I'm beginning to think Nikon is just not that serious about the aps-c market. After seeing this long awaited release I don't think we'll ever see a pro Nikon crop body.
@@MegaTruck20 considering that FujiFilm has a crop sensor delivering 40MP, I would expect Nikon to do a bit better and release a pro APS-C Camera (as the Z50 II ain't it although is a nice little camera).
Great preview/review Matt! You're always my first stop on these things. Super stoked they kept the inbuilt flash --super handy for travel foodie shots-- and the floppy screen. What's not to love???!!! Oh, I'm sure the BIF Kids will complain, but they're never happy so who cares. Will be adding one of these once they become available for sure. G'Day!
Not the camera for me, but it appears to be a significant and much-needed upgrade from the Z50. I’m interested to see if Nikon will expand the product mode feature to other cameras or if they plan to differentiate models further by reserving certain firmware functionalities for specific cameras. As always, thanks for your efforts.
Body only it's $1249 CDN in Canada, that's pretty good actually. Nice to see the uniformity of button placement on all the new Z bodies. Wish they'd put that tally light on the Z6III.
I wish they would software update the custom controls on the z6 Z6ii etc so we can swap the preview and the shoot mode buttons to match the newer cameras.
Already sold my Z50 and preordered the Z50II 2 lens kit. Great for travel and just walk-around. Since my Z 6 III does not have Bird Detection, yet, I can use it for birds.
@@romainplagnol882 I’m guessing the z7iii is next then the z90 this time next year. Frankly though I have a Z8 and it’s everything I need for action and birding. I recently picked up a s/h Z6ii for about the price of this new z50ii as I wanted a smaller body as an everything else camera. I might well have been swayed by this had it been available
Thanks for the details!! It has some very interesting upgrades. AF performance just got waaaay better. Only thing missing is IBIS for those beautiful Z mount primes.
The D500 is highly regarded for a reason. Nikon states in their Z50II press release "Adoption of the same EXPEED 7 image-processing engine used by our flagship camera, the Nikon Z9, realizes subject-detection and superior AF performance on a par with that of the Z9" www.nikon.com/company/news/2024/1107_imaging_01.html
I use D500 exclusively for bird shooting. This eye-focus following sold me. Just ordered a Z50 II. After a wile I may sell my D500 gear, and replace all with Z-mount (same goes for my D700).
Long time Nikon shooter (since D-80 times). Currently a bunch of lenses and a D700 and D500. Decided to jump into the Z waters (finally!), and ordered a Z50 II and Nikon Z 18-140mm DX as I needed something lighter to walk about in cities (last trip used D700 with 24-70 f2/2.8 and at my age it's getting too heavy to carry for hours). If I like this combo (and seeing the intro videos I know I will), I may get a longer lens to replace my 600mm for birding, and move entirely to Z-mount, selling all the old gear. Thanks for posting this excellent video. Subscribed!
This actually has some features I wasn't expecting. I like the button on the top to change the picture profile. It would be nice if all Z bodies would let you assign a function button with a selection of profiles you could toggle through without having to go into the menu. This could be the replacement for the d500 but i can't help but think it's not. I still think they may come out with one with a semi stacked sensor similar to the z6 III with up to 30 fps in raw. The could even use the z6 III body to save money. It should have similar specs as the z8 but in crop sensor. No extra crop in video. Maybe a larger battery like the EL-15. I agree with you on the mp. 21 mp will give a cleaner image in low light.
This is fantastic! The Nikon webcam utility software maxes out around 10 to 15 frames per second, which I’ve never quite understood. Honestly, the biggest benefit for me is that it can work as a webcam without any fuss. Since I work from home and spend a lot of time on video calls, I currently use the Z30 as my webcam, connected through an HDMI capture card, and it works very well. But I've been considering getting a dedicated camera to keep at my desk just for video calls. This might be exactly what I need
I will keep waiting for a Z30 II or a true video centric camera that competes with the A6000 series, with IBIS. I love the Z30 for what it is, but handheld video is just not good.
Holy moly! Expeed 7! Yikes! Couple years ago you turned us onto a bit of software that could edit the photo file to change what the camera model was so Capture One could open the RAW files. I bet that would work here. I use my Z50 as my walking the dog camera. Nice and light. Switched from the kit zoom 500-250 to the 24-200 (I like a wider angle a lot) - perfect combo. But she can be slow. I think this will be a great addition (and I really don't need another camera.....).
I think it‘s a shame that there is no IBIS in it. The competition have it. And there are a lot of third party lenses without image stabilisation. In my opinion this is not a flagship DX camera. It‘s nice, but I have expected a little bit more.
Canon R10 normal price is $979 USD (sale right now at $879) It has no IBIS. The Nikon Z50II is between these two prices. The Canon has no IBIS. Which competition are you thinking of?
@@MattIrwinPhotography the Canon R7 as canon’s flagship aps-c camera for sure have IBIS. The Sony alpha 6700 have it too. And the Fuji and Panasonic flagship crop sensor cameras have IBIS too. In my opinion the Z50 II can not be the new D500. Because the D500 was a pro grade camera, build like a tank with all the technics Nikon have had this time. The Z50 II do not sound like pro grade. But that‘s only what I think and feel about this camera. Sorry about my english. I hope it‘s understandable.
@frankelbefotografie I understand. And I never said for all people. And I never said anything about this being a flagship APS-C. Its price clearly shows us where it sits. And I think it could be perfectly feasible that casual enthusiasts, which I suspect is a large subset of birders, could get a lot of pleasure from this device at an affordable price.
