Nikon has now released four Z-mount cameras with a DX sensor: the Z50, Zfc, Z30, and Z50 II. You may be wondering how all of them compare, especially with the new Z50 II shaking things up. In this article, I’ll show how all of these cameras stand side-by-side and explain some of the history behind them.
Specifications
You can see how all of these cameras compare, arranged from left to right in chronological order:
| Camera Feature | Nikon Z50 | Nikon Zfc | Nikon Z30 | Nikon Z50 II |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Announced | October 2019 | June 2021 | June 2022 | November 2024 |
| Camera Type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Sensor Type | BSI CMOS | BSI CMOS | BSI CMOS | BSI CMOS |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 7 |
| Resolution | 20.9 MP | 20.9 MP | 20.9 MP | 20.9 MP |
| Pixel Dimensions | 5568×3712 | 5568×3712 | 5568×3712 | 5568×3712 |
| Sensor Width | 23.5 mm | 23.5 mm | 23.5 mm | 23.5 mm |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 4.22 µ | 4.22 µ | 4.22 µ | 4.22 µ |
| Low Pass Filter | No | No | No | No |
| IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) | No | No | No | No |
| Base ISO | 100 ISO | 100 ISO | 100 ISO | 100 ISO |
| Max Native ISO | 51,200 ISO | 51,200 ISO | 51,200 ISO | 51,200 ISO |
| Extended ISOs | 100-204,800 ISO | 100-204,800 ISO | 100-204,800 ISO | 100-204,800 ISO |
| High-Resolution Sensor Shift | No | No | No | No |
| Focus Stack Bracketing | No | No | No | No |
| Pre-Shoot Burst Mode | No | No | No | Yes (JPEG only) |
| Fastest Shutter Speed | 1/4000 second | 1/4000 second | 1/4000 second | 1/4000 second |
| Longest Shutter Speed | 30 seconds | 900 seconds | 30 seconds | 900 seconds |
| Continuous Shooting (Mechanical Shutter) | 11 FPS | 11 FPS | 11 FPS | 11 FPS |
| Continuous Shooting (Electronic Shutter) | 11 FPS | 11 FPS | 11 FPS | 11 FPS |
| Notes for High FPS Shooting | 12-bit raw at 11 FPS (14-bit raw is available at 9 FPS) | 12-bit raw at 11 FPS (14-bit raw is available at 9 FPS) | 12-bit raw at 11 FPS (14-bit raw is available at 9 FPS) | 11 FPS figure is for .NEF files (full-res JPEG at 30 FPS) |
| Buffer Size (Raw) | 35 frames (11 FPS) | 35 frames (11 FPS) | 35 frames (11 FPS) | 200 frames (11 FPS) |
| Autofocus System | Hybrid PDAF | Hybrid PDAF | Hybrid PDAF | Hybrid PDAF with deep learning subject recognition |
| Autofocus Points | 209 | 209 | 209 | 209 |
| Maximum Low-Light AF Sensitivity (Standardized to f/2, ISO 100) | -4 EV | -4 EV | -4 EV | -7.5 EV |
| Standard Flash Sync Speed | 1/200 second | 1/200 second | 1/200 second | 1/200 second |
| Curtain to Protect Sensor at Shutdown | No | No | No | No |
Video Features | ||||
| Maximum Video Bit Depth (Internal) | 8 bits | 8 bits | 8 bits | 10 bits |
| Maximum Video Bit Depth (External) | 8 bits | 8 bits | 8 bits | 10 bits |
| Raw Video | No | No | No | No |
| 4K Maximum Framerate | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 60 FPS |
| 1080P Maximum Framerate | 120 FPS | 120 FPS | 120 FPS | 120 FPS |
| Additional Video Crop Factor | No | No | No | 1.5x crop at 4K 60p (4K 30p has no additional crop) |
| Chroma Subsampling | 4:2:0 | 4:2:0 | 4:2:0 | 4:2:0 |
| Video Recording Limit | 30 min | 30 min | 125 min | 125 min |
Physical and Other Features | ||||
| Card Slots | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Slot 1 Type | SD (UHS-I) | SD (UHS-I) | SD (UHS-I) | SD (UHS-II) |
| Rear LCD Size (Diagonal) | 3.2 in | 3.0 in | 3.0 in | 3.2 in |
| Rear LCD Resolution | 1040000 dots | 1040000 dots | 1040000 dots | 1040000 dots |
| Articulating LCD | Single Axis | Fully Articulating | Fully Articulating | Fully Articulating |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | EVF | EVF | None | EVF |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 1.02 x | 1.02 x | N/A | 1.02 x |
| Viewfinder Resolution | 2360000 dots | 2360000 dots | N/A | 2360000 dots |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100 % | 100 % | N/A | 100 % |
