Nikon Z5 II

S SLR Lounge Matthew Saville · reviewer · Oct 2025

In keeping with that tradition, here are all the spoilers: The Nikon Z5 II is the best choice for any beginner photographer who has serious or even professional aspirations. It’s also perfect for any hobbyist who simply wants a highly capable camera they can “grow into”. Last but not least, I strongly recommend the Nikon Z5 II for professionals who want a portable, affordable “everyday” camera to complement (or even be on backup duty for) their significantly larger, heavier bodies like the Nikon Z9 or Nikon Z8 .

G Georges Cameras TV Georges Cameras TV · 41.4K subscribers · Apr 2025

NIKON Z5II REVIEW The best entry level full-frame just got better!

W Wilde Photography Academy Janina Wilde · reviewer

Z5 II camera and a NIKKOR Z 24–120mm f/4 S lens on loan in order to write this blog, so all of the images you see here were created using that exact setup (apart from the one of the actual camera….!) The Z5 II is a compact full-frame camera aimed at both content creators and photography enthusiasts, offering a balance of portability, creative flexibility, and image quality. I won’t be going into a

I imagingresource imagingresource · 14.1K subscribers · Dec 2025

But for what most people are actually shooting, the Z5 II delivers where it counts. That's why, again, I think this is one of the best cameras that Nikon has ever made, not because it has the most impressive spec sheet, but because it gets the fundamentals right at a price point that makes full-frame photography and quality video accessible to a lot more people.

M Medium Article

My hands are on the smaller side (about 16cm long), but I have zero complaints about how the Z5 II feels. The grip is fantastic. My fingers comfortably reach the bottom with a little room to spare, my pinky naturally finds a place to rest, and I never feel like I’m going to accidentally drop it (unless I fall asleep on the bus!). The textured grip material feels premium and refined.

S Sam Bugas Sam Bugas · 8.2K subscribers · Nov 2025

Now, the Z5 II over those few weeks and now the several months after, it proved to me that the floor has been lifted higher. But the big surprise is that it actually has features that are better than even the flagships within Nikon. There's one feature in particular that I'll get into. The Z5 II does better than even the Z8 or the Z9.

T The Times Of India TOI Tech Desk · reviewer · Dec 2025

The Nikon Z5 II delivers flagship-level autofocus, 11fps burst shooting, and uncropped 4K video at Rs 1,49,995—making it one of the best-value full-frame cameras available. Featuring a proven 24.5MP sensor, dual SD card slots, and subject detection borrowed from pricier models, this mirrorless camera punches well above its entry-level price tag for both photography and video work.

H HomeTech Review HomeTech Review · 238 subscribers · Jun 2026

Overall, the Nikon Z5 II is a really good buy for those who want a powerful full-frame mirrorless system with serious video capabilities as an affordable entry into the Z ecosystem. Stabilization, low-light autofocus, and in-camera RAW video recording make it one of the most balanced cameras at this price. With the investment in lenses, this body delivers professional results in both photo and video shooting.

C Chris Tellez izziereal2010 · owner · Apr 2025

If I had no cameras and was buying a camera between the Z5 II, the Z6 III, and the Zf, I would pick the Z5 II. I don't do much with video and the sensors in both the Z5 II and the Zf is an awesome sensor to have. The ergonomics of the Z5 II would have been the deciding factor over the Zf. But since I've had the Zf for 18 months now, I'm used to using it with heavy lenses.

T Tech Pulse 0.2 Tech Pulse 0.2 · 23 subscribers · Aug 2026

But no camera at this price comes without trade-offs, and you need to know where the Z5 II hits its limits. Because this camera utilizes the traditional non-stacked BSI sensor rather than a stacked architecture, fast electronic shutter pans will exhibit noticeable rolling shutter. Furthermore, while it captures internal 10-bit raw video directly to SD cards, a massive win for budget video setups, 4K at 60 frames per second forces a 1.5x DX crop. On the thermal side, however, the magnesium alloy enclosure handles sustained 4K recording without overheating dropouts.

A An Entry-Level Full-Frame Camera? Article

For me, the Nikon Z5 II is one of the most sensible full-frame cameras in Nikon's current lineup. It doesn't try to be everything, but it does a lot right: good handling, strong image stabilization, modern autofocus, clean image quality, and usable video options. Above all, it doesn't feel like a stripped-down compromise, but rather a camera you can seriously work with.

