Sorry guys, I've re-uploaded the video after one of the viewer (thanks Harsh Patel!) pointed out the mistake I had in the original video so I've update/re-edited the video. So Nikon Z5? or Z6? which one would you pick and why?
I pick Z5, it´s like Z6, but witch 2x Sd card. Lowest price and i dont care witch 4shot/p.s. I dont photography any sport, only portrait, weddings and family photos. I am satisfied ;) My only complaint is that the z5 does not have a status display...but this is all.
I chose it (only as the Z6 II is just a little too expensive for me). I was a bit undecided to keep it or go Z6 or Canon R6; but it has grown on and with a bit of play I am getting to do what I want. looking for a nice used 70-200 f4 now. I do wish Nikon would price the FTZ a little better as compared to Canon it is expensive. So far I would say I am happy with my choice, I am definitely starting to like the 24-50 more each day :)
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Thank you very much for the image quality comparison! I think i will be getting a Z5 in the future. They keep saying the Z5 is entry level, but the metal body, weather sealings, dual UHS-II card slot, 3 custom user settings suggest at least intermediate level, it is a very capable camera, only hinderened in video and frames per sec.
yes i think the word "Entry Level" is relative. Compare to the Z6/7 and whatever Nikon is going to bring out soon, the Z5 is entry level. But yes the body, the main dial all suggested this is Nikon's intermediate level camera. (i use the same reasons to argue Z6/Z7 are both intermediate level as well as they missed some of the Pro Level Nikon camera features, even though Nikon seems to refer to Z7 as pro level)
Great comparison Richard! Love how much details you showed us in every aspect of the body design and picture quality. I've been looking for Z5 vs Z6 video for quite a while and yours is the best so far!
Yours sir, is one of the best video comparisons of Z6 and Z5 out there right now, so thank you for that, as summer sales are on right now in my country for bundled Z5 cameras. Image quality is extremely close up to 3200 iso, and I would not be taking photos over 6400 iso and mostly much less iso. So liking the Z5 so far with loads of pro features. May buy soon.
I don't consider this an entry level camera, I consider it an top professional stills photography camera. I had the Z6 II briefly, I returned it and got the Z5. The Z6 II's cards were a turn off for me, and I couldn't justify the extra cost since I am a stills photographer.
I don’t take videos, so I got the Z5. It’s been almost a year, still enjoy it very much. Very happy with the 2 SD card slots because I don’t want to spend extra money for the XQD. Recently went to Whitehorse Yukon. The Z5 sensor was decent enough to capture Northern Lights.
Thank you Richard for your very very good review. All the information we need for an informed decision and no time wasting on science and microscopic examination. Thank you.
Made my purchase decision for the z5 based on your videos. Also the decision on the 105 MC lens. Just wanted to came back, after a month of ownership while being fully satisfied with your recommendations, to subscribe to your awesome channel. You clearly know what you are talking about.
Well damn. I love my Z50 but would like some added dynamic range and ISO performance from FF. I don’t need 4K. I don’t need fast shooting from FF (Z50 can do that), I don’t want XQD if I can help it, I like smaller, from what I’m seeing here I prefer the non-BSI sensor. Wow. The Z6 does not blow away, or possibly beat, the Z5 in those DR tests IMO. I may be saving some $. Thank you.
Great review, Richard. So the three thousand dollar question: for a stills photographer not yet wedded to a FF system - the "budget" S5 or "budget" Z5 ? Tough decisions loom for me, lol.
Well it's a really hard question to answer. s5 is not exactly budget/entry level. It's more a direct competitor to the z6 rather than z5. To be honest I feel it's more come down to 1.which brands design do you like more? I mean the ergonomics, grip, menu system these are really personal things and I feel both brands have their pros and cons. 2. Is there any feature you feel more important to you? Z5 has great evf for example but s5 has high res mode and live composite mode. 3.You have watched both of my reviews so which camera makes you more excited?
This is an overall good review. I noticed though that if the lighting is dim, the Z5 poorly focuses. I have to have the AF assist light on with this situation, otherwise it will not work well.
Z6 HAS COLOR SHIFT IN BLACKS LIKE SONY'S. Literally the only reason why I'm switching back to Nikon from sony was because of the horrible green tint in shadow areas. Seems like Z5 does not have that issue. Thank you so much for the review.
If you absolutely don't need two card slots, the Z6 is the better camera, no doubt. Plus with the release of the Z6II, the price is coming down on the Z6.
La Z5 ya es un clásico!!!!! Después de dos años de uso puedo compartir que francamente no se necesita más para cubrir muchos tipos de fotografía, desde la street hasta sociales, macro, moda, bodegones, arquitectura, paisaje, retratos y algunos deportes, aunque para esto último todos esperamos el equivalente en mirrorless de la fantástica réflex apsc D500. Hay que saber de todos modos que la capacidad del buffer de la Z5 es muy superior a lo que ofrece la d750 y por eso también se puede trabajar muy bien con la ráfaga y un autofoco que es un pelín más rápido que el de la Z6, aunque ésta tuvo una actualización que la mejoró. La Z5 también dispone ahora de un veloz enfoque al ojo en video, por actualización del firmware. Atendiendo a la ecuación precio-prestaciones la Z5 sigue siendo la mejor opción de compra. Para quien pueda amortizar inversiones y descontar impuestos, si trabaja en fotoperiodismo, la Z5 hoy es asimismo un gran complemento de una Z6ii. Y para youtubers es ideal en pareja con una Z30. Con lentes como el Z 24-50 es viable trabajar muy bien, en 35mm f/5.6 es un premium S !!!!! Y el Z 24-70 f/4 es otro buen lente. Pero hay que ver cómo funciona con los 35, 50 y 85mm f/1.8. Tremendo!!!!! Y lo mejor es que no es necesario gastar las fortunas que cuestan estos nuevos vidrios, sino que los de montura f, los buenos y no muy caros, también funcionan perfecto con el FTZ y se lucen.
