Thanks for the review. I'm invested in Nikon and this review was just what I needed to help convince me that the Z50ii is my answer for action shots and every day family use. Much appreciated.
I think this is going to be a very successful model for Nikon. I have the Z9 and Z7II , I am going to order the z50ii 2x lens kit for a light fun set-up . Great review
Great video. Thanks Ken! What many people may not realize is that this little jewel is way better than the Fuji X100VI for $500 less. I still shoot Nikon DSLR for my serious stuff but I really think that I need this to use instead of my Fuji!
Happy 2025 Ken! As a landscape, product and wildlife photographer, I’m quite pleased with the image quality I obtain from the Z8 and several Nikkor Z lenses such as the 180-600 for BIF photography. I’m researching a smaller “travel” camera, with either a fixed lens or interchangeable lens, and so far thinking about the Fuji X100Vll or the Nikon Zf. This camera would obviously only be used for landscape, not wildlife or product photography. Sharpness and detail rendition are my main criteria along with portability. Any thoughts on these options (or others) would be greatly appreciated!
Thankyou for this review. I also got the 28-400mm lens which I find great for travel combined with the 12-28mm. Hope you had a merry Christmas. All the best for 2025
Nice video Ken, I just bought the camera as a backup to my Z8. I plan on using the 12-28 along with the 28-400 lens with it. I do have the 100-400 but use that only with the 8. It is a great little camera and gives a great focal range with the 12 to 400 combination. Thanks for sharing
Be careful with the full frame 28-400mm on DX; it has iffy full frame performance at the longest end on FX so I can't vouch that you'd be happy with it on DX. This is exactly why I caution that if you want longer than 250mm on Nikon DX that you need either the $2,500 Z 100-400mm OR should go Canon as I did, whose RF 100-400mm is about $700 and SUPERB. Thanks!
Ken you sold me - finally jumping from my trusty D700 and D500 (been Nikon for 20 years, since the D80 and many others afterwards)- replacing the D700 with the Z50 II for travel - Just bought from B&H using your links . Have dozens of FX/DX lenses so I will keep the D500 for wildlife (I have up to a 600mm lens). But for walking in cities, the weight and convenience of a Z50 II and the1 8-140mm can't be beat. Thanks!
@@matthiasschmitz873 I have a lot of investment in F-Mount lenses, so FTZ might be an idea, but the reasons for Z-mount is weight for traveling, and getting new tech (it's been decades with F-mount). FTZ would be a step back in my view. As per the new 18-140, I ordered a Z-mount new from B&H. After learning the new technology (new to me), I plan to follow up with a longer birding lens, a small street photo around 25mm APS/C, and a macro lens, so I'll be set with just three or four lenses (as opposed to the 15+ lenses I have accumulated over the years, 60% of which I don't use).
FTZ adapter makes everything too big, completely destroying the feel of small mirrorless. Stick with the real Z lenses. IN other words, it s Avery new world in mirrorless and little of what you already have is going to be that useful - even if Nikon tries to make it seem that way to trick you into staying with Nikon rather than looking at Canon, who have a bigger, better system. Have fun and Thanks!
Nah, just more experience. Take some firearms and marksmanship classes where they'll teach how to hold and use your breath and squeeze a trigger properly, Thanks!
Great review! I’m not sure why folks complain about the lack of viewfinder on the Z30… the Z30 line is just the no-viewfinder version of the Z50 line. You get a useful 1/4 weight saving for that. But if you want a viewfinder, get the 50! It’s like complaining that a cabriolet doesn’t have a permanent roof.
Bought the Nikon Z50 II a few weeks ago. I bought it because it is way lighter than my D7500, has an articulating LCD screen, has lighter lens than a DSLR, has a mic and headphone jack and it does not make a lot of noise unlike a DSLR.
With only 2 lenses, the 12-28mm (DX) and 28-400mm (FX), you can effectively cover 18-600mm. Add the 16-50mm for travelling light and you are basically covered for most situations.
I have both but my 18-140 is the one that I use 99% of the time on my Zfc for the extra reach. If you want small size the 16-50 is great. Both are excellent quality.
18-140 goes al the way to 140mm rather than just 50mm, a huge difference that replaces the need for another second tele lens. The slight difference in the wide end doesn't matter to me, Thanks!
Ken, thanks for this review. I’m a long, long time follower and took a chance and bought this camera before you did a full review (was going to switch to canon per your recommendations). I have to agree with everything you said about this camera. As soon as I started using it, I knew and felt it was better than the z6ii which it replaced. I’m in the process of adopting a lot of your settings.
I love lightweight Nikon all plastic cameras. "Pro" photographers insist they need a camera with an all metal chasis because they are hard on their equipment and then spend as much as an amatuer spends on their first camera and lens on bags and cases to protect their proffessional "rugged" camera. My first all plastic Nikon camera spent its life when not in use rolling around in the foot well of my truck. I replaced it because it was only 6mp, not because my mistreatment of it caused it any harm. 😄
Definitely go for the model II. It’s much better and not much more expensive. The real question is should you take this opportunity to step up to the Canon system, since you’ll be buying all new Z specific items over the next few years. The z50 II is fine if all you want are the few basic DX lenses Nikon offers, but if you intend to expand and want a full line of lesnss, better shooort and better ethics with genuine made-in-japan quality, you want Canon as I prefer. Look at the R10 instead www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you so much for the quick responce. I love the price of the Canons Rf 100-400. At this point kit 18-150 and this 100-400 more than enought for me even for my son's ice hockey games. Waiting for the refubrished deals from Canon. BTW, I've been following you on your site since 2006.Awesome job!
Hi Ken, nice video ! I have a D7100 and I’d like to know if the FTZ adapter with my prime lenses from my D7100 would drop in image quality ? Thanks in advance !
