Nikon Z5 vs Z7

The Nikon Z5, to be released in July 2020, is a 24.3-megapixel full-format mirrorless camera. Designed as a more affordable alternative in Nikon's full-frame mirrorless camera lineup, it's perfect for beginners, enthusiasts looking for a high-performance second body, and those who want to get started with photography with a high-quality hybrid. It incorporates many of the features of the award-winning Z6 and Z7 models, while offering an excellent price/performance ratio.

Rugged and lightweight, it is designed to withstand moisture and dust. The Z5 is equipped with two UHS-II SD card slots, offering great flexibility for data backup and simultaneous photo and video shooting. With the new EN-EL15c battery, which can be charged via USB-C, it's perfect for long shooting sessions. The electronic viewfinder is identical to the Z6, but the LCD screen has a slightly lower resolution, which is an acceptable compromise for a more affordable model.

In terms of video, the Z5 offers 4K UHD recording at 30 fps and Full HD at 60 fps. However, its burst rate is limited to 4.5 fps, well below the Z6's 12 fps, making it less suitable for sports photography. The Z5's 273-point autofocus system provides fast and accurate focusing, which is particularly effective for portraits and moderate action scenes. This makes the Nikon Z5 an ideal entry point into the world of full-frame photography, combining performance, flexibility and affordability at a competitive price.

Launched in September 2018 after the Z6, the Nikon Z7 focuses heavily on high-quality photography with a 45.7-megapixel sensor. This full-frame model is particularly suitable for photographers seeking greater precision, offering 14-bit RAW images and equipped with 493 autofocus points for extremely precise focusing.

The Z7 stands out for its photographic performance, although it also supports Full HD video recording at 120 frames per second. Its native ISO starts at 64, allowing it to capture clear images even in low-light conditions. What's more, the absence of a low-pass filter significantly improves the sharpness of photos.

The Z7 has a single XQD card slot that also supports CFexpress Type B cards, ideal for large files. Although its burst speed of 9 fps is slower than the Z6, it offers excellent value for money and remains highly competitive in the market. For those looking to upgrade, the Nikon Z7 II and the more affordable full-frame Z5 are interesting alternatives.