Muchas gracias por tu comentario!! La verdad estaba indecisa en qué cámara debería comprar. Gracias por tu ayuda. Difícil escoger entre la z5 o la z6II
Really good, detailed review and it helped me a lot. I'm still on the fence on which one to get, as I shoot a lot of high school Friday night football games, and pushing the ISO to the max is common......leaning towards the Z6. Thank you again. Awesome video!!!!
Im stuck between D750 vs Z5 ? But till the end of the year I should buy one, but which one ? High iso, image quality... that comparison would be interesting and close I think.
@@TheRealRichardWong Z6 is over but Z6 II is way over my budget....I have about 1-1.2k euros (1620- 1950 AUD). I see why did you told me to watch that video....you explained a lot a already knew and those are the reason I want Z5. Im shooting with D7100, so even D750 will be big upgrade.
I recently got a Nikon Zf and I'm looking to aquire a second backup body, that's really affordable and takes my Z mount lenses. Honestly, I’m leaning towards the Nikon Z5, but with the recent price drops the Z6ii is not much more and is appealing also. Nearly everyone I've spoken to who actually owns a Z5, LOVES it. I love my Zf, but I want something that will act as a more ergonomic and compact backup. I shoot portraits and headshots and an occasional family session. I don't need speed, and I don’t plan on doing anyvideo with this backup. I played with a Z5 in the store a bit and it felt really nice and great to use. In use, I couldn’t really tell much difference between the Z5 and Z6ii. Both nice. Especially since they improved focus on Z5 with newer firmware. Would you recommend the Z5 as a backup to my Zf? I know it’s not as technically advanced or fast but I don’t care. When I look at the files the Z5 creates and I’m impressed, and the dynamic range looks good. Would you recommend the Z5 even now in 2024?
I've seen various samples from the Z6 and Z5 as well as the web site that checks the dynamic range and I was surprised to see the Z5 is slightly better regarding DR. And not too much behind in high ISO. I love my Z5 + 24-200 combo. Nikon did a great job on that lens in particular. Bottom line is, there are a lot of great choices these days and it comes down to the ergonomics you prefer and of course any existing lenses someone might own. Lots of good choices now.
@Paul Jones Wouldn't be much of a reason to buy the Z6 if they made the Z5 too similar to the Z6. I think people that mostly care about still photography and 1080P video would be very happy with the Z5 (I am).
Really helpful video, you have clearly explained the differences between the two bodies .Further than this you have made choosing easier by explaining what purposes would be best served by what body. Thank you very much. All else being approximately equal, I would choose the Z5 because I think the Z6 offers more than I need. But I might be influenced by what lens is being offered with each body and at what price. Are you planning to review the little 24-50 mm lens ?
Hi Clarke! Thank you! At the moment no plan to review the 24-50 simply because I have about 10 product reviews already scheduled for this year so can't fit that in. But I'm working on the 24-200 VR review which should be out in a week or so if that's a lens you are interested?
Thanks! I think yes. It's not just about Full Frame vs APSC, mirrorless camera just offers a lot more advantage compare to DSLR, and not that many disadvantage anymore. (biggest disadvantage is battery life and minimal EVF lag)
Hi there, at 6:30, I think there is a mistake on Nikon Z6 memory card slot, it is XQD card slot, its not CF Express though, or is it backward compatible? I'm not too sure, thanks!
Hello, I am rather stuck. I do landscape and nature photography such like animals. What would you recommend the nikon d500 or the z5? I am stuck on both. I know the d500 isn't a full frame. I need one that I can make some prints and have good quality. Thanks
Main Advantage with d500 is better autofocus for fast action and longer reach because of the crop. But if these aren't that important, I think the z5 would give you slightly better image quality.
d750 is probably slightly better for very fast action, but i do also like the Z5's more versatile AF point arrangement (d750 AF points are almost all right at the center)
I'd love to move from my D750 to the Z5 but i don't shoot nearly as much as I used too. I also have an installed version of LR that I don't need a month subsciption for since I purchase the program one time. If I was able to use it with my current LR program I'd consider this. I LOVE my D750. IDK if I'll get more out of the Z5 to make it worth it?
Hi Richard. Thanks for the video, really interesting. I have one question, how will I make it up for the lack of the status LED display with this type of camera, in order to adjust what I am able to do with my D7100 ? Thanks, Juan
With the rumored Z6s, I think the Z5 could've have better specs than the current Z6 with a z50 body. I say this because Nikon need a camera that will blow people mind! I don't want Nikon to be the next olympus!
Have you had the chance to shoot with Lumix S5? If so, how does it compare to either the Z5 or Z6? I've used the s5 in the past, I loved the images out of it. Rich, vibrant, punchy colors with great dynamic range. Great low light performance. I'm only interested in taking photos and only jpegs. What do you think takes better/nicer photos?
Yes i'm currently using a S5 for a lot of my RUclips videos and I like it a lot. Re which camera output better JPGs.. i didn't do any direct comparison but i feel the difference is mostly the colour rendition as the Nikon and Panasonic colours are quite different.. and it is a very personal thing
Back in DSLR I shoot exclusively with Nikon, these days Nikon is still one of my main system but I do also use Lumix and a few other brands for different reasons
Hi Richard, liked the video for comparison of 2 cameras. I purchased the nikon z7ii and tried the dynamic exposure latitude test pushing the shadows. I can see some weirded artefacts in shadows, no banding but I never saw them on my D850 when compared. I only saw this in nef 14bit files. So I am very interested to know if the files you used in this video are 12bit or 14bit - very important to me ?
