Nikon Z5 :: a lot of camera for a low price?

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Check the Nikon Z5 pricing www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1578204-REG/nikon_z_5_mirrorless_digital.html/BI/8986/KBID/10442/DFF/d10-v21-t1-x1058486/SID/EZ
The Nikon Z5 is the new entry model in Nikon's full-frame mirrorless system. Its a cost efficient version of the Z6 that only gives up a little. This is a very solid camera with an attractive price tag.
The Z5 features a full-frame 24.3 MP CMOS sensor. Unlike the Z6, this sensor is not backside illuminated. However, low light performance is still exceptional thanks to the EXPEED 6 imaging processor. The camera features both Human and Animal Eye-AF in stills mode, up to 4.5 fps burst shooting, 4k 30p video (video is cropped), and 5-axis image stabilization giving you 5 stops of hand held stability. So what's missing? Not much. There is no top LCD screen and the body is only partially Magnesium Alloy. It is still weather sealed and you get the same image quality found on the Z6. There are some things I love about this camera and some things I don't, but lets take a look and see how much camera you get for the low price tag!
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Ted Forbes
The Art of Photography
2830 S. Hulen, Studio 133
Fort Worth, TX 76109
US of A

[@karunverma1]

This is all the camera 95% of the still's photographers ever will need.

[@GPadugan]

that's exactly what my research is showing, not just in the Nikon system, but across all systems. I can't find any FF camera that beats it for stills, let alone one that beats it at this price point.

[@gyozakeynsianism]

For stills subjects that don't move much, definitely.

[@alexcortez3007]

Full frame, dual card slots. As a studio portrait photographer, this is really all I need.

[@philipcooper8297]

I would like a bit more megapixels to play with.

[@akhyarrayhka4048]

this statement is truer than ever, even in the late 2023. this is like the one camera that gets the job done without any specialized features for specific tasks like wildlife or sports. this is "The Default Full Frame Mirrorless Camera"

[@carltanner9065]

Despite a few shortcomings, I think for the price you pay, this is a really good camera. It would be great for landscapes, macro, portraits, travel, street, food...any photography where speed is not all that important. I'd even use it for astrophotography and nightscapes, since its ISO performance isn't too bad, either. That covers a lot of photography. You could even use it as a backup for weeding pics, if you have a higher end camera like a Z6/Z7, etc. Or, if you're on a budget it could be your main camera. Nothing wrong with that. I normally use Olympus and Pentax cameras, but I also own Nikon cameras as well and I would be more than happy to own a Z5.

[@AniketSen-dn5ij]

Nikon's have a way of punching way above their weight class. Me and my girl we both bought compact mirrorless full frames. I got the Z5 and she got the A7C. While almost costing twice as much as my Nikon, at least where we live, when we went out for some landscape photography, the Z5 quite surprisingly stood toe to toe and even outclassed the A7C in some aspects. I was overjoyed and she was plain jealous. Plus I feel the Z5 is better built and feels more natural and ergonomic compared to the A7C, not to mention perks like a superior EVF, superior IBIS & weather sealing and 2xUHS-II slots. It was to a point where she asked me If I wanted to swap camera's with her and I said 'FUCK NO!'. We are getting married, so yeah, I had to swap cameras. The Auto Focus on this A7C is great though.

[@Texasguy316]

You spoke to a woman like that? F no? Men shouldn’t cuss around lady’s.

[@bobamarmstrong]

Jeez you make the same comment everywhere. What's the plan ?

[@Olaidestylings]

Aawww❤

[@zerospecs2331]

And this is why I like being single. Not "having" to do something 😆.

[@HR-wd6cw]

I think the Z5 is a lot of camera for the money, especially considering I believe it's the cheapest FF camera from the big three (Canon, Nikon and Sony) that offers IBIS in an entry level body (along with a high-res EVF and dual card slots). Sony hasn't even done this in a modern body that's $1500. I know a lot of people ding the Z5 for not having a BSI sensor but I think in practice, it's difficult to tell (except in the shadow areas). But when you consider the D750 was among Nikon's top selling DSLRs for the past 5-6 years, it didn't have a BSI sensor and people raved about how good it was and how well it performed. So I think while some see the sensor as a drawback, just keep in mind it's a small thing to give up (among the top deck plate, and some burst shooting speed for something that--in some respects--has advantages over the Z6, like dual card slots and in-camera power). Hopefully the in-camera power will become an option on the Z6/Z7 through a firmware update or possible paid upgrade from Nikon. When you consider it's nearest competitor, the Canon RP, the Z5 is years head, but only about $400 more but has many features that the RP doesn't have. Sony's nearest competitor (price-wise) is the A7 III but that is more of a competitor to the Z6 than Z5 and is a bit more ($500 more). I wouldn't call this a homerun for NIkon, but it is a very good start to give some existing DSLR users and those that want to get into FF, some hope so they can see they don't have to spend a fortune on a body to get FF (yes, 4k is cropped and 4 fps is slower than even many DSLRs, but IMO if you're a stills shooter, those are not big sacrifices). People also need to keep in mind Nikon is not a video camera company like Sony (and Canon) and Panasonic. Neither is Fuji. Nikon is a stills camera company, and a lens mfr.

[@AniketSen-dn5ij]

the canon RP is cheaper, but the Z5 is better by an order of magnitude!

[@VintageArcader]

You made my day! Thank You! It's been a month i bought a Z5

[@chuckwagner4459]

I'm sure if I had $20K to spend on Nikon's overpriced glass, I'd consider the Z5....

[@anindya9471]

I don't know that even 20% of the people who use cameras need the insane amount of features the camera's are now providing. Only the one's who make money out of photography need such features. I love this channel because of the practicality and the logical reasons given on for whom this camera is meant for. Kudos.

[@digiternst]

I skipped getting the kit lens and got this body exclusively for running vintage 35mm glass on. So far I've bought 3 adapters (Leica, M42, Rollei QBM) and now I have 8 old amazing lenses to use with it. The in-camera image stabilization as well as focus peaking makes it perfect for this job and I'm having a wonderful time slowing down, manually focusing, and just being more zen with it. Everywhere that they cut corners for cost suites me fine!

[@Christian_from_Copenhagen]

I'm here for similar reasons, it looks like a nice alternative to a Sony A7ii.

