Nikon Z5 II Mirrorless

The Nikon Z5 II is a full-frame mirrorless camera that brings substantial upgrades over its predecessor, offering enhanced performance and versatility for photographers and videographers alike. Released in April 2025, it carries an Australian recommended retail price of AU$2,429 for the body only. 

At the heart of the Z5 II is a 24.5-megapixel full-frame backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, paired with Nikon’s EXPEED 7 image processor. This combination delivers improved image quality, faster processing speeds, and better low-light performance compared to the original Z5. The camera boasts a native ISO range of 100 to 64,000, expandable to 50–204,800, allowing for greater flexibility in various lighting conditions.

One of the standout features of the Z5 II is its autofocus system. It employs Nikon’s 3D tracking technology and can detect and track nine different subject types, including people, animals, vehicles, and aircraft. Additionally, the camera introduces a new AF-A mode that automatically switches between single and continuous autofocus, adapting to the subject's movement. This makes it particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or unpredictable scenes.

The Z5 II also offers impressive continuous shooting capabilities. With the mechanical shutter, it can shoot at up to 11 frames per second in RAW format and up to 14 fps in JPEG. Using the electronic shutter, these speeds increase to 15 fps in RAW and 30 fps in JPEG. This makes it suitable for capturing fast action sequences with minimal lag.

In terms of video, the Z5 II supports 4K UHD recording at up to 60 frames per second, achieved through a crop of the sensor. For those seeking higher frame rates, it can record Full HD video at 120 fps, ideal for slow-motion footage. Notably, the camera is Nikon’s first full-frame model to offer 12-bit N-RAW video recording directly to an SD card, eliminating the need for more expensive CFexpress cards.

The camera's in-body 5-axis image stabilisation system provides up to 7.5 stops of compensation, ensuring sharp images even in challenging conditions. This is particularly beneficial when shooting handheld or in low-light environments.

For composition and monitoring, the Z5 II features a 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD, allowing for flexible shooting angles and easy self-portraits. The electronic viewfinder offers a bright and clear view, with a brightness of up to 3,000 nits, making it suitable for use in bright outdoor conditions.

Connectivity options include dual UHS-II SD card slots, ensuring ample storage and faster data transfer speeds. The camera is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi, facilitating seamless file transfers and remote control capabilities.

In summary, the Nikon Z5 II presents a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance full-frame mirrorless camera without venturing into the higher-end Z6 or Z7 series. Its combination of advanced autofocus, high-speed shooting, robust video capabilities, and in-body stabilisation makes it a versatile tool for a wide range of photographic applications. Whether capturing fast action, shooting in low light, or recording high-quality video, the Z5 II stands as a formidable choice in its class.

This description was last updated April 2025.