@@MattIrwinPhotographydon‘t unterstand me wrong. I‘m not mad at you. It‘s only talking about a new Camera, personal expectations and thoughts. Internet is so toxic sometimes. 🙂
Hi Matt, excellent information on the new Z50II. As an hobbyist photographer and owner of the Z50 with both kit lenses (great travel camera); I am not sure at this point if I am going to upgrade to the new Z50II. The addition of EXpeed 7 processor, improved AF, the color profile and USB-C (for charging) are great upgrades to the Z50. But I think Nikon made a mistake by not adding IBIS, higher megapixel sensor and a larger battery. The Z50 battery life is awful, so I suspect the battery life on the Z50II may be the same or possibly worse, because of the new processor and improved EVF brightness. I always have to carry multiple batteries while out shooting. I guess you can bring a Power bank instead of extra batteries. Looking forward to your full review on the Z50II.
i used Nikon zfc as street photography, i faced missing the Camera VR (night street photography). i changed camera for street to OM System OM-5 no need to carry Tripod ... (and ND Filters)
Hi Matt, long time no see, nice BIG little camera with all the impressive features, I should get one that I don't have Z50 for a long time, if I do get this camera it will be my fifth Z cameras (Z6,Zfc,Z30,Z5 will add Z50II). Keep making YT more and see you later.
Great video as always Matt. As someone who started out on mirrorless systems with a Z50 I wanted to ask a few questions that you might want to address at your next video. First is the viewfinder bigger or just brighter? Second for the SD card is it in the same place as the older Z50 next to the battery? And finally do you know or have they hinted will this camera come with a accessory battery gripped to give it the ability for vertical shooting? I've done red carpet Hollywood Events with my Z50 I've put that little beginner camera through the ringer and I love it. Just want to see if the improvements are worth it. Once again thank you for your in-depth report I can't wait to see the field report on the camera from you. Thanks
Hey Jordy, sorry I don't have the camera any more, but I think viewfinder is the same size, SD card is in the battery slot, I don't believe there will be a grip.
Would you recommend getting this and, say, a Z6 II or Z7 II, or just a Z8? I'm asking because this has Expeed 7, and a crop factor, both of which are great for wildlife, and the Z6/7 II are cheap on the used market, and could potentially do everything else(?) Also wondering from a user experience POV, whether switching between those cameras would be better or worse than just having the single Z8 camera. And of course, if the IBIS in the Z8 adds anything for this type of use (with say the Tamron 50-400mm).
Took them long enough but it's a pretty good upgrade, I'll definitely use this, i missed the flip out screen in my d5300 last time out, nice to see it return.
Thanks for your review of the Z50ii. Now i have shifted my focus from the Z30 to the Z50ii.All my needs and more will be satisfied including the built in flash. Thanks so much..
What is the webcam native resolution for this Z50 II camera (1920x1080) or 4K (3840x2160)? In the past many digital cameras only supported UVC native webcam with a very low resolution. This is important to anyone wanting to use this camera as a webcam. Thanks!
Thank you Sir. Great video as always. Yes, equally disappointed that it doesn't have IBIS. How about focus shift, did Nikon finally add it to the only body which lacked it ? A video showing a comparison between VR lenses and IBIS on the Z50 II would be very interesting to many I think. Definitely looking forward to photographic test with the new little guy. Do you expect the Xpeed 7 to enhance final picture quality and sensor performance(thru an improve processing) ?
This is a first look video, with a pre-production camera, I don't have the camera anymore, I may get to borrow one down the track, I will keep you posted. :)
Hi Matt! Been a while - glad to see you seem well! The Z50 II seems to be a very good upgrade from the original and should be competent enough for the budget wildlife enthusiast to get the shots that the D500 used to get for them, but at about 40% of the cost so that seem to be a huge win. Especially when you consider all the amazing lenses that this camera can mount as compared to a D500, and the animal/bird/3D tracking options and even 1 FPS more than the D500 - seems like in every way this surpasses the D500. Hopefully all the APSC people are now happy with this powerful yet inexpensive option. -PD
Nice points! I have the Z50 and really love the Z12-24mm PZ VR as a walk about lens. Combining the Z12-24 with my Z24-200 gives awesome coverage and VR on both. I'd recommend that 2 lens combo over the 16-50 and 50--250. (BTW, I also own the Z6ii and Z8. So the Z50 is my walk about. I sometimes put the 26mm pancake on it. What a small / light combo that makes!)
I currently use a Z6 iii as my main camera when I am going out specifically to shoot, but I have a used Z50 that I’m not afraid to toss in a pocket with its tiny kit lens and carry anywhere just in case. I also use it in good light with long lenses to get free crop / zoom. Once the Z50 ii has been out for a bit and becomes reasonable on the used market it’s a no-brainer upgrade.
Well, I was expecting IBIS. While all the updates are very welcome, IBIS will be missed. Not so keen about the flippy screen too. This camera is clearly for vlogers now. I really think Nikon can compete with Fuji in APS-C space and they forgot APS-C users a little bit (poor selection of DX lense options). But there is a growing segment of APS-C lenses from 3rd party manufacturers, many of them are manual focus and not stabilised. So IBIS would be cool to have (some Fuji models have it). Some old F mount lenses work pretty good, but they are screaming for an upgrade. I think it's time and momentum for a Nikon to UP their APS-C game. Small RAW video + IBIS camera would be so cool! I was expecting Z50II to be it, but it's clearly not. So far I would say - only neccesery udates were made, not the desired ones. I guess we'll have to wait for another few years. We need a pro level APS-C camera, Nikon!