[@JB-ou6fl]

I am thinking about getting the Z5 for using my Nikon AI-S lenses although I will need an FTZ adapter. My old lenses should work fine for me because of focus peaking. The in-camera image stabilization is also a nice bonus in my opinion.

[@estoylisto]

@@JB-ou6fl For manual lenses you can get a dummy FTZ from 3rd party and It will do the job ... I like the FTZ adapter that I owned yet had to buy a dummy one for the my Mitakon 85 1.2 lens (this lens rear element was touching the aperture lever causing err message with the FTZ ... got a dummy adapter and now use it with all the manual lenses (the FTZ kept on AF Lenses)

[@JB-ou6fl]

@@estoylisto thanks for the tip. That is a viable option too although I want to minimize the amount of equipment I have. So I need to think about what will work best for the lenses that I want to adapt. It's good though that you made me think that there are other options available too.

[@RichardStroffolino]

I think Nikon nailed the pricing on the body. Basically your only other full frame option remotely close was like a Sony a7ii, which is a little long in the tooth, or the RP which is... the RP. But if I'm price conscious at all, I still think Nikon needs to figure out their lens lineup. If this comes with an F-mount adapter in a bundle around the holidays for a good price, game on. But as is, you've got that 50mm for $600 and then everything else gets really close to a grand. I feel like with Sony's 3rd party glass, the A7iii probably wins on price if you're not just getting the kit lens. Or a Fuji X-T3 gives you tons of great primes at decent prices if you can live without IBIS. Like I want a budget full frame camera that isn't the Canon RP, and I appreciate that Nikon actually gives you features like IBIS and dual card slots. I know they'll fill out the lens lineup eventually, but right now a budget body with only premium (native) glass limits the appeal.

[@paulthomas8986]

I agree Nikon needs to keep moving on the Z glass. I want third party to start making lenses for Z mount too but not sure if they will. Maybe Nikon is not selling enough Z cameras now for Tamron or Sigma to invest in making lenses. But all they really need to do is change the mount right?

[@vicimed8799]

why does everyone hate the RP? is it really that bad compared to this camera

[@giahuydinh631]

@@paulthomas8986 Well, the distance between the rear element of a lens and the sensor on a mirrorless camera is much closer than that of a DSLR, which leads to changes in optical ratio so I think that in addition to changing the mount, 3rd party lens companies have to re-design the internal lens elements as well...

[@thebluereverend]

I don't know why people keep bringing up the EOS RP. That camera has one card slot, no IBIS, and an old sensor. I'd take the Z5 any day although I'm not wild about this new kit lens (didn't get one with my Z5).

[@nerdMike]

remember also the very expensive Z lenses expect the cheap kit. If u start from scratch camera cost is appealing, but the lenses.. maybe some old F mount one saves you if short on overall budget.

[@sloppyjoe9156]

The z5 also has an old sensor, it's just a better sensor... The kit lens is pretty dumb but other than that the RP is a decent enough camera

[@ivanteo1973]

A lot of people also like to bring up one card slot, no IBIS, old sensor. I am still using my EOS 5D mk 1. More than 10 year old. Going strong and excellent images.

[@nerdMike]

@@ivanteo1973 me too, same camera. But in 2020 that tech is cheap, expecially dual SD, stop with this useless market segmentation. 😔

[@sloppyjoe9156]

@@ivanteo1973 I don't think anyone is saying you can't get good images off of a camera with those specs. I think what they're saying is that if you're spending ~1000-1400 dollars on a new camera body they expect more for their money. You can buy a very nice aps-c camera for that same price (with a lens) if you wanted also

[@k_meowington]

Guys, get Z5, 90% of us are not famous film makers who need 4k60p from all frame 😄

[@Durio_zibethinus]

...or a mobile person. I don't even have a tv anymore 😄

[@k_meowington]

@@Durio_zibethinus you are not alone, I think most people don't use tv anymore

[@theshutterbug5071]

Well I agree the Z5 is a great entry level full frame mirrorless but I think the Z6 is not only about the video quality tho.. imo the Z6 will still prevail as the go to Nikon mirrorless camera if someone is really into photography (considering you want to spend more)

[@formatme]

or even a z50 , i just got one. little less but still as nice, i would of got the z5 if i could have

[@Durio_zibethinus]

@@formatme nice, not beating up our wallet is a taboo topic especially on KZbin. But hey, Z50's kit lens despite not very fast, it's really sharp glass for the price.

[@adrielputra5890]

IMO, 24 megapixels is plenty enough for most people use. Above that is a bit overkill, unless you’re someone that does crop a lot. Then again, maybe it’s just me since I’m plenty happy with 20 megapixels on my D500 lol

[@ericflynn4524]

Agreed, I use a d850 for most of my photography, but I almost always keep it in medium raw (~24mp) because it's an excellent balance of quality and file size!

[@benjaminjohnson4697]

curious, what glass are you using with your d500? what do you shoot? I can't yet afford a nice long prime for wildlife so I gotta crop :/ just trying to understand your point of view, you know how confusing this online thing can be:) cheers buddy!

[@adrielputra5890]

Benjamin Johnson I’m currently a university student, so I use my camera for the lesson and documentation type of shooting. Occasionally, I also use it for lowlight shoot. The lesson I have usually is about product photography, so maybe some may think it’s better to use FF than crop like this. But I need an all around do it all camera like D500 since before Uni I also shoot school sports and events. Longest lens I have is a 70-200mm f4, which is just enough for school soccer field lol

[@adrielputra5890]

Benjamin Johnson also, I often use primes in my D500 such as the old 55mm f1.2 and 105mm DC. I guess my tyoe of shooting doesnt really warrant cropping that much compared to wildlife lol. Hope this helps

[@skyrunr]

@@benjaminjohnson4697 Primes, and IMO ALL of the AFP lenses are fantastic and a great value for the D500 as well. The 16-80VR is a no brainer on a D500. The D500 still feels better/faster/shutter sound than ANY Z camera! The D500 replaced my D750 which I never got a long with. The D500 meters so much better/cooler. I'd like a 30mp Z for shooting JPG to allow for more cropping, and all the in camera processing benefits. Less time in front of a screen is more time shooting! Next Z camera HAS to have a fully articulating screen PERIOD.