I believe I was shooting in 14bit. Unfortunately banding is one of the downside of camera that has on sensor phase detection sensors. However, they are usually not that visible under normal shooting situation
@@TheRealRichardWong hi Richard, I was not asking about the banding (although the Z5 is better in that regard from what I see), I was asking about weirded artefacts as colour noise in shadows lifted, so wanted to know what bit rate they were - not seen in 12 bit files btw. Thanks
Ah sorry I mis-read your original question. I used 14 bit. Can you post your result somewhere so i can have a look? Interesting you only see it in 14bit NEF but not 12bit NEF. Also what software are you using to push the shadows? Is it latest Lightroom?
@@TheRealRichardWong love your videos btw... yes I would be glad to post findings, I can email you “title nikon z cameras”. I can say that after purchasing the z7 ii and 4 lenses specifically to use as low light astrophotography, I did a quick test to see if it was capable to extract from shadows - I also took original 14bit nefs from DPreview “exposure latitude”for Z6,Z7,Z6ii, Z7 ii. The results I have from that and from downloading tons of nefs from Z5,Z6, Z6ii, Z7 is very interesting but I dont have the Z5 to test further, so hence why I asked you at what bit rate you shot the images as you did a 7 stop exposure latitude test and I can see that the files are better on the Z5 from the small area you showed even DPreview’s z5 files were better. I want to purchase the Z5 camera as I believe that the non BSI sensor is better. I also can see that Nikon have solved the banding from z6/z7 (that you saw in your test, ever so slightly) in the Z6ii/Z7ii - however I now see this other problem which I can send you. The Z5 files did not have any of those issues but was still not as good as the files from the D850. Bottom line I think the Z5 is a much better camera for extracting from shadow areas. I just dont know how it compares with image stabilisation in video, low light autofocus accuracy etc... Any comment would be much appreciated in those regards.
Great video! Thank you. I have a d750 and thinking about going mirrorless. Probably Z5 or Z6. I shoot landscapes, birds at the feeders, street, travel, low light. No video! I’m thinking the Z5? But worry about low light? Any thoughts on the d850?
Do you need dual card slot? If yes, Z5 is your only choice. Otherwise, it really depends on the price of the Z5 and Z6 in your market.. if very similar i would go for Z6
I will keep my d850 until it dies - I’ll even get a second d850! it does everything very well: -47mega pixels make it the poor mans medium format camera - very good autofocus -fast enough for sports /action /wildlife -tough enough -dual cars slots -lots of great glass -works for video -works with a dji ronin a gimbal
hi sir which camera （z5 or z6ii）would you recommend on the spot, i m not planning to do any video project i guess and my current camera is a D7000 since 2015
Underrated camera, I had a Z6ii once, Sold system....NOw I buy a used Z5 with used 24-70 f4 for less than a Z6ii body only, I only care about photos NOT video....Z5 takes excellant pictures Zlens are good too. Still shoot Fuji , but I miss having FF
Excellent review, very helpful. Only problem with the Z5: at least where I live, its not available as a bundle with the 24-70 f4. which means pricewise z5 plus 24-70 f4 = z6ii plus 24-70 f4 :(
Thanks for the wonderful comparison. Would like to learn your opinions on colors between the two. I’m a d750 user and likes z6 color especially in portraits but have no idea regarding z5 color on portraits. D Also, do you think it worth a upgrade from d750 to z5? Besides you mentioned d750 does better job at fast moving subject while z5 has wider focus coverage.
hi there, sorry i haven't done side by side comparison of Z6 and Z5 in terms of portrait colours so can't really answer. In terms of going from D750 to Z5, there are a few key benefits.. EVF, IBIS, Z-Mount, better liveview mode, and the much wider autofocus coverage.. But downside, AF isn't as fast for fast moving subject and some may prefer the OVF.
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for feedback. Do you think z6 does better job in focusing fast moving subjects over z5? Thought it’s a common focus system on z6 & z5.
I'm using Nikon D5500 with Nikon 50mm f1.8 and 18-140mm. I want to shift to Nikon Z5 or Z6. I have 2 questions. 1st which camera body I should go for? 2nd. As I said 2 Nikon lens I have its good to buy Z5 with FTZ and use my 50mm 1.8 or buy Viltrox 85mm f1.8? I only use camera for family portrait and landscape photos only. No video at all. Dont have lots of budget. Please help to choose with camera body and lens I should go far. Many thanks. CHEERS
Z5 if you want dual card slots, otherwise the Z6 is still great! Viltrox is a great choice as a native z mount lens as it does offer some advantage over the old F mount lenses.
Thank you for your presentation! I will be looking to purchase my first Nikon mirrorless camera and I am looking at the Z6 or Z611. The price of the Z5 is really good but I want good video also. I also own the sony A6400. I mainly like to shoot landscapes and some family photos. Would the Z5 be just as good for landscapes as the Z6? If the answer might be the Z6 that would be my choice.
