Nikon has officially unveiled the Z5II along with the full specifications, availability and, of course, price. I used the Nikon Z5 in a few workshops in Salisbury in the UK last year. At that time I just wanted to test out this mirrorless option as a replacement for the now rather ageing D600, D610 and D750s that I regularly use in the studio. Now the Z5II has arrived, further adding to the appeal of the Z5 and again sporting a full-frame sensor in this enthusiast-level mirrorless camera. What’s interesting with the Z5II is that it borrows technology and features from Nikon’s professional Z series cameras and now makes those features, that I’ll go into in a bit, into a compact and accessible form for enthusiast photographers and videographers.
The camera is announced globally on 3rd April 2025, which is bright and early at 5am today in the UK , and with its release, the Z5II marks a significant leap in features and performance from its predecessor, combining the outstanding image quality that impressed me with the Z5 and building on the speed of the processing which enables enhanced autofocus, stabilisation, and ergonomics.
At the new Z series cameras core, the Z5II features a 24.5 MP FX-format sensor with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) delivering up to 7.5 stops of Vibration Reduction (VR) at the centre of the frame and up to 6.0 stops at the periphery. Nikon’s innovative Focus Point VR ensures sharper results by focusing stabilisation around the active autofocus point—a feature adapted from their high-end models.
One of the most striking upgrades is the autofocus system, which is now 68% faster than the original Z5 and operates effectively down to -10 EV. This is paired with intelligent multi-subject detection and 3D tracking, making the Z5II a reliable performer even in dimly lit environments. Its high ISO capability (up to 64,000 for stills) ensures clean, richly detailed shots in low-light conditions.
On the video front, the Z5II supports 4K N-RAW recording directly to SD card, and offers N-log capture for creators who prefer to colour grade in post-production. A high-luminance 3000-nit EVF and a fully articulating touchscreen enhance usability for both studio and on-the-go shooting, while a one-touch Picture Control button allows users to switch colour profiles and preview them in real time.
Photographers will appreciate the improved ergonomics, including a deeper grip, intuitive control layout, and dual SD card slots. The Z5II also boasts weather sealing on par with the Z6III and compatibility with the MB-N14 battery grip for extended shoots or vertical orientation work.
Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager at Nikon Europe, described the Z5II as “the thrilling and affordable full-frame upgrade you’ve been waiting for,” aimed at enthusiasts ready to take a step into full-frame photography without compromising on professional features. It all looks like impressive stuff, and as soon as I have a review sample, I’ll let you know my impressions of both the stills and video. Of course, if you have any questions, then please do let me know in the comments box below.
Specifications:
- Sensor: 24.5 MP FX-format (full-frame)
- Image stabilisation: Up to 7.5-stop VR (centre), 6.0 stops (periphery)
- ISO range: Up to 64000 (stills), 51200 (video)
- Autofocus: 68% faster than Z5, down to -10 EV, with 3D tracking
- Continuous shooting: Up to 30 fps with Pre-Release Capture
- Display: Vari-angle touchscreen, 170° viewing angle
- EVF: 3000 cd/m² brightness, 13 brightness levels
- Video: 4K/30p (full frame), 4K/60p (cropped), N-RAW, N-log
- Audio: Mic and headphone sockets
- Storage: Dual SD (UHS-II) card slots
- Build: Magnesium alloy, dust- and drip-resistant
- Weight: Approx. 700 g (body only)
- Connectivity: Nikon Imaging Cloud support
Nikon Z5II Price and Availability:
The Nikon Z5II is available from April 2025, with a recommended retail price of £1,599 in the UK and €1,999 in the Republic of Ireland. Full product details and ordering options can be found at www.europe-nikon.com.