Did Nikon used that old D500 sensor for this new Z50II? Perhaps its a tweak sensor? I dunno? but..when you have that Expeed 7 in there, then things should be blazing quick.
Hallo Matt, ich liebe deine Videos, auch diesen Test der Z50II, sehr gut und informativ. Etwas mehr Pixel oder IBIS wären schön, aber stören mich nicht wirklich. Alles andere was ich mir gewünscht habe für die neue Z50II, ist von Nikon geliefert worden. Deutlich besserer AF, besserer Sucher, praktischer Monitor, Cloud... Ich habe die Z50 in Gebrauch und tatsächlich 70% der Zeit das 18-140mm drauf 😄 Freue mich schon auf die neue Kamera...die neue Z50II ist schon bestellt. Grüße aus Deutschland nach Down Under🖖
I still have a D200 for niche portraits & I really liked the D7100 & D7200, but these days I I shoot full frame cameras. However, this Z50ii thing looks really nice. I will be very interested to see how it performs in low light when people start buying them and testing them..
I have D7500 with 12-28mm, 18-140mm, 20mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 70-300mm lenses. Same sensor, never shoot video. Main differences for me weight, bulk and live view totally sucks compared to mirrorless. I still have my camera set to single shot. Still can't justify the change as a LONG TIME serious enthusiast. I also have an IR converted D5300 and my original D70s
@@muturikanini9176 First, my is a DSLR DX lens, third party, twice as big the Zens. But I like the range, 12mm good enough, and I like the ability to zoom in to 28 (42mm FF). I've used it for cityscapes
Sounds like you have a great kit with D7500 and all those lenses. I have the D7500 but not so many lenses. 18-140mm is my main lens for D7500 and that is pretty good. Cheers
Thanks Matt, a great summary. thanks! I'm lucky enough to have a D500 and a Zfc, otherwise this would be tempting...(yes the Zfc is favourite day to day)
Hello Matt. Like you I think this is an amazing entry mirrorless camera packed with all sorts of goodies. Not seen one yet so as to a D500 replacement not able to say, Yes it has lots of think, but the D500 was a pro level camera in all but name strong and wether resistant, and by all accounts could handle some quit heavy uses. Not sure if this Z50ii would be up to that sort of uses? If it could then I could see the market for this camera been much wider.
I understand your argument, but I think Nikon messed up by not going IBIS in this camera. Even smaller fujifilm bodies have it so size isn’t an excuse. I don’t mind the 20mp of the old Z50. I used to own that and I gave my zfc to my wife so don’t mind that too much. If it had IBIS I might have sold my fujifilm cameras for this to go with my Zf for when I want a lighter body. I also wish this model kept the old screen, but used to it on my Zf, fuji X-H2S, and Canon r7. IBIS really is the only deal breaker for me.
You cant please everybody. All the megapixel obsessives will be freaking out. Looks like a great camera. Maybe people might buy this and actually get out and take some images with it.
I like it!! I like the built in flash for event photography and times when I haven't planned on using flash, it is there. I used to use a nikon sb400 flash, its small, the head rotates and it runs on 2 AAA batteries and did I say its small? The last camera I had with built in flash was an 810. I like this Z50II.
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have a Z8 which I absolutely love but it is rather heavy and bulky sometimes. I did start out on mirrorless some years ago with the Z50 which was so nice and easy to carry around and tuck into a bag. I was hoping for a DX camera that would allow me to crop, use long lenses for wildlife, and to do some street work but this is another product designed for video bloggers. Oh well, we're getting used to disappointments these days!
Matt I see a significant and timely upgrade for the Z50. Perhaps it can satisfy some current D500 users but not all. The D100, D200, D300, D500 could be seen as DX crop professional cameras, with the control and build to be considered “pocket” D3s D4s and D5s. This still isn’t that.
I don’t think the non-S DX lenses Nikon makes would be able to provide enough detail to warrant more than 20mp resolution APSC sensor. I’m tempted. I have the original Z50 and a Z5, and this is the first Expeed 7 body I can afford.
I have been a fan of Nikon until have the Sony a7Riii. I was expecting more updates in Z50ii. But it is a very old sensor & without IBIS 👎. There are nothing improvement in dynamic range
No Nikon , update sensor , but no ibis come on , it's the people who purchase this that get frustrated with blurry pictures at lower speeds as more experienced photographer can adjust for it
All those glorious details on video capabilities, even noting the max length of recording, and you never addressed battery life -or- if the camera actually supports powering the device via USB-C? (I have to assume the answer is yes)
Two important points indeed. At least it now has a USBC port, the original one was a drag and was very fragile. Reading up on it I saw that it uses a new type of battery, hopefully giving a better autonomy. Perhaps just to compensate for the more power hungry Xpeed 7. They say the use of the USB power connection is " recommended". Perhaps that confirms that it can be charged while in use ?
If Nikon does not realise that there are pro togs out here that love APSC! Please Nikon release a PRO APSC BODY with IBIS. I dont want full frame to crop later. I want it straight out of camera. Right Now I use my Z 50 with 180600 but as a dslr focus type way. the tracking it not up to snuff for Birds in Flight.
Where is the image stabilization (IBIS)? Where is the speed booster? Any APS-C camera should come with a speed booster included! Where is the sensor with pixel binning for very low noise at night, like the Sony ZV-E1, which is smaller and lighter, although full frame with IBIS? When is Nikon going to wake up?
Pretty much guaranteed I won’t be purchasing it by selling it with a lens I already own, that really annoys me since I kept the lens so I could buy a newer small apsc camera, I guess it is time to trade the lens in since I won’t be purchasing the camera.