The FTZ only has air inside, no optics, so images are unaltered. The real question to answer is that the FTZ is big and bulky and destroys the whole beauty of this great little camera when you use DSLR lenses on it, so either use the native Z lenses or you'll eventually wind up buying new Z lenses anyway, at which point you'll realize you could have upgraded to Canon instead today. Thanks! .
Lens-wise, you could get the Tamron 70-300mm. It's not stabilised though. The biggest downside for me is that there is no faster standard zoom. I'd love for Tamron to release their 17-70/2.8 in Z-mount. And that is stabilised.
Tamron now has the 50-400 with VR for Z mount. I agree, Nikon should let Tamron release their both APSC 2.8 zoom lenses, if Nikon is not going to release them. I think Tamron might be thinking of a refresh for the 17-70 as it has some onion rings. Maybe we will get a z version if they happen to refresh it.
Great review! Thanks! After countless review videos and reading in a lot of forums I thought i'm the only one who's wanting a pop up flash. That was the selling point for me - despite the fact that the Z50II doesn't have IBIS. So I've got mine last week (camera +16-50mm lens) and so far so good. And now I'll have to watch your settings video...
Thanks Ken for the excellent review. I want to know how Z50II will perform with nikon Z 180-600mm? Will it be able to fast autofocus this heavier lens? I currently use the 180-600 with Z6III, but want a APSC body for getting the extra reach for photographing small birds? Please let me know.
I haven't tried that combo, and it ought to work great. Make sure only to get yours from my approved sources (listed in my Z50 II review at kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm) and you have at least a 30-day trial period during which you simply can return if you don't LOVE how it works. That's why I've been buying from B&H and Adorama since the 1970s: they've always offered a 100% cash-back trial period so I never have to guess if I'm going to love something or not; I order it and try it for myself. Thanks!
I'd go Canon for a larger, better supported system with much better expansion options www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm
I had my camera on a tripod (with sandbag) but a very strong wind still knocked it over. The 16-50 lens took the brunt of the fall and now the zooming mechanism is rough, gets stuck sometimes, can hear loose pieces rattling inside when shaken. BUT optics are unaffected, AF & VR still work 100%. It’s a really good lens, highly underrated!
Not a good lens for DX APS-C; the 24mm end is simply normal and not wide. It's a big lens to cover full frame, the capability you are throwing away using on a DX camera. I can't put much faith in its sharpness at 400mm on DX; much better to go canon APS-C www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm and the SUPERB RF 100-400mm for HALF PRICE www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/lenses/100-400mm.htm Thanks!
@ if I was starting from nothing, perhaps. I have 12 Z-mount, DX lenses and 2 bodies. Switching systems at this point wouldn’t be a good idea. 95% of my photography are in the 16mm (24mm FF) to 200mm (300mm FF) gamut, so the extra reach for the steep price is not necessary for me. The reviews I have seen for the 28-400 were good and even though a 45MP sensor would expose imperfections, the 24MP FX did well. One of the reviewers even said that on an APS-C body this lens would be even better since the imperfections are at the edges. That said, I would like to see a DX Nikon lens that would reach 400mm, but from a 100 or 150mm starting point, DX pricing & weight, from Nikon next.
@@shang-hsienyang1284 Don't wait up late; five years after the Z50 came out the best Nikon has done is this Z50 II. Good luck; this is why I upgraded to Canon in 2012.
Nikon announced that initial orders of the Z50II were much higher than expected. They always say that, but this time it was unusually soon. So I am thinking (hoping?) that maybe Nikon starts to realise there's an actual market for APS-C that they've been neglecting, it's bigger than this one camera, and it would justify them either letting Sigma/Tamron release Z-mount DX lenses, or have them release more of their own. Also because of the recent Sigma/Tamron zooms released in R-mount. No guarantees though. ;) Btw, I wouldn't rule out pre-buffering RAW to come to this camera (and other Z models).
Check your buffer stats on your website review - I think those are still for the original z50. Z50ii buffer is 200 shots raw or jpg. Also worth mentioning is all the button customizability from the higher end cameras was left in for the z50ii as well. Thanks!
My Z50 II indicates 51 frames raw, 59 frames JPG, or 300 frames in C15 or C30. It's not specs, it's what's actually shown in the finder live, which shows the instantaneous hardware buffer capacity. Of course while actually shooting it's writing from the buffer to the card in real time, so one always gets more frames than indicated in actual use. Depending on the card write speed it could be close to unlimited. Thanks!
Ok that makes sense. I’m used to seeing buffer referred to as the number of images it can take before it slows down or stops, but I’ve also seen it done this way as well so it’s all good. It’s just great that the buffer does not really impact shooting.
I still shoot a nikon D3 and D800 for pro work...i just bought this guy as a small option travel camera. I am going on a cruise in march and did not want to lug my heavy gear...ive bern plsying with the z50ii my only complaint is battery life, hopefully there is a battery grip option for just the video use aspect alone.
I find it easier to bring a few spare batteries, or honestly I just bring this tiny, powerful power bank and fill up between shoots kenrockwell.com/tech/nitecore/nb20000.htm
Conveniently omitted Nikkor 28-400 and Tamron 50-400 which are cheaper than the Nikkor 100-400 S line lens. Even if the Canon is cheaper, the other lenses are more versatile.
the 28-400 is pretty sloppy at the 400mm end. It's only recommended as an emergency measure; DO NOT BUY the Z 28-400 if the 400mm end is what you want,. ThankS!
I think the only time I've read that you didn't have to fiddle with exposure compensation was back in 2006 with the D200. You'd think Nikon would've kept it like that. I think the D500 used to overexpose a little.
I am having Nikon Zfc and I mainly shoot birds & other wildlife (80%) and 20 % general. I am thinking b/w this Z50 II and Nikon Z6 III which one do you suggest Ken ?
