Nikon Z50II - Could It Work As A D500 For Some? | Matt Irwin

[@jorsetti]

I sold my D500 a couple years ago and ended up eventually adding the Z50 to my Z lineup. I used my Z50 much more than the D500 and last week sold my Z50 as I await the Z50II delivery soon. I really liked the image quality from the Z50 and I recall shooting a night concert the very day I received the Z50 (just hours before) and was really surprised how wonderful the images were. I immediately felll in love with that camera! ...color saturation was superb! I expect the Z50II will have the same great image quality but with more functionality. ALL GOOD! Nice video Matt!

[@lstrunk2]

It will be a replacement for me, I have traded in my D500. I'll be happy if the brute speed is close to my D500. I'm happy with the sensor and its quality. What I hope to gain is better AF algorithms. The biggest reason for me, though, is almost half the weight, recent issues with hand/wrist strength and dexterity, the D500 was just getting too heavy.

[@thomastuorto9929]

Depends on the lenses you use when it comes to the weight issue IMHO. New glass does weigh less but when you start talking f-2.8, the difference is minimal, but I imagine a carrying around all day might be noticed by ones body. With Nikon's current Holiday Sale going on they have HUGE PRICE DROPS on their F-Mount Wildlife tele lenses. Somewhere in the 1 to 1.5 lb. weight difference between the F-Mount & Z-Mount long tele lenses. Not sure it makes that much of a difference when pushing 7 to 8.5 lbs. Wouldn't know because currently only shoot the 200-500 lens at the longest FL. Also not sure about the F-mount focus motor set up but the new Z glass has Dual Linear Focus Motors which gives a very small increase (under a second & maybe even under a half second sometimes) in focus speed but is claimed to have a higher percentage accuracy or keeper rate as far as focus is concerned. Would like to see first hand the difference between the new 600/800 Pf lenses & the FL version F-mount primes in the same focal length.

[@lstrunk2]

@ True, but long heavy glass will be on a tripod or monopod. It is mainly the walk around stuff I’m trying to lighten. I do wish they had a do equivalent to the 24-120 f4. I think the 100-400 is what I’ll go to for long zoom.

[@jakubtota3843]

Is it for sure as good as D500+N200-500VR with paining birds using Nikon Z180-600 VR? That's not 100% replacement. Better CPU increases speed but it is still not exactly the same during real wildlife or aviation use.

[@lstrunk2]

@ I don’t think it will be equal. 10fps optical vf is likely smoother than 11fps in a evf. I’m hopeful it will be close. The readout speed of the sensor is between the z6iii and the zf.

[@jakubtota3843]

@@lstrunk2 Mechanical speed is a little more than 5fps... Next is EVF - it is small and still slow... Delay is huge! About read-out... Z50 Mk I also has faster read-out sensor speed than Zf or Z6 Mk II.... Slower is only Z5. That's not the point? Is anybody prefer to use Zf or Z50 because of read-out sensor speed. Z50 Mk II is better and improved - but it is not an action body AT ALL... especially to replace DSLR like D500.

[@estubee]

Seems like the Z50ii is somewhere between a D7500 and a D500, which is not a bad thing at this price point. I’m very interested to see how hard it is to track action with the mechanical shutter at high shutter speeds. The Z50 goes into a slide show mode and I expect the Z50ii will do the same. I’m also very interested to see what kind of subjects (small flying birds?) will have noticeable rolling shutter when using the electronic shutter. Looking forward to a field video if you have time to make one 😊.

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

That’s a key thing for sports/wildlife, be great if it is slideshow-free at 11fps (mechanical) 🤞

[@williambuford6136]

I doubt the Z50ii will go into a slide show mode no one had made that claim about the ZF. The Expeed 7 processer is faster than the 20.9mp sensor. its 100 faster than the Expeed 6 in the Z50. No clue about the Z50ii rolling shutting performance. The mechanical shutter at Highspeed on the D500 was usable, why would it be worse on the Z50ii?

[@estubee]

@@williambuford6136 On the Z50 (which I own) and Z6ii (which I used to own), when you put the camera into Continuous High Extended to get to the higher shutter speeds, the camera displays what you just shot instead of a live viewfinder display. It's usable, but can make it more difficult to follow an erratically-moving subject than a camera with an optical finder (like the D500) or fast-readout sensor mirrorless camera like the Z8/Z9.

[@williambuford6136]

@@estubee I own, the D500, Z6ii, Z6iii and Z8. Yes the Z6ii was worse than using the D500 for Erratic moving subjects. You still had to deal with the Blackout you get with the optical viewfinder on the D500 at 11 FPS. I'm sure there will be some wildlife photographer videos on what this camera can do.

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

My "lightweight" wildlife kit is now the Zf and 400 f/4.5 (demonstration coming soon), or Z6III. If I was just starting out, however, the Z50II would be a worthwhile consideration. No matter the camera, I always use a rain cover in inclement weather here on the "wet coast."