Fantastic video. Less fantastic camera. I can't help but feel a bit disappointed about the lack of IBIS and the inevitably poor-ish battery life we'll get out of the EN-EL25 battery type. As such, for a light-weight landscape kit, I suspect it won't bring any noticable improvements over the older Z50 as the autofocus is already good enough for that in the older camera. The lack of IBIS wouldn't be a big deal if Nikon had more lenses with built in VR, but they don't. Most full frame lenses don't have it. And there are only 5 DX lenses, none of which feel as well built as the camera body itself. For example, assume that Sigma releases their lovely APSC zooms for Nikon (the 10-18, 18-50 f2.8s). Those don't have VR. Oof. I wonder how long we'll have to wait before Nikon launches a more capable APSC camera, if at all. Edit: The physical zoom buttons is a big upgrade, I have to say. Having to take my gloves of during winter to zoom in/out or hit the DISP button sucks, especially when the temperatures drop below -30.
Thank you Nikon for finally bringing in an APS-C camera which (specs wise atleast) seems to be at par with the standard across the industry. Bringing in Bird Eye Detect, Pre-Release capture and better low light performance I believe are game changing at the APS-C end. I also appreciate Nikon for being more considerate towards enthusiasts like me who don't always have the time to sit and post process all the pics. I often find that the colour rendition on smart phones is often better than what I get straight out of the camera. More picture profiles, custom picture profiles for direct loading and a DEDICATED button to set the picture profile are great additions. I hope that the SDR vs HDR tone settings are applicable even to still images and not just video. I would love to be able to view high res stills with a wider dynamic range and colour gamut that screens in my daily life are increasingly capable of displaying but are limited by availability of images captured with the relevant information not being lost. Hi-res electronic zoom in video is also a useful feature. I think it might even be possible to implement it in 4K video. Of course the video then can't be downsampled from a 5.6k capture - but having that option can allow us to weigh the pros and cons while making that decision. I think a firmware upgrade might be able to fix that? I still feel that there should have probably been a BSI sensor for a further bump in the low light performance. I agree with Matt that IBIS may not be necessary considering the target audience. However, it would have been nice to have. On the other hand, it might have made the camera more bulky. For someone like me looking for a good camera which is compact for travelling and yet is a bit of an all-rounder in terms of wildlife, street and basic portrait photography, I think this camera checks all the boxes.
This will be the next body I get. Looks awesome. Thanks for helping me spend money Matt 😂
Long live the D500 sensor! Now Nikon, can we have a new flagship DX with 24mp now? Bird and wildlife photographers are just asking.
even higher than 24mp, considering that FujiFilm has gone up to 40... say at least 33MP?
I'm beginning to think Nikon is just not that serious about the aps-c market. After seeing this long awaited release I don't think we'll ever see a pro Nikon crop body.
Still pondering which way to go - question, why is no one talking about the D6 as an upgrade..? ( since all lenses fit..)
@@MegaTruck20 considering that FujiFilm has a crop sensor delivering 40MP, I would expect Nikon to do a bit better and release a pro APS-C Camera (as the Z50 II ain't it although is a nice little camera).
Ahh. Megapixel obsessives. Maybe just get outside and shoot. Remember the D700 etc.
Great preview/review Matt! You're always my first stop on these things. Super stoked they kept the inbuilt flash --super handy for travel foodie shots-- and the floppy screen. What's not to love???!!! Oh, I'm sure the BIF Kids will complain, but they're never happy so who cares. Will be adding one of these once they become available for sure. G'Day!
Dissapointed about not having IBIS, once your transition from hobby to work it's a huge thing -> the main reason I sold my z50
Na I dont care, what I miss most for weddings is a second card slot. Unacceptable unfortunately.
Not the camera for me, but it appears to be a significant and much-needed upgrade from the Z50. I’m interested to see if Nikon will expand the product mode feature to other cameras or if they plan to differentiate models further by reserving certain firmware functionalities for specific cameras. As always, thanks for your efforts.
Body only it's $1249 CDN in Canada, that's pretty good actually. Nice to see the uniformity of button placement on all the new Z bodies. Wish they'd put that tally light on the Z6III.
I wish they would software update the custom controls on the z6 Z6ii etc so we can swap the preview and the shoot mode buttons to match the newer cameras.
Very very exciting. May take the place of my z30 for b and c roll. Great review Matt as per usual. Best on the interwebs.
Cheers Joe
Love your videos. Hello from BRAZIL!
It’s a sure fire winner.
First! What a great move on Nikon's part. This is definitely tempting as a webcam. Thanks, Matt!
All over it Raymond!
Already sold my Z50 and preordered the Z50II 2 lens kit. Great for travel and just walk-around. Since my Z 6 III does not have Bird Detection, yet, I can use it for birds.
Well done Nikon and thanks for the great video update Matt !!!
I am actually happy that Nikon keeps APS-C at 20 mp
I agree. This is also a very good sensor given its age. I say that as a photo maker. Video users may have a different opinion since it is a bit slow.
It’s at a perfect place. Priced and spec’d right. Thus leaving room for a Z90 which is the true D500 replacement.
The question is WHEN???
@@romainplagnol882 I’m guessing the z7iii is next then the z90 this time next year. Frankly though I have a Z8 and it’s everything I need for action and birding. I recently picked up a s/h Z6ii for about the price of this new z50ii as I wanted a smaller body as an everything else camera. I might well have been swayed by this had it been available
Thanks for the details!! It has some very interesting upgrades. AF performance just got waaaay better. Only thing missing is IBIS for those beautiful Z mount primes.
I'd imagine that if you had a D500, you'd be amazed by the 'detect' type autofocus settings for birds and wildlife.