[@paulthomas8986]

I think $1400 with this kit lens would be a fair deal. If Nikon wants it to be competitive with the Canon RP the price needs to come down.

[@BermyBwoy]

But this is better than the RP :/

[@paulthomas8986]

@@BermyBwoy I would rather have this than the RP too. I just would save up for the Z6 or buy this camera only when the price comes down.

[@gstpierre69]

This camera seems like its way higher end than the rp, especially with the viewfinder and ibis

[@paulthomas8986]

@@gstpierre69 Great points. The ibis is an expensive upgrade on cameras. I purchased the Z6 when it was on sale in the US a while back. I guess that is what I am comparing the Z5 too. Im sure the price will come down in time just like the Z6 did. Im still no fan of that kit lens they have. The focal range is so limiting.

[@kennethbradstedlarsen5194]

The RP was $1300 at launch, and the Z5 has a lot more features. I think it's very fairly priced. I do think it will be down to $1200 come xmas

[@totiwuo]

This camera looks beautiful.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😊! No frills no chills camera.

[@harshpatel4158]

Slow AF may be caused by slow kit lens, please check AF speed with other better lenses if you haven't already.

[@vant.agepoint3748]

Harsh Patel Great point! I would never get that kit lens! The Nikon 24-120mm f4 was a beast of a kit lens and the most underrated kit lens in my opinion! Nikon could have included their 24-70mm f4 S at some sort of enticing price point! Maybe they will put together a better bundle later on.

[@MattMurddock]

24-70 f2.8 AF on this body is great👍nothing to really complain about!

[@flickrchannyuk4396]

Agree, I suspect the AF speed comment observed here was due to the slow kit lens too, rather than the camera. Put an S line lens on the Z5, and I expect the Z5 to have AF speed much closer if not as good as the Z6.

[@MattMurddock]

@@flickrchannyuk4396 Yep! Focus speed on the Z5 with the 2.8 is quick! Will differ in various conditions (just like any other cam). My initial low light tests with have been good though. I was pleasantly surprised at how well noise is controlled! Clean images at 2000 iso. Personally, it would be rare for me to exceed that so I didn't test it any higher. I'm 100% happy with the purchase! Like you said, best performance comes with S glass.

[@natedagreat90]

Af on this camera is the exact same as z6 and z50 sensor read out is just slower with the new firmware 1.2 makes it very reliable. I bought a z50 before I realized the z5 existed returned the z50 for the 25 for two main reasons full frame and ibis af systems are completely identical so he obviously did not test this camera properly review seems sort of half baked.

[@Nanou197373]

The kitty is the absolute star of this video :D She's stealing the show, Ted haha

[@TimberedSplash]

This would be a great camera for Real Estate Photography. I’m still using a D7500 right now for the bulk of real estate shoots.

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

A used iPhone 13 is at least as good at real estate photography.

[@calebe16]

your video reviews are ALSO above average on youtube, man. :-) But I really miss the artists series. That was by far what brought me to your channel. I hope you get inspiration again for that amazing videos showing art, technique and story of the masters :-)

[@sansitos]

I think it is a perfect camera for beginners to fullframe or to have a second camera. I also really like that Nikon has given more thought to photography and left video as a secondary option. The video does not interest me personally. With an iPhone 12 you make better videos even if you don't have interchangeable lenses. The price difference with the Z6 is not excessively high but then you have to think about the memories that the Z6 uses, much more expensive and a single slot. Also to think that there is a Z6II and that annoys if you just bought the Z6. I bought the Z5 with the 24-50 lens and the FTZ and my F lenses work great. Happy with the Z5.

[@prashanthm4641]

This will be sold under $1200 soon and under $1000 within 18 months

[@HR-wd6cw]

Probably. As the Z6 and Z7 continues to drop in price as the new Z cameras come out. Yes it probably will. But it will probably reach a bottom price of $1000 like the RP, except this one has IBIS, dual card slots and a bit more than the RP (actually I just saw the RP on sale for about $900).

[@brandonmoreno4706]

It’s 1000 now lol

[@prashanthm4641]

@@brandonmoreno4706 I think it is totally worth for $1000....and I took under 12 months to get under $1000

[@Benjamin-lv8zg]

​@@brandonmoreno4706 Yes. $1000 with Kit lens,I booking one. 10 Minutes out of stock, 2000+ sold, That's Nikon ? not sony...

[@zacharyelalami9416]

@@brandonmoreno4706 I got a used one for 900 (before tax)

[@s87343jim]

Family photographer here who has been using D4S and D750. I think it is a good mirrorless camera transition into for D610 and D750 user. You don't need to get a new battery and storage medium. 4.5fps is okay, it is not that far off from 6.5 of the D750. However, it is certainly strange that it doesn't have the Z5+FTZ bundle option. ~$1400 launch and ~1100 Street price Z5+FTZ would make a lot of sense

[@thebluereverend]

It's a really small thing but another nicety is that, unlike the D750 and D610, the Z5 does give you 1/8000th as a max shutter speed rather than 1/4000th. Nice if you're trying to use all the fast glass that everyone loves in broad daylight.

[@HR-wd6cw]

For the money, I think this cameras offers a lot, such as a dual card slot, and power-via-USB (both of which the more expensive gen 1 Z6 and Z7 lack). Even Sony's new A7C lacks dual card slots and people have whined that the small a6000-style body has only one card slot and costs more (but is also a 24MP FF camera). I'd say for a beginner FF this is probably one of the best options out there as it has many of the features people look for in a camera like IBIS and dual card slots. Too bad it isn't a BSI sensor but I've found through tests, the differences between BSI and non-BSI sensors to be rather minimal and only visible in certain circumstances, so not a huge deal. I'm contemplating picking up one of these actually to complement my Z7 and as a travel camera.