R Run N Gun Photo rainers1104 · owner · Jul 2026

I bought the Z5ii at the beginning of the months and I’m still impressed. It does everything I need - but nothing more - and this in a stunning way. Paired with a 35mm 1.8S and a 85mm 1.8S the image quality is excellent, especially the Nikon colors are great. First I thought about a ZF. In the shop I hold both in my hands and within seconds I decided to go for the Z5ii.

Very impressed with it. The low-light capability blows away my D850. I took shots of hummingbirds at 10k-40k ISO and with the denoising in Lightroom, they look like butter-no grain, clean. The AF is much better than the Z7ii I used to have (sold it and bought the D850). I bought the adaptor and my 200-500mm works just fine on it. This photo was taken at 20k ISO.

Obviously you have to judge apples with apples but I would recommend this camera to anyone looking for a reliable and quality camera. Have no reservations about using it as a daily workhorse. Did pretty well in low light too. Often get to try the new releases from different brands and in it's class it's definitely one of the best out there currently!

D Dpreview Article

The Nikon Z5II is almost unimaginably good for a camera priced under $2000. Previous models in this price range have tended to be significantly cut-down versions of more expensive cameras, assembled from elderly tech or simply been rather aged models re-positioned downmarket, past their best-before dates. That’s not the case with the Z5II.

D Digital Camera World Article

If you’re exclusively a stills photographer or a photographer who only requires video for vlogging and/or social media, save yourself some dough and opt for the Nikon Z5 II. It really needn’t be any more complicated than that. But if you’d like to know why I've made those conclusions – as somebody who's used both – here's what I think.

D Duade Paton miguelangelpulpeiro9228 · owner · Jun 2025

I've bought the brand new Z5ii to upgrade my venerable, 13 years old D5100. Of course, the diferentes are incredíbles.😅 The capabilities and the price were the main reasons to buy it. (Bird detection mainly) I still shot with my Tamron 150-600mm G2, and the Nikon 105 2.8 macro, and they works great together, vía F-Z II adapter.

A Amateur Photographer Amy Davies · reviewer · Sept 2026

With its superb balance of features, image quality and price, the Nikon Z5II is the Nikon camera that I would recommend to most users. If you’ve got the budget for a full-frame mirrorless, it’s one of the best around, and only serious professional shooters really need to worry about the cameras that sit above it in the line-up.

R Ricci Talks masanthar · owner · Apr 2025

That camera sure punches above entry level, as I have no use for video it has everuthing I could ask for photography (barring the top screen which I find convinient). Nikon will have lots of satisfied cistomers I think. If I didn't have the z6ii I would surely get this instead of 6iii plus a lens. Tempatation, temptation.

P Professional Photographers of America Article

The Z5II is available as body only with an MSRP of $1,849.95 or as kits with the economical Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens ($2,149.95) or the Nikkor Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR ($2,649.95). The Z5II seems to be well placed for photographers on a tighter budget who are interested in moving up into the big leagues of photography.

R Robert G Allen Photography Robert G Allen Photography · reviewer

But having taken over 7 thousand photos so far with the Z5II, (by the way, I had no idea I had taken that many photos since I just purchased the camera not too long ago but that’s what my Capture One library says) I can say that overall, I’m pleased with the camera. I even sold my loved Z6II after purchasing the Z5II.

T Tom's Guide Article · Dec 2025

After it launched in April 2025, I utterly adored testing the Nikon Z5 II , and I was even a little shocked at the sheer value for money it offers. Pro features like dual card slots, excellent AF and outstanding image quality, the Nikon Z5 II very quickly made it into our best mirrorless cameras roundup.

L Lens & Shutter Andrew · reviewer · Jul 2026

If you want a balanced full-frame Nikon for portraits, travel, family work, landscapes, and occasional paid jobs, the Z5 II is easy to recommend. The key is buying it with the right lens and not pretending it is a cut-price Z6 III. If you shoot sports, wildlife, or demanding video every week, step up.

I Ikelite Denise Pietsch · reviewer

The Nikon Z5 II is your entry point to Nikon's full frame mirrorless line, noted for its value-to-performance ratio. This image gallery showcases the Z5 II's underwater photo capabilities, see Nikon Z5 II 4K Underwater Photo & Video // 200DL Underwater Housing [VIDEO] to check out the video results.

As much as I’ve praised the Z5 II so far, no piece of gear is flawless. Once the initial excitement wears off and you are actually using it every single day, you inevitably start to notice the rough edges. For anyone seriously considering this camera, I urge you to read this next part carefully.

