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.

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.

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

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.

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):

Price and availability

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

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.