[@stefpix]

I got the Z5, very happy with it. Got with the 24-200mm and for the FTZ adapter for $50. It is a pleasure to use, fun for street photography. Auto white balance and colors seem more pleasing than those I get from Sony Raw file. Most of the time. Tonality has a nicer more natural and arty look. Video stabilization is very good. It is so nice to compose in such a nice viewfinder compared to a Sony APSC. the 24-200 seems really great as a general one lens for outdoor shoots. I really don't shoot 4K video as files are too large and anyway on iPad and Macbook most videos I watch are in 1080p. 4K crop may be good for wildlife and crop even more in editing to export as 1080p. Sony has a better lock on AF with no need to push a button and with a smaller tracking area, also lock on AF with Sony can work with center, flexible spot and zone AF modes. Yet Nikon makes taking photos more pleasurable and files seem to require less tweaking in post. These aspects matter a lot. I have been shooting with Sony for 5 years, before I was shooting Nikon DSLR. I had never a Nikon fail, unless I dropped it, but Sony needed to get repaired for some electronic failures. I get the impression that Nikons are less fragile than Sonys. I got the Z5 +24-200 as all in one solution for travel. Sony A7iii or A7Riii could have been an option, with the 24-105, as the Tamron 28-200 is not wide enough, the Sony 24-240 is poor, large and uncomfortable while shooting. But that combo would have been quite expensive. I can always buy a used Nikon 24-120 F mount, or a Z mount 24-70 for events indoors. The Z5 seems a pleasure to use, and the 24-200 has surprised me, even if it is not very fast, images are very crisp.

[@nevsa]

I have been learning photography recently with nikon d3500 and few lenses. But i thought to try something new and changing it for sony a6400 with tamron+sigma trio lenses.. And now, this entry ff nikon draged my atenttion. Would you recommend to stick with sony or getting up the z5?

[@stefpix]

@@nevsa the Sony a6400 is great. It depends what you shoot. The Nikon z5 has a much larger and nicer viewfinder, making it easier to compose and get a sense of what you are shooting. The Sony has a faster autofocus and a more reliable exposure meter. The Nikon meters fine. But sometimes as I am shooting the same subject and recompose the exposure changes a lot. Like Nikon exposure meter is undecided. It really depends what you shoot, if you shoot in low light. I like the Nikon 40mm f2. Great all around for environmental portraits

[@ladysmum7819]

Thank you so much for this. Didn't realise the camera is that old already. Looking for a camera for safaris so thinking the speed is too slow for that need. Glad I found your videos!!

[@kennethbradstedlarsen5194]

Great nuanced review, Ted. I think the Z5 is relevant for a lot of Nikon F-mount photographers looking to go mirrorless. I think you get a lot of value for the price.

[@ralfjansen9118]

The only thing I do not like on my D7100 (which I will not replace by a mirrorless in the near future) is the framerate ("only" 6 fps)... 4.5 definitely is too slow. I rather would wait for a cheap 2nd hand Z6 or 7.

[@kennethbradstedlarsen5194]

@@ralfjansen9118 yeah I agree. I own a Z6 and even though I seldom use the higher burst modes, it is really nice to have when you do need it.

[@skyrunr]

I wish they'd release one more f-mount mirrorles camera though. I'd love to use my AFP glass and primes without an FTZ adapter! IMO Z primes are too large, heavy, and expensive in comparison. The planned compact Z prime is only going to be 28mm wide. :(

[@Mr_Spock512]

@@skyrunr I totally agree, an F mount mirrorless camera would get my interest (as long as it has dual card slots). As you mentioned, the large size (and weight) of the Z lenses negates the advantages of the smaller mirrorless bodies ... I won't even talk about the prices!!! And I also have ZERO intentions of ever using adapters of any kind on my camera so the FTZ is a non-starter for me. No thanks Nikon ... my D7100 (and collection of F mount lenses) still does what I want.

[@skyrunr]

@@Mr_Spock512 The FTZ with the 1.8G primes is still comparable in size and weight to a new Z prime lens. It is only $50 with a body purchase. I'm using it until I get all the Z lenses. Maybe one every other year, lol. I am finding need fewer lenses with their quality and performance.

[@sarora3907]

Beautifully explained video. How is low light image quality of Z5 compared from nikon D750?

[@jhoang861]

yeah i wanna know too.

[@judasblewit]

Same I have a d750. I'm wanting a smaller body.

[@Gadgets24x7Reviews]

I'm sure it's better because of the newer processor

[@sarora3907]

@@Gadgets24x7Reviews I wish the same but someone who who has done actual comparison with both body can only update on this

[@GrandEpicPhotos]

Been waiting for this review for ages... Thanks Ted!

[@goldfries]

4K crop is non issue, in fact 4K crop is better for some use cases. For example I make videos in 1080P, if I need to have a close up shot and I've reached my MFD then I can use 4K with crop and this means I get even greater zoom so it's a win. Burst mode, yes it's pretty slow but plenty usable unless you're a sports and wildlife photographer, or press photographer. To me the best thing is that i has dual card slots and shares the same battery as my D750.

[@sidewaysthroughthekitchend3075]

Just bought the 24/200 4-6.3 vr for my Z5. helpfull info which no one will test. I mounted the lens and proceeded to accidently dropped the whole rig (never dropped a camera in my life). good fall off a table and on to hardwood floor. no issues, checked it all out. good for you Nikon!

[@rssarma]

At $400 the 24-50mm lens is definitely a no-brainer. As in, you'd be someone with no brains to spend that kind of money to get this lens 🙄

[@Benjamin-lv8zg]

Now the price is $1000 with 25-50 lens. this lens round $200 :)

[@architects-io3xr]

Sir I watched a few of your reviews and videos about Sony, Nikon, photography, etc.... The Art of Photography reviews are so clear and excellent, if not the best on KZbin. 👍🏻❤🙏

[@lokatpic]

I got the Z5 w 24-200 lens. I shot indoors. Very nice. I used extension tubes . The price I got was very good. I traded in some old cameras. The Z 6 was more then $200.00 more. Love the results. Maybe later a Z6 since I have that disease G.A.R. I buy used most of the time. I will have lens and more. Love my Nikon Z5

[@cronufc]

Have a z5 arriving tomorow. Will be my second body for weddings, beside my z6ii. I have no worries, im really looking forward to giving this camera a good run in

[@carolinamaristad9369]

Hey! How's going so far???? 😊😊

[@swcargill]

Late response but only now am I in the market for a mirrorless. This is an awesome video and on point for exactly why someone would type in Z5 in youtube looking for a review. No fluff or wasted time here. Just the facts.