B B&H Photo Video Pro Audio davidjohnston2781 · owner · Apr 2025

My feelings are that for someone coming from a D5600, I first felt the Z5ii a little overwhelming with some of the innards of the menu system, unless you're already a Pro understanding what many of the menu features are or what they are good for, it'll take some time to get really comfortable.

J Jared Polin da8ar · owner · Apr 2025

This is the mirrorless camera we all wanted. Small, well-built with Nikon ergonomics, great ibis and af, the z6 sensor, which is the best low light performer there is, and for a reasonable price. They have waited as much as possible, but now for those who are 99% photography this is it.

T Taylor Jackson Maxxix4890 · owner · Apr 2025

I’m on a Z6 now and don’t need the video capabilities of the Z6III, but I didn’t want the retro body and the non locking IBIS of the Zf, for me, the Z5 II is just perfect! So happy Nikon isn’t really crippling their “lower end” cameras in regards to the processor and AF system!

D Dustin Abbott jamesmoughan3502 · owner · Jun 2025

Honestly for my usage it might be the best camera, full stop. Better high ISO than the A7IV/RIV/RV, better autofocus, handing and ibis than the A7III, better dynamic range than the Z6II, better IBIS and autofocus than the Z7II, lighter than the Z8. I don’t need more than 24MP.

T Trusted Reviews Gavin Stoker · reviewer · Sept 2025

Fortunately, however, the full frame Nikon Z5II model I’m looking at here feels reasonably priced. In fact it’s sufficiently affordable for me to suggest this could potentially be a perfect entry-level mirrorless camera for those who’ve decided it’s full frame they need.

M Matt Irwin Photography izziereal2010 · owner · Apr 2025

After using it and the Zf, I can say the Z5 II will be an awesome camera to own and use. Adding the Expeed 7 processor, the better autofocus system including bird shooting, 12 bit 4K video, an articulating screen, a better EVF, this is a winner. Great job Nikon.

O Outdoorphoto tomgodzik8951 · owner · May 2025

I very happy with the Nikon Z5ii camera with the Tamron 50-400mm lens. I like the one camera with one lens setup. I don’t use the window on top of that the Nikon 6iii has and I don’t shoot videos in 6K and I only need 5 shots per second for my photography.

P Photolari YouTube review · May 2025

los 4 Mp de más que tiene una tampoco es gran cosa.El disparo continuo de la Z50 II: 11,0 fps Y el de la Z5II 14 fps. Entre las dos cual iría mejor para lo que quiero? Hay alguna otra Nikon Z que esté bien para lo que busco? Gracias!

It’s almost impossible to accept it is an “entry level” full frame mirrorless. The salesperson who I bought mine from in December called it the “sleeper” of the Nikon Mirrorless lineup. Absolute understatement. An amazing camera.

W WIRED Scott Gilbertson · reviewer · Jan 2026

The updated Z5II has stepped up its specs a bit from the original Z5, which, unfortunately, has driven the price up $500 (even after factoring in tariffs on both models), but in the end you get a great camera.

T TechRadar Article

So there you have it. The TechRadar Camera of the Year 2025 goes to the Nikon Z5 II. I've included a selection of Alex's photos, taken with the now award-winning Z5 II, below, plus links to the best deals.

Mark Edward Harris did a hands-on field test with the Nikon Z5II and reports on the results he got from this economically priced mirrorless camera. https://www.ppa.com/./big-league-ambitions-nikon-z5ii.

N Nancy Smiley | Photography Nancy Smiley · reviewer

The Nikon Z5II is the perfect upgrade for literally anyone—whether you're coming from an older DSLR or a smaller sensor camera. It’s capable, affordable, and honestly, just a blast to shoot with.

P PetaPixel Barleyman-SD · owner · Apr 2025

I think the Z5ii is a good example, even Jordan called it! Smack right where they wanted to fill in the spot, and even though they bumped the price point a bit, still a winner in its category.

J Julia Trotti tkNAT · owner · Apr 2025

Great review of the Nikon Z5II - the AF works nice and smooth and it really is packed with some pro-level features. I can really see this body also as a B-cam to complement a Z6III or Z8/9.

T Taylor Jackson cohoonatube · owner · Apr 2025

Great overview, the Z5ii is an incredible value (may pick one up for my children). I also love the top LCD, BUT would gladly trade it for another control dial (and a dial around the D-Pad).

