Nikon Launches Z5II Full-Size Mirrorless Camera

Nikon has unveiled its latest full-size mirrorless camera, the Z5II, which promises to elevate photography standards for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Announced on April 3, 2025, the Z5II is the successor to the popular Z5, released in 2020, and aims to merge high performance with user-friendly features.

Photographer Ryuhiro Bessho had the opportunity to test the Z5II and interview its developers, gaining insights into the camera’s enhancements. The Z5II has been designed with feedback from Z5 users in mind, focusing on improving autofocus (AF) tracking for moving subjects and enhancing low-light performance.

According to Moena Sakurai, the project manager behind the Z5II, the camera was developed to be a reliable partner for photographers, regardless of their skill level. "We wanted to create a camera that users could grow with, one that wouldn’t leave them wanting as they advanced in their photography journey," she stated.

One of the standout features of the Z5II is its advanced autofocus system, which now allows continuous shooting at speeds up to approximately 14 frames per second, a significant increase from the Z5's 4.5 frames per second. This enhancement ensures that photographers can capture fleeting moments without missing a beat.

The Z5II also introduces robust image creation capabilities, supporting Nikon Imaging Cloud and featuring a new Picture Control button that makes it easier for users to experiment with different styles of image processing. This is particularly beneficial for beginners looking to develop their creative skills without getting overwhelmed.

Low-light photography has been a focal point in the Z5II’s development. With improved high-sensitivity performance, the camera allows for sharp, beautiful images even in dim conditions. Bessho expressed his amazement at how quickly the camera could recognize moving subjects, such as airplanes, and how well it performed during sunset shoots.

Another significant upgrade is the AI-powered subject detection, which is now capable of recognizing nine types of subjects, including people, dogs, cats, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, trains, and airplanes. This feature, borrowed from Nikon's flagship Z9 model, enhances the photographer's ability to focus on their subject, even in crowded scenes.

Yusuke Fujita, a member of the development team, emphasized that the combination of the EXPEED 7 image processing engine and the new back-illuminated CMOS sensor significantly boosts the camera's performance. The processing speed is ten times faster than the previous generation, allowing for complex AF algorithms and increased focus points.

Notably, the Z5II is constructed with a magnesium alloy body, enhancing its durability and weather resistance, making it suitable for various shooting environments. The camera's lightweight design, weighing approximately 700 grams, makes it ideal for travel and street photography.

The Z5II supports 4K video recording at 60p with cropping and 30p without cropping, catering to videographers as well. The addition of N-RAW and N-Log recording formats allows for greater flexibility in post-production, making the Z5II a versatile tool for both photographers and videographers.

As for pricing, the Z5II is positioned as an affordable option in the full-frame mirrorless market, with a body-only price set at 258,500 yen (approximately $1,900). Bundled kits with the NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens will retail for 299,200 yen, while a kit with the NIKKOR Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens will be available for 358,600 yen.

Sakurai noted that the Z5II aims to provide excellent value for photographers seeking high-quality performance without breaking the bank. "This camera captures the essence of what Nikon stands for, combining advanced technology with user-friendly features at a competitive price," she explained.

For those interested in purchasing the Z5II, reservations will open on April 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM. A limited-time promotion will also include a 128GB SD memory card with the purchase, encouraging early buyers to take advantage of this offer.

In summary, the Nikon Z5II represents a significant step forward in the evolution of mirrorless cameras, providing a blend of advanced features and accessibility for both novice and experienced photographers. With its impressive specifications and thoughtful design, the Z5II is poised to become a favorite among photography enthusiasts.