| Voice Memo | No | No | No | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No | No | No | Yes |
| Microphone Jack | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| GPS | No | No | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB Type | Type B 2.0 | Type C 3.2 Gen 1 | Type C 3.2 Gen 1 | Type C 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Battery Type | EN-EL25 | EN-EL25 | EN-EL25 | EN-EL25a |
| Battery Life (Viewfinder) | 280 frames | 280 frames | N/A | 230 frames |
| Battery Life (Rear LCD) | 320 frames | 320 frames | 330 frames | 250 frames |
| Battery Life (Eco Mode) | N/A | N/A | N/A | 270 frames |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only w/ Battery + Card) | 450 g | 445 g | 405 g | 550 g |
| Dimensions (LxHxD) | 127 x 94 x 75 mm (5.0 x 3.7 x 2.9″)1 | 135 x 94 x 54 mm (5.3 x 3.7 x 2.1″)1 | 128 x 74 x 60 mm (5.0 x 2.9 x 2.4″) | 127 x 97 x 82 mm (5.0 x 3.8 x 3.2″)1 |
| MSRP at launch | $860 | $960 | $710 | $910 |
| Check Used Prices | Check Used Prices | Check Used Prices | Check Used Prices | Check Used Prices |
| 1Nikon’s official dimensions do not include the depth of the protruding viewfinder. To match the typical standards today, 15mm were added to the Z50 and Z50 II’s depth measurement in this table, while 10mm were added to that of the Zfc. | ||||
Analysis
First, it’s hard to believe that it’s been five years already since Nikon released the original Nikon Z50. And some things have changed, while others haven’t. The sensor of all these cameras has remained the same at 20.9 megapixels, though that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Although there are certainly more dense sensors out there such as the Fuji X-T5’s 40MP X-Trans sensor, Nikon’s 20.9MP sensor is plenty for many. Indeed, although 40MP can give you noticeably more detail when conditions are very good, in weaker conditions, the additional pixels will be mostly noise. Still, it would be nice to see a higher resolution Nikon Z DX sensor eventually.
One thing that has changed over time is the upgrade to the EXPEED 7 processor in the Z50 II. All three previous APS-C cameras use the EXPEED 6 processor, but I think we can expect the EXPEED 7 processor in Nikon’s future DX cameras. And although the Z30, Z50, and Zfc have decent autofocus, the Z50 II improves in many ways with its snappier focusing system, greater number of subject detection modes, and much larger buffer.
What about the size and weight of the cameras? That’s one area where the Nikon Z50 II has jumped up compared to its predecessors. We’ve also seen a bit of a difference in the control layout of these cameras over time. Below is a comparison (to scale) of each previous Z DX camera against the newer Z50 II showing how these things have changed:
As for pricing, we can see that the prices of all these APS-C offerings has remained roughly the same, indicate that Nikon is mainly keeping their APS-C line mid-tier. Even the Nikon Z30’s MSRP isn’t much less expensive than the others, although with sales, we will often see it closer to $600.
All of these Nikon Z DX cameras, and especially the Z50 II, are clear improvements over Nikon’s entry-level DSLRs such as the D3400. Instead, they range more from the level of the Nikon D5600 to that of the D7500. But for now, none of them are employing Nikon’s most advanced functionality and cannot realistically be called a “mini Z8” or “mini Z9.”
That’s not necessarily a bad thing – perhaps the focus on this mid-tier line first will help bring more casual shooters to Nikon, or provide an affordable second camera for those who already own a full-frame Z-mount camera. Still, there is room down the road if Nikon wishes to make a more expensive but fully-featured DX mirrorless camera.
What do you think of Nikon’s APS-C offering? Do you have one, and if so, what do you think? Do you hope that Nikon offers a “mini” Z9, perhaps a Z90? Let me know in the comments section below!