I imagingresource RobertMehlPhoto · owner · Dec 2025

I’ve been shooting Nikon since 1979. Just got the z5ii and I would take the term entry-level camera with a grain of salt This is a very capable camera from amateur to professional.

M Mitch Lally certifiedpolicy · owner · Mar 2026

That camera is simply amazing for its price. I've had mine for about 6 months and taken some of my best pictures ever compared to my Fuji system. That sensor is incredible.

J Jason Morris OdiumTV · owner · Jun 2025

I love that Nikon is really taking the Sony competition seriously, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the ecosystem at this point if somebody is getting into photo and video

J Jeffrey Tadlock Photography AG-cr6tm · owner · Jul 2025

Nikon z5ii is an excellent camera and if you're not into pro level video this model works just great. Thank you for this review. It was very helpful.

B Bcgforums Article

Yes it can absolutely shoot wildlife, I think you never hear about it being used for wildlife due to it being overshadowed by the Z6III, Z8, and Z9.

R Run N Gun Photo Run N Gun Photo · channel · May 2026

Unexpectedly awesome! The Z5ii surprised me over and over for the last month. 1000 Photos later, here are my initial impressions of the Nikon Z5 II.

J JACK WANG Jack Wang · reviewer · Nov 2025

Photo - unlike video - you can do a lot with a little, and for photography the “entry-level” Z5ii even does one thing better than whole Z lineup.

H Hudson Henry Photography bcaslis · owner · Apr 2025

I got a Z5II few days ago and it does have exposure delay mode and it does have manual focus subject detection. It's a pretty nice camera.

The NIKON Z5II is, without question, the most complete entry-level camera you can invest in in 2026—and here’s why it’s changing the game.

The Nikon Z5 II delivers full-frame quality at a budget-friendly price, with excellent subject-detection autofocus and 24.5 MP imagery.

T Tosin Junaid losackmd · owner · Oct 2025

it is a gift from NIKON. does everything i need for streetphotography expeed 7 i might actually buy another one. an exceptional camera.

W Wex Photo Video losackmd · owner · Apr 2025

Nikon gave the camera world a huge gift with this one. Those who say its a beginners camera are "Wrong". Nikon will sell thousands.

N Neil Lopez Neil Lopez · channel · Jun 2026

After spending time with this camera, I genuinely believe it’s the best budget full-frame hybrid camera you can buy right now.

The Nikon Z5ii is probably the best Value camera out there. I don’t think you’re getting anything better at this price range.

M Matt Granger HR-wd6cw · owner · May 2025

But of the modern Expeed 7 cameras the Z5 II is the best value for money (and probably across the big three in general).

G Grays of Westminster davypezza · owner · May 2025

I got the Z5ii 2 weeks ago. Very pleased with my purchase. Thank you both for taking the time to make these videos.

T Techy Artist chernozemfishing · owner · Apr 2025

If you often regret buying the Z6iii instead of the Z5ii, then there's no point in even talking about the Z6ii.

T Tom Pollard Photography Article

Just a solid, purposeful camera that feels like it was built to work rather than to impress on a spec sheet.

The Nikon Z5 II brings full-frame power to an accessible price point, with 24.5MP shots, IBIS, and eye-AF.

A Aparupa Dey faizanarshad6472 · owner · Sept 2025

I recently purchased a Z5 II, and its autofocus performance has been much better for me than the Z6 III.

N Nigel Danson dem0yt969 · owner · May 2025

Stunning, I was blown away by the Islands, the shots and also the quality you get from the Z5ii. Thanks!

R Ray Pang n22pdf · owner · Apr 2025

Wow impressive in low flight footage 😊 I’m getting my Z5ii delivered today 😊 thanks for posting this.

K Kyle Meshna Nikpixs · owner · Apr 2025

I have just bought the Z5ii and loving it for landscape especially paired with the 24-120mm lens.

M Matt Irwin Photography kylergross · owner · Jun 2025

The NIKON Z5ii may very well be the best full frame mirrorless camera ever made for the price.

K Ken Rockwell YouTube review · Jul 2025

Thanks Ken. I have the Z5ii, your video is helping to make this fantastic camera even more.

T Terence Szeto marximus4 · owner · Apr 2025

This in combination with the 180-600 would make for a very nice "entry level" wildlife kit.

V Videomaker Chris Monlux · reviewer

Plan around them, and the Z5II will reward you with results that punch above its price.

