Introducing the Nikon Z5 IIC: An Affordable Alternative to the Z5 II, Minus the Electronic Viewfinder
Nikon has unveiled its new Z5 IIC mirrorless camera, offering a more affordable alternative to the already budget-friendly Z5 II. This 24-megapixel model omits the electronic viewfinder, making it an even cheaper option while retaining most of the features found in its predecessor, including the capability for RAW internal video. This pricing is particularly favorable in light of recent increases in camera costs.
By forgoing the electronic viewfinder, Nikon has successfully reduced both the weight and price of the Z5 IIC. Weighing in at just 537 grams, it is approximately 25 percent lighter than the Z5 II, which weighs 700 grams. Despite its compact size, the camera features a full-sized grip and a variety of manual controls, though it lacks some features like the joystick found in the Z5 II. One of its standout features is the 3.2-inch touch display with 1040K dots that fully articulates, making it particularly useful for solo content creators. The design, especially in the silver and black variant, is aesthetically appealing as well.
Targeted especially at novice vloggers, the Z5 IIC captures 4K video at 30 frames per second using the full sensor area, or 4K at 60 fps with a 1.5x crop. Additionally, it allows video recording in Nikon’s N-RAW format along with N-Log for enhanced quality, catering to budding filmmakers. The camera features the same fast and responsive autofocus system as the Z5 II, now capable of detecting fish, humans, animals, birds, and vehicles. Notably, it includes in-body stabilization that offers up to 7.5 stops of shake reduction—a commendable feature for a budget-friendly model.
Content creators will find several attractive features, including scene modes for 15 different types of photography, from portraits to food, as well as settings for night landscapes. An indicator light on the front lets subjects know when recording is in progress. The camera also has a “product review” mode that shifts focus between the presenter and items, along with “imaging recipes” inspired by the cinema camera maker RED for a cinematic look. There is, however, a limitation with a single SD UHS II card slot instead of the dual slots found in the Z5 II.
The Z5 IIC will appeal to photographers too, provided they are okay without a viewfinder. It can shoot at burst speeds of 14 frames per second with continuous autofocus, or 30 frames per second in electronic shutter mode for JPEGs. The autofocus system is well-equipped for low-light situations with an expanded ISO range reaching up to ISO 64,000, making it comparable to the Z5 II.
Available for preorder at $1,400 for the body alone, the Nikon Z5 IIC is a great value for a full-frame camera, especially with features like in-body stabilization and RAW video capabilities. There is also a bundle option available that includes the Z 24-50mm f/4.3-5.3 kit lens for $1,700.
