Nikon Launches Z50 II

2024.11.07

Nikon just launched their first second-generation APS-C Mirrorless Digital Camera. Succeeding the original Z50 with a state-of-the-art processor allows the new camera to extract new capabilities using the same sensor as its predecessor.

The Nikon Z50 II released today is built around a 20 megapixels APS-C CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range that spans ISO 100-51200 and is expandable to each ISO 204800. The sensor has builtin Phase-Detect AF with 231-Points sensitive to an incredible -9 EV. A hybrid shutter provides mechanical and electronic shutter-speeds from 1/4000s to 15 minutes.

This camera follows the same basic design as the Z50 with more direct controls, including the first of the series with direct access to Picture-Styles. To make this more interesting, Nikon expanded their original 7 styles to 31! This camera also allows users to download customizable styles that Nikon call Image Recipes.

Even though this new model finds itself towards the low end of the Nikon range, this camera offers a significantly large feature-set. The major omission, exactly like its predecessor, is that the Nikon Z50 II does not offer image-stabilization. It does offer full manual controls, a choice of four metering modes, exposure bracketing, white-balance bracketing, an interval timer, time-lapse video, HDR, multiple-exposure and more.

There are dual control-dials for efficient controls and a new EVF. This electronic viewfinder has a slightly lower magnification of 0.68X yet is twice as bright as before. It is plenty sharp with 2.4 MP of resolution and offers an essential Eye-Start Sensor. The rear touchscreen LCD measures 3.2" and is mounted on a rotating hinge.

By upgrading the processor to EXPEED 7, Nikon improved video performance with now 4K Ultra-HD captured from a 5.6K feed. This is expected to generate video with richer detail and fewer artifacts. It can record 4K video at 60 FPS with stereo sound from the internal mic or a external audio source. It is possible to stream video from the Z50 II directly via USB-C.

The Nikon Z50 II is expected later this month for $910 USD or $1250 CAD. Both Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting preorders.

• Digital Camera