This video is great! Thank you! (The rest of the comment below has nothing to do with this video) Argh Nikon! I’m so pissed at them rn! The z6 is perfect but has only 1 card slot which is a must in a body that is going to be used by all types of semi pros and pros! The z6 II has the two card slots but it’s expensive knowing that the internal video is only 8bit at 144mbps in 4K 30, same as on the half-priced z50! The z5 has all of this solved but doesn’t shoot 1080 120fps! I mean wtf nikon? I know its for selling the bodies but this is horrible! As a hybrid semi-pro/pro shooter, Nikon literally has no camera that makes sense for the money they ask! I mean the argument that the z6 ii is the solution is stupid mainly because in the Photos department, the z6 ii has no practical benefit over the D750! By practical, I mean most shooters, even pros, won’t really be upset with the 2% improvement in image quality that the z6 (ii) has over the D750. In fact, even the noise on the D750 has a much pleasing pattern and it’s much better at low light focusing for photos and let’s not even compare the mirrorless af of the z series with the 3D af of the DSLRs - the 3D is so much better in low light conditions especially! So clearly, there is no need to look at the z6 (ii) in the photo department when the D750 exists. The only advantage the z6 (ii) has is in video and boy it sucks that the internal video bitrate is plain crap. The internal video isn’t something you can stretch much in post to match shots and all in case you screw up even a little. This is bad, really bad, especially for wedding film makers. Not everyone lives in the US and is a youtuber to buy external recorders and accessories to take advantage of the z6’s or z6 ii’s ‘post-friendly’ video. Nikon is just playing mind games and its stupid af. I literally waited over a freaking year so that a z6 replacement would come with 2 card slots and internal n.log video with good data rate for post flexibility. And nikon just solved one of those issues. And then there is the D780. It’s like a freaking good option considering it is the only (semi) pro body that is a hybrid! It means it lets us use the older lenses which have no focus motors in them and still be able to focus using the camera’s motor. And it also means one can rely on the 3D af and not miss crucial shots because the camera ‘struggled’ to focus. Not saying z6 af is bad but common it’s not meant for fast action and one cannot compare the mirrorless af to the 3d af on dslr for fast action shots. But then the D780 is priced ridiculously! It’s a laugh because 1. It doesn’t do n log internally in video, 2. It is a d750 in stills and it makes no sense to get it for stills over the d750 considering the d750 can be picked up at 1/3rd the d780’s price these days. Nikon needs to fix this or people like me are seriously gonna freaking switch! This is horrible from nikon!
Sorry guys, I've re-uploaded the video after one of the viewer (thanks Harsh Patel!) pointed out the mistake I had in the original video so I've update/re-edited the video.
So Nikon Z5? or Z6? which one would you pick and why?
hahah okay Z7 is the choice if you need resolution!
I pick Z5, it´s like Z6, but witch 2x Sd card. Lowest price and i dont care witch 4shot/p.s. I dont photography any sport, only portrait, weddings and family photos. I am satisfied ;) My only complaint is that the z5 does not have a status display...but this is all.
@@patrickpopeck7935 it has not the same sensor . z6 has a better one
I chose it (only as the Z6 II is just a little too expensive for me). I was a bit undecided to keep it or go Z6 or Canon R6; but it has grown on and with a bit of play I am getting to do what I want. looking for a nice used 70-200 f4 now. I do wish Nikon would price the FTZ a little better as compared to Canon it is expensive. So far I would say I am happy with my choice, I am definitely starting to like the 24-50 more each day :)
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Thank you very much for the image quality comparison! I think i will be getting a Z5 in the future. They keep saying the Z5 is entry level, but the metal body, weather sealings, dual UHS-II card slot, 3 custom user settings suggest at least intermediate level, it is a very capable camera, only hinderened in video and frames per sec.
yes i think the word "Entry Level" is relative. Compare to the Z6/7 and whatever Nikon is going to bring out soon, the Z5 is entry level. But yes the body, the main dial all suggested this is Nikon's intermediate level camera. (i use the same reasons to argue Z6/Z7 are both intermediate level as well as they missed some of the Pro Level Nikon camera features, even though Nikon seems to refer to Z7 as pro level)
I think the term "entry level" is really more for marketing reasons than actually describing the quality of the camera
They backpedaled and now Nikon calls it “entry point”.
Great comparison Richard! Love how much details you showed us in every aspect of the body design and picture quality. I've been looking for Z5 vs Z6 video for quite a while and yours is the best so far!
hey Martin Glad it was helpful! And great chatting with you on FB :)
Richard, I watched many Z5-Z6 reviews. This is by far the best I 've found. Thank you for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it! :)
Pushing 7 stops?!!! Brilliant testing, THANK YOU!
This is how a good review is made. Excellent!
thank you!
Yours sir, is one of the best video comparisons of Z6 and Z5 out there right now, so thank you for that, as summer sales are on right now in my country for bundled Z5 cameras. Image quality is extremely close up to 3200 iso, and I would not be taking photos over 6400 iso and mostly much less iso. So liking the Z5 so far with loads of pro features. May buy soon.
Thank you adrian for watching and sharing your thoughts
I don't consider this an entry level camera, I consider it an top professional stills photography camera. I had the Z6 II briefly, I returned it and got the Z5. The Z6 II's cards were a turn off for me, and I couldn't justify the extra cost since I am a stills photographer.
I have Z5 a year ago,and I bought Z6 ,the used one from my best friend.., after 5 months I think Z5 much better to me so I let Z6 go...
I don’t take videos, so I got the Z5. It’s been almost a year, still enjoy it very much.
Very happy with the 2 SD card slots because I don’t want to spend extra money for the XQD.
Recently went to Whitehorse Yukon. The Z5 sensor was decent enough to capture Northern Lights.
Very comprehensive review for Z5. It is really helpful to most people interested in Z5.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you Richard for your very very good review. All the information we need for an informed decision and no time wasting on science and microscopic examination. Thank you.
Glad your found the review useful :)
The best comparison video out there.
Thanks Adam!
HOW AMAZING IS THIS REVIEWER???????????? Subscribed
Oh thank you so much ramon!
Really appreciate the very detailed comparison between the output of the two cameras，that is what we need ;)
Made my purchase decision for the z5 based on your videos. Also the decision on the 105 MC lens.
Just wanted to came back, after a month of ownership while being fully satisfied with your recommendations, to subscribe to your awesome channel.