I love my Z50. I wouldn’t trade it for any other. Right sensor, right price, right size, great overall performer.
I’m happy with 24mp in 35mm.
I’m ok with 21mp at aps-c.
I do want aps-c to get the extra ‘reach’ out of my lenses without paying for exotics.
I don’t need 45mp in 35mm (except to give me 21mp at 1.5 crop).
So on both counts I don’t want to pay the price for a Z8. £1,800 on my Z5 and D500 does the job.
I’d like to think that a D500 replacement is on the cards for a competitive price, given that mirrorless cameras cost less to manufacture.
But I doubt it.
Sadly.
Looking for a “small” companion and trying to enter in the Z-System , thanks to a friend (professional photographer) I could try DX and FX Models up to Z8 (not Z9 – it’s really far away from what I need and want). Finally I bought a Fuji X-S10 last year (before the S20 or now Z50II came to market) and use it (besides 2 x-mount lenses) with a fringer N-FX with my Nikon lenses, which works really great. Although the X-S10 has not the sophisticated AF-features of the Z50II, it has a very good working IBIS, which I prefer over the multiple AF-features, as I’m shooting ~30% in low-light situations (but in this field only the Z8 is convincing, but for me heavily overpriced to substitute my 2nd D850, as I don’t need any video features in my cameras). So I’m still waiting, that Nikon will introduce a real successor of the D850 without video and something similal like the Fuji X-S20 as I like the handling and menu of Nikon (I switched to Nikon ~28 years ago).
Wouldn’t the Nikon Z7 (even first generation) fit the bill perfectly?
I think the Z7 is a great camera but not up to the level of the D850 when it comes to AF.
Is anyone here using the Z50 with an external power bank?I’ve read that the Anker Powercore +26,800 is recommended by Nikon but I can’t find them anywhere so seeking a viable alternative if I buy a Z50ii.
The Anker Powercore+ 26,800 provides 45 Watts Power Delivery (PD 45W). Any USB-C power pack that delivers 45W or more will in principle be suitable.
The 26,800 mAh figure determines how long it will last. Higher is longer. I’ve not tracked down a definitive answer to how long an Anker Powercore+ 26,800 will power current Nikon Z bodies, but from memory it is measured in hours.
The Anker Powercore +26,800 is specified as PD 45W, meaning it supports the USB Power Delivery protocol, and can deliver up to 45Watts.
USB-C PD is a new standard that can deliver up to 100 watts of power, which is enough to charge laptops and other devices that require more power than USB-C can supply. This specification was created by the USB Implementers Forum in response to requests from laptop manufacturers for a connector that could deliver more power.
The USB Power Delivery chipset always delivers exactly the right amount of power. Whether it´s a smartphone or a laptop: the charger recognizes the connected device and negotiates the required power to charge it as quickly as possible. This negotiation ensures a quick charge without delivering too much power or damaging the devices circuits.
However, a word of caution. With high wattage numbers, special cables are also required which can transport particularly high currents, otherwise there is a risk of cable fire
PD 45W means that the power delivery is up to 15 volts at 3 amps.
The implication of all of this is that any USB battery pack that is specified for PD 45W or greater will be fine with the Nikon Z bodies that support USB charging.
Anker currently make a number of battery packs that are available on Amazon that support 45W or greater charging powers. As noted above, it is best to use the USB-C cable that comes with the battery pack.
I have the Anker Powercore +26,800 and note that it is very heavy. You may like to try a lighter version with, say, 10,000 mAh; this will still provide plenty of charge for the Z50II.
BTW the Z50II Technical Guide has now been published online. See page 92 for confirmation of the details of use of third party power banks for powering the Z50II or charging its battery.
I’m waiting to replace my D500 with the Z90 if and when it arrives. i think it will give me an advantage in taking bird pics over a full-frame camera. i won’t have to get as close or do so much cropping. When you compare image size, I think you’ll have as many MPs as a full frame-camera.
We shouldn’t hold our breath. This is Thom Hogan from over 2 years ago (he calls it a Z70):
www.zsystemuser.com/nikon…eeded.html
And here’s why we’re not getting a Z70/90 from this week:
www.zsystemuser.com/nikon…r-the.html
But a Z6III just doesn’t cut it. It’s no better than my D500/Z5 combo and it costs a lot more.