The D500 is highly regarded for a reason. Nikon states in their Z50II press release
"Adoption of the same EXPEED 7 image-processing engine used by our flagship camera, the Nikon Z9, realizes subject-detection and superior AF performance on a par with that of the Z9"
www.nikon.com/company/news/2024/1107_imaging_01.html
I use D500 exclusively for bird shooting. This eye-focus following sold me. Just ordered a Z50 II. After a wile I may sell my D500 gear, and replace all with Z-mount (same goes for my D700).
Nice! Glad they gave you one!👍🏾
Always great and informative videos.
Hi Matt, does the camera have focus shift? Can't find information on this yet.
Unfortunately I don’t have it anymore. Being Expeed7 I think it would. Let me see if I can find out. 😀
Offical answer is yes.
@@MattIrwinPhotography Awesome! Thank you very much Matt!
Nikon UK, in the specification list, are showing that the camera does have focus-shift for still photography.
Long time Nikon shooter (since D-80 times). Currently a bunch of lenses and a D700 and D500. Decided to jump into the Z waters (finally!), and ordered a Z50 II and Nikon Z 18-140mm DX as I needed something lighter to walk about in cities (last trip used D700 with 24-70 f2/2.8 and at my age it's getting too heavy to carry for hours). If I like this combo (and seeing the intro videos I know I will), I may get a longer lens to replace my 600mm for birding, and move entirely to Z-mount, selling all the old gear. Thanks for posting this excellent video. Subscribed!
This actually has some features I wasn't expecting. I like the button on the top to change the picture profile. It would be nice if all Z bodies would let you assign a function button with a selection of profiles you could toggle through without having to go into the menu. This could be the replacement for the d500 but i can't help but think it's not. I still think they may come out with one with a semi stacked sensor similar to the z6 III with up to 30 fps in raw. The could even use the z6 III body to save money. It should have similar specs as the z8 but in crop sensor. No extra crop in video. Maybe a larger battery like the EL-15. I agree with you on the mp. 21 mp will give a cleaner image in low light.
I've reprogrammed my video record button on my z6 to change picture control, so it is possible.
Looks like an impressive camera. Glad Nikon did it. Thanks for the informative first look.
Firstly 🎉 on all the other pages
This is fantastic! The Nikon webcam utility software maxes out around 10 to 15 frames per second, which I’ve never quite understood. Honestly, the biggest benefit for me is that it can work as a webcam without any fuss. Since I work from home and spend a lot of time on video calls, I currently use the Z30 as my webcam, connected through an HDMI capture card, and it works very well. But I've been considering getting a dedicated camera to keep at my desk just for video calls. This might be exactly what I need
I will keep waiting for a Z30 II or a true video centric camera that competes with the A6000 series, with IBIS. I love the Z30 for what it is, but handheld video is just not good.
Why does this have bird as an option and other ones like the Z6iii only the animal as a option … hoping on firmware update on other models.
Holy moly! Expeed 7! Yikes! Couple years ago you turned us onto a bit of software that could edit the photo file to change what the camera model was so Capture One could open the RAW files. I bet that would work here.
I use my Z50 as my walking the dog camera. Nice and light. Switched from the kit zoom 500-250 to the 24-200 (I like a wider angle a lot) - perfect combo. But she can be slow. I think this will be a great addition (and I really don't need another camera.....).
I think it‘s a shame that there is no IBIS in it. The competition have it. And there are a lot of third party lenses without image stabilisation. In my opinion this is not a flagship DX camera. It‘s nice, but I have expected a little bit more.
Canon R10 normal price is $979 USD (sale right now at $879) It has no IBIS. The Nikon Z50II is between these two prices. The Canon has no IBIS. Which competition are you thinking of?
@@MattIrwinPhotography the Canon R7 as canon’s flagship aps-c camera for sure have IBIS. The Sony alpha 6700 have it too. And the Fuji and Panasonic flagship crop sensor cameras have IBIS too.
In my opinion the Z50 II can not be the new D500. Because the D500 was a pro grade camera, build like a tank with all the technics Nikon have had this time. The Z50 II do not sound like pro grade. But that‘s only what I think and feel about this camera.
Sorry about my english. I hope it‘s understandable.
@frankelbefotografie I understand. And I never said for all people. And I never said anything about this being a flagship APS-C. Its price clearly shows us where it sits. And I think it could be perfectly feasible that casual enthusiasts, which I suspect is a large subset of birders, could get a lot of pleasure from this device at an affordable price.
@@MattIrwinPhotographydon‘t unterstand me wrong. I‘m not mad at you. It‘s only talking about a new Camera, personal expectations and thoughts. Internet is so toxic sometimes. 🙂
how does this compre against Canon R7? Appreciate your thoughts.
Finally 10 bits on a cheap z mount camera! Unlimited recording too!
Yes 2 hours and 5 mins of video recording feels like unlimited :)
Can i use my fx lens from my D4 with the z50ii?
Its very very nice upgrade
Hi Matt, excellent information on the new Z50II. As an hobbyist photographer and owner of the Z50 with both kit lenses (great travel camera); I am not sure at this point if I am going to upgrade to the new Z50II. The addition of EXpeed 7 processor, improved AF, the color profile and USB-C (for charging) are great upgrades to the Z50. But I think Nikon made a mistake by not adding IBIS, higher megapixel sensor and a larger battery. The Z50 battery life is awful, so I suspect the battery life on the Z50II may be the same or possibly worse, because of the new processor and improved EVF brightness. I always have to carry multiple batteries while out shooting. I guess you can bring a Power bank instead of extra batteries. Looking forward to your full review on the Z50II.
i used Nikon zfc as street photography, i faced missing the Camera VR (night street photography). i changed camera for street to OM System OM-5 no need to carry Tripod ... (and ND Filters)
What limitations would one possibly face when using this for photojournalism?