Easy: stick with DX like the z50 II for wildlife. You will need new lenses with 50% more focal length to get the same pictures on full frame like Z6 III. You’ll need a 300mm or 450mm to get exactly the same pictures you get today with just 200mm or 300mm on DX. Thanks!
No; I use it in manual mode to trigger my studio strobes. See this in detail in my complete users guide at /nikon/z/z50-ii-users-guide.htm#flash Thanks!
Z50 II is my fave Nikon mirrorless, so long as the Z 12-28 DX, Z 16-50mm DX, Z 18-140mm DX and Z 50-250mm DX are the only lenses you expect to need. If you want to grow your system beyond this, then I'd suggest the Canon R10 instead, as Cann has a much more complete APS-C system and much better manufacturing respect and customer support. Likewise, it's inelegant to use the clunky FTZ with your old lenses, so you'll wind up buying all new Z lenses anyway, so may as well go Canon if those few Z DX lenses aren't going to do it for you. Thanks!
I have two of the Z50 bodies, both with the FTZ adapter. I use my Sigma 17-50 F2.8, which I love, on one, and the Nikkor 18-140 on the other. I love the Z50. Great image quality. The Z50II looks to be even better.
Great! Be sure to use the links from my review at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm to get it. Most people don’t know that I track and log the price over time at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm#price thanks!
There is an FTZ (F-Mount Lens to Z-Mount camera), which was indicated by the other commentor should work with all AF-S and G lenses except those AF-D lenses. Howeve there is no Z-F (Z-Mount Lens to F-Mount Camera) due to the physical limitations of a shorter flange distance.
NO!!! Can't ever use Z lenses on anything else. You can adapt some DSLR lenses to Z cameras with the FTZ, but it doesn't always work well kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm
@@KenRockwellTV That makes me sad, I have ten very good lenses. I Think my d7200 is the best I can do without having to spend ten grand. The whole incompatible lens deal is a huge scam IMO.
Let me clarify: one can use most older Nikon SLR & DSLR lenses from 1959~today with varying degrees of compatibility (many won't autofocus) on the newest Z cameras with the clumsy FTZ adapter (kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm), but one cannot use the newest Z lenses on any DSLR.
I have both a Nikon Z6II and Z6III, but I grab my Z50 for travel or when I I'm not doing a paid job. I love the light weight and ergonomics. I would trade up to the Z50II just to get the Expeed 7 processor, but I hate those flip-out LCD screens. They really get in the way, especially when using a neck strap. I much prefer the tilt-up and -down screen.
Dude I agree with the FX comment. Ever since Sigma released those two f/1.7 aps-c zooms. It made wanting FX an after thought for me moving forwards. I have the 10.5 fisheye, 35mm f/1.8 and few older lenses. I don't miss my D3s, Z6, or D4. Aside from having a wider angle of view I've lost my fascination with them. I definitely don't miss those giant batteries and charger bricks.
I just bought my first camera, an R8 with 24-240 and a 16 prime on the way, but this Z50 II might have been my pick if there were more reviews on it. How far has the AF on this come compared to Canon?
@@KenRockwellTV Appreciate the response Ken! I checked the Nikon site just out of curiosity; their lenses are ridiculously expensive even compared to Canon. Glad I chose the R8! Shame nothing else really compares to Canon right now though...
After looking at a lot of your reviews and reading a lot of them as well, I decided I will get rid of my Nikon Z 6II/ 50mm lens and get a Canon R6II/ 24-240mm lens, because it seems to me I would have a lot more comfort shooting my pictures and great autofocus that will track subjects effectively, would I regret my decision? Thank you and happy holidays ❤
Thanks for this. Informative and enjoyable, as ever. I remember half looking at the original Z50 twin lens kit. I read that the kit VR lenses only allowed the camera to use 1/2000 SS. I never found out if that was really true or not as I was not keen on the rear screen........By way of a change, to try Nikon if I don't buy used, this looks more rounded at the price point (no clue on the SS and sorry if I missed you covering it). Cheers!
Never heard any shutter speed limits with VR, sounds like the baloney you'll hear if you waste your time asking salesmen at retail stores who make more margin (money) selling you something else. Thanks!
Thank you. I respect your feelings about Z- NIKONS. My personal opinion though is that of a squidgy old grump who feels that Nikon started "loosing it" after the F2. I would not sell my unmetered F sporting a 50 /1.4 NIKKOR with F36 MD and cordless battery pack for one of every camera and lens that Nikon currently sells and a million dollars in cash !
I AGREE! I bought my F2AS kenrockwell.com/nikon/f2as.htm used in 1984 for MORE than a brand new F3, which we all knew was a bogus electronic turd. It's been a long, slow crawl to Hell for Nikon even since the 1980s when they lost it -and my F2AS still works like new. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV Thank you for your comment! Am going to get goofy now. Now dream with me of a NIKON FD- body, basic controls, standard F lens mount of Titanium, compatible with ALL ooooold accessories. Body sealed waterproof to 15 ft. System hardened against e/m pulses up to 1 THz that also functions in outer space environments ( pressure less than 1.0 E -8 to 1.0 E 8 ATM and temps from 170 to 450 Kelvin, lifetime lubricated ) No internal light meter, image recording on an end-user replacable 45 Mp licensed SIGMA FOVEON X-3 sensor ( en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foveon_X3_sensor ) a hot-swappable 4s 11.8 vDC LiPO power source min. rated at 3600 mAh. System operable in environments with beta and gamma radiation up to 10 RADS, and rated for impact on hard surfaces at an acceleration +25 meters per second per second. Image recording internal and capable of FHSS transmission on 18 GHz . Now THIS would be ABSOLUTELY AWESOME and far beyond any other pro camera manufacturer could match !