[@georgecharpentier6043]

Thank you for a review that is comprehensive and fair. Just a note, however, that the lack of eye detection during video is specific to the Z5. It is disabled on both my Z6 and my Z50 during video recording. My firmware version is current. I don’t know about the Z7, but I suspect it is the same. Face detection does remain enabled during video recording. Perhaps I misunderstood and you believe it should be an included feature.

[@davemil716]

I do mostly portrait work, so I don't need video and rarely do sports. I saw your video on the Z50 as well. I love the Z5 and have two Z mount lenses and 3 F mount lenses. My question for you is the Z50 a good second body for the Z5 or should I wait to afford a second Z5. My biggest concerns are the viewfinder differences and minor issue of a different battery. I absolutely love the Z5 it has been great! I came from a Olympus kit...

[@bambamhakkai]

Update: Eye AF is now available with z5 after the new firmware update. Love.the z5

[@gregoryvarano8002]

This camera is the camera for those who priorities stills over video. Define entry level? My Leica M10P has no video, shoots 5 frames a second maximum, is manual focus, only has aperture priority mode and of course manual. The M10P also doesn't feature in camera image stabilization, so is it also entry level??? The Z5 has the same build quality as the rest of the Z series, same EVF, the rear screen is half the resolution but you can't see a difference side by side. The CMOS sensor isn't back side illuminated but neither is is on the Leica M10P. The Z5 card slots are dual UHS II that's because you don't need the speed of XQD or CF Express but 4K full frame video does especially when filming at higher speeds for slow motion or if you are grading and filming in a greater bit rate. I'll add the Z5 at high continuous frame rate of 4.5 frames has no black out like the Z6 suffers. It's exactly what you would see on a DSLR or film SLR on a motor drive. The top LCD screen was removed and replaced with the mode dial. you can now change modes along with ISO, exposure compensation all with one hand without taking your eye off the viewfinder like you do on your F4, F3, F2 etc. You can customize the info button for the info you need and see it all in the EVF. Add the Nikon MB-B10 battery grip when you use longer focal lengths or F series lenses with the FTZ adaptor. The Z5 is conductive with Bluetooth or WIFI but it also lets you connect with a PC using the "Nikon Wireless Transmitter" program so you can download to a FTP or shoot in studio without a tether cable plus you can hook up to a network and send images to all PC's on the same network. My D850 doesn't even do that. My D6 does. The weather sealing is exactly the same as any other Z series camera other than the Z 50 which is NIkon's true entry level mirrorless camera. If you prefer stills over video this camera is for you. The autofocus is still a work in progress but better than the Z6 or Z7. The new firmware 1.40 fixes the autofocus in video issue, so if you are news gathering it helps a bit. The Z5 in body microphones are very good plus you have all the hookups of the Z6II so you are set. Amazing Z camera, with the money you save you can invest in a S series Z lens. The glass(Lenses) in imaging and photography is the most important, buy the best lenses you can buy.

[@nyambe]

Did I hear correctly $400 for a f4-6?

[@zguy95135]

Yeah.... f/6.3 at 50mm is pathetic.

[@nyambe]

@@zguy95135 Did not even know that was posible.

[@Bolton115]

@@zguy95135 TFW your new full framer makes less Tonehs than a Micro Four Loser Thirds with a 2.8 Pro zoom..

[@vebez5993]

Yeah what’s the point in making a Z mount to let in more light and Aperture them to release a 4-6 it’s so mental

[@nyambe]

@@vebez5993 I could understand it in a 24-200, makes no sense in a 24-50. Seems that Nikon has spent all this time researching how to give less.

[@obedbrinkman]

this camera is often forgotten in the Z lineup, but this is such a good value for money camera, very good photos

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

Meh, I highly regret buying into the Nikon system. I wish I'd gone with an A7 III at the time instead. Much, much, much better AF, wide open 3rd party lens market etc. Nikon isn't terrible, but nothing can compete with Sony anymore, definitely not in the below-2000$ segment.

[@nancyk9475]

I shoot stills only. The one thing that I like is the 2 SD slots, I have a d750 and even though I don’t need the 2 slots, they are nice and the cheaper SD cards. I don’t think I want to go with a Z6II to get 2 slots, except by the time you figure cost and can use a UHS-II in the Z6 II, the price difference shortens with the cost of the added XQD cards and card reader. I’m just looking at this for my use as someone who doesn’t do video.

[@johnyoung1606]

What do You mean slow focus,, is it slower than my D750 ,,, I understand the Z5 shoots 4 or so FPS but if in a continuous focus mode I would think it would keep up.. Am I wrong ??? Say you r shooting a car going past the photog ...

[@dmc225videoproductions8]

Hey … great video … did you test the last firmware in the z5 and z50? What do you think about it ? I’m agree about everything what you say in this video but I can tell you something from my experience with this camera . I’m using the z50 and z5 to shoot videos and even the limitations I love it . Of course I’m want to buy a z6ii but the invest is too much money, camera and memories …I’m just waiting for the mark 3 version with the expeed 7 … in my opinion if you know how use the focus settings and you don’t have the budget easily you can take advance of the sales Nikon offer on the z5 and make the money to buy something better later ..

[@rafaelhoyosweht]

Low price? Cries un argentinian

[@amilcarrosales4074]

Y un Hondureño😂😭😭😭😭

[@Rehentapia]

Y un peruvian

[@BizzarroGames]

Low price? Cries in brazilian

[@ДмитрийЗинченко-м6с]

Russia cries with you :)

[@carlosgerardofernandezluza6810]

F por mis hermanos de america xd

[@bdk1417]

I think this camera is going to be competing with the Sony A7II for those looking to get into mirrorless FF and there's much more to be had in the used Sony E mount lens market. The A7II gets you most of what the Z5 has (for someone new to the mirrorless FF) for $400 less which can go toward new (used) glass. Can you comment on this aspect, Ted?

[@universalhologram7266]

I debated getting the Sony, but I fealt the Nikon was more durable and seemed better built.

[@CC3GROUNDZERO]

@@universalhologram7266 Camera bodies age terribly anyway. They are meant to be replaced much sooner than lenses. But with Sony, you're investing into a system that consistently features by far the best AF system of all manufacturers. Plus, Sony has a wide open 3rd party lens market, compared to Nikon with its overpriced highly controlled lens market. It's honestly not even a competition. There's a reason why the vast majority of professionals use Sony.