Seems logical but I think we will get one eventually. And the D500 can hold out for a few more years for those with low-ish shutter count models… :) Mine’s around 40K and still going…
I got the Zfc shortly after it came out because I already had the Df, and being old, I’m a sucker for a knob twirler. But I then realized that the Zfc has an additional advantage. Instead of carrying a 1.5x teleconverter, I can use the Zfc for the same effective function and not lose an f-stop. Granted, the depth of field is different, but meh… A bit larger size, yes, but again, meh… Ever watchful for a twofer, I love the DX format.
As to a crop-sensor “Z9”, I prefer smaller, lighter cameras. Again, I’m old. So my Z7ii/Zfc combo works perfectly for me.
I currently use a D500 and 200-500. i want to upgrade to a Z camera primarily to improve my bird/wildlife pics but i don’t want to go to a full-frame Z. if
Nikon finally comes out with the Z90 I’ll certainly buy one based on the rumored specs I see on the internet. Especially for birds i think a Z90 will have an
advantage over a full-frame Z. Considering all the hype I’m seeing about a Z90 i can’t believe it won’t come out. Come on Nikon, stop the hype and get on
with it.
I have the Z50 and like using it. I just have one complaint, as I am left handed, I look through the viewfinder with my left eye, and my nose touches the commands on the right side of the screen all the time, it’s annoying….
So just wondering if that would be a problem with the latest version, it doesn’t look like those commands are there any more…
– thanks for this review, it’s really useful.
No, you are left-eyed. Being right- or left-handed has nothing to do with which eye is the dominant
The Z50 II specs is quite an upgrade over the Z50 but at $910, it is uncomfortably close to the current $997 price for the Nikon Z5 which has a bigger sensor and IBIS.
The ergonomics of the Z50 II is a bit improved over the Z50 but still doesn’t come close to the D500. So despite the small improvement in frame rate and having pre-shoot burst mode capture, it doesn’t have enough to sway the D500 users. The video improvements in the Z50 II over the D500 may not matter much for most D500 wildlife shooters. The D500 advantage would include better ergonomics, a longer battery life, dual slot (one of which can take CFe or XQD card). Until the Z50 II gets even better EVF, D500 shooters would likely still prefer the D500 OVF, as well as the tilting rear LCD screen.
A Z6 III body, combined with a 40mp DX sensor would be the true replacement for the D500. At $2,000 to $2,200, it should sell well to the D500 holdouts as well as to other Z-mount owners as well.
If Nikon wants to up the ante even higher, a Z8 body with a 40mp sensor plus all the speed and buffer of the Z8 would surpass and be a substantial upgrade to the D500. Offered from $2,700 to $3,000 pricing, it should do quite well.
Fully agree :)
I’m a D500-type user but currently using Canon, waiting for Nikon to provide a capable DX mirrorless body. I could afford the Z8 which is a great camera, but it is too big and heavy for my taste, especially considering the need for bigger, heavier and pricier lenses for the same reach in wildlife/nature photography.
A Z6 III type body with 32-40 MP DX sensor (Z70?) might be acceptable to me, depending on the trade-off in noise, electronic shutter performance for fast action and framerate. But I would certainly prefer a mini-Z8 with DX sensor and hopefully reduced size and weight. $3000 would be a fair price for such a camera even if it cannot match the Z8 on every spec.
The main problem might be that there is insufficient demand for a “mini-Z8 sensor” to keep the cost significantly below Z8, making it more profitable for Nikon to force all users who need this performance to buy the Z8/9 (and possibly other future FX bodies). And while NIkon delays offering a performance DX body (plus a few performance DX lenses) the potential market for such a body keeps shrinking :(
The question that needs to be answered is. “Do any of these Nikon Dx cameras replace the D500? “
In a direct comparison, the Z50II is superior or equal to the D500 in just about anything except for battery life and the single card slot, making it a viable replacement for the D500.
In a relative comparison (i. e. comparing each camera to the contemporary flagships), the Z50II is clearly behind and there is no Nikon mirrorless APS-C body that replaces the D500.
So the answer to your question depends on how you look at it.