It looks sufficient considering phones are now obitiqous in news events
Lack of IBIS and inadequate sensor size are definitely dampeners. Can we use F Mount lenses using FTZ adapters ??
A excellent review right on release.
Cheers, yes FTZ works, you can see in this video an image of the 400mm f/2.8 from a decade or so ago attached to the Z50II.
Hi Matt, long time no see, nice BIG little camera with all the impressive features, I should get one that I don't have Z50 for a long time, if I do get this camera it will be my fifth Z cameras (Z6,Zfc,Z30,Z5 will add Z50II). Keep making YT more and see you later.
Great video as always Matt. As someone who started out on mirrorless systems with a Z50 I wanted to ask a few questions that you might want to address at your next video. First is the viewfinder bigger or just brighter?
Second for the SD card is it in the same place as the older Z50 next to the battery?
And finally do you know or have they hinted will this camera come with a accessory battery gripped to give it the ability for vertical shooting?
I've done red carpet Hollywood Events with my Z50 I've put that little beginner camera through the ringer and I love it.
Just want to see if the improvements are worth it. Once again thank you for your in-depth report I can't wait to see the field report on the camera from you. Thanks
Hey Jordy, sorry I don't have the camera any more, but I think viewfinder is the same size, SD card is in the battery slot, I don't believe there will be a grip.
Nice camera, but we're still waiting for the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S 😞
Would you recommend getting this and, say, a Z6 II or Z7 II, or just a Z8? I'm asking because this has Expeed 7, and a crop factor, both of which are great for wildlife, and the Z6/7 II are cheap on the used market, and could potentially do everything else(?)
Also wondering from a user experience POV, whether switching between those cameras would be better or worse than just having the single Z8 camera. And of course, if the IBIS in the Z8 adds anything for this type of use (with say the Tamron 50-400mm).
Took them long enough but it's a pretty good upgrade, I'll definitely use this, i missed the flip out screen in my d5300 last time out, nice to see it return.
Thanks for your review of the Z50ii. Now i have shifted my focus from the Z30 to the Z50ii.All my needs and more will be satisfied including the built in flash. Thanks so much..
What is the webcam native resolution for this Z50 II camera (1920x1080) or 4K (3840x2160)? In the past many digital cameras only supported UVC native webcam with a very low resolution. This is important to anyone wanting to use this camera as a webcam. Thanks!
Does it have bird eye tracking like the Z8 ?
Thank you Sir. Great video as always. Yes, equally disappointed that it doesn't have IBIS. How about focus shift, did Nikon finally add it to the only body which lacked it ? A video showing a comparison between VR lenses and IBIS on the Z50 II would be very interesting to many I think. Definitely looking forward to photographic test with the new little guy. Do you expect the Xpeed 7 to enhance final picture quality and sensor performance(thru an improve processing) ?
This is a first look video, with a pre-production camera, I don't have the camera anymore, I may get to borrow one down the track, I will keep you posted. :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography Thank you, much appreciated. Kind regards.
Thanks for sharing Matt.
Hi Matt! Been a while - glad to see you seem well!
The Z50 II seems to be a very good upgrade from the original and should be competent enough for the budget wildlife enthusiast to get the shots that the D500 used to get for them, but at about 40% of the cost so that seem to be a huge win. Especially when you consider all the amazing lenses that this camera can mount as compared to a D500, and the animal/bird/3D tracking options and even 1 FPS more than the D500 - seems like in every way this surpasses the D500. Hopefully all the APSC people are now happy with this powerful yet inexpensive option.
-PD
Nice points! I have the Z50 and really love the Z12-24mm PZ VR as a walk about lens. Combining the Z12-24 with my Z24-200 gives awesome coverage and VR on both. I'd recommend that 2 lens combo over the 16-50 and 50--250. (BTW, I also own the Z6ii and Z8. So the Z50 is my walk about. I sometimes put the 26mm pancake on it. What a small / light combo that makes!)
I currently use a Z6 iii as my main camera when I am going out specifically to shoot, but I have a used Z50 that I’m not afraid to toss in a pocket with its tiny kit lens and carry anywhere just in case. I also use it in good light with long lenses to get free crop / zoom. Once the Z50 ii has been out for a bit and becomes reasonable on the used market it’s a no-brainer upgrade.
How much crop in 4k 60????
Well, I was expecting IBIS. While all the updates are very welcome, IBIS will be missed. Not so keen about the flippy screen too. This camera is clearly for vlogers now. I really think Nikon can compete with Fuji in APS-C space and they forgot APS-C users a little bit (poor selection of DX lense options). But there is a growing segment of APS-C lenses from 3rd party manufacturers, many of them are manual focus and not stabilised. So IBIS would be cool to have (some Fuji models have it). Some old F mount lenses work pretty good, but they are screaming for an upgrade. I think it's time and momentum for a Nikon to UP their APS-C game. Small RAW video + IBIS camera would be so cool! I was expecting Z50II to be it, but it's clearly not. So far I would say - only neccesery udates were made, not the desired ones. I guess we'll have to wait for another few years. We need a pro level APS-C camera, Nikon!
Oh, and where is the stacked sensor?
Why can't they put a 10fps electronic(silent) raw release mode? So you don't spook your wildlife subjects when needed?
can you test if the camera will record at least 4k30 without overheating?
Sadly I don't have the camera anymore, if possible I might get it back, how long and what temperature would you be recording at typically?
