Nikon is updating its entry-level Z5 full-frame camera with the Z5 II, featuring improved autofocus, image stabilization, and a brighter electronic viewfinder. Launching in April 2025, the Z5 II will start at $1,699.95 for the body only, about $300 more than the original Z5.
The Z5 II uses a 24-megapixel full-frame backside illuminated sensor and Nikon’s EXPEED 7 image processing engine, derived from the Z8 and Z9 pro-level cameras. This allows the camera to shoot up to 14 fps in JPEG or 11 fps in RAW using its mechanical shutter. With the electronic shutter, it can shoot at up to 30 fps (JPEG) and 15 fps (RAW).
Additional features include a pre-release capture mode storing one second of images before the shutter is pressed, and a pixel shift mode for capturing 96-megapixel images, processed via Nikon’s Studio NX software.
Video capabilities are capped at 4K at 30 fps, but can reach 60 fps using a smaller sensor area. Frame rates can be boosted to 120 fps at 1080p for slow-motion capture.
The Z5 II uses Nikon’s 3D tracking autofocus, detecting and prioritizing nine subject types: people, dogs, cats, cars, birds, motorcycles, bicycles, planes, and trains. An in-body stabilization system further aids image sharpness by prioritizing focused regions.
Nikon’s Z5 II marks the debut of automatic AF-A autofocus in its full-frame cameras, switching between AF-S (single) and AF-C (continuous) modes automatically.
Other enhancements include a dedicated Picture Control button for accessing 31 built-in color presets and Nikon Imaging Recipes. The electronic viewfinder offers up to 3,000 nits of brightness. The 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen can now flip out sideways and rotate.
The Nikon Z5 II will also be available in kits:
- Nikkor Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens: $1,999.95
- Nikkor Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR lens: $2,499.95