Yes! Hard work, thrift and determination are what drive all to high incomes and overcome every obstacle. Never give up and never take NO for an answer. Thanks!
Yes, can I design a logo and merch prints arts for you? You can have something your fans can buy from you to help spread words about your channel too, you might don't need the extra boost to get more views and money nowadays but it sure will able to help your honest opinions get shared to make more people wiser. Let me know if you love to make this opportunity happen and you will have a series of merch prints to sell start from next year! :-)
You and your reviews are ALWAYS useful, but very far off on some of your info! I believe the Nikon 180-600 Zoom works very well with the Z50 II! Otherwise, many photographer/reviewer's are Lying! PS A "Z" mount camera
Another excellent camera from Nikon! Too bad it is using such an old sensor but still being sold as brand new though. The 26MP BSI sensor Fuji gets from Sony has been available for several years now (cameras launched in 2020 had it) and you'd think Nikon would get on board because they usually have advanced tech like the Z9's sensor and then build a good camera round it. Maybe Nikon is leaving room for a more advanced APSC camera like a Z60 or Z80 etc. Thanks again for the fun and informative review Ken, your work is always appreciated.
the sensor is an excellent performer regardless of age , but they could do with a higher end APS model with IBIS etc . This certainly ticks a lot of boxes and though not the fastest the two kit zooms are very good performers and the 2 lens kit with the Z50II is I feel a real bargain
Thanks Ken! I wanted the Sony A6700 with kit lens and waited for it to lower in price a bit for Black Friday but it never did. I ordered this instead! Can’t wait to get it!
Or do what I did and upgrade to Canon. Problem isn't a lack of DX lenses; it's a lack of anything reasonably priced longer than 250mm; Canon has an awesome RF 100-400mm www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/lenses/100-400mm.htm which has no equivalent in Sony or Nikon. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV Thanks Ken! Think I'm good though? have a f100, f4, FM, FM2. Some others...... I hardly ever shoot film anymore but still keep some in the fridge just in case. I really started on old Konicas. I had a thing for Konica. Not sure why. I wonder if any of Sony has Konica remnants? Just in case I did get a couple sony. Crap now you have me looking at F2as for sale..
Thanks for the review. I'm invested in Nikon and this review was just what I needed to help convince me that the Z50ii is my answer for action shots and every day family use. Much appreciated.
I have I z8 with lenses. I am considering this as lightweight camera
thank you!!!
I think this is going to be a very successful model for Nikon. I have the Z9 and Z7II , I am going to order the z50ii 2x lens kit for a light fun set-up . Great review
Thanks!
Great video. Thanks Ken! What many people may not realize is that this little jewel is way better than the Fuji X100VI for $500 less. I still shoot Nikon DSLR for my serious stuff but I really think that I need this to use instead of my Fuji!
X100vi has ibis and a great sensor. This z50ii has neither, the sensor is from 2017, and half the megapixels of the x100vi!
I agree
Soo much better than X100 series!!!!!
Happy 2025 Ken! As a landscape, product and wildlife photographer, I’m quite pleased with the image quality I obtain from the Z8 and several Nikkor Z lenses such as the 180-600 for BIF photography. I’m researching a smaller “travel” camera, with either a fixed lens or interchangeable lens, and so far thinking about the Fuji X100Vll or the Nikon Zf. This camera would obviously only be used for landscape, not wildlife or product photography. Sharpness and detail rendition are my main criteria along with portability. Any thoughts on these options (or others) would be greatly appreciated!
Great review, Ken! Love your content. All of the facts without the BS. You know what you're taking about, and I appreciate it.
No BS, that my motto! I work really hard to get to the point fast; thanks for noticing!!!
Great review, Ken! Merry christmas and happy new year！
THANKS!!! Merry Christmas and a great 29025 to you and yours!!!!
Thank you for a very informative review Ken.
Merry Christmas!
Thanks!!!! Merry Christmas!!!
Thankyou for this review. I also got the 28-400mm lens which I find great for travel combined with the 12-28mm. Hope you had a merry Christmas. All the best for 2025
Excellent, thanks!
Nice video Ken, I just bought the camera as a backup to my Z8. I plan on using the 12-28 along with the 28-400 lens with it. I do have the 100-400 but use that only with the 8. It is a great little camera and gives a great focal range with the 12 to 400 combination. Thanks for sharing
Be careful with the full frame 28-400mm on DX; it has iffy full frame performance at the longest end on FX so I can't vouch that you'd be happy with it on DX. This is exactly why I caution that if you want longer than 250mm on Nikon DX that you need either the $2,500 Z 100-400mm OR should go Canon as I did, whose RF 100-400mm is about $700 and SUPERB. Thanks!
Ken you sold me - finally jumping from my trusty D700 and D500 (been Nikon for 20 years, since the D80 and many others afterwards)- replacing the D700 with the Z50 II for travel - Just bought from B&H using your links . Have dozens of FX/DX lenses so I will keep the D500 for wildlife (I have up to a 600mm lens). But for walking in cities, the weight and convenience of a Z50 II and the1 8-140mm can't be beat. Thanks!
Are you planning to use an old AF-S 18-140 with the FTZ adapter or are you going to just use the Z 18-140?
@@matthiasschmitz873 I have a lot of investment in F-Mount lenses, so FTZ might be an idea, but the reasons for Z-mount is weight for traveling, and getting new tech (it's been decades with F-mount). FTZ would be a step back in my view. As per the new 18-140, I ordered a Z-mount new from B&H. After learning the new technology (new to me), I plan to follow up with a longer birding lens, a small street photo around 25mm APS/C, and a macro lens, so I'll be set with just three or four lenses (as opposed to the 15+ lenses I have accumulated over the years, 60% of which I don't use).