You clearly know what you are talking about.
Thanks Lukas! Enjoy your z5 and 105 lens!
Great video Richard! Very detailed and full of great information. Thank you for making this! Please keep up the good work :)
Thank you Steve!
thanks, this is the video I needed.
Well damn. I love my Z50 but would like some added dynamic range and ISO performance from FF. I don’t need 4K. I don’t need fast shooting from FF (Z50 can do that), I don’t want XQD if I can help it, I like smaller, from what I’m seeing here I prefer the non-BSI sensor. Wow. The Z6 does not blow away, or possibly beat, the Z5 in those DR tests IMO. I may be saving some $. Thank you.
Great review, Richard. So the three thousand dollar question: for a stills photographer not yet wedded to a FF system - the "budget" S5 or "budget" Z5 ? Tough decisions loom for me, lol.
Well it's a really hard question to answer. s5 is not exactly budget/entry level. It's more a direct competitor to the z6 rather than z5. To be honest I feel it's more come down to 1.which brands design do you like more? I mean the ergonomics, grip, menu system these are really personal things and I feel both brands have their pros and cons. 2. Is there any feature you feel more important to you? Z5 has great evf for example but s5 has high res mode and live composite mode. 3.You have watched both of my reviews so which camera makes you more excited?
Very making sense video. Provide very clear guaidace on how to choose. The photo is even better than 6
Thanks! And sorry about the late reply. Glad you like the video
This is one of the most helpful comparisons I could find.. and very well organized and thorough. Good job Richard!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching Dan!
Amazing review as always Richard !!!
Thank you Adam!! :)
This is an overall good review. I noticed though that if the lighting is dim, the Z5 poorly focuses. I have to have the AF assist light on with this situation, otherwise it will not work well.
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience
Highly agree with this, I've shoot weddings mainly with Z5 but the AF is very bad at low light even with the firmware updated~
@@kelvinzhenz999 How is it with the new firmware? in my experience and results this update highly improved AF.
Z6 HAS COLOR SHIFT IN BLACKS LIKE SONY'S. Literally the only reason why I'm switching back to Nikon from sony was because of the horrible green tint in shadow areas. Seems like Z5 does not have that issue. Thank you so much for the review.
What Sony camera did you have?
@@reykfoto a7rii and a7iii
Thank you. I missed a comparision like yours!
Thanks you l really enjoyed the review of Nikon Z 5 l Thinking of buying Z 5 soon just to do hobby photography thank you (Vern) 👍
Thanks for watching :)
Finally made my mind up based on this, thanks Richard.
Enjoy Garry
Another killer review! Thank you very much, Richard, for this in-depth comparison!
Thank you! Glad you like it :)
Very thorough review. Thank you for your efforts!
Glad you like it thanks for watching @admiralking
Good work, very detail comparison. Thank you so much !!!!
Thank you! Just what I needed!
You are welcome !
Good comparaison!! thank you. Especially the ISO test was what I really need to know...
Thank you for watching :)
If you absolutely don't need two card slots, the Z6 is the better camera, no doubt. Plus with the release of the Z6II, the price is coming down on the Z6.
Good explanation and the description of the videos' is very nice. thanks for review the camera & i got good understanding aft seeing vedio.
Glad it was helpful!
excellent review, you helped me a lot! thanks!!
Martin Glad I could help!
Thank you. That was an excellent video and comparison.
Thanks for watching Anthony
Very cool and informative video, looking at buying one of these cameras and your video was very helpful, thank you for sharing(buying Z6)
Glad it was helpful!
Great comparison! Just subscribed :)
Thank you
Thank you for your video! Well done sir!
hey Bill Thank you for watching!! :)
Some interesting information. Thanks a lot!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
La Z5 ya es un clásico!!!!! Después de dos años de uso puedo compartir que francamente no se necesita más para cubrir muchos tipos de fotografía, desde la street hasta sociales, macro, moda, bodegones, arquitectura, paisaje, retratos y algunos deportes, aunque para esto último todos esperamos el equivalente en mirrorless de la fantástica réflex apsc D500. Hay que saber de todos modos que la capacidad del buffer de la Z5 es muy superior a lo que ofrece la d750 y por eso también se puede trabajar muy bien con la ráfaga y un autofoco que es un pelín más rápido que el de la Z6, aunque ésta tuvo una actualización que la mejoró. La Z5 también dispone ahora de un veloz enfoque al ojo en video, por actualización del firmware. Atendiendo a la ecuación precio-prestaciones la Z5 sigue siendo la mejor opción de compra. Para quien pueda amortizar inversiones y descontar impuestos, si trabaja en fotoperiodismo, la Z5 hoy es asimismo un gran complemento de una Z6ii. Y para youtubers es ideal en pareja con una Z30. Con lentes como el Z 24-50 es viable trabajar muy bien, en 35mm f/5.6 es un premium S !!!!! Y el Z 24-70 f/4 es otro buen lente. Pero hay que ver cómo funciona con los 35, 50 y 85mm f/1.8. Tremendo!!!!! Y lo mejor es que no es necesario gastar las fortunas que cuestan estos nuevos vidrios, sino que los de montura f, los buenos y no muy caros, también funcionan perfecto con el FTZ y se lucen.
Muchas gracias por tu comentario!! La verdad estaba indecisa en qué cámara debería comprar. Gracias por tu ayuda. Difícil escoger entre la z5 o la z6II
Really good, detailed review and it helped me a lot. I'm still on the fence on which one to get, as I shoot a lot of high school Friday night football games, and pushing the ISO to the max is common......leaning towards the Z6. Thank you again. Awesome video!!!!
Thank You for an unbiased Review !!!!!