[@cesarm8811]

Hi Matt, I love your dedication to the Nikon brand, you become pretty good marketer for Nikon. I have been a Nikon APSC camera user for many years. Started with D7000, upgraded to the D7200 and decided to go mirrorless and bought the Z50 with both kit lenses in early 2020. I am a hobbyist photographer that enjoys photography while traveling on vacation, spending time with my grandkids event and holidays. The main reason for the buying the Z50 was I got tried of lugging the D7200 with all it’s lenses while traveling. The Z50 has been a great travel camera. My biggest issue with the Z50 is battery life (just awful). Also the battery indicator on the Z50 is not very accurate. One minute the indicator shows pretty full battery and the next hour or so, it shows you need to replace the battery. Not sure if that software issue. Also not having IBIS in the camera, when shooting video with a none VR lens (Viltrox) is an issue. Ok so I am 71 years old and not as steady as in my younger years (old age sucks). I understand you can carry a power bank, but when you’re traveling on vacation and exploring carry a power bank is not practical (so I carry lots of batteries). I wish Nikon used the Z5 body for the Z50II. In my opinion Nikon has limited themselves to Nikon D500 users only and maybe Z50 owner (waiting for more reviews comparing the Z50 and Z50II). Nikon competition in APSC camera market has much more appealing options.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

For sure cameras like R7 Xh2s are higher spec'ed. They are also higher priced. The Z50II is a very inexpensive camera, and compared to the Xh2s $2499. - R7 $1299 on sale from $1599 - OM-1 $1899 on sale from $2399. Based on these sale prices, the Z50II may end up around $799 - $750 - is simply not in the same league. Closest is actually the R10 which does not have IBIS and is $879 down from $979 Based on the above, I agree there is still space for a higher end Nikon APSC, and I think it will probably come at some stage. But today, we are talking about what exists today. And yes more battery life would always be better.

[@timjohnson8871]

Thanks for the great video on the Z50 ii. I am a bird photographer almost exclusively. I’ve been using the D500 since 2018. Recently I purchased a used 500mm pf. What a wonderful combination! I can never seem to get very close to my subjects so an APSC camera is useful. I will probably be upgrading to the D50 ii mostly because of the electronic viewfinder. Being able to see my exposure settings in the viewfinder is compelling. The improved AF is a bonus.

[@alejandrosikaffy8543]

Great review as always Mat , waiting for more reviews comparing AF with Z6Iii

[@ronaldreed7987]

Thanks!

[@duncanwallace7760]

I think your observation that the D5 & the D500 has the same megapixels is key. If they D50ii had similar megapixels as the Z9, but was APS-C, then there would be the reach which you could not get on the flagship. Once the D850 came out, then there was less advantage for the D500, except for cost and frame-rate. As a Z9 user, I'd love a smaller option, but without ibis or mp advantages, it's not for me, but for current D500 users it would be a big upgrade.

[@SingleTrack66]

Z8

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

I picked a Z50ii up last Thursday for my Friend. He really likes it, and it impressed me.

[@thomastuorto9929]

Matt talks sensor size, pixels, iso & dynamic range & the final image is what matters. True & it is what comes out of printer that matters for me. Of course, less work to get there is always nice & a cleaner photo does help with that. A+ for Nikon loyalty!

[@juliette-mansour]

Hi Matt, I no longer get paid for my work and have been doing well with the Z6III for events and birding. I was looking at the Z50 as a travel camera with which I could do both street and the occasional birding situation. The primary motivation would be weight. The only drawback is I prefer a tilt screen for street sooting. It's actually 50% of how I shoot. I'm not sure it makes sense not to bring along the Z6III but I'm tempted. Thank you for your wonderful videos!

[@davidroberts6766]

I think of the Z50II as more of a travel/street/family camera…..if you are getting into shooting wildlife the Z50II + 50-250mm kit, would be a great starter kit, in my mind. If I was a serious birder, I would think Z8 or Z9 or Z6III would be the options in the Z space. I used my ZF + 100-400mm Z photographing a world tour pro bicycle race in Montréal this past September. Great fun, producing amazing results. That said, in years past, my D850 did just fine too. As I age, a light camera like the Z50 II with, say, a 70-180 f2.8 Z, does intrigue me. I used the Zf this year because that D850, 200-500 combo just bout killed me!

[@rjpg]

Wuda strongly considered BUT I wish it had EN-EL15 battery.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

I understand, and even when I am in the field all day shooting for these videos or client work, I often have an external battery plugged in to any of my mirrorless cameras, including those with en-el15x. Not the Z9 so much. It is a beast :)

[@williambuford6136]

I agree with you here Nikon should have standardized int he EN-EL15 battery. There was a time APSC and all but the flagship Full frames used the same batteries. Nikon is obtaining economy of scale with the Expeed 7. But the saving grace on this camera is the price.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

All cams using the same battery would be awesome. It might effect body sizes a little :)

[@davidgifford8112]

Matt that’s a fine argument for the Z50ii with a remote battery and a bag to keep the weather out, the Xspeed 7 bringing lots of good things to the party. Workarounds however are never quite the same. One feature you avoided was the pro body of the D500 also features a pro control layout, that has value when the workaround is to accept a more menu driven control workflow. The answer of course is to buy a Z8 and run it in DX mode, the only penalty being cost and weight. While on my last eclipse expedition fellow chasers were using Z8s and D850s in crop mode, others were using Fuji, Sony and Canon where before it was often D300s or D500. Fingers crossed Nikon brings out a pro body version, perhaps with an upgraded sensor to go with the Xspeed 7, perhaps called the Z80?

[@rolandrick]

The D500 is probably the most epic camera Nikon ever made. As I see it, the D500 is still the best birding camera on the planet. Specifically if it comes to birds in flight. The only trade off is the none BSI sensor. It is so sad, Nikon discontinued it. I totally regret it I sold mine and I would buy a new body any time. Don’t need video.

[@joebartlett3958]

I have a D500 and a D850. I find the focusing on the D500 to be snappier than the 850. As I have gotten older it became a problem carrying around either Nikon with a 600mm lens. I have been using an OM-1 a lot lately. With a crop factor of 2 and a 400mm lens with a 1.4 teleconverter I get 1120mm at half the weight of either Nikon pair. When Nikon comes up with the true replacement for the D500 I will buy it. I want to use CF Express cards, want the weather sealing and a little larger body to go with long lenses. In the mean time I will be using the OM-1 and D500.