FTZ adapter makes everything too big, completely destroying the feel of small mirrorless. Stick with the real Z lenses. IN other words, it s Avery new world in mirrorless and little of what you already have is going to be that useful - even if Nikon tries to make it seem that way to trick you into staying with Nikon rather than looking at Canon, who have a bigger, better system. Have fun and Thanks!
I know some of it is technique but do you think you are blessed with extraordinarily steady hands?
Nah, just more experience. Take some firearms and marksmanship classes where they'll teach how to hold and use your breath and squeeze a trigger properly, Thanks!
Great review!
I’m not sure why folks complain about the lack of viewfinder on the Z30… the Z30 line is just the no-viewfinder version of the Z50 line. You get a useful 1/4 weight saving for that. But if you want a viewfinder, get the 50! It’s like complaining that a cabriolet doesn’t have a permanent roof.
Heh he, thanks
Bought the Nikon Z50 II a few weeks ago. I bought it because it is way lighter than my D7500, has an articulating LCD screen, has lighter lens than a DSLR, has a mic and headphone jack and it does not make a lot of noise unlike a DSLR.
Enjoy!
Merry Christmas Ken and family. 🎉
Merry Christmas and a great new year to your and yours!!!!
Eventually, I’ll pick one up. I have a Z50 and Z5 now. I’ll probably get the Z5ii next, and pickup a Z50ii when it first goes on sale. 😊
enjoy!
With only 2 lenses, the 12-28mm (DX) and 28-400mm (FX), you can effectively cover 18-600mm. Add the 16-50mm for travelling light and you are basically covered for most situations.
I rarely use wide angle and thus I would just get the 16-50 and 28-400, in place of the 50-250.
you got it!
@@chuckwalla2967 So you don't think 16mm and 28mm are "wide angle"?
How do 16-50 and 18-140 lenses stack up against one another?
I have both but my 18-140 is the one that I use 99% of the time on my Zfc for the extra reach. If you want small size the 16-50 is great. Both are excellent quality.
18-140 goes al the way to 140mm rather than just 50mm, a huge difference that replaces the need for another second tele lens. The slight difference in the wide end doesn't matter to me, Thanks!
Ken, thanks for this review. I’m a long, long time follower and took a chance and bought this camera before you did a full review (was going to switch to canon per your recommendations). I have to agree with everything you said about this camera. As soon as I started using it, I knew and felt it was better than the z6ii which it replaced. I’m in the process of adopting a lot of your settings.
Excellent! See my guide and settings at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii-users-guide.htm Thanks!
We are back 🎉❤what’s your favourite cameras or lenses of the year? 😮
Fuji xp130
Waterproof
EOS R6 II & RF 24-240mm IS USM, fave comers of all time.
Picked one up for my friend, the day it was released. He really likes it. I was impressed with how much of my Z9 is in this thing.
Yip, I prefer it to the clumsy poser Z9. Thanks!
I love lightweight Nikon all plastic cameras. "Pro" photographers insist they need a camera with an all metal chasis because they are hard on their equipment and then spend as much as an amatuer spends on their first camera and lens on bags and cases to protect their proffessional "rugged" camera. My first all plastic Nikon camera spent its life when not in use rolling around in the foot well of my truck. I replaced it because it was only 6mp, not because my mistreatment of it caused it any harm. 😄
thanks!
Great review. Much appreciate it. For the owner of D3300 on a tight budget upgrade to the refurbished z50 kit or new z50ii? Thanks.
Definitely go for the model II. It’s much better and not much more expensive. The real question is should you take this opportunity to step up to the Canon system, since you’ll be buying all new Z specific items over the next few years. The z50 II is fine if all you want are the few basic DX lenses Nikon offers, but if you intend to expand and want a full line of lesnss, better shooort and better ethics with genuine made-in-japan quality, you want Canon as I prefer. Look at the R10 instead www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you so much for the quick responce. I love the price of the Canons Rf 100-400. At this point kit 18-150 and this 100-400 more than enought for me even for my son's ice hockey games. Waiting for the refubrished deals from Canon. BTW, I've been following you on your site since 2006.Awesome job!
Hi Ken, nice video ! I have a D7100 and I’d like to know if the FTZ adapter with my prime lenses from my D7100 would drop in image quality ? Thanks in advance !
The FTZ only has air inside, no optics, so images are unaltered. The real question to answer is that the FTZ is big and bulky and destroys the whole beauty of this great little camera when you use DSLR lenses on it, so either use the native Z lenses or you'll eventually wind up buying new Z lenses anyway, at which point you'll realize you could have upgraded to Canon instead today. Thanks! .
Thanks Ken, a very timely review as I was considering this as a backup to my Zf.
zf is full frame, this is APS C so its a totally different system with different DX lenses. Thanks!
Lens-wise, you could get the Tamron 70-300mm. It's not stabilised though. The biggest downside for me is that there is no faster standard zoom. I'd love for Tamron to release their 17-70/2.8 in Z-mount. And that is stabilised.
Tamron now has the 50-400 with VR for Z mount. I agree, Nikon should let Tamron release their both APSC 2.8 zoom lenses, if Nikon is not going to release them. I think Tamron might be thinking of a refresh for the 17-70 as it has some onion rings. Maybe we will get a z version if they happen to refresh it.
@@OnlyCitrusIndeed that is another option, and it is stabilized. Great for a compact wildlife setup.
its asking for trouble using a non-VR long lens on this camera,. I would not do that.
Great review! Thanks!
After countless review videos and reading in a lot of forums I thought i'm the only one who's wanting a pop up flash. That was the selling point for me - despite the fact that the Z50II doesn't have IBIS. So I've got mine last week (camera +16-50mm lens) and so far so good.
And now I'll have to watch your settings video...
IBIS is for wimps. Optical in-lens VR works much better.