Thank you John
Im stuck between D750 vs Z5 ? But till the end of the year I should buy one, but which one ? High iso, image quality... that comparison would be interesting and close I think.
Hey Ivan maybe check out my other video about z6 ii. While that video is about z6 ii, a lot can be applied to z5 as well to certain degree
@@TheRealRichardWong Z6 is over but Z6 II is way over my budget....I have about 1-1.2k euros (1620- 1950 AUD). I see why did you told me to watch that video....you explained a lot a already knew and those are the reason I want Z5. Im shooting with D7100, so even D750 will be big upgrade.
In your case I think z5 would be a good upgrade and allow you to have access to the beautiful z lenses later on
@@TheRealRichardWong one more question, can Z5 be in use while charging ?
From memory it works. But best if you double check with someone else just in case I am wrong
Exactly what I needed, thank u for this review
No problem!
I shoot only in full hd. No need of 4k. But i want proper face tracking. Is z5 do it properly?
Are the shutter buttons the same or is the z5 a click one
If you are just focused on Photography buy the Z5. Do you also produce videos or take sports photos? Take the Z6
How is this for astrophotography? I got this instead of the z50
It should be pretty good and definitely better than z50
Excellent comprehensive review!
Thank you very much Graham!
I recently got a Nikon Zf and I'm looking to aquire a second backup body, that's really affordable and takes my Z mount lenses. Honestly, I’m leaning towards the Nikon Z5, but with the recent price drops the Z6ii is not much more and is appealing also. Nearly everyone I've spoken to who actually owns a Z5, LOVES it. I love my Zf, but I want something that will act as a more ergonomic and compact backup. I shoot portraits and headshots and an occasional family session. I don't need speed, and I don’t plan on doing anyvideo with this backup. I played with a Z5 in the store a bit and it felt really nice and great to use. In use, I couldn’t really tell much difference between the Z5 and Z6ii. Both nice. Especially since they improved focus on Z5 with newer firmware.
Would you recommend the Z5 as a backup to my Zf? I know it’s not as technically advanced or fast but I don’t care.
When I look at the files the Z5 creates and I’m impressed, and the dynamic range looks good. Would you recommend the Z5 even now in 2024?
Buffer size when shooting in raw?
Great Review Richard
Thank you James!
Nice comparison and review...
Thank you Faisal
I've seen various samples from the Z6 and Z5 as well as the web site that checks the dynamic range and I was surprised to see the Z5 is slightly better regarding DR. And not too much behind in high ISO. I love my Z5 + 24-200 combo. Nikon did a great job on that lens in particular. Bottom line is, there are a lot of great choices these days and it comes down to the ergonomics you prefer and of course any existing lenses someone might own. Lots of good choices now.
@Paul Jones Wouldn't be much of a reason to buy the Z6 if they made the Z5 too similar to the Z6. I think people that mostly care about still photography and 1080P video would be very happy with the Z5 (I am).
Does someone know how to save files in both JPG and RAW format? I tried but it didn't work 😭😭😭😭
Really helpful video, you have clearly explained the differences between the two bodies .Further than this you have made choosing easier by explaining what purposes would be best served by what body. Thank you very much.
All else being approximately equal, I would choose the Z5 because I think the Z6 offers more than I need.
But I might be influenced by what lens is being offered with each body and at what price.
Are you planning to review the little 24-50 mm lens ?
Hi Clarke! Thank you! At the moment no plan to review the 24-50 simply because I have about 10 product reviews already scheduled for this year so can't fit that in. But I'm working on the 24-200 VR review which should be out in a week or so if that's a lens you are interested?
@@TheRealRichardWong Yes, keenly interested ,thank you.
On all sample I like better the Z5 also can see more blue sky some areas. Great Video
Thanks for watching!
Hi Mr Wong ,,, What lens, at what MM, were you using in the IBIS TEST ? Thank You John
He John, i believe it's with the 24-50 lens at 50mm
Really really clear presentation.
Thank you very much Franklyn!
nice review. many details in your video. what is ur opinion: does it worth to upgrade from a nikon d5300 to a Z5 for a photo enthusiast?
Thanks! I think yes. It's not just about Full Frame vs APSC, mirrorless camera just offers a lot more advantage compare to DSLR, and not that many disadvantage anymore. (biggest disadvantage is battery life and minimal EVF lag)
@@TheRealRichardWong ty sir 👏🏻
Hi there, at 6:30, I think there is a mistake on Nikon Z6 memory card slot, it is XQD card slot, its not CF Express though, or is it backward compatible? I'm not too sure, thanks!
Hi KTSZ, it was originally released as a XQD slot but after firmware upgrade it is now CFExpress and backward comp to XQD. :)
Hello, I am rather stuck. I do landscape and nature photography such like animals. What would you recommend the nikon d500 or the z5? I am stuck on both. I know the d500 isn't a full frame. I need one that I can make some prints and have good quality. Thanks
Main Advantage with d500 is better autofocus for fast action and longer reach because of the crop. But if these aren't that important, I think the z5 would give you slightly better image quality.
How does the AF compare to the d750?
d750 is probably slightly better for very fast action, but i do also like the Z5's more versatile AF point arrangement (d750 AF points are almost all right at the center)
Very good comparison. Please make video comparing D750 and Z5 for low light image quality.
Does anyone know why the Lightroom does not recognize my Z5 profile?
I'd love to move from my D750 to the Z5 but i don't shoot nearly as much as I used too. I also have an installed version of LR that I don't need a month subsciption for since I purchase the program one time. If I was able to use it with my current LR program I'd consider this. I LOVE my D750. IDK if I'll get more out of the Z5 to make it worth it?
Hi Richard. Thanks for the video, really interesting. I have one question, how will I make it up for the lack of the status LED display with this type of camera, in order to adjust what I am able to do with my D7100 ?