[@williambuford6136]

The CF express and the CF express cards are a big part of the appeal of the Mirrorless Z. I have a Z6iii and a Z8. The Z8 is about the same size and weight as my D500. But I can get better hand held shots with the Z lens. The reduction in weight over some of the fmount lens has helped me get those bird shots where the bird slips behind me and I need to shoot of my should. I have not really been using my Tripod with my Z camera and z100-400mm or z180-600mm lens. The D500 and the 200-500 was not a hand hold lens. I have done it but not long. I feel I get more keepers with the Z autofocus over the D500\D850. I still kept my D500.

[@thomaschamberlin2485]

I would be interested to see a comparison of high ISO noise performance between the D500 and Z50ii. Does the EXPEED 7 make a large difference? The Z50ii with a 400mm f4.5 lens or the 500 PF lenses would be a very lightweight combination for long hikes. Or the 180-600mm lens if you are on a budget. Getting 3D tracking, bird detection, and having a compact travel camera to boot seems like a no-brainer for D500 users to upgrade.

[@alsimoncelli7313]

My Z8 cropped takes the place of my adored D500. Sold all my F glass and replaced with all new Z glass.

[@Gr1ff1D0]

I traded in my D500 after I bought the Z9. It wasn’t being used anymore 😊 For the Z system the entry level birding lens is the glorious 180-600. That’s much more useful than the 200-500 on the D500. There are several features which may be useful to the ex D500 user on the Z50II. It is only a partial replacement that helps users transition to the Z system but it isn’t really a crop sensor version of the Z6iii or Z8 or the Z9. The D500 was much much closer to the D5 than this body. There will lots of F-mount users who will feel nothing else will justify calling something aD500 replacement. I can see it as a nice entry option but it isn’t really the long awaited proper replacement. If and when that proper replacement arrives, then I will automatically buy one. Until then I will see Z500II as a fairly good second best.

[@Gr1ff1D0]

Z50II not Z500 😮 oops

[@pascalhibon7928]

I'm not a wildlife photographer; my main photography is landscape. I still own a D850, a Z6II and a Z50. Although I still love the D850 it gets used a lot less these days. I think it is due to the size differences. The Z6II is taking over my D850 for landscapes. I bought the Z50 as a take anywhere / travel camera. The Z50 gets used for those purposes but I fell in love with this camera. It is a joy to use and again the small size is the main reason. Add to that the amazing image quality and we have a winner. I print my images at home and I can't see a difference between a D850 image and a Z50 image while printed up to A3+ size. So I agree, the pixel count is not anything to be afraid of.

[@redauwg911]

how do the buffers compare

[@KelpiesRock]

I’ll stick with my D500 because it’s special.😃

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Highly regarded and respected camera :)

[@antonoat]

I was going to ask this very question, good one Matt! Cheers from the UK.

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

Also think that a fast ‘pro’ dx zoom is kinda conspicuous by its continued absence (eg the equivalent to the 16-80VR or a 17-55VR) given dx primes aren’t stabilised…

[@williambuford6136]

That was one of the drawbacks of DX in Fmount, yes those to lens existed, but only due to the fact Nikon DLSRs started as APSC. They never fleshed out more DX Pro Zooms then.

[@speedbumpmedia9584]

As a former D500 owner I wouldn’t say this is a direct replacement but it does deliver more as far as AF. The D500 was a price conscious crop sensor pro grade camera. It was stellar but can’t compete with the new AF systems, which is where the Z50II excels above it. I picked one up as part of my kit for the crop aspect but I would not subject it to the weather like my Z9. I can live without the IBIS, unlike a lot of folks having hissies over its absence, but my biggest dislike is no automatic sensor cleaning in this body. The other thing I think Nikon missed the mark on was a second card slot such as the Zf option. Otherwise I really like the small form factor and can’t wait to run the AF through some tough situations in the next few weeks.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Great comment, we look forward to hearing how you go :)

[@SingleTrack66]

@@speedbumpmedia9584 it’s perfect marketing. Make it great but leave out a few things. Price it where everyone can afford it. Sell truck loads. Bring out the Z70 with the missing features. Sell lorry loads.

[@TyTy-yf9pu]

I'm currently using a d7100, I will probably get a z50ii in a couple of years when I can find a decent used one Never went for a d500 because of the size I think the z50ii is going to be a great camera

[@JessDemant]

A fantastic APS-C camera that is worth considering if you want to buy a new camera with good specifications at a reasonable price 👍

[@aaronday8665]

I don’t think the Z50ii is a direct replacement for the D500, it’s too small for the bigger zoom lenses, you’d need a weather sealed body 33mp, ibis then we’re talking

[@R.Franke]

Not for me. I love my D500. Nevertheless I have constantly been looking at full frame options and the glass made for them. The D850 was convincing. Fortunately I could withstand ... and saved some money ... until the Z8 appeared. My D500 still serving as solid backup.

[@roybixby6135]

The D500 is more about value - A pro build at a great price than being about a APSC. Together with the 200-500 lens the value for sporters and birders is unbeatable. The full frame gap is smaller now so APSX is less attractive .. 🦘

[@OvertakeGT]

I went to the camera store to try holding and getting a feel of it, it didn’t feel good in the hands compared to the D500, the fn1 and fn2 are positioned too far down to reach them. I prefer the f1 button to be further up for my index finger to use it instead of my ring finger. It takes a couple seconds to get the flippy screen out compared to the z6 III. I was very disappointed, I don’t want to go FF anytime soon. Does anyone like the grip and handholding with a heavy lens?

