creative Picture Controls and advanced tools like Focus Shift shooting which automatically captures a series of up to 300 shots, and stacks them into a single image with incredible depth of field. This is really helpful for capturing stunning landscape photos, as well as product and macro photographs. The Z5 also has a conventional Multiple Exposure mode for other effortless creative effects.

As you might expect, the Nikon Z5 also offers a host of sophisticated video capabilities that are beyond the scope of this review. But the inability to point the rear screen forward, limits the versatility of the Z5 for vlogging purposes.

Like other cameras in Nikon's Z line, the Z5 utilizes a unique oversized mount that accommodates a growing array of Nikkor Z lenses. Nikon credits the new mount for making it easier to create lenses with innovative optical options, as well as enhanced still and video quality. And for those who already own an arsenal of F-mount Nikkor lenses, the optional Mount Adapter FTZ enables you to use them with the Z5 (and all other Nikon Z-Series cameras).

Conclusion The New Nikon Z5 is a very attractive option for photographers on a budget who are looking for a full-frame camera. And in combination with one of Nikon's compact and affordable lenses like the 24-50mm f/4-6.3, it makes for a very compact package that delivers big-camera results.

The Nikon Z5's menu is straightforward and very intuitive, as are the multitude of physical buttons that put most key functions at your fingertips. I also made good use of the handy “i” button to access features I use most. And unless you have very large hands, it’s a sure bet you’ll find the Z5 one of the most comfortable cameras to use.

Of course, image quality is the ultimate criterion and here the Nikon Z5 does a very credible job, with good density range, contrast, sharpness and color rendition under a variety of shooting conditions. Autofocus is sure and swift, and Nikon built some very impressive low-light capabilities into their entry-level full frame camera.

In short, the new Nikon Z5 hits well above its pay grade and offers a number of sophisticated capabilities found on Nikon’s top-tier mirrorless cameras.

+ Intuitive interface with numerous manual controls

+ Rugged weather resistant build

+ Impressive image quality

- Inconvenient placement of Function buttons

- Limited kit lens; lens hood not included

Nikon Z5 Pricing

Buy the Nikon Z5 (body only) on Amazon for $1396 ; or as a Z5 kit with the Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens for $1596

(As an Amazon Associate, Shutterbug earns from qualifying purchases linked in this story.)

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• Zhongyi Optics
• FTZ Adapter Compatibility
• Available Automated F-Mount Adapters
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• The Ideal FTZ Adapter Wish List
• Nikon TC-1.4x Teleconverter
• Nikon TC-2x Teleconverter
• A Teleconverter Assessment
• Other Z-Mount Adapters
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• Stitching Z Simple Way
• Filters Specifically for Z Lenses
• Tripod Collars and Feet
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• The Better Case of the MB-N11
• To Cover Up or Not?
• Z6/Z7 Batteries
• Zf, Z5, Z6 II, Z6 III, Z7 II, and Z8 Batteries
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Z-Mount Travel Lens Combos (2024 Edition)

We're over five years into the Z-mount, and we now have many more lens options for travel with the Z cameras than we used to, so it's time to update my suggestion for travel. By "travel lens options" I tend to mean a lens or combination of two lenses that minimize what you have to carry but provide you great flexibility in what you can do. 

My earliest travel lens combo suggestion was made back in 2018 when we didn't have much lens choice. Back then I suggested this kit:

• 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E AF-P on an FTZ adapter

That combo is relatively light and small, and provides you a very usable 24-300mm in just two lenses. There's still nothing particularly wrong with that combo, though I tend to avoid using an FTZ adapter these days if I can. However, you can get 24-200mm in a single lens now (24-200mm f/4-6.3), so I think that really becomes the most simple choice here in 2022: one lens, reasonably small and light, and adequate for pretty much anything other than really low light.

So, from simple, small, light, and adequate to more complex and more capable but bigger and heavier, here are my current travel kit lens suggestions for the full-frame Z user:

• 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR . One of Nikon's best-ever superzooms. It doesn't net a "Recommended" in my review, but that was a very close call complicated by how good the other lens choices are. As a one-lens solution, I'm willing to put up with some compromises to keep from carrying extra lenses and the lens changing that ensues. Curiously, this lens sort of works for DX users, too, though you end up with 36-300mm effective and forgo the true wide angle for more telephoto reach (I prefer the 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR DX lens on the DX bodies, though). If you're worried about low light, I'd consider also carrying the 40mm f/2 with you, which nets you a two-stop gain in the mid-range while remaining compact enough to be negligible in carrying.
• 28-400mm f/4-8 VR . Another Nikon superzoom. It, too, doesn't net a "Recommended" in my review, but again that was a very close call. The issue here is twofold: 28mm isn't particularly wide, so if you're thinking of this as a travel lens in close quarters (e.g. European cities), it might not give you enough field of view. The other problem is that this lens plummets from a maximum aperture of f/4 very rapidly, reaching f/8 by 200mm. This makes if less usable for low light, indoor, and night work. On the other hand, it's small and light for its focal range, so if you're looking for a one-lens solution, you really need to consider this lens.
• 14-30mm f/4 S (or 17-28mm f/2.8) and 28-75mm f/2.8 . This is the two-lens set that most satisfies the common travel needs (e.g. city-based travel), though it comes up somewhat short on the telephoto end. In two good lenses you have the 14-75mm range well covered, and with reasonable aperture speed that should help you deal with low light. Both lenses are lighter and smaller than the alternative combo that covers about the same range (14-24mm f/2.8 S and 24-70mm f/2.8 S). If you really need more telephoto, then substitute the 24-120mm f/4 for the 28-75mm f/2.8. You'll gain 75-120mm at the expense of one stop of light in the mid-range as well as a bit of  extra weight (2 ounces [57g]). That combo—14-30mm and 24-120mm—is my personal travel kit these days. But I can see times when I'd prefer f/2.8 in the mid-range. With the introduction of the Tamrikon 17-28mm f/2.8, you have another choice for the wider end that’s faster and takes the same size filters as the 28-75mm. Sub it for the 14-30mm f/4 S if you’d like, but you’re trading light for wide angle, basically.
• 24-120mm f/4 S and 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S . This two-lens set nets you an impressive 24-400mm range that's actually really, really good. The bad news is that both lenses are on the chunky side: you're sacrificing light weight and small size for extreme competence and a really wide focal length range. What you're really doing here is minimizing the number of lenses you carry overall while maximizing the optical quality, which is not making your kit small and light. You also don't have a "fast" lens. The thing I like about this kit is the crossover point: you can easily photograph into the moderate telephoto end without changing lenses (e.g. up to 120mm). If you need more reach, then it's obvious you want the telephoto zoom on the camera, but it can still handle down to the portrait focal lengths. I find it rare that I need, say, 28mm for one image and then 280mm for the next one. Most of the time the 24-120mm stays on the camera, but if I'm photographing small, distant subjects, out comes the 100-400mm. Both lenses focus somewhat closer than other options, not quite into macro range, but close enough to pull out detail. If you need wider, I suggest adding a third lens, either the 20mm f/1.8 S or the 14-30mm f/4 S. However, three lenses starts the "juggling" situation that you should probably be avoiding when traveling.

As you can see from my suggestions, Nikon still has some missing lenses for true travel optimization. The key missing lens is a smaller, lighter telephoto zoom, either a 70-200mm f/4 or a 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6. That's particularly true because the 24-70mm f/4 S is such a good lens that's small and light, but it doesn't pair up with anything well natively in the Z-mount for a two-lens kit. I'd tend to say that if you find yourself in this category, my original 2018 recommendation still stands: use the 24-70mm f/4 with the 70-300mm AF-P on an FTZ adapter.

Okay, but what about "best possible FX travel kit"? Well, Nikon's got that covered in three (+) lenses: the 14-24mm f/2.8 S, the 24-70mm f/2.8 S, and the 70-200mm f/2.8 S (coupled with a 1.4x teleconverter). But these lenses start to tally up the size and weight, which makes you less likely to travel with them. Moreover, juggling three lenses starts to work against the notion of a simple travel kit where you're not constantly in your bag to get something else out to use.

And what about DX? The Z50 two-lens kit that Nikon sells is tough to top: 16-250mm (24-375mm equivalent) in two highly competent lenses. They're just not fast aperture at their long ends. And the Zfc? I don't find its grip-less, VR-less nature conducive to a full travel kit that reaches into the telephoto realm. If you decide to go there with the Zfc, do yourself a favor and get the SmallRig plate/grip , or else you're going to find it tough to handhold things out beyond 50mm. 

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The best lenses for the Nikon Z5 in 2024

This is a great full-frame camera at a really affordable price – but what are the best lenses for the Nikon Z5?