I never realised you had a UA-cam channel until now 👍🏼 I always look to your website before buying anything. Thanks for your work
Hee hee, discovered! Thanks!
Thanks Ken for the excellent review.
I want to know how Z50II will perform with nikon Z 180-600mm? Will it be able to fast autofocus this heavier lens?
I currently use the 180-600 with Z6III, but want a APSC body for getting the extra reach for photographing small birds? Please let me know.
I haven't tried that combo, and it ought to work great. Make sure only to get yours from my approved sources (listed in my Z50 II review at kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm) and you have at least a 30-day trial period during which you simply can return if you don't LOVE how it works. That's why I've been buying from B&H and Adorama since the 1970s: they've always offered a 100% cash-back trial period so I never have to guess if I'm going to love something or not; I order it and try it for myself. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV Thanks Ken for your suggestion !!
Ken, you are talking me into my first digital camera. Excellent review. Thanks!
I'd go Canon for a larger, better supported system with much better expansion options www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm
I have always found the AF-A mode to be really handy. I don't know why Nikon deletes it from models above the Z5.
Beats me!
Amazing what can be done when you know what you are doing. Been reading his reviews for years - since my d70.
THANK YOU! It's never the tools, it's the artist.
I had my camera on a tripod (with sandbag) but a very strong wind still knocked it over. The 16-50 lens took the brunt of the fall and now the zooming mechanism is rough, gets stuck sometimes, can hear loose pieces rattling inside when shaken. BUT optics are unaffected, AF & VR still work 100%. It’s a really good lens, highly underrated!
THANKS! Sorry about that!
@@KenRockwellTV No need for sorry, It's still my workhorse lens lol
Nikon does have the 28-400mm lens as well - at $1250.00 (it's Full frame)
Not a good lens for DX APS-C; the 24mm end is simply normal and not wide. It's a big lens to cover full frame, the capability you are throwing away using on a DX camera. I can't put much faith in its sharpness at 400mm on DX; much better to go canon APS-C www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm and the SUPERB RF 100-400mm for HALF PRICE www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/lenses/100-400mm.htm Thanks!
@ if I was starting from nothing, perhaps. I have 12 Z-mount, DX lenses and 2 bodies. Switching systems at this point wouldn’t be a good idea. 95% of my photography are in the 16mm (24mm FF) to 200mm (300mm FF) gamut, so the extra reach for the steep price is not necessary for me. The reviews I have seen for the 28-400 were good and even though a 45MP sensor would expose imperfections, the 24MP FX did well. One of the reviewers even said that on an APS-C body this lens would be even better since the imperfections are at the edges. That said, I would like to see a DX Nikon lens that would reach 400mm, but from a 100 or 150mm starting point, DX pricing & weight, from Nikon next.
The Z50II looks like a good camera but what I really want to buy is a more advanced Z mount APSC with IBIS, dual card slots, and pre-buffering RAW.
That's the Canon EOS R7 www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/r7.htm which has all that. I wouldn't wait around for Nikon to get there.
@KenRockwellTV yes, a Nikon version of the R7 is exactly what I want to buy.
@@shang-hsienyang1284 Don't wait up late; five years after the Z50 came out the best Nikon has done is this Z50 II. Good luck; this is why I upgraded to Canon in 2012.
@@KenRockwellTV but what lenses?
Nikon announced that initial orders of the Z50II were much higher than expected. They always say that, but this time it was unusually soon. So I am thinking (hoping?) that maybe Nikon starts to realise there's an actual market for APS-C that they've been neglecting, it's bigger than this one camera, and it would justify them either letting Sigma/Tamron release Z-mount DX lenses, or have them release more of their own. Also because of the recent Sigma/Tamron zooms released in R-mount. No guarantees though. ;)
Btw, I wouldn't rule out pre-buffering RAW to come to this camera (and other Z models).
Check your buffer stats on your website review - I think those are still for the original z50. Z50ii buffer is 200 shots raw or jpg. Also worth mentioning is all the button customizability from the higher end cameras was left in for the z50ii as well. Thanks!
My Z50 II indicates 51 frames raw, 59 frames JPG, or 300 frames in C15 or C30. It's not specs, it's what's actually shown in the finder live, which shows the instantaneous hardware buffer capacity. Of course while actually shooting it's writing from the buffer to the card in real time, so one always gets more frames than indicated in actual use. Depending on the card write speed it could be close to unlimited. Thanks!
Ok that makes sense. I’m used to seeing buffer referred to as the number of images it can take before it slows down or stops, but I’ve also seen it done this way as well so it’s all good. It’s just great that the buffer does not really impact shooting.
I still shoot a nikon D3 and D800 for pro work...i just bought this guy as a small option travel camera. I am going on a cruise in march and did not want to lug my heavy gear...ive bern plsying with the z50ii my only complaint is battery life, hopefully there is a battery grip option for just the video use aspect alone.
I find it easier to bring a few spare batteries, or honestly I just bring this tiny, powerful power bank and fill up between shoots kenrockwell.com/tech/nitecore/nb20000.htm
@KenRockwellTV very cool option. Thank you Ken. Happy new year
Conveniently omitted Nikkor 28-400 and Tamron 50-400 which are cheaper than the Nikkor 100-400 S line lens.
Even if the Canon is cheaper, the other lenses are more versatile.
Isnt the 28-400 a full frame lens?
@@montre-moi Yes, So is the Canon 100-400 and the Tamron.
the 28-400 is pretty sloppy at the 400mm end. It's only recommended as an emergency measure; DO NOT BUY the Z 28-400 if the 400mm end is what you want,. ThankS!
Yes.
I think the only time I've read that you didn't have to fiddle with exposure compensation was back in 2006 with the D200. You'd think Nikon would've kept it like that. I think the D500 used to overexpose a little.
nikons mirrorless are sub standard. they lost the receipt to good matrix metering.
