Nikon Z50

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Released in 2019, the Nikon Z50 delivers the advantages of Nikon's Z-mount system in a compact DX-format body weighing just 450 grams. With 11 fps continuous shooting, a 21-megapixel sensor, and an ISO range extending to 51200, this camera brings mirrorless performance to enthusiasts and professionals seeking a lightweight travel or backup body. The tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen and SDXC compatibility make it a versatile tool for both stills and video work.

Photograph of the Nikon Z50, cataloged as a z mirrorless.
Nikon Z50 · nikon-z50 · Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan · 35.6028, 139.7250 · japan · tokyo · shinagawa · asia

The Nikon Z50 measures 127 × 94 × 60 mm and features a compact, ergonomically refined body that brings the Z-mount mirrorless system to photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing handling. Weighing 450 grams, the camera balances comfortably in one hand while providing a deep grip and intuitive control layout suited for extended shooting sessions. The magnesium alloy construction ensures durability in the field, while the compact dimensions make it an ideal companion for travel, street photography, and documentary work where discretion and agility matter.

At the heart of the Z50 is a 21-megapixel DX-format sensor capturing images at 5568 × 3712 pixels, delivering excellent detail and color rendition across an ISO range of 100 to 51200. The native DX sensor size pairs naturally with Nikon's growing lineup of compact Z-mount DX lenses, offering photographers a lightweight system optimized for crop-sensor performance. The sensor's design enables fast readout speeds that support the camera's 11 fps continuous shooting rate, making it capable of freezing action in sports, wildlife, and event photography.

The electronic viewfinder provides 100% frame coverage with a 1.0× magnification and 19.5 mm eye point, delivering a clear, immersive view that aids composition and manual focusing. The 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 720 × 480 RGB resolution offers flexible shooting angles for high and low perspectives, while the touch interface streamlines menu navigation and focus point selection. The mechanical shutter operates from 30 seconds to 1/4000 second with flash sync at 1/200, covering a wide range of lighting conditions and creative applications.

Powered by the EN-EL25 battery and recording to SDXC cards, the Z50 integrates seamlessly into professional workflows as a primary camera for enthusiasts or a lightweight backup for full-frame shooters. The Z-mount's 55mm inner diameter and short flange distance unlock exceptional optical quality even in compact DX lenses, ensuring sharp, contrasty images across the frame. Whether capturing family events, travel landscapes, or fast-paced action, the Z50 delivers reliable performance in a package that fits easily into a small bag or jacket pocket.

Metrics

Release Year2019
ISO100 - 51200 · 204800 ISO
FPS11 fps
Weight450 g

Descriptors

Sensor21MP · DX · 5568 × 3712 MP
Shutter30 - 1/4000 · 1/200
Finder100% · 1.0× · 19.5 mm
Screen3.2" tilting · 720 x 480 · RGB
StorageSDXC
Size127 × 94 × 60 mm
BatteryEN-EL25 · 320

Frequently asked questions

What is the continuous shooting speed of the Nikon Z50?

The Nikon Z50 shoots at 11 frames per second in continuous mode, providing ample speed for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports, wildlife, and action photography.

How much does the Nikon Z50 weigh and what are its dimensions?

The Nikon Z50 weighs 450 grams and measures 127 × 94 × 60 mm, making it one of the most compact and lightweight bodies in the Z-mount system, ideal for travel and all-day shooting.

What type of memory cards and battery does the Nikon Z50 use?

The Nikon Z50 uses SDXC memory cards for storage and is powered by the EN-EL25 battery, offering a balance of capacity and compact size suited to the camera's lightweight design.

Who is the Nikon Z50 designed for?

The Nikon Z50 is designed for enthusiast photographers seeking a compact mirrorless system, as well as professionals who need a lightweight backup or travel camera that maintains Z-mount optical quality and performance.

What sensor and ISO range does the Nikon Z50 offer?

The Nikon Z50 features a 21-megapixel DX-format sensor capturing images at 5568 × 3712 pixels, with an ISO range of 100 to 51200 for versatile performance in varied lighting conditions.

What are the viewfinder specifications on the Nikon Z50?

The Nikon Z50 is equipped with an electronic viewfinder offering 100% frame coverage, 1.0× magnification, and a 19.5 mm eye point, providing a clear and comfortable viewing experience for composition and focusing.

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