The Quick List

• Best everyday lens
• Best wide-angle
• Best for portraits
• Best superzoom
• Best telephoto
• Best for macro
• How to choose
• How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best everyday lens 2. Best wide-angle 3. Best for portraits 4. Best superzoom 5. Best telephoto 6. Best for macro How to choose How we test

Choosing the best lenses for the Nikon Z5 means balancing your expectations and the things you want to shoot with this camera’s affordable appeal. It’s one of the best Nikon cameras you can buy right now, so you need some decent glassware to go with it.

The Nikon Z5 is normally sold with the Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 retracting kit lens, but while this lens is compact and portable, its 2x zoom range and restricted maximum aperture limits its usefulness. So we kick off our guide below with an alternative standard zoom offering much more range and versatility. 

We’ve chosen a set of lenses that we think offer great performance and versatility but at a price that reflects the Z5’s value for money. Of course, you might be buying lenses for the future, ready for a potential upgrade to the Nikon Z6 II or Z7 II , so if you are ready to set your sights a bit higher, take a look at our guide to the best Nikon Z lenses .

We’ve covered as wide a range of focal lengths and shooting styles as possible, but there is one thing to be aware of. If you want to shoot long-range wildlife or sports subjects with your Nikon, the costs suddenly escalate. We’ve included one Nikkor Z super-telephoto for wildlife fans, but we’re just giving you advance warning that it’s not cheap – sorry!

Otherwise, the Nikon Z5 is a great camera for travel, portraits, events or any other kind of everyday photography, and here are the lenses which will help you get the best from it.

Rod is an independent photography journalist and editor, and a long-standing Digital Camera World contributor, having previously worked as DCW's Group Reviews Editor. He has used practically every interchangeable-lens camera launched in the past 20 years, from entry-level DSLRs to medium-format cameras, so he has the expertise to select the best Nikon lenses for you.

It may be ‘just’ a kit lens, but its overall image quality, handy control ring and convenient retracting design make it a great daily lens. Read more below…

Expect excellent image quality and plenty of detail from this wide-angle zoom – ideal for landscapes and interiors. Read more below…

Get a flattering angle of view for faces and a satisfying look for your background blur with this well-made prime lens. Read more below…

With an 8x zoom range, this can handle the roles of a standard zoom and a telephoto in one – perfect for travelers. Read more below…

This quality lens is an investment, but the reward is excellent sharpness and a host of handling options. Read more below…

You can shoot small objects and critters at lifesize magnification with this prime, which also makes a decent ‘nifty fifty’. Read more below…

Best lenses for the Nikon Z5 in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best everyday lens for the Z5

1. Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Much cheaper than Nikon’s top-flight Z 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, this standard zoom is also smaller and lighter, with a retractable design that helps you travel light. The trade-off is that the maximum aperture is narrower than in its premium stablemate, so you can’t get as shallow a depth of field. That doesn’t mean poorer overall image quality, though.

Handling is acomplished, with a control ring for manual focus, or manual override of autofocus. You can use the same ring for alternative functions, including smooth aperture adjustment while recording video.

Read more: Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best wide-angle lens for the Z5

2. Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S

Other ultra-wide Nikkor zooms have come along since this one, but we think the Z 14-30mm f/4 S is still the best match for the Nikon Z5, thanks to its compact retracting design, wider-than-usual angles of view (even for an ultra-wide zoom) and its relatively affordable price for a lens of this type. 

As is expected in an S-line lens, the barrel has a customizable control ring, and a speedy, virtually silent stepping motor autofocus system. The lens doesn’t offer image stabilization itself, relying instead on the equivalent system in the Z5 body.

Image quality and performance are both excellent. Corner-to-corner sharpness is on point, especially for such a wide-angle lens, and it also comes with a removable hood that makes it easy to attach filters via the 82mm attachment thread. This is a real point of distinction in a wide-angle lens, which typically have a bulbous front element that makes filter use impractical. 

Read more: Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S review

Best portrait lens for the Z5

3. Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

The combination of a fast 85mm lens and a full-frame camera is perfect for portraits and defocused backgrounds. The focal length gives a natural viewing angle that makes head-and-shoulders and half-length portraits look flattering, without you needing to get too close to the subject. 

Many lens manufacturers give their 85mm lenses an f/1.4 aperture, in the interests of blurring the background heavily and making the subject really stand out. Logically you’d expect this f/1.8 lens to lose out in that respect, but our tests showed it was more than able to hold its own with most f/1.4 rivals. 

