ReviewFinder Digital Cameras

Nikon Z 50

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Image Quality
Autofocus performance
Video capabilities
Battery life
Ergonomics and handling
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25 Verified Hands-On Reviews

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Expert reviews [25]

83
Total expert reviews: 25
  • with a score: 9
  • without a score: 16
Highest score by DPReview
92
Average score based on 25 reviews
83
Lowest score by Digital Trends
70

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
The Nikon Z50 is a lightweight and versatile mirrorless camera that delivers impressive image quality and performance. With its fast continuous shooting speed, 4K video recording capabilities, and compatibility with a wide range of lenses, it is a top contender in the APS-C mirrorless camera market.
+ pros
  • Fast continuous shooting speed of 11 frames per second.
  • 21-megapixel sensor for capturing detailed action shots.
  • 4K video recording at 30 frames per second.
  • Impressive ISO range of 51,200 (expandable to 204,800) for excellent low-light performance.
  • Compatibility with Z system lenses for exceptional image quality and versatility.
  • Supports all Nikon lenses for a wide range of options.
  • Reasonably priced, with various kit options available.
  • Excellent image quality with vibrant and detailed photos.
  • Built-in flash for balanced lighting.
  • Superior ergonomics compared to Sony or Fuji cameras.
  • Compact and lightweight for easy carrying and shooting.
  • Autofocus is fast and efficient.
  • Supports normal SD memory cards.
  • Charges over USB.
  • Reliable choice for both enthusiasts and professionals.
- cons
  • Lack of a sensor cleaner.
  • Marked focus mode switch.
  • Offshored to Thailand.
  • Mysterious "NC_FLLST.DAT" file in each picture folder.
  • Lack of a headphone jack.
  • Uses an older Micro-B USB connector.
  • No built-in GPS or NFC capabilities.
  • Difficulty in finding touch controls on the rear LCD while shooting with the viewfinder.
  • Blue banding in playback images.
  • Loss of fine detail at high ISOs.
  • Mix of plastic and metal components.
  • Limited compatibility with older lenses.
  • Not recommended to use the FTZ lens adapter.
  • Purchase from approved sources for authenticity and quality assurance.
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Expert consensus

The Nikon Z 50 is highly praised for its image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomic design, making it a reliable choice for various photography needs.

The Nikon Z 50 is highly praised by experts for its image quality, particularly its impressive dynamic range and vibrant colors. Despite its smaller sensor, the camera produces great images with straight out-of-camera JPEGs that are described as nice. It excels in high ISO performance, making it suitable for low-light photography.

However, in very dim conditions, the autofocus may struggle compared to some competitors.

The autofocus performance of the Z 50 is generally praised for its speed and accuracy. It can quickly lock focus on static subjects and has impressive focusing capabilities in challenging lighting situations. It works well for capturing fast-moving subjects and can track them effectively. However, it may not be as fast as some competitors in continuous focus mode and may struggle with fast-moving subjects at its top burst speed.

The Nikon Z 50 offers impressive video capabilities, supporting 4K UHD resolution at 30 frames per second. The camera's in-lens optical image stabilization, combined with its built-in image stabilization, allows for stable handheld shooting and smooth 4K video performance. It is well-suited for vlogging and general video recording.

The battery life of the Nikon Z 50 is considered average, suitable for everyday photography and casual shooting. For more demanding situations, users may need to consider purchasing additional batteries or using the optional Nikon FTZ adapter with a different battery.

The Nikon Z 50 is highly regarded for its excellent ergonomics and handling. Its aesthetics, build quality, and compact size make it highly portable and easy to carry. The button placements and functionality are well-thought-out, and the camera offers a comfortable and intuitive shooting experience.

The camera's interface is also praised for its simplicity and ease of use.

Overall, the Nikon Z 50 is considered a reliable choice for landscape photography, low-light situations, vlogging, and general photography needs. Its image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomic design make it suitable for a range of use cases, from casual shooting to travel and outdoor adventures.

Image Quality

The Nikon Z 50 receives positive reviews for its image quality, particularly in low-light conditions, making it suitable for landscape photography and low-light situations.

The Nikon Z 50 receives positive reviews for its image quality from multiple experts. Despite its smaller 20. 9-megapixel APS-C sensor, the camera is praised for producing great images with impressive dynamic range and vibrant colors. The straight out-of-camera JPEGs are also described as nice.

The Z 50 is said to excel in high ISO performance, potentially having the best high ISO performance out of any current APS-C camera. This makes it suitable for low-light photography, such as shooting indoors without flash or outdoors at night. The camera's credible performance in low-light conditions is attributed to its high standard light sensitivity of ISO 51,200 and expanded ISO sensitivity of 204,800, as well as its Expeed 6 image processing engine.

However, in very dim conditions, the autofocus of the Z 50 may struggle compared to some Nikon DSLRs and competing mirrorless cameras. Overall, the Nikon Z 50 is considered to have very good image quality for its price and level, making it suitable for landscape photography and low-light situations.

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Autofocus performance

The autofocus performance of the Nikon Z 50 is generally praised for its speed, accuracy, and ability to track moving subjects, although it may have some limitations compared to competitors in certain situations.

The Nikon Z 50 is generally praised for its autofocus performance. The autofocus speed is considered fast and responsive, especially in good lighting conditions. It can quickly lock focus on static subjects and has an impressive -4EV focusing capability for challenging lighting situations.

However, there are some limitations, such as hunting and struggling to find focus in certain modes with telephoto lenses above 50mm. In continuous focus mode, the autofocus performance is not as fast as some competitors like Sony.