[@carlmcneill1139]

When Nikon mirrorless cameras first came out there were two major problems with them. One was the focus tracking and the second was screen blackout in burst mode because of limitation of the readout speed of the sensor. The Ecpeed 7 processor stoked l solved one of these issues and part of the other. Stacked sensors solved the second issue. How can you track a bird shooting at 20 fps with screen blackout? I bought the z6 II not long after it came out after an accident at the beach with my d750. I love my z6 II but there's things I hate about it. Then I bought a z8 to go along with it. The z8 answers everything the z6 II doesn't but with more resolution. That also means larger files. I think the d500 replacement will have at least a partial stacked sensor like the z6 III if not a complete stacked sensor. It will have 2 card slots. I think it will have a larger body. Either the z6 III body or a z8 body. It will have IBIS. It will shoot up to 20 or 30 fps in raw with no screen blackout. It will sell for close to $2000. Maybe $1800. I might be interested in it even though I don't need it. Canon is working on their R7 II already. Where is the d500 replacement nikon? The R7 II is rumored to have a stacked sensor. We'll just have to wait and see.

[@PaulLauter]

I use the D500 with the 200-500. I would be interested to know how well the 200-500 works on the z50 ii. It sounds like the only things lacking is the professional weather sealing, pro button layout, dual memory card slots, and the EN-EL15 batteries. If it had those features I would buy it without any further thought, especially being able to re-use my existing batteries (alongside existing chargers). But with those features missing it's causing me a few doubts.

[@StrangeTu]

Another thing about the d850 in crop mode vs d500 I just noticed as I only tried the dx mode in my d850 recently, was that you get a smaller area in the viewfinder which I don't think you can change and makes it a bit annoying and hard to see your subject. Been thinking about getting a used d500 for birding etc as a second camera, but now this new camera looks very tempting with the new AF and so on.

[@frankwong9486]

There is a setting like viewfinder mask display , turn that off then it will not greyed the cropped away area in the VF iirc

[@StrangeTu]

@@frankwong9486 Thanks, that should help a little bit.

[@brianeibisch6025]

I think camera companies give us a really good selection of capability in their various models. I think some commentators are being a bit crazy expecting all the best tech and software bells and whistles in an (approx) $1,000 USD camera. For instance, everybody raves on about the wonderful picture quality in the D500, but bag it in the Z50 II. c’mon, it is the same sensor!! Just to allay any fears, I have a D7500 as my workhorse camera, it has the same sensor, and the image quality is really good. The D7500 became the best featured UNLOVED camera in the world because it only has one card slot. Now, I have never had a card fail but acknowledge that they can, so on a trip, I swap out cards each day but there is a propensity to create a dilemma where there isn’t one. I think we need to remember how “clunky” things were back in the old film daze, but now how lucky we are in the later days of F mount and the future era of Z mount … already here. Cheers

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Great comment

[@TheJoejoez]

We don't expect it for under 1,000. We aren't stupid. We want them to bring out a better camera, at whatever price point is needed. Nikon has the worst APS-C mirrorless offerings of Fuji/Sony/Canon for bodies. Nikon wants you to upgrade to Z8 or Z9.

[@williambuford6136]

@@TheJoejoez Or the Z6iii with all that wildlife oriented glass.

[@thefourthquarter7429]

​@@TheJoejoezYes, gladly pay much more for such a camera.

[@dct124]

Only complaint is still the single card slot. I've still had 0 failures from Compact Flashcards or SD cards. You can also wirelessly backup the files as you're shooting.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Yes an implementation like the ZF would have been great.

[@JRodPhotoArt]

Well done Matt. I wonder what is the fasted FPS they can get out of a non stacked sensor?

[@robertissimo3888]

Ich bin vor einem halben Jahr auf Spiegellos umgestiegen und geniesse dessen Vorteile, aber ich kann mich von meiner alten D500 nicht trennen. Insbesondere, wenn ich mit dem Fahrrad unterwegs bin, ist es schön, die kleine kompakte dabei zu haben, die für 90% meiner Aufnahmen immer noch gut genug ist. Die Z8 brauche ich für die restlichen 10%. Danke für deinen Beitrag, fand ich sehr gut und nützlich! Grüsse aus Heidelberg

[@dct124]

I've been saying it since the Z50 dropped. The Z50 is a small D3/D3s. If you can't be successful with this camera, something is wrong with your technique. That goes for any of the newer small APS-C cameras. Y'all are getting pro quality features and output for a fraction of the cost. The only issue these new APS-C cameras have is the lack of wide and ultra wide lenses. But you can just adapt any lens to the Z series mount.

[@willidevegt8831]

Good information about pixel numbers and size. Lower pixel count is better but how do you explain DXOmark marking the D7200 with 24 Mpix higher than the D500 with 21 Mpix I all sport portrait and landscape

[@michaelakubas]

I love Z50 II, I had ZFC, and this is like Z8 but mini version 🙂

[@jakubtota3843]

The question is: do you have Z8, too?

[@ronboe6325]

Now I understand a bit why folks want to think it's a D500 replacement. Pixel size and APC sensor. For me, the Z6II was my D500 replacement, the Z8 for sure as they met my use case the D500 filled. Very robust body, fast frames per second (I really only need about 10fps). APC or full frame was NOT part of my metrics. I picked up the Z50 for a small light knock about camera figuring pixel sensor size was dang near the same as the Z7 in crop mode so..... :shrug: same same.

