Nikon has unveiled the Z50 II, a successor to the Z50, tailored for young photography enthusiasts and influencers. This mid-range APS-C camera features a 20.9 MP CMOS sensor, enhanced autofocus, and advanced video capabilities, allowing 4K recording at 60 fps. Weighing 550 g, it boasts a compact design and improved electronic viewfinder. Set to launch on November 21, 2024, at €999, the Z50 II aims to attract both novice photographers and seasoned content creators with its blend of user-friendly features and cutting-edge technology.
Introducing the Nikon Z50 II: A New Era in Hybrid Photography
After five years of dedicated service, it’s time for the Nikon Z50 to make way for its successor, the Nikon Z50 II. This latest offering from the renowned Japanese manufacturer is specifically designed for “young users who are passionate about smartphone photography and eager to enhance their skills.” Additionally, this hybrid camera places a strong emphasis on video capabilities, targeting influencers who are accustomed to showcasing products. Nikon aims to entice DSLR users to transition to these compact, mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras that boast advanced features and a more streamlined design.
Performance and Features of the Z50 II
On paper, the Z50 II presents itself as a robust mid-range APS-C camera, still utilizing the Z mount, and is expected to excel in both photography and videography. It positions itself as a competitor against Sony’s ZV-E10 II and Canon’s R50. One of the standout upgrades is the inclusion of the EXPEED 7 image processing engine, which replaces the EXPEED 6 found in its predecessor, alongside a revamped sensor.
The Z50 II features a 20.9 MP CMOS sensor that has undergone significant enhancements. According to Nikon, the Auto Focus system now boasts subject detection capabilities comparable to the professional-grade Z8 and Z9 models, which retail at €4599 and €5999, respectively. Excitingly, the camera introduces new detection features for birds and airplanes—a promise we look forward to testing.
Moreover, automatic exposure has been refined, with improvements in sensitivity claimed to reduce noise, ensuring minimal degradation for low-light photography at elevated sensitivities.
To cater to content creators seeking a device for streaming and VLOG production, Nikon has significantly upgraded the video capabilities. Users can now film in 4K at an impressive 60 frames per second, a notable increase from the 30 fps limitation of the 2019 model. However, this does involve cropping, unlike the 30 fps recording option. The camera’s screen features a hinge that allows for a 180° rotation, perfect for selfies—a must-have for any content creator. Unfortunately, the absence of sensor stabilization remains a drawback.
Nikon has also enhanced the 2.36 MP OLED electronic viewfinder, which now protrudes less from the camera body while being twice as bright as that of the original Z50, achieving a brightness of 1000 cd/m2.
In terms of design, the Z50 II weighs in at 550 g, including the battery, making it relatively lightweight. During our brief hands-on experience, we appreciated its compact size and ergonomically positioned buttons that contribute to a comfortable grip. However, it is noticeably heavier than other APS-C hybrids like the Sony ZV-E10 II (292g) and Canon EOS R50 (375g).
The Nikon Z50 II is set to hit the market on November 21, 2024, with a price tag of €999, matching the original Z50’s launch price. This new model promises to deliver a blend of user-friendly features and advanced technology, making it an exciting option for both budding photographers and seasoned content creators alike.