[@frederikvanreusel]

I’m very interested, only thing that holds me back is the lack of a small screen on the top right that shows the aperture, shutterspeed,... I know it sound weird but since I upgraded from a d3500 to a d7200 I can’t live without the small screen anymore, i use it all the time

[@brandishwar]

Looking at this vs a Z6... The Z6 has only one XQD slot, while the Z5 has dual SD UHS-II. But at triple the frame rate on the Z6 plus the top-body display. That's an interesting choice. Since I'm looking at both versus the D750 for an FX upgrade to my D7200. And I know the lack of dual card slots on the Z6 and Z7 got a lot of people in one hell of an uproar, and there are ways to compensate for that. And I love that Nikon has kept with the EL-EN15 batteries, meaning I can use my existing batteries without issue. Z5 means I don't need to worry about replacing my cards, but, again, lower burst rate. And the Z5 is about the same price as the D750, but mirrorless, and a lot of places are bundling the adapter for cheap. This is a tough choice... The Z5 just seems like the better way to go, though I'm not fond of the function dial placement.

[@LockeLeon]

As far as I know, the Z5 weights the same as the Z6

[@rodbotic]

I have a d750, and looking to buy a second body. The in body stabilization is what I am most interested in. Add long as the body has the same lowlight performance,I will be happy. I am not a fan of only 4fps though

[@ArsenijeRadenovic]

Fuji x-h1 sounds like a good fit here.

[@rodbotic]

@@ArsenijeRadenovic Thanks! I will look into it.

[@ArsenijeRadenovic]

@@rodbotic although it is hard to beat d750 lowlight performance and even reach it with apsc. But you have the excellent ibis there which is a fair tradeoff.

[@rodbotic]

@@ArsenijeRadenovic yeah I love my d750. I think ibis is the next must have. I have a few portfolio shots at ISO 25000 I wouldn't have without it.

[@lenneavy]

Damn, FF bodt focused on stills? It's a rare thing these days. Just make the 40mm pancake and this will be a very good street/travel setup.

[@ariffnordin4481]

how good is this camera in low light videos as i'm planning for hiking and camping at night?

[@WidePhotographs]

I just bought the Canon M50 for $499 (Best Buy sale) but it feels small on my hands. It looks like the Nikon Z50 has a bigger grip. For photography purposes only, should I just stick to the M50 or pay extra for Nikon's Z50?

[@craigcarlson4022]

I just purchased this Z5, availing of Nikon's current (as of December 2020) 30 day 'Buy and Try' incentive program. It should be delivered tomorrow. I have only two aspects I'm going to be concerned with - whether it focuses quickly enough in low light. Second, i really which Nikon would have offered a kit lens pairing with the 24-70 F/4 just like they do for the Z6 and Z7s. I think Nikon is really undermining the sales potential of this camera by not offering that lens - kit configuration.

[@Razor2048]

One thing I dislike about Nikon's move to Z mount, is they really crippled the budget options. for example, on the corp sensor segment, you use to have f/3.5 to f/5.6 as the norm for kit lenses,then they moved to f/4 to f/6.3 which used to be reserved for ultra budget long zoom lenses. The sensors have not improved enough in terms of SNR and dynamic range to overcome the loss of 0.5 to 0.7 stops of light, thus if seeking equivalent exposures and shutter speeds, you will get slightly worse image quality due to the need for a higher ISO.

[@WEBLINQUETV]

thank you for the review i think im gonna choice z6 or sony a7ii

[@flickrchannyuk4396]

Hi Ted, nice review. Just want to ask about your comment about the AF speed. Did you form your conclusions based on comparing the Z5 and Z6 AF speed using the same lenses, and in the same conditions? I was surprised to hear you say the Z5 AF speed is slow, and wondered whether that was more to do with the slow 24-50mm kit lens that you were sent to test with the camera, rather than the camera itself?

[@ankittulsyan1918]

I have the same question

[@DonovinJones]

Didn’t we roast canon for doing something kinda similar with the canon egos RP? And that camera sold pretty well from my understanding.

[@gesskay6626]

Canon used a shitty sensor and 2000$ lenses for a 1300$ camera at that time.So it seemed a lot stupid at that time.And if anyone needed to use ef lenses anyway, why would they transition to mirrorless since even the video was crippled on that camera anyway.So both photographers and videographers were pissed off at it

[@ChrispyArt]

This has dual card slots and IBIS

[@s87343jim]

But RP is a 1K camera though.

[@DonovinJones]

@@gesskay6626 I see your point but I don’t really think the RP was intended to get people to move over to mirrorless, I saw the RP as someone’s first ever camera , and when you look at it like that, it’s not a bad deal, your getting a full frame sensor with solid autofocus, and better lowlight than you would with a crop sensor camera.

[@ktg619]

Jim Huang It was $1300 originally

[@mousam.mondal]

Is continuous shooting 4.5 fps working in auto focus ? Kids in action is enough @ 4.5 fps ? also in low light ?

[@BigWhiskeyWrangler]

This has the same AF system and processor as the z6 no? Is the AF not on par with the Z6?

[@jonathanraecrisanto5912]

Right now, it's under $1000 for the body BRAND NEW!!!

[@thisisbenji90]

Maybe it’s just me, but I kind of like how small this lens is. Sure the aperture range is terrible, but the lens is tiny. The thing is with this being a full frame camera, you can really push the ISO to handle low light situations. If you can’t get good shots indoors with this combo, you probably need to revisit your technique. That being said, I do really wish Nikon would release a 50mm 1.8 for the z-mount that’s the same size as the 50mm 1.8 for the F-mount.

[@loco46m]

In comparison to the Canon R and RP, I think this is amazing value for money as a full frame camera even in 2022. Sony and Fujifilm are obviously great, but the pricing is over that range.

[@Jayysam95]

Very true, the RP is nice if you're a canon shooter but the sensor, battery life and EVF cannot compare to anything from nikon Z at this point. I picked one up yesterday and at the price they're going for now it's a steal.