Thanks,
Juan
You can just read the info from the LCD screen, or inside (part of ) the EVF display :)
@@TheRealRichardWong Ok, thanks :)
It’s a great Stills Camera vs Video !!
Z5 or A7iii for the price i feel like a used A7iii would be better but i have a bunch of Nikon lens
With the rumored Z6s, I think the Z5 could've have better specs than the current Z6 with a z50 body. I say this because Nikon need a camera that will blow people mind! I don't want Nikon to be the next olympus!
I don’t think they could do that. Body has to be bigger if it will have IBIS. Also the Z6 battery is bigger.
Mark Hedges I’m ok if they took out the IbIS if it helps make the body small like the z50
Does the nikon z5 auto focus stacking like the z6 does?
yes it does. But you need software to do the merging yourself
Sir can u tell me. In daylight z5 and z6 image quality is same?? Or z6 is better?
very very similar, you can say same
can i use a sigma art 18-35mm lens on the Nikoz Z5 with the FTZ adapter?
I haven't try this combo myself, but in theory You should be able to!
thanks for good information
Nice video, Richard.
Kia Ora! Thanks for watching!
Have you had the chance to shoot with Lumix S5? If so, how does it compare to either the Z5 or Z6? I've used the s5 in the past, I loved the images out of it. Rich, vibrant, punchy colors with great dynamic range. Great low light performance. I'm only interested in taking photos and only jpegs. What do you think takes better/nicer photos?
Yes i'm currently using a S5 for a lot of my RUclips videos and I like it a lot.
Re which camera output better JPGs.. i didn't do any direct comparison but i feel the difference is mostly the colour rendition as the Nikon and Panasonic colours are quite different.. and it is a very personal thing
good review, thank you
Thanks for watching!
Only thing entry level is the fps
Robin are you mainly a Nikon user?
Back in DSLR I shoot exclusively with Nikon, these days Nikon is still one of my main system but I do also use Lumix and a few other brands for different reasons
z5 vs z6 II. do you think the price difference is worth?
I would ask you the question, do you need the features that the z6ii has but not z5?
@@TheRealRichardWong I am quite in the middle :)
Oh dear! That's the worst, if that's the case, I would go for the z6ii. Otherwise you bought the z5 and immediately you would want the z6ii
Hi Richard, liked the video for comparison of 2 cameras. I purchased the nikon z7ii and tried the dynamic exposure latitude test pushing the shadows. I can see some weirded artefacts in shadows, no banding but I never saw them on my D850 when compared. I only saw this in nef 14bit files. So I am very interested to know if the files you used in this video are 12bit or 14bit - very important to me ?
I believe I was shooting in 14bit. Unfortunately banding is one of the downside of camera that has on sensor phase detection sensors. However, they are usually not that visible under normal shooting situation
@@TheRealRichardWong hi Richard, I was not asking about the banding (although the Z5 is better in that regard from what I see), I was asking about weirded artefacts as colour noise in shadows lifted, so wanted to know what bit rate they were - not seen in 12 bit files btw. Thanks
Ah sorry I mis-read your original question. I used 14 bit. Can you post your result somewhere so i can have a look? Interesting you only see it in 14bit NEF but not 12bit NEF. Also what software are you using to push the shadows? Is it latest Lightroom?
@@TheRealRichardWong love your videos btw... yes I would be glad to post findings, I can email you “title nikon z cameras”. I can say that after purchasing the z7 ii and 4 lenses specifically to use as low light astrophotography, I did a quick test to see if it was capable to extract from shadows - I also took original 14bit nefs from DPreview “exposure latitude”for Z6,Z7,Z6ii, Z7 ii. The results I have from that and from downloading tons of nefs from Z5,Z6, Z6ii, Z7 is very interesting but I dont have the Z5 to test further, so hence why I asked you at what bit rate you shot the images as you did a 7 stop exposure latitude test and I can see that the files are better on the Z5 from the small area you showed even DPreview’s z5 files were better. I want to purchase the Z5 camera as I believe that the non BSI sensor is better. I also can see that Nikon have solved the banding from z6/z7 (that you saw in your test, ever so slightly) in the Z6ii/Z7ii - however I now see this other problem which I can send you. The Z5 files did not have any of those issues but was still not as good as the files from the D850. Bottom line I think the Z5 is a much better camera for extracting from shadow areas. I just dont know how it compares with image stabilisation in video, low light autofocus accuracy etc... Any comment would be much appreciated in those regards.
Sorry I never answered your question, I used Lightroom,photoshop and nikon nx.
Or should you get a Canon RP?
Great video! Thank you. I have a d750 and thinking about going mirrorless. Probably Z5 or Z6. I shoot landscapes, birds at the feeders, street, travel, low light. No video! I’m thinking the Z5? But worry about low light? Any thoughts on the d850?
Do you need dual card slot? If yes, Z5 is your only choice. Otherwise, it really depends on the price of the Z5 and Z6 in your market.. if very similar i would go for Z6
I will keep my d850 until it dies - I’ll even get a second d850! it does everything very well: -47mega pixels make it the poor mans medium format camera - very good autofocus -fast enough for sports /action /wildlife -tough enough -dual cars slots -lots of great glass -works for video -works with a dji ronin a gimbal
Stick to the d750. Z5 and z6 have focus problems
@@georgesmith3022 which af problems? I switched from D750 to Z5 and dont notice any
@@Michael-qv7pn Looking to do the same. Found any issues using ftz?
if only the Z5 has no 4K crop.. I mean, just give lower bitrate, nothing advanced but this makes useless most lenses with 4K video.
hi sir which camera （z5 or z6ii）would you recommend on the spot, i m not planning to do any video project i guess and my current camera is a D7000 since 2015
z6ii is a better camera if it fits your budget
@@TheRealRichardWong thank you sir
Thank you, great work done!