Read more: Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S review

Best superzoom lens for the Z5

4. Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR

With a range from 24mm wide-angle through to a 200mm telephoto, this is a zoom that can cover everything from landscapes to candid portraiture, and a lot in between. Such superzoom lenses are particularly popular for travel - so you just have the one lens to pack, and you don't need to change lenses whilst on the move. 

In our tests, we noted it gave very good image quality, making it a serious candidate to cover the roles of a standard zoom and a telephoto in your collection. It’s reasonably compact and light for a superzoom, too, and has 4.5-stop optical stabilizer to reduce the impact of camera shake. It’s a great choice for both stills and video.

Read more: Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR review

Best telephoto lens for the Z5

5. Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S

Most of the telephotos in Nikon’s lens line-up for full-frame Z lenses are both very good and expensive, so unless you’re seriously into sports or wildlife photography, you’re likely to hesitate before buying one. The 100-400mm doesn’t break the mold in either respect – so yes, it’s an investment, but it’s also an excellent lens.

Performance is up there with the best, with responsive autofocus and strong across-the-board sharpness. There are plenty of handling options, including function buttons, a de-clicked control ring and a multi-function display.

Read more: Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S review

Best macro lens for the Z5

6. Nikon Z MC 50mm f/2.8

The Z MC 50mm f/2.8 has a shorter focal length than most macro lenses, but it's also priced to appeal to Nikon Z5 owners and it could also double as a general-purpose 'standard' prime lens. 

As a macro lens, it has a lot to offer. It’s relatively short and light, so it’s a good physical match for the Z5. It offers full lifesize magnification, although you do have to get very close in – about two inches – to achieve this.

Read more: Nikon Z MC 50mm f/2.8 review

How to choose the best lens for the Nikon Z5

Which lenses fit the nikon z5.

The Z5 uses the Nikon Z mount and is compatible with all lenses designed for that mount. Nikon’s own Z-mount lenses all have Z at the start of their model names.

Some Z-mount lenses are designed for use with APS-C format cameras rather than full-frame cameras such as the Z5. Nikon lenses that fall into this category have DX as part of their model names. While they physically fit on the Z5, these lenses produce a cropped image, so they’re not ideal. None of the lenses in this guide is a DX-format lens.

If you are buying a third-party lens for the Z5, always check that it is designed for full-frame (or FX) Nikon Z cameras, rather than APS-C (or DX) Nikons.

The Z5 is also able to use F-mount lenses, which are made for use with Nikon’s DSLR cameras. For this, you need an adaptor such as the Nikon Mount Adapter FTZ II. The idea is that owners of older DLSR cameras can buy a Z camera and still use their old lenses.

How do I know which lens to get for my Z5?

The reason there are so many types of lens in the first place is that different scenes demand different lens designs, particularly when it comes to focal length and aperture rating.

Usually, you will decide what you want to photograph, then get a lens with the focal length that suits the situation. For example, to shoot landscapes you will need a wide-angle lens, while for sports and wildlife you will need a telephoto.

You can watch this video that explains focal length : it helps you work out what kind of lenses you need for different genres of photography. 

How we test lenses

The lens experts in our testing lab run a range of tests under controlled conditions, using the Imatest Master testing suite. Photos of test charts are taken across the range of apertures and zooms (where available), then analyzed for sharpness, distortion and chromatic aberrations.

We use Imatest SFR (spatial frequency response) charts and analysis software to plot lens resolution at the centre of the image frame, corners and mid-point distances, across the range of aperture settings and, with zoom lenses, at four different focal lengths.

There's more to it than just the technical side, though! Beyond the lab, our reviewers test lenses in real-world environments – and sometimes on professional shoots! We work with lenses both indoors and outdoors, in studio conditions and in natural light, with as many different subjects as is possible (or appropriate – there's no point testing a landscape lens' ability to shoot a portrait!). 

We take into account everything from handling and ease of use to speed of autofocus and the overall quality of the images produced. 

Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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Rod is an independent photography journalist and editor, and a long-standing Digital Camera World contributor, having previously worked as DCW's Group Reviews editor. Before that he has been technique editor on N-Photo, Head of Testing for the photography division and Camera Channel editor on TechRadar, as well as contributing to many other publications. He has been writing about photography technique, photo editing and digital cameras since they first appeared, and before that began his career writing about film photography. He has used and reviewed practically every interchangeable lens camera launched in the past 20 years, from entry-level DSLRs to medium format cameras, together with lenses, tripods, gimbals, light meters, camera bags and more. Rod has his own camera gear blog at fotovolo.com but also writes about photo-editing applications and techniques at lifeafterphotoshop.com

Related articles

Travelfornoobs

The Best Travel Lens for Nikon Z5

• 24.3MP Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera | Nikon’s most compact, lightweight full-frame interchangeable lens Z series camera
• Outstanding Image Quality | Sharp, lifelike details, vibrant colors and great low-light performance
• 4K/30p and 1080/60p Video Recording | Crisp, smooth videos with shallow depth of field; USB power delivery; HDMI output

What is the best travel lens for Nikon Z5?