Did Nikon used that old D500 sensor for this new Z50II? Perhaps its a tweak sensor? I dunno? but..when you have that Expeed 7 in there, then things should be blazing quick.
Utterly fantastic. Take my money!!!
Does the new battery, type EN-EL25a, extends the autonomy or just merely compensates for the more power hungry Expeed processor ?
Hallo Matt, ich liebe deine Videos, auch diesen Test der Z50II, sehr gut und informativ. Etwas mehr Pixel oder IBIS wären schön, aber stören mich nicht wirklich. Alles andere was ich mir gewünscht habe für die neue Z50II, ist von Nikon geliefert worden. Deutlich besserer AF, besserer Sucher, praktischer Monitor, Cloud...
Ich habe die Z50 in Gebrauch und tatsächlich 70% der Zeit das 18-140mm drauf 😄
Freue mich schon auf die neue Kamera...die neue Z50II ist schon bestellt.
Grüße aus Deutschland nach Down Under🖖
I still have a D200 for niche portraits & I really liked the D7100 & D7200, but these days I I shoot full frame cameras. However, this Z50ii thing looks really nice. I will be very interested to see how it performs in low light when people start buying them and testing them..
No IBIS. Big miss with that. Big miss.
Booh Nikon!
I have D7500 with 12-28mm, 18-140mm, 20mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 70-300mm lenses. Same sensor, never shoot video. Main differences for me weight, bulk and live view totally sucks compared to mirrorless. I still have my camera set to single shot. Still can't justify the change as a LONG TIME serious enthusiast. I also have an IR converted D5300 and my original D70s
Tell me more about the 12-28 ,i am contemplating an autofocus lens that would pair the 50ii for city scapes
@@muturikanini9176 First, my is a DSLR DX lens, third party, twice as big the Zens. But I like the range, 12mm good enough, and I like the ability to zoom in to 28 (42mm FF). I've used it for cityscapes
Sounds like you have a great kit with D7500 and all those lenses. I have the D7500 but not so many lenses. 18-140mm is my main lens for D7500 and that is pretty good. Cheers
Thanks Matt, a great summary. thanks! I'm lucky enough to have a D500 and a Zfc, otherwise this would be tempting...(yes the Zfc is favourite day to day)
The Zfc and Z30 hopefully will get the Expeed 7 treatment next year.
The Expeed 7 focusing modes blow the D500 out of the water. I still have my D500 and my Z8, Z6iii and Z6ii
Sweet. Looks like a nice upgrade.
Hello Matt. Like you I think this is an amazing entry mirrorless camera packed with all sorts of goodies. Not seen one yet so as to a D500 replacement not able to say, Yes it has lots of think, but the D500 was a pro level camera in all but name strong and wether resistant, and by all accounts could handle some quit heavy uses. Not sure if this Z50ii would be up to that sort of uses? If it could then I could see the market for this camera been much wider.
Great review. I have a noob question, how do you record video menús from the camera?
Cheers - ATOMOS Ninja via HDMI - I believe not all brands of camera allow you to do this
@ thanks I have a z6ii, any guide where the menu to this hdmi output option could be to select it.
a tiny little jewel, Matt... very nice camera
I understand your argument, but I think Nikon messed up by not going IBIS in this camera. Even smaller fujifilm bodies have it so size isn’t an excuse. I don’t mind the 20mp of the old Z50. I used to own that and I gave my zfc to my wife so don’t mind that too much. If it had IBIS I might have sold my fujifilm cameras for this to go with my Zf for when I want a lighter body. I also wish this model kept the old screen, but used to it on my Zf, fuji X-H2S, and Canon r7. IBIS really is the only deal breaker for me.
I understand, and by looking at the Canon R10, it is priced closer to that level than the R7 in USD
This is great for wildlife and macro! Awesome stuff! Ticks all the boxes, flippyscreen is also nice!
You cant please everybody. All the megapixel obsessives will be freaking out. Looks like a great camera. Maybe people might buy this and actually get out and take some images with it.
How about SRP?
What country are you in?
@MattIrwinPhotography Philippines. 👍♥️
I like it!! I like the built in flash for event photography and times when I haven't planned on using flash, it is there. I used to use a nikon sb400 flash, its small, the head rotates and it runs on 2 AAA batteries and did I say its small? The last camera I had with built in flash was an 810. I like this Z50II.
No IBIS and still the 20mp sensor. Rather disappointing is my verdict.
What camera are you shooting on today Charlie? :)
@@MattIrwinPhotography I have a Z8 which I absolutely love but it is rather heavy and bulky sometimes. I did start out on mirrorless some years ago with the Z50 which was so nice and easy to carry around and tuck into a bag. I was hoping for a DX camera that would allow me to crop, use long lenses for wildlife, and to do some street work but this is another product designed for video bloggers. Oh well, we're getting used to disappointments these days!
It is just perfect for my use case. And affordable. I have been shooting bird photos with my Z5 and Z30 :)
I have ordered one to replace a z30 to become my b camera and video camera. I will the sell my z30 to fund a replacement drone
Matt I see a significant and timely upgrade for the Z50. Perhaps it can satisfy some current D500 users but not all. The D100, D200, D300, D500 could be seen as DX crop professional cameras, with the control and build to be considered “pocket” D3s D4s and D5s. This still isn’t that.
Agree, it is only potentially for some. It is also cheaper than a D500 was on launch. 2k USD versus 1k USD
No IBIS, no buy.
Why can Fuji do it but Nikon can't?
Very nice , but do Nikon really need so many different cameras ?