[@steveboys5369]

Hi Matt, it'd be interesting to see how a budget F user might adopt the z50ii say with a F mount 200-500 5.6 VR

[@Atrangi_chhap]

Hi Matt, can you please suggest me if i have should wait for a better Z aps c camera or go with z50ii. I'm also fasinated with the ZF for its looks, image quality, ibis etc. Yesterday i sold my D3400 and D7500 and i primarily do birding, safaris, landscape, cityscape/street in that priority order. My wishlist for a pro Z aps body would be a z50ii plus: 1. stacked sensor if not the atleast a 33mp sensor 2. ibis 3. additional card slot atleast a micro sd like the ZF 4. enel 15c battery. 5. Price $1500

[@darrenshawphotography]

Thanks for making this video mate. I bought the d500 when it first come out and I love it. I use it action photography. I have been seeing rumours about a z90 to replace the d500 i don't know your thoughts on that. I also have a z6ii with a z24-120mm which is taking me a while to get used too coming from a dslr. Keep up the great work mate.

[@stevendriver1399]

For anyone still using the D500, I’m pretty sure the Z50ii is not a replacement. If the Z50ii is a replacement for someone, then they probably aren’t using the full potential of their D500. The D500 was a $2000 camera in 2016. One should expect a similar price point when matching up all of the features. There are a lot of “semi-pro” photographers using the D500. They have regular jobs, but get paid for their photography, as well. It’s got great performance, pro features, and works with lots of good and inexpensive glass. UHS-II cards are expensive, compared with CFExpress B, and while one could use UHS-I, you’re not going to rip off 10fps RAW+ JPEG for very long. I sometimes use a grip with my D500. Nice to be able have it when I want it, leave it home when I don’t. I have yet to see a real world comparison of real action AF tracking of any Nikon’s mirrorless camera with the D500. Does it actually track AF/AE at 10fps and not fill the buffer too fast? For D500 shooters, we KNOW we will get the shot with our camera (or a Z8/9); and we SHOULD be able to get the shot w/ a Z5/6/7/50. That level of certainty is fine for hobbyists, not if someone is paying you for your work. The Z6iii is probably the closest thing now, but it’s $2500.

[@sbeckmesser]

If you test for rolling shutter effects I hope you do it with all shutter modes (mechanical, electronic and electronic first curtain, if available). As for subject matter I can think of nothing so severe as dance club laser-beam effects shining (and moving) through hazy artificial fog. I've run into problems with these with every camera I've tried, even using mechanical shutter. I think the only way around this is the global shutter of Sony's A9-III, a device far above my budget.

[@adrianvanleeuwen]

All they need to do is design an extra bottom grip with extra battery power and battery power is not an issue. Or just carry a couple of extra batteries. Not that expensive. If you are stationary on a tripod, just add an external battery pack by USB-C. Third party grips could also be designed for more battery storage.

[@garnieross9958]

I have a collection of 100+ vintage Nikkor lenses. Manual focus. Beautiful glass. My D750 appreciates them. The Z50 is a consideration because of the Expeed 7 but it doesn't have what I need. I need weather sealing as I wander the woods in all condition. Z50 is way too small. Feels like a toy compared to my D300 and D500. I'll be sticking with what I have or maybe a Z6 III.

[@softraid]

Im shot bevor buying. But a question. I have a Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm 1:4.5-5.6E ED VR - what about the 50-250 in the set? Almost the same?

[@wb9tpg1]

I shoot that lens on my original Z50 with the FTZii adapter. That lens shoots fantastic pictures and I highly recommend it. I do have the 50-250 kit lens too and use both but if I need reach I go for the AF-P lens

[@softraid]

@@wb9tpg1 Thanks. So i will get the Z50ii with a FTZ. Thanks man

[@lstrunk2]

@@softraid I have (had) both. I’ve had both for a couple years. I looked through Lightroom and had a hard time figuring out which was which. I thought of keeping the af-p, but the weight wasn’t worth the small gain in reach. The af-p does work great on the ftz adapter.

[@softraid]

@@lstrunk2 Thanks !

[@spookbok]

Hey Matt, great channel. I have D500, D7200 and Z50. No experience on the Z50 II. Compared to an optical viewfinder I find the Z EVF is really laggy and its poor resolution makes it hard to confirm accurate AF. I shoot very high speed action (BMX racing) so fast subject acquisition is critical. Z50 II EVF resolution is unchanged so for me that would be a deal breaker. With big lenses attached the D500 also handles better than the Z50. For general use the Z50 is great (except for those f#$@W#% touch buttons) but the D500 is still what I reach for when the action starts. I think the only realistic replacement for my use case is the Z8/9 or maaaaybe the Z6iii. But that means upgrading to FX glass.

[@williambuford6136]

Matt great video. Can you elaborate on your USB C power bank setup you would use with a camera like the Z50ii? Do you have it in your pocket with a long cable going to the camera while you shoot?

[@DA-yd2ny]

I don’t think many are able to see the difference between a photo shot with a D500, D850 or with one of the latest Nikon mirrorless cameras, especially considering that 99% of viewers don’t look at an image for more than 5-10 seconds in average.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😮!

[@eric.ko.]

I get it, z mount can go on both full frame and Apsc. But it would be fantastic for Nikon to flesh out their Apsc lens line up. There are already so much more mature Apsc line ups from other brands.

[@Jawad.1]

What audio track did you use as outro? Title or author's name, please?

[@55whiplash]

Would have been interested if it had ibis. Hand held video with Nikon's great ibis would have been perfect. Megapixels are one thing, a new sensor is more than megapixels. But the price is very good, the R7 isn't that much more. Some people still argue Nikon hasn't caught Canon or Sony in AF, but I don't know from experience, my D500 is way better than my Z6, 1st gen.