[@wekkimeif7720]

Just bought it from sale myself. Going from old Nikon D3400 to Z5

[@BermyBwoy]

3:16 should say 24mm, not 20mm.

[@uesugikaru]

Are those sample images taken with the kit lens?

[@jefferson.castillo]

Would you recommend this for HDR Photography for Real Estate?

[@seantomlinson3320]

Particularly given the presumably much higher price and remarkably meh new Sony FF pancake zoom, this looks better and better all the time. Much better than the RP, much cheaper than the S5 and a7C, with the very useful little 24-50 and dual slots. I'm pleased. I particularly like that Nikon didn't skimp on the EVF or IBIS or touchscreen. I'd be all over this if I didn't already have a Z6.

[@psoon04286]

Probably will have to wait for a holidays discount before the Z6 Is affordable to me. Been hanging on to my D300S and D7200 long enough.

[@florinstanciu5960]

D7200 Rulezz!! :)

[@orshanti]

i think asking 400 dollars for this kind of kit lens is just abit out of line

[@adamvaz9097]

Seems reasonable to me.

[@vebez5993]

adam vaz it’s a 4-6.3 Aperture. What’s the point of the Z mount when they give you one of the worst kit lenses for the mount. it just doesn’t make sense. I’d like to see a 1.8 or even a 1.2 but honestly this is sad. You’d be better off with any other lens than that plastic garbage for $400

[@adamvaz9097]

@@vebez5993 Iooks like the lens has a plastic mount, so maybe it could be priced lower. But f3.5 -5.6 is the usual range for most kit lens and are priced similarly. $400 is pretty cheap for a brand new lens, even for a plastic kit zoom. (again should be priced lower if it does have a plastic mount). Also 1.2, you have any idea how expensive that will be, 1.8 is fine for most low light shooting especially with a 35mm sensor. I swear camera comment sections are the most toxic.

[@vebez5993]

adam vaz yeah the 1.2 wouldn’t be on a Kit lens but it’s quite possible now to have better Apertures. And saying that it’s not better than even the cheap kit lenses is saying a lot. Nikon sells their kit lenses at 100-200$ and this one’s only a 24-50mm. I think it’s severely underperforming While being very overpriced. Unless this is your first camera getting into Nikon and you have no lens knowledge, ditch the lens and buy the body only. spend the $400 on anything else. it’s just not worth it just because it has a z mount.

[@adamvaz9097]

vebez59 I mean optically it seams to perform fine, it would be nice if it were faster. Remember it's not the speed of the glass that makes it good.

[@BananasananaB]

I'm still using a D750 and one thing I value is instant on. When I flick the power button on, the camera is ready to use. Is this the same with the Z5? I am having difficulty finding something who records the camera powering on just to see how much lag there is in it.

[@natedagreat90]

There's no lag camera is ready before you can even put it to your eye.

[@bigfoot2708]

I live in Pa. Whats a good price for this camera ? No grey market. Tnx

[@sdhute]

Going to start using this for street nice too since it’s. Not overly expensive

[@Ferrari360Spyder]

How much of an improvement would this be from the D750? As for the image quality is it it better or about the same as the D750? Really interested in this, thank you for any feedback.

[@Michael-qv7pn]

I switched from d750 to Z5 and i would say its on par, cant really see a huge difference except of maybe "better" color science on the Z5 but everything else like dynamic range, sharpness and color depth seems the same Maybe the Z5 is a touch better but wouldnt except a crazy jump up For me (mostly portrait shooter) the Z5 is like 1000 times better in my opinion with the af system, eye af, evf and so on Also the 1/8000 sometimes come in handy if you wanna shoot wide open in bright conditions Buildt quality in my opinion feels better than d750 Suprisingly it feels heavier alltough its about 200g lighter 🤷🏻‍♂️ I find the autofocus to be really good, also the tracking I think you could also do sport and wildlife perfectly fine with it, its just not the best tool for it out there The price point is seriously crazy good now (found it for 1299,- with ftz and 24-50)

[@natedagreat90]

It is about 1 stop better in low light with a bit cleaner shadows.

[@jamesparish7234]

How does the image quality compare to the Z6...same quality with same lens..say 24-70?

[@skyrunr]

Slight edge to the Z6 with BSI. Just as Z7 has more resolution with more noise. I prefer the color saturation of the Z5 in the studio samples I've seen. Overall, I'd say it wouldn't be a factor in deciding between the two. I had the Z7, and found the top display unneeded with the detailed EVF.

[@lymancopps5957]

Having no top LCD would drive me nuts. Even the low end DSLRs had a top LCD.

[@ruff1draft]

Nikon Z5, Panasonic S5, Panasonic GH5S, Canon 90D and Nikon D750 are on my four year shopping list

[@craigcarlson4022]

Ruffdraft, i just bought, tried and decided to return the Canon 90D. I have a Canon 77D. Comparing the two for image quality, they were pretty much indistinguishable. Moving the 'Texture' slider in LR had more impact on perceived detail than the megapixel difference. With the 90D i could recover shadows a bit better (without a noise penalty) but that really was the only difference i could see after much pixel peeping and multiple side by side comparisons, all using my sharpest lens, the Canon 100 f2.8 L IS macro. After that i decided i've got to move to FF to get the image quality boost i am after. Just passing this experience along in case it's of help to you. Craig

[@GaryJahman]

Nice video as always Ted! Nikon really has some poor release dates for their actually quite good cameras.

[@BartBroeckx]

You Mean like... 10 years too late?

[@GaryJahman]

@@BartBroeckx haha zo lijkt het wel idd

[@skyrunr]

A Z6 might be $2-300 more, but it requires buying two XQD/CFE cards and a reader for another $300. These cards are also hard to find locally in stores if you're in a bind. I've shot a birthday party for people and given them their images on a card after the shoot. I wouldn't do this with a $120 card, and they couldn't access it! Just something else to consider.

[@alinetoussaintatoussphoto3001]

Between this and a d750 for portraits what would you recommend?

[@Joelsfilmer]

Late to the party but it's down to the lenses, basically. If you want the lastest best glass then go Z. If you want cheaper glass that was top-line 5 years ago then go F mount. Manual focus lenes benefit from EVF punch in and focus peaking.