I am having Nikon Zfc and I mainly shoot birds & other wildlife (80%) and 20 % general. I am thinking b/w this Z50 II and Nikon Z6 III which one do you suggest Ken ?
Easy: stick with DX like the z50 II for wildlife. You will need new lenses with 50% more focal length to get the same pictures on full frame like Z6 III. You’ll need a 300mm or 450mm to get exactly the same pictures you get today with just 200mm or 300mm on DX. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV I do have a z 600mm PF.
Thanks for the Video. Nice camera, but we're still waiting for the NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.2 S 😢 Merry Xmas 🎄
Ken will probably tell you f/1.2 is not needed for digital 🙊
Yawn, Thanks!@@
I don't have to; you just did!
You said you can use the pop up flash to trigger your strobes, does this camera have commander mode?
No; I use it in manual mode to trigger my studio strobes. See this in detail in my complete users guide at /nikon/z/z50-ii-users-guide.htm#flash Thanks!
Im still using my d3200 i got in 2014. Was thinking about maybe getting a Z50 😅
Z50 II is my fave Nikon mirrorless, so long as the Z 12-28 DX, Z 16-50mm DX, Z 18-140mm DX and Z 50-250mm DX are the only lenses you expect to need. If you want to grow your system beyond this, then I'd suggest the Canon R10 instead, as Cann has a much more complete APS-C system and much better manufacturing respect and customer support. Likewise, it's inelegant to use the clunky FTZ with your old lenses, so you'll wind up buying all new Z lenses anyway, so may as well go Canon if those few Z DX lenses aren't going to do it for you. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV hmm I've actually found an R10 thats in my budget now, worth it you reckon? 😁 Thanks for the advice anyway!
z50ii vs r50 - which got better colors sooc?
Both as good. Thanks!
I have two of the Z50 bodies, both with the FTZ adapter. I use my Sigma 17-50 F2.8, which I love, on one, and the Nikkor 18-140 on the other. I love the Z50. Great image quality. The Z50II looks to be even better.
thanks!
I have this on my watch list. As soon as they do their first sale...im in!
Great! Be sure to use the links from my review at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm to get it. Most people don’t know that I track and log the price over time at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii.htm#price thanks!
Is on my shoppinglist😂
Thank for review, I will check out your settings for this camera ❤
Thanks, here are my settings www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/z50-ii-users-guide.htm#setup
Seasons greetings Ken, I hope 2025 brings all you wish for! Thanks for the review! PS totally agree on the built-in flash !
Merry Christmas and a great 2025 to you and yours!!!
Isnt there a z-f adaptor for all your nikon lenses
Except for the AF-D lenses that won't autofocus
There is an FTZ (F-Mount Lens to Z-Mount camera), which was indicated by the other commentor should work with all AF-S and G lenses except those AF-D lenses. Howeve there is no Z-F (Z-Mount Lens to F-Mount Camera) due to the physical limitations of a shorter flange distance.
NO!!! Can't ever use Z lenses on anything else. You can adapt some DSLR lenses to Z cameras with the FTZ, but it doesn't always work well kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm
@@KenRockwellTV That makes me sad, I have ten very good lenses. I Think my d7200 is the best I can do without having to spend ten grand. The whole incompatible lens deal is a huge scam IMO.
Let me clarify: one can use most older Nikon SLR & DSLR lenses from 1959~today with varying degrees of compatibility (many won't autofocus) on the newest Z cameras with the clumsy FTZ adapter (kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm), but one cannot use the newest Z lenses on any DSLR.
I have both a Nikon Z6II and Z6III, but I grab my Z50 for travel or when I I'm not doing a paid job. I love the light weight and ergonomics. I would trade up to the Z50II just to get the Expeed 7 processor, but I hate those flip-out LCD screens. They really get in the way, especially when using a neck strap. I much prefer the tilt-up and -down screen.
Exacfltyy! thanks!
We are back 🎉❤
Yay! Me too!
Like the camera, but needs many more lens options.
Exactly why I went to Canon, Thanks! kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/compared/r7-r10-r50-r100-compared.htm
Dude I agree with the FX comment. Ever since Sigma released those two f/1.7 aps-c zooms. It made wanting FX an after thought for me moving forwards. I have the 10.5 fisheye, 35mm f/1.8 and few older lenses. I don't miss my D3s, Z6, or D4. Aside from having a wider angle of view I've lost my fascination with them. I definitely don't miss those giant batteries and charger bricks.
thanks!
Why is the description of the photos in romanian 😭😭😭
For my Romanian friends, of course!
I just bought my first camera, an R8 with 24-240 and a 16 prime on the way, but this Z50 II might have been my pick if there were more reviews on it. How far has the AF on this come compared to Canon?
Canon is still ahead imo but the edge is very small.
Canon is much better overall, You can get the superb RF 100-400, but there is no comparable lens at nikon. Stick with canon!
@@KenRockwellTV Appreciate the response Ken! I checked the Nikon site just out of curiosity; their lenses are ridiculously expensive even compared to Canon. Glad I chose the R8! Shame nothing else really compares to Canon right now though...
After looking at a lot of your reviews and reading a lot of them as well, I decided I will get rid of my Nikon Z 6II/ 50mm lens and get a Canon R6II/ 24-240mm lens, because it seems to me I would have a lot more comfort shooting my pictures and great autofocus that will track subjects effectively, would I regret my decision? Thank you and happy holidays ❤
THat's what I did! I LOVE THAT COMBO!!!!!
Thanks for this. Informative and enjoyable, as ever. I remember half looking at the original Z50 twin lens kit. I read that the kit VR lenses only allowed the camera to use 1/2000 SS. I never found out if that was really true or not as I was not keen on the rear screen........By way of a change, to try Nikon if I don't buy used, this looks more rounded at the price point (no clue on the SS and sorry if I missed you covering it). Cheers!