So you’re planning on travelling and wondering which lens is best for travel photography with your Nikon Z5?

These days, most travelers use their smartphones to take pictures and post them on Facebook or Instagram. Don’t get me wrong, you can make impressive pictures with recent smartphones and they are very useful to document little details of your trip, but they are limited to one perspective.

So you’ll probably need a lense with a focal range that will allow you to get shots that are impossible to get with your cell phone (zoom or wide angle).

What makes a good travel lens?

Well, this is extremely subjective and depends on the type of photo you will make when you will be on the road. It also depends on how often you’re going to use it. Any lens can be good for travel, but having to commute by train, bus, plane, and moving around all the time makes it hard to carry a huge bag dedicated to your favourite lenses. There are always the risks to pay extra fees for them, to break them during the trip or to get your bag stolen.

Hence, most photographers like to travel light, with the lightest and most versatile setup possible. Getting the most out of one or two lenses is probably the way to go, with a range .

You may not know for sure what kind of shot you are about to make during your trip. If you plan on taking portraits, wildlife, street scenes but also landscapes, a zoom lens will be perfect since they offers the advantage of allowing close-ups and scenery shots, to some extent. For a more versatile use, this kind of lens will be the perfect fit.

Travels are full of surprises, and you may want to grab your Nikon Z5 and shoot as quickly as possible. For this situation, the best lens will be a bright wide angle lens since they are usually a good choice for street photography. They allow for close-ups and large scenes, and are generally pretty small and convenient to carry. If you are planning a city trip, this kind of lens should be attached in permanence to the body of your Nikon Z5.

Every photographer has its own favourite setup for snapping on the go. But if you are not sure on what travel lens to choose for your Nikon Z5, this small selection is suitable for most photographic opportunities while traveling.

Note: the product links in this article lead to Amazon.com

• NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/4 S (Zoom lens)

NIKKOR Z 14-30 mm f/4 S (Wide angle)

Nikkor z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 vr (all around travel lens).

• Useful accessories

Here’s the Top 3 travel lenses you should consider for your Nikon Z5:

Nikkor z 24-70 f/4 s.

The 24-70 mm f/4 S lens is the one that is usually provided with Nikon’s Z hybrids cameras. It can also be purchased alone. Stamped S, this lens is guaranteed quality by Nikon.

This lens is part of the fairly classic ranges, with a constant aperture of only f/4 but which allows a regular exposure, regardless of the zoom setting. This provides uniform illumination over the entire focal length range. 14 lenses in 11 groups are used for the optics, which is a technical issue. These lenses include an aspherical ED glass lens, an ED glass lens, three aspherical lenses, a fluorine-treated lens to remove fingerprints, moisture or dust, and finally lenses treated with nanocrystal to limit parasitic images, to prevent moisture from infiltrating, the zoom lens has many seals spread over critical areas. No water or dust can get in.

In short, it’s a simple but good lens if you want something versatile for your Nikon Z camera, which offers good performance, is compact and tropicalized.

• Versatile 24-70mm wide-angle to medium telephoto zoom for Z Mirrorless cameras
• New optical Formula that Achieves extreme sharpness across the entire frame with virtually no distortion
• Constant f/4 max aperture for consistent exposure at any focal length

☛ OTHER OPTION

• NIKKOR Z 24-70 f/2.8 S A twice as expensive and 300 g heavier alternative (805 g), more suitable for professionals travel photographers.

This ultra-wide-angle zoom for Nikon hybrids is just out. It completes the Nikkor Z range which already includes the 24-70 mm f/4 S, 50 mm f/1.8 S and 35 mm f/1.8 S.

Design, the 14-30 mm f/4 S zoom resembles the Z 24-70 mm f/4 S. They are equipped with the same multifunction ring, have about the same weight and of course are made for Nikon Z-mounts. 14 lenses are included in this wide angle lens. 4 of these lenses are made of ED glass, 4 are aspherical and nanocrystal treated and one lens, the front one is treated with fluoride to limit fingerprints and other dirt. All of these 14 lenses are grouped into 12 groups. As for the diaphragm, it is equipped with 7 blades.