Does z5 has the same sensor as d750 and what about colour reproduction
Would love to know as well :)
Underrated camera, I had a Z6ii once, Sold system....NOw I buy a used Z5 with used 24-70 f4 for less than a Z6ii body only, I only care about photos NOT video....Z5 takes excellant pictures Zlens are good too. Still shoot Fuji , but I miss having FF
Excellent review, very helpful. Only problem with the Z5: at least where I live, its not available as a bundle with the 24-70 f4. which means pricewise z5 plus 24-70 f4 = z6ii plus 24-70 f4 :(
oh... then it makes no sense.
Nicely done 👍
thank you!
Thanks for the wonderful comparison. Would like to learn your opinions on colors between the two. I’m a d750 user and likes z6 color especially in portraits but have no idea regarding z5 color on portraits. D
Also, do you think it worth a upgrade from d750 to z5? Besides you mentioned d750 does better job at fast moving subject while z5 has wider focus coverage.
hi there, sorry i haven't done side by side comparison of Z6 and Z5 in terms of portrait colours so can't really answer.
In terms of going from D750 to Z5, there are a few key benefits.. EVF, IBIS, Z-Mount, better liveview mode, and the much wider autofocus coverage.. But downside, AF isn't as fast for fast moving subject and some may prefer the OVF.
@@TheRealRichardWong thanks for feedback. Do you think z6 does better job in focusing fast moving subjects over z5? Thought it’s a common focus system on z6 & z5.
I'm using Nikon D5500 with Nikon 50mm f1.8 and 18-140mm. I want to shift to Nikon Z5 or Z6. I have 2 questions. 1st which camera body I should go for?
2nd. As I said 2 Nikon lens I have its good to buy Z5 with FTZ and use my 50mm 1.8 or buy Viltrox 85mm f1.8?
I only use camera for family portrait and landscape photos only. No video at all.
Dont have lots of budget. Please help to choose with camera body and lens I should go far. Many thanks. CHEERS
Z5 if you want dual card slots, otherwise the Z6 is still great! Viltrox is a great choice as a native z mount lens as it does offer some advantage over the old F mount lenses.
For social media is the 1080p good enough - personally I cant see the difference when watching 4K on a small device.
yes, on small screen, 1080p, 4k... even a good 720p would look almost the same
Thanks for the great and useful comparison of the two cameras.
Thank you for your presentation! I will be looking to purchase my first Nikon mirrorless camera and I am looking at the Z6 or Z611. The price of the Z5 is really good but I want good video also. I also own the sony A6400. I mainly like to shoot landscapes and some family photos. Would the Z5 be just as good for landscapes as the Z6? If the answer might be the Z6 that would be my choice.
If you want video, then the z6II is better. Otherwise the z5 is great for landscape photos
@@TheRealRichardWong So very kind of you to respond, I will continue to follow your content!
15:12ish mark, the Z5 pic has noticeably better vignetting- as in like none, compared to whatever is going on with the z6
This video is great! Thank you! (The rest of the comment below has nothing to do with this video)
Argh Nikon! I’m so pissed at them rn! The z6 is perfect but has only 1 card slot which is a must in a body that is going to be used by all types of semi pros and pros! The z6 II has the two card slots but it’s expensive knowing that the internal video is only 8bit at 144mbps in 4K 30, same as on the half-priced z50! The z5 has all of this solved but doesn’t shoot 1080 120fps! I mean wtf nikon? I know its for selling the bodies but this is horrible! As a hybrid semi-pro/pro shooter, Nikon literally has no camera that makes sense for the money they ask! I mean the argument that the z6 ii is the solution is stupid mainly because in the Photos department, the z6 ii has no practical benefit over the D750! By practical, I mean most shooters, even pros, won’t really be upset with the 2% improvement in image quality that the z6 (ii) has over the D750. In fact, even the noise on the D750 has a much pleasing pattern and it’s much better at low light focusing for photos and let’s not even compare the mirrorless af of the z series with the 3D af of the DSLRs - the 3D is so much better in low light conditions especially! So clearly, there is no need to look at the z6 (ii) in the photo department when the D750 exists. The only advantage the z6 (ii) has is in video and boy it sucks that the internal video bitrate is plain crap. The internal video isn’t something you can stretch much in post to match shots and all in case you screw up even a little. This is bad, really bad, especially for wedding film makers. Not everyone lives in the US and is a youtuber to buy external recorders and accessories to take advantage of the z6’s or z6 ii’s ‘post-friendly’ video. Nikon is just playing mind games and its stupid af. I literally waited over a freaking year so that a z6 replacement would come with 2 card slots and internal n.log video with good data rate for post flexibility. And nikon just solved one of those issues. And then there is the D780. It’s like a freaking good option considering it is the only (semi) pro body that is a hybrid! It means it lets us use the older lenses which have no focus motors in them and still be able to focus using the camera’s motor. And it also means one can rely on the 3D af and not miss crucial shots because the camera ‘struggled’ to focus. Not saying z6 af is bad but common it’s not meant for fast action and one cannot compare the mirrorless af to the 3d af on dslr for fast action shots. But then the D780 is priced ridiculously! It’s a laugh because 1. It doesn’t do n log internally in video, 2. It is a d750 in stills and it makes no sense to get it for stills over the d750 considering the d750 can be picked up at 1/3rd the d780’s price these days. Nikon needs to fix this or people like me are seriously gonna freaking switch! This is horrible from nikon!
Best review
Thank you very much
Great video. Thank you.
You are welcome! thanks for watching