Never heard any shutter speed limits with VR, sounds like the baloney you'll hear if you waste your time asking salesmen at retail stores who make more margin (money) selling you something else. Thanks!
Thank you. I respect your feelings about Z- NIKONS. My personal opinion though is that of a squidgy old grump who feels that Nikon started "loosing it" after the F2.
I would not sell my unmetered F sporting a 50 /1.4 NIKKOR with F36 MD and cordless battery pack for one of every camera and lens that Nikon currently sells and a million dollars in cash !
I AGREE! I bought my F2AS kenrockwell.com/nikon/f2as.htm used in 1984 for MORE than a brand new F3, which we all knew was a bogus electronic turd. It's been a long, slow crawl to Hell for Nikon even since the 1980s when they lost it -and my F2AS still works like new. Thanks!
@KenRockwellTV Thank you for your comment! Am going to get goofy now. Now dream with me of a NIKON FD- body, basic controls, standard F lens mount of Titanium, compatible with ALL ooooold accessories. Body sealed waterproof to 15 ft. System hardened against e/m pulses up to 1 THz that also functions in outer space environments ( pressure less than 1.0 E -8 to 1.0 E 8 ATM and temps from 170 to 450 Kelvin, lifetime lubricated ) No internal light meter, image recording on an end-user replacable 45 Mp licensed SIGMA FOVEON X-3 sensor ( en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foveon_X3_sensor ) a hot-swappable 4s 11.8 vDC LiPO power source min. rated at 3600 mAh. System operable in environments with beta and gamma radiation up to 10 RADS, and rated for impact on hard surfaces at an acceleration +25 meters per second per second. Image recording internal and capable of FHSS transmission on 18 GHz . Now THIS would be ABSOLUTELY AWESOME and far beyond any other pro camera manufacturer could match !
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas and a great 2025 to you and yours!!!!!
Great camera
Thanks!
I'm a freelance designer, can I help you do something to help me afford a Zf sooner?
Yes! Hard work, thrift and determination are what drive all to high incomes and overcome every obstacle. Never give up and never take NO for an answer. Thanks!
Yes, can I design a logo and merch prints arts for you? You can have something your fans can buy from you to help spread words about your channel too, you might don't need the extra boost to get more views and money nowadays but it sure will able to help your honest opinions get shared to make more people wiser. Let me know if you love to make this opportunity happen and you will have a series of merch prints to sell start from next year! :-)
You and your reviews are ALWAYS useful, but very far off on some of your info! I believe the Nikon 180-600 Zoom works very well with the Z50 II! Otherwise, many photographer/reviewer's are Lying! PS A "Z" mount camera
Of course the 180-600mm works GREAT on the Z50 II. www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/z/180-600mm.htm Thanks!
51k iso 😅 it always looks like paintings
thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV you do good work brother
Great camera to use the wide range of stabilised Z-mount aps-c lenses! Oh wait 😂
The Z lenses are brilliantly VR stabilized and work great; IBIS is a cop-out from Sony. Bah! Thanks!
I put my 70-200 f2.8 original vr lens on this with the adapter...lol looks so 😁 funny
Exactly; clumsy but works.
Dear Santa…
YESSSS!
Another excellent camera from Nikon! Too bad it is using such an old sensor but still being sold as brand new though. The 26MP BSI sensor Fuji gets from Sony has been available for several years now (cameras launched in 2020 had it) and you'd think Nikon would get on board because they usually have advanced tech like the Z9's sensor and then build a good camera round it. Maybe Nikon is leaving room for a more advanced APSC camera like a Z60 or Z80 etc.
Thanks again for the fun and informative review Ken, your work is always appreciated.
the sensor is an excellent performer regardless of age , but they could do with a higher end APS model with IBIS etc . This certainly ticks a lot of boxes and though not the fastest the two kit zooms are very good performers and the 2 lens kit with the Z50II is I feel a real bargain
It is a great sensor. Some reviewer are stating that the new upgraded Expeed 7 processor makes the sensor even better.
Thanks@
Thanks Ken! I wanted the Sony A6700 with kit lens and waited for it to lower in price a bit for Black Friday but it never did.
I ordered this instead!
Can’t wait to get it!
Sony should release the A6400 successor soon.
YES!!! I much prefer the color from my Nikons over Sony.
All nikon have to do is introduce more apsc lenses
Or do what I did and upgrade to Canon. Problem isn't a lack of DX lenses; it's a lack of anything reasonably priced longer than 250mm; Canon has an awesome RF 100-400mm www.kenrockwell.com/canon/eos-r/lenses/100-400mm.htm which has no equivalent in Sony or Nikon. Thanks!
I have a NEW LEICA😅👍
Then you RULE, you immortal beast. Thank you for yiouyr service.
Who in his or her right mind shoots at 60 fps anyway?
UA-camrs and Streamers I’d imagine.
60fps looks so unatural
@@karlburchill2704 The only think that this frame rate would be good for is for fast moving hummingbirds.
Amateurs, also sports television. 60 FPS is not for drama.
@@KenRockwellTV A lot of photo editing!
My interest is video only.
Thanks!
All plastic and its $1000? Really?
Pass! Stick with the F2AS, a real man’s camera. kenrockwell.com/nikon/f2as.htm
@KenRockwellTV Thanks Ken! Think I'm good though? have a f100, f4, FM, FM2. Some others...... I hardly ever shoot film anymore but still keep some in the fridge just in case.
I really started on old Konicas. I had a thing for Konica. Not sure why.
I wonder if any of Sony has Konica remnants? Just in case I did get a couple sony.
Crap now you have me looking at F2as for sale..