Sounds like a nice little camera. But definitely not a d500 replacement
Ordered!!
Even if 'The Majority' of people will not buy other lenses, they SHOULD be available to those who would. (Me for example)
And you can buy other lenses.
Malaysia noted.. 🇲🇾
Inexpensive alternative for sure. Will you review the new Viltrox 135mm 1.8 FE Lab lens. I bought that 16mm 1.8 lens.
I don’t think the non-S DX lenses Nikon makes would be able to provide enough detail to warrant more than 20mp resolution APSC sensor.
I’m tempted. I have the original Z50 and a Z5, and this is the first Expeed 7 body I can afford.
Dayum... They didn't add IBIS. ( X_X)
Third! The Z50 II is great! Now for a Z30 II, no need for the EVF! Especially for vlogging.
I have been a fan of Nikon until have the Sony a7Riii.
I was expecting more updates in Z50ii.
But it is a very old sensor & without IBIS 👎.
There are nothing improvement in dynamic range
Just in time for Santa!
Apple releases the iPhone 16, a new MacBook Pro, Nikon releases a Z50 II. Everything's coming up MartinXY.
No Nikon , update sensor , but no ibis come on , it's the people who purchase this that get frustrated with blurry pictures at lower speeds as more experienced photographer can adjust for it
The lack of ibis is not a huge deal at this pricepoint. What I hope is that Nikon will release a few more dx lenses in the future…
All those glorious details on video capabilities, even noting the max length of recording, and you never addressed battery life -or- if the camera actually supports powering the device via USB-C? (I have to assume the answer is yes)
Howdy Will, first impressions, not a full review. Yes powering the camera is possible via USB-C
Two important points indeed. At least it now has a USBC port, the original one was a drag and was very fragile. Reading up on it I saw that it uses a new type of battery, hopefully giving a better autonomy. Perhaps just to compensate for the more power hungry Xpeed 7. They say the use of the USB power connection is " recommended". Perhaps that confirms that it can be charged while in use ?
If Nikon does not realise that there are pro togs out here that love APSC! Please Nikon release a PRO APSC BODY with IBIS. I dont want full frame to crop later. I want it straight out of camera. Right Now I use my Z 50 with 180600 but as a dslr focus type way. the tracking it not up to snuff for Birds in Flight.
In what world does a hybrid flogging-friendly camera NOT need IBIS? Unless there is another camera on the way to fill those boots.
An updated sensor would be much more welcome, like 24MP.
Where is the image stabilization (IBIS)? Where is the speed booster? Any APS-C camera should come with a speed booster included! Where is the sensor with pixel binning for very low noise at night, like the Sony ZV-E1, which is smaller and lighter, although full frame with IBIS? When is Nikon going to wake up?
I am confused you are comparing it with a camera which is twice the cost, 1k to 2k roughly. USD.
I am praying that Nauticam will make a compact underwater housing for it! And then it'll be time to say goodbye to MFT...
Very decent upgrade from Z50. There is so much to like!
Pretty much guaranteed I won’t be purchasing it by selling it with a lens I already own, that really annoys me since I kept the lens so I could buy a newer small apsc camera, I guess it is time to trade the lens in since I won’t be purchasing the camera.
Fantastic video. Less fantastic camera. I can't help but feel a bit disappointed about the lack of IBIS and the inevitably poor-ish battery life we'll get out of the EN-EL25 battery type. As such, for a light-weight landscape kit, I suspect it won't bring any noticable improvements over the older Z50 as the autofocus is already good enough for that in the older camera.
The lack of IBIS wouldn't be a big deal if Nikon had more lenses with built in VR, but they don't. Most full frame lenses don't have it. And there are only 5 DX lenses, none of which feel as well built as the camera body itself. For example, assume that Sigma releases their lovely APSC zooms for Nikon (the 10-18, 18-50 f2.8s). Those don't have VR. Oof.
I wonder how long we'll have to wait before Nikon launches a more capable APSC camera, if at all.
Edit: The physical zoom buttons is a big upgrade, I have to say. Having to take my gloves of during winter to zoom in/out or hit the DISP button sucks, especially when the temperatures drop below -30.
What? No bin chicken. I'm switching to Soncanpanalympus.
Thank you Nikon for finally bringing in an APS-C camera which (specs wise atleast) seems to be at par with the standard across the industry.
Bringing in Bird Eye Detect, Pre-Release capture and better low light performance I believe are game changing at the APS-C end.
I also appreciate Nikon for being more considerate towards enthusiasts like me who don't always have the time to sit and post process all the pics. I often find that the colour rendition on smart phones is often better than what I get straight out of the camera. More picture profiles, custom picture profiles for direct loading and a DEDICATED button to set the picture profile are great additions.
I hope that the SDR vs HDR tone settings are applicable even to still images and not just video. I would love to be able to view high res stills with a wider dynamic range and colour gamut that screens in my daily life are increasingly capable of displaying but are limited by availability of images captured with the relevant information not being lost.
Hi-res electronic zoom in video is also a useful feature. I think it might even be possible to implement it in 4K video. Of course the video then can't be downsampled from a 5.6k capture - but having that option can allow us to weigh the pros and cons while making that decision. I think a firmware upgrade might be able to fix that?
I still feel that there should have probably been a BSI sensor for a further bump in the low light performance.
I agree with Matt that IBIS may not be necessary considering the target audience. However, it would have been nice to have.
On the other hand, it might have made the camera more bulky.
For someone like me looking for a good camera which is compact for travelling and yet is a bit of an all-rounder in terms of wildlife, street and basic portrait photography, I think this camera checks all the boxes.
I’m excited about this camera