The autofocus accuracy of the Z 50 is generally praised, with reviewers noting that it can acquire focus quickly and accurately in both good and low-light situations. It works well for capturing fast-moving subjects and can track them impressively well. The 209-point hybrid AF system with broad coverage contributes to precise focusing.

However, it may show some weaknesses in tracking fast-moving subjects compared to higher-end Nikon models.

The autofocus system of the Z 50 is highly regarded for its ability to track moving subjects. It is a significant improvement over previous Nikon DX DSLR bodies and can quickly lock focus on static scenes and track moving subjects well. It has been tested and found to perform well with subjects like cyclists and horses.

The eye detection AF feature allows it to quickly lock onto moving eyes. However, it may not be as groundbreaking as some competitors like the Sony A6400.

Overall, the autofocus performance of the Nikon Z 50 is considered good and suitable for most average users. It is particularly praised for its improvement over previous Nikon DX DSLR bodies and its ability to track moving subjects well. It may struggle with fast-moving subjects at its top burst speed, but for still or slower-moving subjects, it is considered excellent.

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Video capabilities

The Nikon Z 50 offers impressive video capabilities, including 4K UHD resolution at 30 fps, a range of frame rates, and effective image stabilization, making it a reliable choice for vlogging and general video recording.

The Nikon Z 50 offers impressive video capabilities, supporting a maximum resolution of 4K UHD at 30 frames per second. This allows users to capture high-quality footage with no loss in field of view. The camera also offers a range of frame rates for video recording, including slow-motion options with frame rates up to 120 fps in Full HD.

While the Nikon Z 50 does not have in-body image stabilization, it relies on in-lens optical image stabilization available in compatible lenses. According to reviews, this optical stabilization is effective in reducing camera shake and producing smooth footage. The combination of VR technology in the lenses and the camera's built-in image stabilization allows for stable handheld shooting and smooth 4K video performance.

Overall, the Nikon Z 50's video capabilities are well-suited for vlogging and general video recording. The camera's ability to shoot uncropped 4K video, along with its effective image stabilization, makes it a reliable choice for creating less shaky videos and capturing smooth footage.

Whether you're a vlogger looking for stable handheld shooting or a videographer in need of high-quality 4K footage, the Nikon Z 50 delivers satisfactory results.

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Battery life

The battery life of the Nikon Z 50 camera is considered average and may not be ideal for extended use or professional photographers, but it should be sufficient for everyday photography and casual shooting.

Based on expert reviews, the battery life of the Nikon Z 50 camera is generally considered to be average. The EN-EL25 battery, which is the standard battery for the Z 50, has a capacity of 1120mAh. This is sufficient for casual photography or short shooting sessions, but may not be ideal for extended use or professional photographers who require longer battery life.

In terms of specific use cases, the Nikon Z 50 is suitable for everyday photography and casual shooting. It can handle a moderate amount of shooting, such as capturing family events or taking photos while traveling. However, for more demanding situations such as all-day photo shoots or professional assignments, users may need to consider purchasing additional batteries or using the optional Nikon FTZ adapter with the EN-EL15b battery for extended battery life.

It is worth noting that the availability of third-party battery grips may provide alternative options for users who require longer battery life. However, the performance and compatibility of these grips may vary, so it is recommended to research and choose reputable brands.

Overall, while the battery life of the Nikon Z 50 is not exceptional, it should be sufficient for most casual photography needs. Users who require extended battery life for more demanding situations may need to consider additional accessories or alternative battery options.

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Ergonomics and handling

The Nikon Z 50 is highly praised for its excellent ergonomics, comfortable grip, and intuitive button placements, making it a pleasure to use in various shooting scenarios.

The Nikon Z 50 receives high praise from experts for its excellent ergonomics and handling. The camera's aesthetics and build quality are highly regarded, with a solid construction and well-balanced design. The deep grip and small body provide a comfortable and ergonomic shooting experience, even over long periods of time.

The camera's compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable and easy to carry, making it a perfect companion for backcountry exploration, travel, or any situation that requires a lightweight and compact camera.

The button placements and functionality of the Nikon Z 50 are well-thought-out, contributing to its overall ergonomics and ease of operation. The camera features a spacious and comfortable grip, with buttons and controls within easy reach. The placement of important controls is intuitive, and the camera offers customizable buttons for personalized control.

The camera's interface is also praised for its simplicity and ease of use, making it suitable for photographers of all levels of experience.

Overall, the Nikon Z 50 provides a comfortable and intuitive handling experience for photographers. Its ergonomic design, well-placed buttons, and intuitive interface make it a pleasure to use in various shooting scenarios. Whether it's for travel, outdoor adventures, or casual shooting, the Nikon Z 50 offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience for photographers.

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all digital cameras.

Rank Change Price Digital Camera
TechRadar
BestReviews
Tom's Guide
Photography PX
Lifewire
Rtings.com
Digital Trends
Futurism
Gadget Review
PCMag
1
- Check price
Fujifilm X-T4
The Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly praised camera that offers top-notch image quality, excellent autofocus performance, impressive video capabilities, and improved battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
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1
1
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2
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Canon EOS R10
The Canon EOS R10 is a highly praised camera with excellent image quality, autofocus performance, and ergonomics, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
2
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9
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5
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10
3
- $2497
Nikon Z6 III
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1
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2
4
- $2099
Fujifilm X100VI
6
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1
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Nikon Z 50 did not receive any endorsements this month.