[@mikebartow9415]

Thanks Matt. Information is good as always. I have a question for you regarding Nikon. I came across a vlog about Nikon has filed and obtained two patents this past summer, regarding a combined rolling sensor and a global sensor with regional detection. This sounds like it could be the basis for the Nikon Z9 ii or maybe another designation model. Have you heard anything about this?

[@lsaideOK]

As a d500 user and someone who has shot with the previous original z50, I do not agree. And that is simply because of the body size. The z50 is not going to balance anywhere near as well with long lenses as my d500 does. For me. The best replacement at this point is the z8 which is very similar in body size and handling as the d500. But at four times the cost of what I got my d500 for used... But Nikon may never put out an actual DX version of the z8 so the z50 Mark II may be the closest approximation to the d500 there will be

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Yep, pretty much what I said :)

[@MTBD80]

I run my Z70-200/2.8 + 2.0x TC on my 450g Zfc all the time, I don't need no heavy body to balance!

[@lsaideOK]

​@@MattIrwinPhotographyI really heard a lot more about pixels, which I didn't understand at all since the d500 and the z50 are using pretty much the same sensor with the same resolution. So, in terms of image quality, they're the same. But you only mentioned handling at the very end talking about a very long old lens. I think body size and handling is an ever-present issue affecting a lot of lenses, especially if you're using the adapter. Along with the lack of weather sealing really takes it out of consideration. Finally, I have a few third-party F mount lenses made within the past 15 years that aren't compatible with the z mount. If I feel like spending the money, it's the z8 for me 😊

[@lsaideOK]

​@@MTBD80That's why I specifically said, 'for me'

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

No worries if the pixel conversation was not for you. As for handling. When I first started photography, I had no money to afford the best. I only had enough for the bare minimum. And what being in that situation taught me was, 'make the best of it'. Is the Z50II as good for handling? No. But could I possibly start to experiment in birding photography, or in mirrorless birding photography at a very affordable price? Yes. Might it be a little harder, yes. But can I get started affordably - yes. It is an option. It is not perfect. But it may awaken something in someone because they could afford the opportunity.

[@martinhild]

I still don't get it. Yes, it is an excellent entry level camera. Really excellent and it might surpass a D500 (which is as you mentioned from 2016) in one way or another. Yes it might be enough for some. BUT why not compare to say a Fuji XH2-s or a Canon r7 or an OM-1. All of a sudden a brilliant entry level camera is just that: "entry level". Having said that: I'd rather replace my D500 with an OM-1 than with a Z50 II.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

All of those cameras are more expensive. Z50II on launch $906 USD - Xh2s $2499. - R7 $1299 on sale from $1599 - OM-1 $1899 on sale from $2399. Based on these sale prices, the Z50II may end up around $799 - $750 - simply not in the same league Adding in the R10 part with edit Closest is actually the R10 which does not have IBIS and is $879 down from $979

[@Andrew-vv8du]

Please make a video comparing the Z5 and the Z50ii. Right now it seems you could probably buy a secondhand Z5 for a similar price as the Z50ii. Is the bump in image quality and low light worth it for the Z5? Or is the new processor and AF in the Z50ii worth it? I personally like to shoot with prime lenses, and would most likely not buy Z lenses to save money. So I’m doubting I will be using VR lenses. Does this sounds like a slam dunk reason to just go with the Z5?

[@speedbumpmedia9584]

@@Andrew-vv8du The Z5 is a great basic full frame variant but its AF was no where near the Expeed 7 systems. I had one but traded it and my D500 in when I picked up the Z9. It’s amazing how much different it is and the Zf’s eye detect is even better in my opinion. In a couple of weeks I’m going to be running the Zf and the Z50II side by side in one of the most challenging AF scenarios I know. So l will see first hand how it does. With the lenses being all by wire now I expect it to still perform very well.

[@Andrew-vv8du]

@ Wow, thanks for the info. Would love to see the comparison video.

[@Weyco23]

I shoot with a Z9, D850, and D500. Since buying the Z9 two years ago, the D500 rarely gets used. My D500 replacement is the Z9, or D850 in DX mode. The Z50II is just too small, and I have zero interest in ever using sd cards.

[@tedr5182]

The D7200 probably was the last flagship 24mp APS-C Nikon camera. It’s heartbreaking that Nikon called it a flagship, because that killed the D300 update. But it appease the bird and wildlife shooters by releasing the D500. Nikon, please release a flagship APS-C with at least a pixel pitch of the D7200.

[@martyntorode7126]

For birding that is very tempting.

[@jakubtota3843]

For sitting birds it works. But it is still not working brilliant with flying or incoming objects. That's not a replacement of even D700 if we are talking about AF-C. That's slow even with N400/4,5. That's not as bad as Z50/Zfc/Z5 but it is not for every kind of wildlife photography..... People... !

[@thinkingape7655]

With the Canon R7mII releasing soon, I can only hope Nikon launches a D500 Z body successor. Pro-level crop bodies have been a huge hole in the market. The Sony a6700 is a solid body but, missed the mark entirely for birding and wildlife. We also desperately need crop lenses that are fast, and don’t collapse under defraction like the Fujifilm 150-600mm. Here’s to hoping 🍻

[@johnyoung1606]

I agree that the Z50II is basically a D500 !!!!!! BUT The Snob n Pixel Peepers will disagree :( :( I Luv My Z50 n have a Z50II on order now !!!! Thanks for everything You do to educate the masses :) :) :)

[@Chris-rb5hx]

I’m actually considering to buy a used D500 as I have the favourable Sigma 18-35 f1.8. 85mm 1.8, is d500 good for portrait?

[@davidellis8141]

I wish I could afford a z8 for mega pixel size. I have z6ii so if you use crop sensor it drops to about 12 mega pixel and if you then enlarged in processing it drops further. The alternative is larger lens.