The NIKKOR Z 14-30 mm f/4 S wide-angle lens is designed for those who take landscapes or street pictures. It is also ideal for interior and architectural photos. In short, for all those who need a wide shot.

• NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is perfect for adding depth and drama to stills and video as the ideal partner for compact Z series cameras
• Compact 14-30mm zoom range with a fixed f/4 aperture and outstanding image quality
• Retractable lens mechanism collapses the lens down to a mere 3.5 inches for safe and minimal packing

If you are looking for a versatile and capable all-purpose lens for a wide variety of situations, then this 24-200mm f/4-6.3 is the perfect travel lens and you won’t need to carry the duo 24-70 + 70-200 mm. It has a fairly wide focal range that ranges from wide angle to zoom and weighs only 70 grams more than the 24-70mm f/4. It’s tropicalized and can be used in difficult conditions in combination with your Nikon Z camera. The only downside is that the aperture is not constant so don’t expect photos to be as sharp and with a background blur as beautiful as a fixed focal length that will have a larger aperture.

Overall, it’s a lens that provides a good balance between image quality, weight and size and that will serve you whenever you want to travel light without losing in shooting possibilities.

• Lens features Nikon technologies including Aspherical Lens Elements, ED Glass Elements, ARNEO Coat and Fluorine Coat
• Lens features built-in Vibration Reduction image stabilization
• The customizable, clickless control ring offers quick and quiet access to most used camera settings

☛ ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

• For more travel lenses options, check this out: The best lenses for Nikon Z5

Useful accessories for travel photography

Travels can be hectic, so you want to make sure that your lenses are safe and sound all along the trip. A good quality carry bag is mandatory to protect them from the weather and bumps. A UV filter will also help protect your lens by adding a layer of glass that can be scratched or dripping with water with no harm to the lens. Finally, a polarizing filter is always useful to get a glare-free result in any shooting scenario you might face.

Here is a small selection of useful accessories to complement your lenses and your Nikon Z5:

If you want to go on a trip soon and are wondering what is the best travel lens for the Nikon Z5 , think in advance about the types of photos you plan to take mainly: landscapes, portraits, night shots… Think about the focal lengths you need for that.

You can also go on Google, type in the name of the country or the tourist sites you want to visit and you will see which focal lengths are mainly used. This will give you an idea of what equipment you will need to bring but remember that taking a single lens with you might be too limiting. The flexibility of an all-around lens is very useful but generally they offer a lower image quality than a fixed focal length.

Another thing, if you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking, take into account the total weight with the camera body and the lens. If the whole thing is too heavy or bulky and lacks discretion, you won’t want to bother with it and would rather just take your smartphone with you. You may also not want to risk damaging an extremely expensive lens.

And finally, perhaps the most decisive point about choosing the perfect travel lens for your Nikon Z5 will be if you need to get a portfolio of professional quality travel photos or videos (it may be your business or it may become your business who knows?).

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Nikon Z5 kit + Z 24-50mm Kit Mirrorless Camera (273-point Hybrid AF, 5-axis in-body Optical Image Stabilisation, 4K Movies, Duel Card Slots)

Description for Nikon Z5 kit + Z 24-50mm Kit Mirrorless Camera (273-point Hybrid AF, 5-axis in-body Optical Image Stabilisation, 4K Movies, Duel Card Slots)

• Includes the ultra-compact NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6. 3 standard zoom lens
• Intensely detailed 24MP full frame images and 4K UHD videos
• VR image stabilization built-in for sharp, stabilized photos and videos
• Superb 273 point autofocus system that can focus near the edges, detect and follow eyes (people, cats and dogs) and track subjects
• Dual SD Slots
• Creative features built-in, including time-lapse, multiple exposure, creative picture controls and focus shift photography
• Seamless connectivity between Z 5 and a compatible smartphone, tablet or PC for transferring images or controlling the camera remotely (with live image preview for photos and videos)
• USB powering while camera is in use

Specifications for Nikon Z5 kit + Z 24-50mm Kit Mirrorless Camera (273-point Hybrid AF, 5-axis in-body Optical Image Stabilisation, 4K Movies, Duel Card Slots)

• 13 April, 2021
• 7.11 cm x 13.46 cm x 10.16 cm

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