Theres still no in-body image stabilization and the 20.9MP resolution is bettered by other APS-C rivals.
Its successor takes that recipe and supercharges it, with the help of an Expeed 7 processor.
The result is a versatile mirrorless camera thats perfect to learn and grow with.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
Its dimensions are neat enough to compete with thebest travel cameras, yet Nikon hasnt sacrificed ergonomics.
Slightly larger than the original, the Z50 II feels fantastic in the hand.
Under the hood, Nikons latest Expeed 7 processor runs the show the same silicon found in theNikon Z9andZ8.
It might be pitched as an entry-level option, but that chip gives the Z50 II some serious pace.
The interface is quick as you like, while autofocus performance is superlative.
Processor aside, a lot remains unchanged from the Z50.
That includes the APS-C sensor which, at 20.9MP, is bettered by many of thebest beginner mirrorless cameras.
That said, its still capable of producing detailed and realistic images when paired with a qualityZ mount lens.
A headphone socket is a welcome addition, too.
Buy it as a beginner and it will quickly yield impressive results.
Stick with it as you improve and the Z50 II has the controls and capabilities to continue delivering.
In the UK, its cheaper by 50.
That makes it excellent value.
Both are compact APS-C cameras with modern autofocus and comparable video skills.
The Z50 II can also be picked up with bundled lenses.
Theres also an 18-140mm kit in the UK and Australia for 1,299 / AU$2,279.
Its a tidily packaged camera, very much in the established mold of entry-level mirrorless models.
Thats in part because the Z50 II is marginally bigger and heavier than the first version.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
In the hand, we found its grip substantial enough to wrap our fingers around, without being cumbersome.
Look closer at the Z50 II and youll find several welcome refinements.
This is a much more flexible framing solution, especially for videography and vlogging.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
The viewfinder has also received the attention of Nikons product developers.
Eagle eyes will also discover new additions to the control layout.
The Z50 II gets closer still, with the addition of five new buttons.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
You still dont get a joystick, which means selecting the AF point requires use of the touchscreen.
What you do get are zoom buttons, a display button and a dedicated drive button.
The fifth new button sits on the top plate.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
A first for any Nikon camera, it gives instant access to Picture Controls a library of aesthetic presets.
31 profiles come pre-installed, with the option to adjust them through NX Studio.
The buttons presence leans into the Z50 IIs status as a camera for all kinds of creators.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
The Z50 II uses the same 20.9MP APS-C sensor as its predecessor.
Its mechanical burst speeds max out at 11fps.
And, like many of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners, it still doesnt offer in-body image stabilization.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
What it does have is a new engine.
This is the first time its been fitted to an APS-C body.
Based on our experience, the Expeed 7 makes the Z50 II a proper pocket rocket.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
Chief among the benefits of that new chip is top-spec subject-recognition autofocus.
It helps that the SD card slot now supports UHS-II cards for faster read and write speeds.
Nikon has pitched the Z50 II as a hybrid, which is reflected in its video skills.
(Image credit: Future / Chris Rowlands)
That includes the ability to capture 4K/60p video, albeit with a 1.5x crop.
Uncroppped 4K footage is shot at 30fps, oversampled from 5.6K.
Like the Z50, the Z50 II features electronic vibration reduction to help steady handheld footage.
As before, this applies a 1.3x crop to video.
The metering system coped well in a range of lighting scenarios, delivering well-judged exposures.
If youre purely a stills photographer, you will get better resolution elsewhere.
We found 4K/60p video to be well-defined and nicely balanced.
Nikon Z50 II: testing scorecard
Should I buy the Nikon Z50 II?
With subject detection modes for people, animals and more, its rapid and reliable.
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
You value ergonomics and handlingA deeper grip makes the Z50 II even more comfortable to shoot with.
You need in-body image stabilizationLike many entry-level mirrorless cameras, the Z50 II lacks in-body image stabilization.
Electronic video stabilization is available with a crop, but youll need a VR lens for optical shake reduction.
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
You want high-resolution stillsAt 20.9MP, the Z50 IIs APS-C sensor doesnt have the highest pixel count.
If the number of megapixels matters to you, other entry-level mirrorless cameras offer more for similar money.
It also benefits from a deep grip.
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
Like the Z50 II, it has no in-body image stabilization and puts a crop on 4K/60p video.
It uses the same sensor as the Z50 II, packaged in a body inspired by the retro FM2.
You also get a vari-angle touchscreen, making this a great value casual alternative.
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
To assess its hybrid capabilities, I used the Z50 II to shoot a combination of stills and video.
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
(Image credit: Chris Rowlands)