[@williambuford6136]

Hey do not try a Z6iii it is everything the Z6ii should have been. I have not sold off my Z6ii yet. I have taken great photos with it. You will need a faster computer if you have lots of 45MP raw files to edit. IT is a big difference especially if you us the AI noise reduction. Even with CF Express B cards it still takes a while to transfer all day of shooting wildlife over to your computer. I had a shoot where it rolled over to my SD card and it was agony to load 800 photos from that card into light room.

[@999.9finegold]

I switched from Canon with 18 MP to Fuji with 40 MP and I have much less noise now So I don't think a low megapixel is a rule of thumb for less noise in images

[@lightstylesstudio7385]

Great vid, I think you forgot to plug your audio cable in lol

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

:) or did I ....

[@richardrankin7488]

It appears to be a no brainer. The Z50ii it is.

[@martinXY]

Magic mic.

[@ReValveiT_01]

Does the Z50 II support power over USB?

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Yes

[@wb9tpg1]

If Nikon thought the Z50ii was a replacement for the D500 they would be marketing it as such (ie: their flagship mirrorless crop sensor camera) and Nikon is not doing that. So I'm content to save my money and shoot with my original Z50 which I purchased for an Alaska trip. I wanted something easy to carry and lower cost in case I rolled the kayak and it took a bath. And the old Z50 does take great pictures even though the focus system needs improvement. Combine that camera with the FTZii and a Nikon AF-P 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR (a fantastic lens) and you get 450mm of reach and fantastic shots. But I still want more megapixels for Astro-photography where I still crop the images more and don't want to lost detail. If Nikon is going to stop at 21mp on their crop sensor cameras then they are conceding defeat to the other manufacturers who have gone to 33mp and beyond. But you are correct that the cost of the Z8 rules out that option for many including me. So I'm going to continue to save up and wait for now. Eventually I'll get tired of waiting and jump ship so I hope Nikon announces something soon like the rumored Z90.

[@softraid]

I also got the 70-300. You think ist OK? Some diskussions are not so clear, they think the 50-250 are still the same.

[@wb9tpg1]

@@softraid Nikon had a couple of 70-300 lenses. The Nikon AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR is the better one. Not sure which you're talking about

[@hchavez]

Wish they would have used the en-el15 battery

[@tanmay110]

The maximum mechanical shutter speed is different. 😊😊😊😊

[@Gael32]

The software side of the Z50II has all the advantages over the D500 but the hardware side is incredibly lacking. For the life of me, I cannot understand why Nikon did not upgrade this camera to the standard, larger battery that all their full frame cameras are using. I haven't used the Z50 before, but the Z30 takes the exact same battery, and holy crap does it suck. Not only that, the Z30 has the advantage of not needing to power an EVF so it should technically have even MORE power savings vs. the Z50, Zfc, or Z50II. They upgraded the single card slot to UHS-II, thank God! I have no idea what they were thinking with the original Z50 only taking UHS-I cards. However, even with a good UHS-II card, the buffer clear time is still far worse than the D500's buffer clear time. I get that they were trying to keep the weight down, but I would have loved to see a CF Express card slot in there. It's not just great for fast writing, but ripping the files off at lightspeed when you get home is a lot nicer than waiting a few minutes, depending on the number and size of pictures taken. In short, no, I do not believe the Z50II is a suitable replacement for the average D500 shooter. I get that age and hurting wrists are more likely to drive us to use something lighter, but at that point I suspect quite a few people are looking at Micro-Four-Thirds cameras to keep the weight down, since Nikon hasn't really released a DX zoom lens that competes with their full frame options on weight. Personally, when my wrists start to hurt, and I just don't feel like lugging around the D500 + 200-500mm, my option was to buy a used Nikon 1 V3 and Nikkor 70-300mm f4.5 - 5.6 lens that was actually built for that system. My wish lists that will finally get me away from the D500: IBIS, Larger battery, Great Zoom lenses that are actually built for the DX sensor and are actually native to the Z mount. UHS-II has to stay or they need to get a CF Express card slot in there, but increase the internal buffer either way.

[@Paul-D-Hoff]

I guess extra batteries are very heavy and cannot be recharged. Please bring back film with 35 shots per roll. :)

[@bielseproducoes]

One annoying point that I barely saw people talking about is the fact of many flashes does not work properly at Z system and it's a crucial point for most of events photographers! Shame on you Nikon! :(

[@Commonyou7149]

Nikon After this much years couldn't match d500 with its latest APSC camera?? If its not Why??

[@GILLES9913]

No not at all no CF Express card no SQD I got a D 500 bought a Z8 already had a Z50 before I got the Z8

[@WatchmanNiel]

The Z50ii is simply not hardcore enough to pass as a true Z D500 - a pro level camera rather than a budget all purpose camera. The ideal mirrorless APS-C BIF camera should at least have IBIS (so that a 500mm f/5.6 f-mount lens could be used in low light, often an obstacle in wildlife photography), weather-sealing (not just for rain, but also for dust), a better battery for long outings and dual card slots (overflow when in the field, or backup when doing critical work). Autofocus improvements, enticing as it may be, is not going to persuade many D500 owners that are already having a solid keeper rate from upgrading. My D500 is usually paired with a 500mm f/5.6E PF and 1.4 TC for maximum reach, my Z8 with the 180-600mm for versatility, and my ZF with a Tamron 35-150 or other unique lens pairing for close encounters. I really appreciate your observations on pixel pitch, it really is a close call between a D850 and a D500, which I think only has around a 5-7% advantage in terms of pixel density when cropping.

