Nikon Z 5: Full-frame entry-level mirrorless
Nikon Z 5: Full-frame entry-level mirrorless

Nikon Z 5 Announced: Full-Frame Entry-Level Mirrorless for $1,400

2020-07-21
2 mins read

The brand new Nikon Z 5 allows filmmakers to enter the full-frame imagery world without breaking the bank. The camera offers very basic 4K video capabilities at a reasonable price. Is this the most affordable full-frame mirrorless camera in the market? Read more below.

The Nikon Z 5
The Nikon Z 5

Nikon Z 5: The little brother of Z 6 and Z 7

Till now, your options for Nikon full-frame mirrorless camera were either the Z 6 or Z 7. Although these cameras have decent video capabilities that are multiplied due to the ProRes RAW (and Atomos) firmware upgrade, a much more entry-level model was needed. The Nikon Z 5 includes many features that are implemented on previous models, like ergonomics, form factor, and of course the large sensor, but with minor cosmetic changes. Regarding the sensor, the Z 5 has a 24MP FX-format CMOS censor which is different from the Z 6/Z 7 but has the same processor. Furthermore, it’s important to note that the Z 5 owns the very same weather sealing construction as Z 6 and Z 7. You are getting the same robustness as the expansive models. Check out the picture below that shows the new twin – Z 5 compared to Z 6 and Z 7.

Nikon Z 5, Z 6 and Z 7
Nikon Z 5, Z 6 and Z 7

Here are the general specs (click the image for full resolution):

Nikon Z 5 general specs
Nikon Z 5 general specs

UHD 4K Video Recording – cropped

The Z 5 supports UHD 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 60 fps, with the ability to save movie files to the in-camera memory cards or to an optional external recorder via HDMI out. UHD 4K recording uses a 1.7x crop of the center portion of the frame while Full HD recording uses the entire full frame. That means the Z 5 is one of the most affordable full-frame mirrorless available. However, the full sensor is utilized only in the Full DH shooting. Unfortunately, only 8-bit, which is not good enough for professional applications.

Nikon Z 5 media screen
Nikon Z 5 media screen

Full-frame mirrorless camera basic model that inherits the superior power of expression and reliability of the Nikon Z 7 and Z 6, while also balancing high-cost performance.

Nikon

These are the video features of the Z 5:

  • 231 point phase-detect autofocus
  • 4K UHD/30p
  • 1080/60p
  • Optical VR image stabilization and electronic Vibration Reduction
  • Creative Picture Controls
  • Focus Peaking
  • Capture stills while recording

For more video specs explore the slides below (click the image for full resolution):

Nikon Z 5 video specs
Nikon Z 5 video specs
Nikon Z 5 video specs
Nikon Z 5 video specs

Price and availability

The Nikon Z 5 costs $1,400 and can be preordered on the B&H website.

Nikon Z 5
Nikon Z 5

Final thoughts

The Nikon Z 5 is exactly as defined by Nikon itself:” Full-frame mirrorless camera basic model that inherits the superior power of expression and reliability of the Nikon Z 7 and Z 6, while also balancing high-cost performance”. You pay $400 less (than Z6), and you get a mirrorless full-frame robust camera that can be used for many filmmaking applications. However, it’s not for professionals due to the cropped 4K sensor, and 8-bit imagery. The Nikon Z 5 can’t and shouldn’t be compared to its big brothers (Z 6 and Z 7) video capabilities. In my opinion, it’ll be smarter to pay $500 more and get the Z 6 with the latest Atomos firmware upgrade that allows shooting ProRes RAW. The Z5 is somewhere in-between and, from my perspective, doesn’t have a valid market segment for video shooters, unless all you want is to shoot 8-bit full frame in Full-HD mode. The Nikon Z 5 should cost less than $1000 in order to be a smart purchase for entry-level filmmakers.

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Yossy is a filmmaker who specializes mainly in action sports cinematography. Yossy also lectures about the art of independent filmmaking in leading educational institutes, academic programs, and festivals, and his independent films have garnered international awards and recognition.
Yossy is the founder of Y.M.Cinema Magazine.

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Get the best of filmmaking!

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Subscribe to Y.M.Cinema Magazine to get the latest news and insights on cinematography and filmmaking!

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