C Christopher Frost stjepan007 · owner · Apr 2025

Incredible upgrade, a bunch of high end stuff from the z8 and z9, well done Nikon!

R Run N Gun Photo Craig_csc-photo · owner · May 2026

Best value / most power & features for the money in the full frame space IMO 👍🏻

T Taylor Jackson Jviotr · owner · Aug 2026

Love my Z5II! It may not have everything I want, but it’s got everything I need.

A Aparupa Dey tkNAT · owner · Aug 2025

Nikon did a really great job with the Z5II - so many pro features in that body.

R Ralph Mayhew Photography grayheet · owner · Jun 2025

A few weeks later Nikon deops the Z5II and I begin considering selling my Zf.

L Leigh & Raymond Photography blair_maynes · owner · Aug 2025

COULDN’T BE HAPPIER. Great video. Oh, also loved your video about the Zf!

G Georges Cameras TV YouTube review · Apr 2025

NIKON Z5II REVIEW The best entry level full-frame just got better!

T TheCameraStoreTV chwilla · owner · Apr 2025

It really seems to be a fantastic upgrade compared to the Z5.

N Nikon Europe hrmrohitgamer5708 · owner · Oct 2025

I am a wedding photographer. Nikon Z5ii is my dream camera.

N Neil Lopez steinsnevermore9289 · owner · Jun 2026

I also love my Z5II such a great value and so underrated.

F FM Forums Article

I've heard nothing but positive things about it.

M Manny Ortiz YouTube review · Apr 2025

The Nikon Z5II just broke the Full Frame Market!

W Wilkinson Cameras PeterWooster-i7y · owner · Jul 2025

So far the z5ii is all I need and I love it.

P PetaPixel YouTube review · Apr 2025

Nikon's Z5 II Raises the 'Entry Level' Bar!

K Kai W YouTube review · Apr 2025

Nikon Z5 II - More Camera for Less Money!

J Jason Hermann PaulOlders · owner · Jul 2025

The Z5 is an absolute gem of a camera.

D Dpreview Article

Thanks, I'm sure I will enjoy it!

M Matt Irwin Photography MinnesotaSlim89 · owner · Apr 2025

I can’t wait to get my Z5ii !

Love it.

D Dpreview Article

If I ended the review right here, you might honestly think Nikon paid me to write this. Let me assure you, they didn't. As much as I’ve praised the Z5 II so far, no piece of gear is flawless. Once the initial excitement wears off and you are actually using it every single day, you inevitably start to notice the rough edges.

P Photography With Antonio Pawel__M · owner · Apr 2025

Z5II is arguably the best entry level camera Nikon has ever made, but/therefore it is meant for hobbyists and enthusiasts (who will be happy to have two SD slots rather than anything else), not for wedding photographers who take 10,000 photos a day.

F Fabian Fopp - Nature photography Mixer000999 · owner · Apr 2025

What Fabian essentially says: if you need a primary wildlife camera capable of BIF and low rolling shutter - go for Z6iii. But as a secondary body Z5ii is a very nice option and for a new amateur photographer it may be a good body to start from.

K Ken Rockwell jmh1512 · owner · Jul 2025

I've been using this camera for a few months now, and I agree with you about the EVF issue and the lack of sharpness. It's a shame because it would be a perfect camera. Either way, I absolutely love it.

N Nikon Europe otravoyadnoe · owner · Apr 2025

too bad the battery life had too much of a hit with this one. 1.5 times less than the original Z5 is way too low. would be an absolute winner of a camera if not for this downside.

L Lok Cheung jc_user · owner · Apr 2025

Price of the new Z5ii wil drop very soon. The Nikon summer sale starts in june. Z6iii prices had also dropped 600 bucks in the winter sale even a few months after release.

D Dunna Did It lcador9 · owner · Aug 2025

All and all a fair and informative effort. Great little camera which I have used now for 6 months.

Let us know what are differences between image quality in between Nikon Z5 and z5II.

B Bobby Tonelli maheshdeokar1220 · owner · Apr 2025

The only problem i see in z5ii is rolling shutter. Otherwise fantastic camera.

C Chris Tellez YouTube review · Apr 2025

Wow! Great review! So…I just pre-ordered a Z5 II. SUPER excited!

M MinistryTech YouTube review · May 2025

Not enough for an upgrade.let me wait for the Z5 III.

T The Art of Photography andrewchambers9752 · owner · Apr 2025

This might be the camera I have been looking for.