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

I think the ibis reasoning is it a bit wobbly 😉 … following that logic then the fx Zs shouldn’t have it either because (aside from Pentax) dslrs didn’t have it 🤣

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

? wobbly LOL see what you did there. :) Not really, it is all about price. You can choose to work with it or not. The Z50II is a very inexpensive camera, and compared to the Xh2s $2499. - R7 $1299 on sale from $1599 - OM-1 $1899 on sale from $2399. Based on these sale prices, the Z50II may end up around $799 - $750 - is simply not in the same league. Closest is actually the R10 which does not have IBIS and is $879 down from $979

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

@ true, and I agree for the given price, when you consider its spec (especially 10bit video ), it could be considered a bit of a bargain. I realise ibis would cost more, but I think a Z50 with ibis would still undercut a R7, XT5/XH2s, A6700, OM1 by a decent amount. I can’t see Nikon developing a stacked dx sensor (XH2s) or one with higher MP but who knows… They’ll probably end up putting it (ibis) in a Zfc ii but limit the number of customisable buttons whilst doing it 🤣

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

IBIS would be great, and I think something APSC with IBIS will come at some point :)

[@user-zp6jc9zu4w]

Z50II cannot be called as replacement for the D500. B'cos it lacks in following areas: 1. No dual card slots (CFExpress & SD). 2. Small toy like body. 3. Battery pack cannot be mounted. 4) No IBIS. 5) No weather sealing. 6) Smaller batter EnEl 24a, unlike EnEl 15c. 7) Using same 8 year old Sensor which was used in D500.

[@alfredmullner5495]

A Z50 II instead of a D500?? No way! The D500 was/is a tool - the Z50 II is a toy... Grab both, feel the difference... it's even bigger with the mounted battery-grip... Never liked the sensor (highlight clipping), so i want a new(er) sensor... Loved my D500, but time moves on... Would love a Z8 body with an APS-C/DX-sensor... Other mothers also habe beautiful daughters - so i went Fujifilm X-H2s + Fringer FTX 1... 😘

[@v8soarer1991]

I think it's a d7xxx replacement. Not a d500. Z6xx is a D780 replacement. Z7xx is a d850 replacement. And Sony A1 mk 2 is a firmware update.

[@jw48335]

No vertical grip = not unusable for me.

[@Vahagraphy]

Camera Sutra Amir , care to share your thoughts on this? LOL

[@rhodriwilliams2891]

Controls - eg. no AF-on button, secondary joystick (in terms of things you missed) … you can customise the AE button (on Z50ii) but then you are having to customise others to restore that functionality…

[@TheJoejoez]

Not sure about budget shooters. Nikon 70-180 2.8 budget, not stabilized. Tamron 70-300 budget. Not stabilized. Those are the two main accessible Z mount telephotos besides the 55-250 DX but you lose reach or speed and can't use them if you are getting an aps-c cam as a second cam to FF. I still think they missed the mark with no IBIS especially on a 550g APS-C mirrorless. The Full Frame Sony A7Cii and R weighs less and has IBIS.

[@EdNg-j6h]

I'm disappointed that you didn't actually use the z50 II to demonstrate the AF. There are too many just talk yt money making videos.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Happy for you to start a channel, and put all this together

[@naturealbums]

I have a Canon R7 32.5MP apsc. Has IBIS and good AF. It's what I would be expecting Nikon to equal. if you crop it to 20MP a 300mm F2.8LIS lens is like 600mm. same pixel pitch as a 20MP M4/3. I also have the canon speed booster which makes full use of the full frame image so the F2.8 lens is like a F2. I will be moving to Nikon for the better birding lenses and a Z8 because of the stacked sensor. The Canon R7 II is rumoured to be a stacked sensor which would be my dream camera. Nikon Z90 would be the better dream camera with a 26mp stacked apsc and a pro body with IBIS and 4k120 video and Nikons superb series of pf lenses 600mm or the 800mm haven't decided yet. Perhaps the 180-600mm + the 800mm pf.

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Yep R7 is a great birding camera. It is currently roughly $400 more than Z50II and is normally $600, so they are not quite in the same category, and if the Z50II was $400-$600 USD more, it may have a few more bells and whistles I suspect :)

[@Jawad.1]

You forgot to attach cable to your microphone lol

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Not the mic that was capturing the sound :)

[@SingleTrack66]

I can’t understand all the complaining that it doesn’t have ibis . Neither did the d500 . Duh

[@timhunter157]

is that a wireless podmic hiding in plain sight??? 😂🤔

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Can you work out what I am doing here ???? 😀🛜🚴🏼‍♂️

[@helgividar]

This could be a D7500 replacement.

[@frankelbefotografie]

In a few month we will see real world experiences about the Z50 II. I’m sure the subject detection will work very well. But subject tracking will not be on par with the Z6 III for example. And that‘s because of the slow sensor readout. Subject tracking without a fast sensor readout isn‘t working that good. You can see it in the Sony A7IV, Canon R7, Panasonic S5 II, Fuji X-H2 and others. They all have the processor of other cameras with faster sensor, and they all are not that good at subject tracking, compared to the camera models with same processor but faster sensor. So the Z50 II can not be a D500 replacement in my opinion. Most of us bought the camera because of the great autofocus performance.

[@arunashamal]

No 2 card slots, so the short answer is no! not a replacement for d500

[@martintretjak1396]

Completely different categories. The 500 is a professional camera and the z50 is a beginner. Where is the vertical grip?

[@MattIrwinPhotography]

Im not saying they are the same, I'm wondering if some people could make it work for themselves, at a really affordable price, until some else comes along, or they get a Z8 ...