[@natedagreat90]

Z5 is gonna be better. eye af is gonna make your job much easier. And the raw image quality is fantastic

[@JohnMayfield-NS]

Nikon's biggest problem always has been marketing.

[@darwinwins]

you literally watched a video about it; it's marketing any way you cut it.

[@MadEnglishTV]

Nobody: I wish I had a 2x zoom.

[@SoundSpeeding]

I'd basically just use it as a compact 24mm prime! With the bonus of a little reach when I need it

[@neverenoughtimetotinker8439]

I think they will either drop the price quickly to around $1200 or start tossing out firmware updates that unlock features as time goes. There is no reason for this camera to under perform in AF or even FPS. I do have an question though. Does the 1.7x crop on 4k get cropped even more with DX glass? If not, that's no too bad considering most people use APSC for vlogging. If it does... WOW that would be miserable.

[@asanmartinjr07]

Why is the Z 5 still photo continuous frame rate only 4.5 fps? The Z 50 (APS-C camera) is 11 fps? I want to get a full frame mirrorless Nikon camera. Other than that, I love everything else about the Z 5.

[@pjc3163]

The Z50 has a crop sensor, less image processing so faster frame rate.

[@alij0n3s]

I have a crop sensor camera and lenses. I want to upgrade. Would you say go for this. Or the the Z50?

[@SL-jo4om]

If you ask that question, may I suggest you first answer the following: in what way do you consider changing your kit from APS-C to FF an upgrade? In other words, how is your APS-C system limiting you?

[@thebluereverend]

I just upgraded from the Z50 to the Z5. The Z50 is great if you need something very compact (with the kit pancake lens it's practically a point and shoot), need a higher FPS rate for stills, absolutely need 120 FPS video, or are someone who can make use of the crop factor (like for extra reach birding). The Z50 does not have the same high ISO performance as it's bigger brother nor does it have IBIS. The Z50 also doesn't balance very well with F mount lenses and the adapter.

[@ArsenijeRadenovic]

Depends on what are you shooting? What gear do you have atm? Why do you want to upgrade to FF? Don't get baited by these yt drama reviews that you NEED FF. It is better to save your bucks for when you really need to step up to new system or save for really good lightning gear. Cameras only capture the light, master the light first.

[@SoundSpeeding]

Wonder what the Nikon Z6mk2 (and Nikon Z5 / Panasonic S5) will do to the Nikon Z6mk1 pricing on eBay, might make it even as cheap as a Panasonic G9 is? Hmmmm.....

[@Dreyno]

No top screen is a deal breaker for me. I use it all the time. I’d rather they lost the flip screen than the top screen. And the mode selector on the right would annoy me every time I used it. The Z6 isn’t that much more and for my money, better all round.

[@reddevil211287]

The z50 is a little beast. Love mine

[@Metalfreakz17]

More beasty then the Z5 lol aps-c rocks🤘🏼 got myself a fuji xt4 also such a insane powerhouse in a small body

[@duanemcclun]

Im glad the Z50 is working out for you. I've had a Z50 for 10 months and haven't used it much. I have a love hate relationship with it and will probably be selling it.

[@reddevil211287]

@@duanemcclun Aw, where is it letting you down? I'm about to sell my D810, the smaller size of the z50 rocks

[@duanemcclun]

@@reddevil211287 My biggest issue was I'm a viewfinder user and it was the placement of my thumb and cheek. I kept touching the magnifier on the touch screen and it would then zoom in on my subject and I'd have to zoom back out. That magnify icon could not be turned off so I put a piece of black duck tape so if my thumb touched it I wouldn't zoom in. Of course I had to remove the tape if I wanted to use it. It wasn't worth the aggregation so I sold it but took a loss even if it was almost new condition. Best of luck in your photography journey! Duane

[@punkrachmaninoff]

it's going to sell to the right person. nothing wrong with it, not that many people shoot serious video or sports.

[@michaelgerhold5659]

He is always talking about the z6 comparison! But I think it is basically a Z50 with a full frame sensor and two card slots.

[@nickx4576]

So If I wanted to shoot video in 4K, the video will be cropped and not full frame?

[@Hodenkat]

I'll hang onto my D7500 a little while longer unless Nikon has a great Christmas sale I can't pass up. Thanks!

[@junglialoh]

Thanks to nice presentation and I fully agree to this presentation .

[@wilteduk007]

Great looking camera. I'd much preferred if they had the 24-70mm f4 in a kit with it, as it's a fantastic lens and small too.

[@JohnHaldezos]

Excellent review As always. For the price and specs of the Z5 it's bang for buck 😊😂😊

[@davidmarquez2821]

It seems they crippled the FPS to 4.5 to protect other products in their line up. If they at least gave it 6.5 or 7 like a D750, then at least D750 users like me would happily switch.

[@judasblewit]

Agree.

[@vant.agepoint3748]

I would never get that kit lens! The Nikon 24-120mm f4 was a beast of a kit lens and the most underrated kit lens in my opinion! Nikon could have included their 24-70mm f4 S at some sort of enticing price point! Maybe they will put together a better bundle later on. I currently have 2 Nikon D750 and will be trading one in with the Nikon trade in program. I will do my own review of the z5 and put out several videos about it and how it fits my shooting style which is mainly portraits and weddings!

[@wendysaunders2917]

Did you ever do your review? I’m just starting out with baby portraits etc and would love to know which lenses you had the greatest success with? Thank you

[@sdhute]

How about the video crop in 4k to 1.7 which is pretty bad. The z50 looks interesting but there is not enough dx lenses. Especially for a non Nikon user without previous glass.

[@markmadere1935]

I wonder how well the Z5 would do shooting VIDEO in low light with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens? Is there noticeable noise?

[@szabocsaba3453]

Do you think a professional photo shooter could use it for work if speed is not so important? The z6 has only 1 slot,this one has the backup option...

[@deathspawn54]

Thinking about going from d750 to z5, good move?

[@florinstanciu5960]

Hi! Did you swap alredy? :D

[@deathspawn54]

@@florinstanciu5960 yeah, its totally worth it

[@florinstanciu5960]

@@deathspawn54 : Wow, nice! Good light mate and i think i'll do the same like you! ;)

[@ruff1draft]

Ted both the Nikon Z5 and Panasonic S5 are on my shopping list in the near future.