Nikon introduces Z5II - now with N-RAW, N-log, 10bit
[07:03 Thu,3.April 2025 by blip]
The Nikon Z5 was released five years ago as a remarkably well-equipped full-frame DSLM for beginners, but without any significant video focus. The successor model Z5II presented today takes over some features from the Z6III and, above all, brings some improvements in the video area: Filming is still "only" in 4K UHD, but now also in 10-bit, and in 24/25/30p the entire sensor is now read out (6K oversampling). Cropping continues in 4K-50/60p mode (1.5x); with the Z5, a 1.7x crop was consistently used.
Nikon Z5II, now more interesting for filmmakers
The Z5II also supports recording in 4K N-RAW and N-Log. In Full HD, the maximum frame rate increases to 120p. Compared to the Z5, however, the maximum recording time decreases, which is now specified as 85 minutes (previously it was 115 min).
The camera is equipped with an FX-IBIS sensor with 24.5 MP effective resolution and the latest image processor (EXPEED 7). Nikon specifies the ISO range for video as 100-51,200; in low light, a "sophisticated" noise reduction system should help.
The autofocus system is said to be 68% faster than that of the Z5 and, with a sensitivity of up to -10 EV, still focus well even in the dark. Intelligent multiple subject recognition and 3D tracking are said to ensure even greater accuracy, according to Nikon. In addition, Nikon&s proprietary focus field VR is said to be able to reduce image blur around the active focus field, by up to 7.5 f-stops in the center of the image section and up to 6.0 f-stops in the edge area.
New on the camera body is a Picture Control button for previewing and switching between color profiles in real time. Compared to the Z5, there are also minor structural changes, such as a deeper grip and a more intuitive arrangement of the buttons.
The touchscreen is fully rotatable and tiltable and, with 2.1 million pixels, as high-resolution as the Z6III; the image, the info displays and the menus rotate automatically with the screen. The electronic viewfinder offers a luminance of 3000 cd/m², significantly higher than the Z5.
The compact and relatively light housing made of magnesium alloy (approx. 700 g) is at the level of the Z6III in terms of dust and splash water resistance. There are two SD card slots, Micro-HDMI (Type D), a 3.5mm jack for an external stereo microphone and a headphone connection.
The camera is compatible with the MB-N14 multi-function battery pack and supports both USB streaming and camera-to-cloud connectivity with the Nikon Imaging Cloud.
The Nikon Z5II is expected to be available in stores at the end of April 2025 at the following prices:
Nikon Z5II body: 1,899 euros Nikon Z5II Kit Z 24-50mm: 2,199 euros Nikon Z5II Kit Z 24-70mm: 2,499 euros Nikon Z5II Kit Z 24-200mm VR: 2,699 euros
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